If you’ve wondered, “how many acres is Denali National Park?”, the answer is as impressive as the park itself.
Denali National Park and Preserve spans about 6,075,030 acres.
To put it into perspective, that’s bigger than the entire state of New Hampshire.
The park includes 4,740,091 acres of protected wilderness, while the preserve covers another 1,334,118 acres.
This vast land is a mix of forests, tundra, glaciers, and rugged mountains.
And yet, only a small portion of this enormous park is accessible to visitors.
How Many Acres of Denali National Park is Open to the Public?
Out of over six million acres, only a fraction is open to private vehicles.
Visitors can drive the first 15 miles of the Denali Park Road, ending at the Savage River area.
Beyond this, access is limited to park shuttles and guided tours.
The road stretches 92 miles into the park, offering incredible views and wildlife encounters.
These limits are put into place to help protect Denali’s pristine wilderness and the animals that call it home.
Can You Drive Around Denali in a Day?
Is it possible to drive around Denali National Park in a single day?
The answer is no, and here’s why.
Private vehicles are restricted to the first 15 miles of the Denali Park Road only.
The entire road takes about five hours to travel one way by shuttle bus.
With stops for photos, wildlife sightings, and exploring the park, it’s best to set aside more than a day to fully experience everything Denali has to offer.
How Long Does it Take to Drive the First 15 Miles of the Denali Park Road?
Without stops and following speed limits, the first 15 miles of the Denali Park Road take about 30 to 45 minutes to drive.
This stretch is paved and offers scenic pull-outs where you can stop to take in the views.
Depending on the season, you might spot wildlife like moose, caribou, or even a grizzly bear.
Plan extra time for photo stops or a short hike at one of the trailheads.
What Are the Main Attractions Along the First 15 Miles of the Denali Park Road?
Now that you have your answer to “how many acres is Denali National Park,” you might want to know what you can do in those 6 million acres.
As we mentioned earlier, only a portion of the preserve is open to the public.
And in that portion, there’s already plenty to do in just the first 15 miles.
Start your visit at the Denali Visitor Center at Mile 2, where you can explore maps and interactive exhibits.
You’ll learn about the park’s rich history and incredible wildlife.
At Mile 3.5, you can visit the Denali Sled Dog Kennels to meet the park’s hardworking sled dogs.
Don’t miss hiking the Horseshoe Lake Trail at Mile 1, either.
It loops around a serene lake with views of a beaver dam.
Finally, the Savage River area at Mile 15 is ideal for short hikes and soaking in the park’s rugged wilderness.
What Wildlife Can You See in the First 15 Miles?
Wildlife is one of the top reasons to visit Denali National Park.
This preserve offers incredible opportunities to see animals in their natural habitat.
Within the first 15 miles, you might spot moose grazing near the Visitor Center or catch a glimpse of caribou crossing the road.
Grizzly bears are rarer but may occasionally be seen roaming near the Savage River.
If you look up, you might see golden eagles soaring or willow ptarmigans blending into the landscape.
Always keep your camera ready to snap the shot, but remember to maintain a safe distance to respect and protect the animals while enjoying these unforgettable sightings.
What to Know About Visiting Denali National Park
Denali National Park is 240 miles north of Anchorage, along the George Parks Highway.
The best time to visit Denali is from late May to early September, when most facilities are open.
Weather can change quickly, so come prepared with layers and sturdy footwear.
Don’t forget to check out the sled dog demonstrations, a unique part of Denali’s history.
Whether you’re driving, hiking, or riding a shuttle bus, there’s no shortage of adventures in Denali.
Exploring Beyond the First 15 Miles
To see more of Denali’s six million acres, hop on a park shuttle.
These buses take visitors deeper into the park, with stops at Polychrome Pass, Eielson Visitor Center, and Wonder Lake.
Each stop offers breathtaking views and the chance to spot more wildlife.
The farther you go, the closer you get to Mount Denali, North America’s tallest peak.
If you’re up for it, consider a backcountry hike for a true wilderness experience.
Why the Size of Denali National Park Matters
Understanding how many acres is Denali National Park gives you a sense of its importance.
This massive park provides a home for wildlife and a place for people to connect with nature.
It’s a reminder of the beauty and vastness of the Alaskan wilderness.
Every acre of Denali is a treasure, waiting to be explored and protected.
Start Planning Your Denali Adventure with Travel by Maeghan
Ready to explore the vast beauty of Denali National Park?
Travel by Maeghan is here to help.
We specialize in planning unforgettable trips for families and groups.
Whether it’s your first time visiting Denali or you’re returning for another adventure, we’ll take care of the details.
From transportation to lodging, we’ll make sure your trip is seamless and stress-free.
Contact us today to start planning your journey into the heart of Alaska!