If you’re planning a trip to Denali, it’s important to know where to fly into for Denali National Park.
It’s not the kind of place you can just spontaneously travel to because only a few airports are within reasonable distance from the park.
So your travel can look very different depending on where you land.
Here’s a brief guide to possible entry points to help you decide.
Fairbanks International Airport (FAI)
Fairbanks International Airport is the closest major airport to Denali National Park.
It’s about 120 miles away from the park, which means you’ll spend around 2.5 to 3 hours traveling by car.
Fairbanks is a popular choice because it’s convenient and has multiple transportation options to the park.
Driving from Fairbanks to Denali
Renting a car is a great way to get to Denali from FAI.
The drive should take about 2.5 to 3 hours — barring stopovers or slower-than-average speeds).
It follows George Parks Highway; a direct route bordered with beautiful views.
If you like flexibility, scenic drives, and the ability to take stops along the way, driving to Denali National Park from FAI is the option for you.
Taking the Train from Fairbanks to Denali
Once you know where to fly into for Denali National Park, it’s important to consider your other transportation options as well.
Aside from taking a car, you can also take a train or bus to the park.
In fact, the Denali Star Train is another popular way to travel to Denali.
The ride takes just under 4 hours and offers amazing views of the Alaskan wilderness.
Train tickets cost anywhere from $80 to $267, depending on the class you pick.
Taking a Bus from Fairbanks to Denali
Buses are a budget-friendly way to get from Fairbanks to Denali.
Ticket prices range from $210 to $250.
Travel time is fairly reasonable as well, with the trip taking about 4 hours and 22 minutes.
Buses may be a little slower than driving but, with this option, you can sit back and enjoy the ride.
Private Transfers
If you’re traveling with a group, a private transfer from Fairbanks International Airport is an easy and convenient option.
It’s much faster than taking the train or bus, as total travel time only reaches about 2.5 hours.
However, this option starts at $699 for up to four people, making it quite pricey.
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)
The Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is about 240 miles south of Denali National Park.
Even though it’s a little farther than Fairbanks, ANC has more flights and services, and therefore remains another popular option.
Driving from Anchorage
Driving from Anchorage takes 4 to 5 hours along the scenic Parks Highway.
Many travelers stop in Talkeetna, a small town with great views of Denali and fun outdoor activities.
Taking a Bus
Buses from Anchorage to Denali take about 5.5 to 6 hours.
The Park Connection Motorcoach is a popular service, with tickets costing $105 for adults and $52.50 for kids.
It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the sights without having to drive.
Taking the Train
The Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star Train is a scenic option but takes the longest — about 7.5 to 8 hours.
The ride includes dining and panoramic views, making it a memorable part of the trip.
Flying to Denali
If time is tight, you can actually fly directly from Anchorage to Denali!
It’ll take about 1.5 hours, which is quicker even than driving from Fairbanks.
However, this travel option to Denali National Park is also quite expensive.
Nenana Municipal Airport
If you’re looking at options for where to fly into for Denali National Park, Nenana Municipal Airport is another solid choice.
It’s actually located about 70 miles from Denali, making it the closest airport to the park.
Nenana Municipal is a smaller airport with fewer available flights, but it’s still a good option for those nearby.
Traveling from Nenana
The Alaska Railroad offers a quick train ride from Nenana to Denali, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Tickets range from $30 to $160, depending on the level of service.
You can also take a bus or drive, but options may be more limited compared to Anchorage or Fairbanks.
When Is the Best Time to Fly Into Denali?
The best time to visit Denali National Park is during summer, from late May to early September.
This is when the weather is warmer, wildlife is active, and park facilities are fully open.
Summer temperatures range from 33°F to 75°F, and long daylight hours mean you’ll have plenty of time to explore.
Late August is a great time for fall colors, while winter offers snow activities like skiing and snowshoeing.
Each season has something unique to offer, but summer is the easiest and most popular time to visit.
Ready to Plan Your Trip to Denali National Park?
Figuring out where to fly into for Denali National Park is the first step to an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you choose Fairbanks for convenience, Anchorage for flexibility, or Nenana for a quieter (and quicker) option, there’s a path that suits every traveler.
Want expert help to make your Denali trip stress-free and fun?
At Travel by Maeghan, I specialize in creating personalized travel experiences for families and groups.
From flights to lodges and everything in between, I’ll handle the details.
All you need to do is focus on having fun and making memories.
Let’s make your Denali adventure unforgettable—reach out today!