My girlfriend and I are going to be in Alaska for 11 days at the end of May. We are looking to do a 3 night backcountry trip in Denali National Park. We will probably get there in the afternoon one day and leave in the morning the 4th day, so we will really only have 2 full days to hike. We don't want our hikes to be too difficult, no more than 10 miles a day. I'd like to spend a fair amount of time photographing the wildlife and the views. A few good climbs to some peaks with great views would be perfect. If we can find the perfect campsite i've considered leaving the tent there for 2 nights and just going off in different directions each day and coming back. We have been looking at units 8-12 but since the bus only goes to Toklat while we are there, 11 and 12 will be tougher I think.

I have been reading Ike Waits' book on backpacking in Denali but wanted to get the opinions of anyone here who is familiar with Denali. Anybody have any specific areas that sound like they are something we should try for? I know we can't get anything final until we know what units are available, but i wanted to get some ideas before we go. Thanks.

I have adventured in Denali National Park three times for over forty days in the last thirty five years. Make a minimum of four trips plans in areas that match your vision, ability, and time BEFORE you leave the lower 48. Depending what month you arrive at the park you’ll be lucky if you get any of your four prior planned trips. That’s a bummer, but if you have done your homework prior, are flexible and patient in meeting your wants and needs (vision) things will fall into place, BUT be prepared you may not do everything you set your hearts to do on your first trip. My last trip you needed to get up in the EARLY am and proceed to the “caddy shack” before the crowd to check out with the “trips ranger” what areas are available in order to get a permit (first come, first served!)……Denali has been broke into many areas backcountry “blocks” and each have small “carrying capacity” numbers and this may be an issue with getting into an area you desire with the both of you.

Water crossing are dangerous so treat them with respect as you would the bears.

Edited by KENLARSON on 05/04/2010 12:50:13 MDT.