About Denali Highway
The Denali Highway is often overlooked by motorists yet offers some of the most spectacular scenery and recreation opportunities in Alaska. For those with a heart for adventure and a little extra time, the highway presents a historic glimpse of the Last Frontier – wilderness in all directions. An abundance of camping, fishing, wildlife viewing and hiking opportunities can be yours with planning. The Denali Highway is 135 miles long and connects Paxson on the Richardson Highway with Cantwell Junction on the Parks Highway. A loop trip from Fairbanks is 436 miles and a loop trip from Anchorage is about 600 miles. Gas is available at Cantwell. There is no gas at Paxson. Allow several days for these trips.The entire route presents outstanding views of the Alaska Range, boreal vegetation, glacial features, and wildlife. Look for caribou, moose, fox, marmot, wolf, ptarmigan, trumpeter swan, and other waterfowl.
How to Get There
Access Denali Highway (AK-8) from either Cantwell or Paxson.The highway is generally open from mid-May to October 1. Do not attempt to travel the road at any other time, as snowdrifts can block your way. The road is paved for the first 21 miles west of Paxson and for three miles east of Cantwell Junction. The rest of the road is gravel. When driving on gravel, SLOW DOWN, especially when passing another vehicle. Just one small flying rock can damage a windshield — and it could be yours! The maximum recommended speed on the highway is 35 mph.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Denali Highway
Heading to Denali Highway? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Denali Highway?
No central reservation system listed for Denali Highway. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/16606) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Denali Highway?
Access Denali Highway (AK-8) from either Cantwell or Paxson.The highway is generally open from mid-May to October 1. Do not attempt to travel the road at any other time, as snowdrifts can block your way. The road is paved for the first 21 miles west of Paxson and for three miles east of Cantwell Junction. The rest of the road is gravel. When driving on gravel, SLOW DOWN, especially when passing an…
How do I contact Denali Highway?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-822-3217 or email: blm_ak_gfo_general_delivery@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
