Denali National Park, home to North America’s tallest peak (20,310-foot Denali, formerly Mount McKinley), offers one of the most unforgettable wilderness experiences in the world. From sweeping tundra to grizzly bear habitat, this Alaskan treasure can be experienced in ways that are both adventurous and accessible—even for families with seniors or those seeking comfort travel options.
The Denali Star: Upgrade for the Best Wilderness View
For travelers who want to see Denali in comfort, the Alaska Railroad’s [Denali Star Train](https://www.alaskarailroad.com/travel-planning/routes/denali-star-train) offers more than just transportation—it’s a front-row seat to Alaska’s wilderness. By upgrading to the GoldStar Service, passengers are treated to panoramic “bubble dome” windows, the largest available on any railcar in North America. Beneath the glass canopy, the Alaska Range, braided rivers, and endless spruce forests unfold in every direction, uninterrupted.
This was especially meaningful for my family. The GoldStar dome gave my parents—at the ages of 80 and 90—a chance to truly experience the great outdoors of Alaska. Without needing to hike or climb, they were able to see Denali’s sweeping landscapes, eagles soaring overhead, and even moose wandering near the tracks. For us, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share the grandeur of Alaska together, in a way that was fully accessible and comfortable for them.
Add in perks like the open-air observation platform, a private bar, and multi-course meals featuring Alaskan specialties, and the day-long journey became not just transportation but one of the highlights of our trip. There’s no other way to cover so much wilderness in one unforgettable day—accessible to every age.
Park Tours and Bear Viewing
Once inside Denali, the official National Park bus tours provide the safest way to spot wildlife, from grizzly bears to caribou and wolves, all while learning from naturalist guides. These tours can last from half a day to a full day, and many visitors consider them the best way to experience the heart of the park.
Whitewater Rafting Adventures
Thrill-seekers can add a river adventure along the Nenana River, which borders Denali National Park. Here are five recommended vendors:
– [Denali Raft Adventures](https://www.denaliraft.com/)
– [New Wave Adventures](https://newwaveadventures.com/)
– [Denali Outdoor Center](https://denalioutdoorcenter.com/)
– [Wilderness Access Center Rafting](https://www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit/wac.htm)
– [Denali Park Village Rafting](https://www.denaliparkvillage.com/activities/rafting/)
Scenic Airplane Tours Over Denali
For those wanting to see Denali from the sky, two excellent operators offer flightseeing tours:
– [K2 Aviation](https://www.flyk2.com/)
– [Talkeetna Air Taxi](https://www.talkeetnaair.com/)
Visiting Indigenous Communities
Denali is also home to rich Indigenous culture. Visitors can learn about Athabascan traditions, storytelling, and crafts through cultural tours offered both inside and near the park. These experiences provide an important connection to the people who have called this wilderness home for thousands of years.
Airboat Tours to Glaciers
For another once-in-a-lifetime adventure, travelers can board an [airboat](https://denaliairboats.com/) to access remote glacier-fed rivers. These tours offer safe but exhilarating rides into otherwise inaccessible areas, where guests can marvel at ancient ice formations up close.
Xanterra Lodges and Seasonality
For comfortable stays, Xanterra operates [Denali Park Village](https://www.denaliparkvillage.com/), open during the May–September summer season. With cabins, hotel rooms, and guided activities, it provides the perfect home base for exploring Denali without sacrificing comfort.