Second, the Denali National Park Road is not the same as the Parks Highway which connects Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks. I hope you choose whatever works for you though! It's far preferable to bite the bullet and get up early, as the animals are more active in the mornings (or conversely, in the evenings). First of all, its called Stone Dome and its on the map from the National Park Service as a stop/turnaround at Mile 56 (source). With all eyes peeled, chances are good for spotting several of the park's wildlife residents along the road: A shaggy grizzly sow watching over rambunctious spring cubs, a lone bull moose browsing in thick willows, a rare full-curl Dall sheep bedded down high upon a craggy ridge. Sign up with your email and we'll keep you posted on what's going on We tracked the fox as it trotted up the road, following it for a good five minutes before it snuck out of sight. Warm clothes,rain gear, camera and film or memory card, binoculars and personal medication as necessary. Before jumping into the specific details of Denali bus tours this coming year (2022), I wanted to list all of the available bus tours in Denali during a normal year. Our picks for the best tours and experiences during your Alaska Cruise. Have you done the Summit/Glacier Landing tour with K2? Paired with the TWT, if you had to choose, would you do the flightseeing or white water rafting? I tried to book the TWT for July 19 or 20, but it must be sold out. But I dont want anyone to book this thinking theyll be in the National Park or have that same experience, so I still recommend (also) booking the Tundra Wilderness Tour. Note: This tour departs only twice dailyat 6:15 and 7:30 a.m.and returns between 6 and 7:30 p.m. Theres limited seating; advance reservations are recommended. There isnt a set schedule, and there no assigned seats they pick up people as they have seats available, so if you get off the bus and other people get on before you get picked back up, there may not be seats for you. Is it possible in 2022 to drive from Denali National and then to Fairbanks now that the Denali National Park Road is closed going further north.
However, Id keep checking in the coming weeks last summer they had to do a second round of hiring to meet demand and released a ton more dates/tours in late May to meet summer demand. After first publishing this post, I was tipped off to a new bus tour that will be offered in 2022 (and possibly beyond, though Im not sure!). For rates, operational dates, and important information for booking all tours, please click here. If you look on the reservedenali website youll see it notated as such. This 3-4 hour tour goes to Primrose Ridge, at Mile 17 of the Denali Park Road. Not only will you explore areas you cant see while driving yourself, but youll get the added benefit of hearing about the parks history and geology, as well as its flora and fauna. ALERTS IN EFFECT: Please read for the latest information. Beginning with a stop at the Denali Bus Depot, learn about the creation of the Denali Park Road with the film Across Time and Tundra. Next, visit the historical Savage Cabin to learn how the cabin was once used, and how it continues to be used today. Even the shortest tour will give you a great flavor for the park and provide lots of wildlife-spotting opportunities; longer tours add gorgeous spots like Wonder Like and the fascinating old gold-mining town of Kantishna. A fully-narrated excursion to see quintessential wildlife and big landscapes within the borders of Denali National Park. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. You can use ABTA's approved Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process if you have a complaint that is not resolved. I notice your latest visits have been in September. Transportation is provided by modified school bus, with an expert driver guide providing narration. The schedule each day is able to flex depending on demand, so there is no fixed, daily schedule. Here are the best options. If you are planning to ride a transit bus into Denali to go backcountry camping, backpacking, or hiking, you can still ride the bus to Mile 42 and hike from there. When I win the lottery in the next few months, this is what Ill be planning for Mr. V and me, on our next trip! Fly Denali has new ownership but is still the coolest way to go flightseeing in the park. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged. Just curious. We suggest you pre-book a boxed lunch for the trip, as there are no concessions available in the wilderness of Denali National Park. For more information please see www.abta.com. Im not sure what youre referring to with that link it looks like the same tour information about the TWT and DNHT. Beginning with a stop at the Denali Bus Depot, learn about the creation of the Denali Park Road with the film Across Time and Tundra. Next, visit the historic Savage Cabin to learn how the cabin was once used, and how it continues to be used today. On our TWT we saw 4 of the 5 big ones, did not see wolves. The Pretty Rocks Area has been a frustrating part of the park road for years; while the road used to slump about 1-2 inches per year before 2014, that rate has increased such that the road was slumping over one inch every two hours in 2021. Wheelchair accessible buses are available upon request when the reservation is made. Your must-have activity guide + map while in Alaska. HI Valerie, thanks for all the great info on your site. Terms of Service apply. Makes you really trust-worthy too . I was fortunate to visit Denali twice in 2021, once in August as part of my adventure with John Halls Alaska (before the road closure) and once in September after. Alaska State Law requires children under age 8 and below 65 pounds to be in a car seat on the bus. Enjoy all the benefits of a Tundra Wilderness Tour while also exploring the Eielson Visitor Center. A single gravel road goes into the six-million-acre park and only travelers on trips like the Tundra Wilderness Tour have the chance to experience it. Would you recommend the early morning bus tour or the the lunchtime tour to see the wildlife or are they both about the same. Learn More >, Alaska Tour & Travel
Second question: The rates shown at $30.00 per individual is for buses with no guide correct (like the school buses)? We were lucky on our trip, with Denali's snow shining in the sun. 19952022, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge on the Kenai River, Alaska, Build Your Own Alaska Cruise Land Tour: South From Anchorage, Alaska Railroad: Everything You Need to Know to Plan the Perfect Cruise Tour, Denali Tundra Wilderness Bus Tour Excursion Review (Photo: Chris Gray Faust/Cruise Critic). In 2022, the Tundra Wilderness Tour is a 55.5 hour excursion into the park with a certified driver-naturalist. Great article! Also known as the Murie Cabin, you'll have time to explore this rustic shelter and learn about its unique history before making the scenic return trip. Dan, the owner, was our pilot and gave us a great tour by air of Denali, highly recommend. I hope that all helps! If he's watching the road, the rest of us needed to look for wildlife. The KantishnaExperienceis the only tour in Denali National Park which features a National Park Service Interpretive Ranger aboard the bus. Thanks again. ), heres where I recommend staying in Denali, https://www.alaskatravel.com/things-to-do/denali-bus-tours/. You can book the Denali Tundra Wilderness tour through your cruise line -- Princess includes it on its Connoisseur tours fares -- or on your own. Were planning about 7 days in Alaska. Will any of the buses into Denali be running yet? If you get to the voicemail, please leave a message and we'll call you back as soon as we finish with the previous caller. Popular Alaska Itineraries Using In-State Airlines, Anchorage to Denali National Park Driving Map, Denali National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks. For masks and other policies, I recommend trying to book your tours and then youll see what they require. If youre willing to put your real name on your comment to verify why youre the true and ultimate expert, Ill approve your next comment. Find how many days you need based on what you want to see and do in Alaska. I know this as I am a Tundra Wilderness Tour Driver. I see that you recommend K2 Aviation. Loved your post! The Tundra Wilderness Tour will guide you along the spectacular road corridor, promising different experiences every day, as Denalis wildlife moves at its own pace and according to the seasons. Booking it through the park can save money on the two longer tours, about $15 or so; surprisingly, you'll pay more to book the Denali Natural History tour through the park service than on your own. 2020, Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Look forward to hearing from you. This is a beautiful structure built into the mountainside to better fit into its surroundings, and youll get off the bus and explore. Boutique, small ship adventure cruises in Alaska's Inside Passage, Cruises depart from Whittier, a 1 hr drive from Anchorage. 907 683-9532 While I havent done this tour personally, I want to clarify a few points so nobody is confused or disappointed by booking this tour. So excited for this trip! Several interpretive stops enhance the experience with an hour of off-bus experiences. BUT, we were lucky and saw a lynx! With a 7:40a.m. start time, our Princess tour guide cautioned us to get to the lodge pickup point early. The Ranger will join your tour at Wonder Lake, giving visitors the singular experience of a private tour led by a National Park Service Ranger. Its being called the Denali Backcountry Adventure, and is operated by the Denali Backcountry Lodge but it is not the same tour as the previous Denali Backcountry Adventure and doesnt even operate in Denali National Park. To be honest, Rachel, its probably sold out. A bottle of water and a snack pack are included with this tour. However, this will add a considerable cost to the already-spendy stay, so wont work for most Alaska travelers. I am going in August and have time for 2 tours. Was the best experience of my life probably. We have an AirBNB cabin so well be driving to whatever spot we choose. Denali National Park has experienced the greatest increase in temperature of any National Park (7.7F 2.0F per century), which has increased mean temperatures above freezing throughout the year and led to increased rainfall (source, source). I went to go book the Tundra Wilderness Tour for either July 12 or 13 and it said that it isnt available that day. If you get to the voicemail, please leave a message and we'll call you back as soon as we finish with the previous caller. Don't forget a camera and binoculars. You blog has been really helpful in the planning process. i have 2 questions. If you are traveling to Fairbanks by train or coach in the afternoon, our morning tour works well for an afternoon departure from the park. Dont get me wrong, I love to hike and all the outdoor stuff, but I need dramamine to survie busses. Check with your driver to see how much time you have to explore before the return trip to the park entrance. I guess someone else had that problem and you said to keep checking since they might add more. 2-5 day small ship explorations. If youre trying to choose between the DNHT and TWT, I always advocate for the longer tour that goes further into the park. Hi Valerie. Thanks for reaching out, Linda. A light snack and bottled water is provided, but passengers should bring additional food as there are no concessions available in the park. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request. Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc. I recommend bookmarking the Denali NPS website as thats the most accurate resource for updates on the status of the road. During the tour, your driver-guide will narrate the tour, point out wildlife, and take plenty of stops for photos and bio breaks where facilities are available. Site content may not be reproduced without express written permission. Do you have a reason for not mentioning this great company? Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell. Alaska Tour & Travel uses cookies to track your trip selections and favorites. Your driver/naturalist will provide a great introduction to the landscape, geology, and history of Denali National Park and Preserve aboard the Denali Natural History Tour. Bring a camera and binoculars. Rest stops and opportunities to take photos are made every 1-1.5 hours. Among the great many things that make Denali National Park such a unique destination is just how little of it is accessible by road. If that tour is gone, would it be worth it to take the non-tour bus there? Sign-up for any of the following email series to help plan your Alaska trip. For die-hards who want to go as far into the park as possible, you can take the 13-hour tour all the way out to Kantishna, at mile marker 92, for $285 per person. Just wanted to let you know the TWT will be a 5-5.5 hour tour for the upcoming season. It blew me away, and Ive been dying to do this tour again ever since. but I also know that the TWT is the best way to see the mountain and wildlife in Denali National Park. Valerie thank you for all your wonderful info! Your driver/naturalist will provide a great introduction to the landscape, geology, and history of Denali National Park and Preserve aboard the Denali Natural History Tour. Visit September to April to see the Northern Lights. Aramark 2022 Mile 238 George Parks HighwayDenali National Park, AK 99755. The schedule each day is able to flex depending on demand, so there is no fixed, daily schedule. Denali is a very special place, and I cant wait for you to experience it for yourself. (My only complaint was that the mask mandate was not strictly enforced on the bus tours, despite National Park Service requirements to do so. Anchorage, AK 99503
Every effort will be made to reserve your tour at the time requested, but please note that due to National Park Service bus limitations, you may be moved to a different time slot. If youre wondering whether the Tundra Wilderness Tour is still worth it with the road closure, Ive shared my experience riding this shortened route in September 2021 in the next section. Its shaping up to be a crazier year than last year! Our cruise holidays are ATOL protected (No. Seeing Denali itself isn't a guarantee, as North America's highest mountain is often shrouded by clouds. We are interested in a flightseeing tour, with the landslide road closures in the park is it still worth driving into the park or perhaps just stopping in Talkeetna, doing a fly over and seeing some of Denali State Park instead? Glen saw this one, as a mottled red fox darted near the park road. Still undecided about taking te Tundra Tour or East Fork Bus. A bottle of water is included with this tour. It can be a little confusing. Denali is a very temperamental gal (as mountains go!) They also offer a glacier landing tour in Denali, and usually land on the same glacier as the Fly Denali team; the approach from Talkeetna is different than from Healy though, so youll see an entirely different part of Denali National Park during your flight. Primrose Ridge offers a great view of Denali on a clear day, making it a perfect tour for those who are especially keen to see the mountain but less concerned with spotting wildlife. Be forewarned that the drivers also consider themselves entertainers, so you might be hearing some pretty hoary jokes during your eight hours. ), Coastal Classic Train (Anchorage to Seward), Glacier Discovery Train (Anchorage - Whittier - Spencer - Grandview), Denali Star Route (Anchorage - Talkeetna - Denali - Fairbanks), Princess Rail Tours (Anchorage - Talkeetna - Denali - Fairbanks), Denali Rail Tours (Anchorage - Talkeetna - Denali - Fairbanks), Wilderness Express (Anchorage - Talkeetna - Denali - Fairbanks). The Eielson Excursion is a Tundra Wilderness Tour which travels a few miles further to the Eielson Visitor Center. Car, train, or group tour. The Denali Natural History Tour focuses on the rich natural and cultural history of Denali National Park. Big ship or small ship? Then youll land on a glacier flowing down from the mountain herself, where you spend 20 minutes throwing snowballs, making snow angels, and being generally awed at your surroundings. Privacy Policy and
Typically, this is an 8-hour tour that goes to Stony Dome at Mile 56, but that obviously wont happen this year due to the road closure. Highlights plus less visited destinations. Roundtrip bus tour into Denali National Park. Even the most entertaining driver can become grating after eight hours. Not informing us may delay the start of the tour by an hour or two. Wheelchair accessible buses are available, and all stops are wheelchair accessible. Thanks so much! Nope, thats too early for the tour buses. Just discovered Kantishna Air Taxi will not be operating in 2022 I forgot to mention we will be traveling in early June. Cheryl. It's often said that 30percent of visitors to Denali will actually see the mountain; Glen posited that the figure was much less, closer to 20 or even 15percent. And what order would you do them in? Were planning to do the Tundra Wilderness Tour in September. I wanted to ask about the transit buses. I share travel resources and stories based on my personal experience and knowledge. We are interested in seeing the Northern Lights. By the end of the day, our final wildlife tally equaled six bears, including the cubs; five moose; five caribou; a plethora of Dall sheep; four spruce grouse; one very cute red fox and one wolverine. ", Book Now with no risk, your deposit is fully refundable until 31 days prior to travel with the purchase of our Worry-Free Cancellation Waiver. If you are wheelchair confined, you must note it at the time of booking. 800-208-0200 or 907-245-0200. Bus driver-guides will narrate the geologic and natural history of Denali National Park during the tour. Free personal GPSdriven travel guide to Alaska. So read on: discover the different Denali bus tours available in 2022, which ones are worth it, and even a few alternatives to help you see Denali National Park in a completely different way.
AVAILABLE FOR GUESTS WTIHOUT A PARK TOUR: This comprehensive full-day tour travels deep into Denali National Park for the best possible wildlife, Denali, viewpoints and a host of magnificent vistas. Finally, a stop at Primrose Ridge to experience a memorable Alaska Native presentation that will enlighten you with how the land has been used for nearly 10,000 years! As we entered the park, Glen explained the rules of the road. Mr. V was with me on that second trip, and I didnt hesitate for a moment to forge ahead with our plans to do the Tundra Wilderness Tour during our trip. Because the bus takes the same road both ways, there's no real advantage to what side of the bus to sit on, but you do want to score a window. One final way to get into Denali National Park is on the transit buses, which are green rather than tan like the DNHT and TWT buses. Finally, stop at Primrose Ridge to experience a memorable Alaska Native presentation that will enlighten you with how the land has been used for nearly 10,000 years! Select a departure below to see current availability. Alaska Travel is basically just an online travel platform they dont offer tours, they just allow you to book through them. I knew it would be truncated and miss some of the best scenery (its not called Pretty Rocks for nothing!) All the prices and info should be correct for 2022 and the buses offered this year. Thanks for reading, Sharon. We saw the aurora in Denali on September 7th last year, so its possible! I first took the Glacier Landing Tour from Fly Denali in 2007 while working for Holland America Line in Denali. Unfortunately, the scenery in the image above will not be seen by anyone on a bus tour in 2022. Our commitment to your safety is key. Hi, I made a mistake, we will be in Fairbanks on 9/10/22-9/11/22. The tour runs about 5 to 5.5 hours. Incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road, and some of the best opportunities to view the parks wildlife inhabitants await you on this tour. While details havent been announced yet, its safe to assume that if it happens, it too will require a turnaround at Mile 42. We tried to book the Denali Park TWT but theyre booked. I am really strugling with the idea of the school bus tour. Advance reservations are highly recommended. This tour will guide you along the spectacular road corridor, promising different experiences every day, as Denalis wildlife moves at its own pace and according to the seasons. Glen maneuvered the bus so everyone had a chance to take a photo. Thank you! Beginning with a stop at the Denali Bus Depot, learn about the creation of the Denali Park Road with the film Across Time and Tundra. Next, visit the historical Savage Cabin to learn how the cabin was once used, and how it continues to be used today.
Agents at the Denali Bus Depot can answer any final questions you have about your trip. The Tundra Wilderness Tour is the premier tour of Denali National Park and Preserve! You have some glaringly inaccurate info. You can make your reservation online or in person at the Denali Bus Depot. Last question: Are mask required on either of these trips? Early morning is the best time to potentially see animals as they get started on their day; however if youre planning later in September (not sure exact dates) you may want the lunchtime tour since its cooler in the morning and animals get started later as they prepare for winter. I lived for 15 years in Alaska, as well as four years each in California and Washington. We recommend reserving the tour in advance, as it does sell out. Experience the Denali Park Road with a certified naturalist for an adventure youll never forget! Are there alternate roads to get to Fairbanks in a reasonable amount of time. GUEST UPDATES: Please read for the latest updates on closures impacting our operations. Are they also need to book? These bus tours give you the opportunity for wildlife spotting and also allows you the chance to sit back, relax, and listen to your Certified Interpretive Guide share their stories about the history, culture, and geography that surrounds you. Do you know if the East Fork bus ($30) stops at all for wildlife/pictures/bathroom or does it just go straight to Mile 43? This tour offers wonderful diversity for visitors. Successful, we settled in as Glen, our driver, began his narration. Park tour is approximately 8 hours. In this post, I promote travel to a national park that is the traditional lands of the Tanana peoples. Exact departure times will be assigned 48 hours prior to the scheduled tour date. A classic wildlife tour of Denali National Park, the Tundra Wilderness Tour showcases Denalis spectacular scenery and many opportunities for wildlife sightings -- making this tour one of the most popular ways to experience and understand Denalis terrain and wildlife. Incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road and some of the best opportunities to view the park's wildlife inhabitants await you on this tour. We'll match you with a local itinerary expert to help you plan your trip. I guess we were lucky being in Denali late May 2022 for the TWT, it was Awesome! If you have a need for a wheelchair seat on your tour, please call. was the best way to grab his attention. Along with confirmation and/or tickets, please present photo ID with pass to obtain National Park Service Entrance Fee Refund. A small snack and bottled water are offered on this Alaska land tour. If so, what are your thoughts? Finally, youll fly back out along the park road, spotting wildlife before touching down in Healy. Well, the options are limited theres no way around that. We've done it with both Holland America Line and Princess Cruises, and either way, it's the exact same experience. Superb wildlife and mountain viewing opportunities. They were saying 6-7 hours when I published this back in December. But, the star of the show ended up being much smaller. Please note: due to Denali Park Road maintenance, the 2022 Tundra Wilderness Tour will travel 42 miles one way with a turnaround at the historic Murie Cabin at East Fork River; the return journey affords the opportunity to view the rugged landscape from a new angle. Honestly, Im a bit nervous about having to wear an oxygen mask and fly in a small plane but do not want to miss out! On our 6.5-hour tour, we saw bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep four of Denalis Big 5. For rates, operational dates, and important information, please click here. Ive introduced many people ex-boyfriends, my college best friend, and my husband (Mr. V) to Denali over the years, and never get tired of visiting. 2020 Alaska Railroad. And when you or your guide spot some an animal, the bus will stop so everyone can get a look. This is a great option if youre planning to spend a day or night in Talkeetna on your way to/from Denali. The Tundra Wilderness Tour will guide you along the spectacular road corridor, promising different experiences every day, as Denalis wildlife moves at its own pace and according to the seasons. Tour drivers, educated and trained as interpretive naturalists, provide colorful information about the land and its animals. The DNHT is offered from May 12 to September 15 in 2022, and costs $104 for adults and $44.50 for children. It costs $185 per person and gives you the best chance to see animals (and also allows you to get a picture-perfect shot of Denali, if the sun is out). Yes, the transit bus is the only other alternative and yes you absolutely need to book in advance because those sell out too! Focus on Denali & Kenai Fjords. Bears are the big attraction on any Denali Tundra Wilderness tour, and we didn't have to wait long to see a mama with two cubs walking alongside a river bank. My husband is leaning toward doing the one from Talkeetna as they are offering the Glacier Landing and Summit tour, weather permitting. We had waited for 2 years to visit Alaska and were disappointed that the bus cannot go to Wonder Lake. Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction. It didn't take that long to hit our first spotting: a large moose placidly chomping on leaves. Would we be able to see the Northern Lights at that time or is it still too early. We're glad we did, as it was a bit of a mad dash for a window seat. The TWT is available from May 20 to September 15 in 2022, and costs $128 for adults and $56.50 for children.Click here to book. Before wrapping up this post, I want to very clearly state which Denali bus tours are not operating in 2022: Additionally, the Denali Park Lottery which allows private vehicles to traverse the Park Road in late September each year will be limited in 2022.
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