Alaska’s National Parks are full of towering mountains, shining glaciers, and amazing wildlife. They offer some of the most beautiful places in the world. Whether you love adventure or are planning your first visit, these parks show why Alaska is so special.
I still remember my first visit, the crisp mountain air and the quiet beauty of Denali left me speechless. National parks in Alaska offer a little bit of everything: thrilling hikes, peaceful boat rides, and even up-close encounters with bears and moose (from a safe distance, of course). If you’re planning a trip, I suggest starting with Kenai Fjords for its jaw-dropping glaciers or Wrangell-St. Elias for sheer scale—it’s the largest national park in the country! But honestly, no matter where you go, you’ll leave with stories you can’t wait to share.
Why Alaska National Parks Are a Must-Visit
- You’ll be amazed by the views: Towering mountains, shining glaciers, and endless wilderness—it’s a view that will stay with you forever. I remember standing in Denali, feeling like I was in a completely different world.
- Wildlife you’ll never forget: From bears catching salmon to moose grazing near the trails, Alaska’s parks bring you closer to nature than you’ve ever been. I once spotted a bald eagle soaring right above me.
- Endless adventures await: Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or even just taking a scenic drive, the parks have so much to offer. Walking on a glacier in Kenai Fjords was one of the coolest experiences of my life.
- You’ll connect with culture: These parks aren’t just about nature; they’re also rich with Indigenous history and traditions. Visiting Totem Bight State Historical Park gave me a whole new appreciation for Alaska’s heritage.
- Unforgettable moments you can’t get anywhere else: Watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky or hearing the thunder of a calving glacier—these are once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ll find here.
- So much room to explore: Alaska’s parks are huge, and the solitude you’ll find is unmatched. I once hiked for hours in Wrangell-St. Elias without seeing another soul—it was pure peace.
- Perfect for everyone: Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just want to soak in the views, Alaska’s parks offer something for all types of travelers.
💡 How Many National Parks Are There In Alaska? 💡
Alaska is home to 8 national parks, each offering unique landscapes and experiences that showcase the state’s incredible natural beauty and diversity.
List of Alaska National Parks
| National Parks | Highlights | Views |
| 1- Denali National Park | Home to North America’s tallest peak, Mount Denali (20,310 ft). |  |
| 2- Glacier Bay National Park | Features dramatic glaciers and fjords; part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |  |
| 3- Kenai Fjords National Park | Known for its glaciers flowing from Harding Icefield into the sea. |  |
| 4- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park | Largest national park in the U.S. (13.2 million acres); diverse ecosystems. |  |
| 5- Katmai National Park | Famous for brown bears and salmon runs; Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. |  |
| 6- Gates of the Arctic National Park | Second-largest national park in the U.S. (8.4 million acres); experiences extreme weather conditions. |  |
| 7- Lake Clark National Park | Stunning landscapes with volcanoes, lakes, and abundant wildlife. |  |
| 8- Kobuk Valley National Park | Home to the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes and migrating caribou herds. |  |
Best National Parks In Alaska and Why They’re the Best
Alaska is home to some of the best national parks in the world, each offering unique experiences. Denali National Park is famous for North America’s tallest peak and incredible wildlife like bears and moose. Glacier Bay National Park stands out for its massive glaciers, perfect for boat tours and kayaking. Kenai Fjords National Park features dramatic fjords and abundant marine life, including whales and sea otters. Wrangell-St. Elias, the largest national park in the U.S., is a paradise for adventurers with its glaciers and rugged mountains. These parks showcase Alaska’s wild beauty and provide unforgettable ways to explore nature.
1- Denali National Park
- Why it’s the best: It’s home to Denali, North America’s highest peak, and offers breathtaking mountain views and vast wilderness. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to see grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and caribou.
💡 Fun Fact: Known for its iconic peak, Denali drew around 601,152 visitors in 2019. The park remains one of the most popular destinations in Alaska.
2- Kenai Fjords National Park
- Why it’s the best: Known for its stunning glaciers, including the easily accessible Exit Glacier, and opportunities for kayaking, boat tours, and wildlife spotting. The dramatic fjords and abundant marine life make it unforgettable.
3- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
- Why it’s the best: The largest national park in the U.S., it offers vast, untouched wilderness, glaciers, and mountain ranges. It’s a haven for backcountry adventurers and climbers seeking remote beauty.
4- Glacier Bay National Park
- Why it’s the best: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking tidewater glaciers, incredible marine wildlife like whales and seals, and opportunities for cruising or kayaking. Its glacial landscapes are some of the most awe-inspiring in the world.
💡Fun Fact: This park alone attracted 703,659 visitors in 2023, marking a 5% increase from its previous record in 2019.
5- Katmai National Park
- Why it’s the best: Famous for its bear-watching opportunities, particularly at Brooks Falls, where brown bears catch salmon. Its volcanic landscapes, including the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, make it unique.
6- Gates of the Arctic National Park
- Why it’s the best: A true wilderness experience, it’s completely above the Arctic Circle with no roads or trails. It offers unparalleled solitude, stunning Northern Lights views, and pristine arctic landscapes.
7- Lake Clark National Park
- Why it’s the best: It combines dramatic landscapes of active volcanoes, turquoise lakes, and waterfalls with incredible fishing and bear-viewing opportunities. Its remoteness makes it a peaceful escape.
8- Kobuk Valley National Park
- Why it’s the best: The park has deep ties to Alaska Native communities. It’s been an essential area for subsistence hunting and fishing for thousands of years, and archaeological sites reveal a rich history of human habitation.
Largest National Park In Alaska
The largest national Alaska park, and also in the United States, is Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. It covers a massive area of 13.2 million acres, which is roughly six times the size of Yellowstone National Park.
Why Wrangell-St. Elias Stands Out:
- Vast Wilderness: The park encompasses four major mountain ranges, including the Wrangell, St. Elias, Chugach, and Alaska Ranges, offering incredible landscapes of mountains, glaciers, and valleys.
- Unparalleled Adventure: With its remote location and size, it’s a paradise for climbers, hikers, and backcountry explorers seeking solitude and pristine nature.
- Cultural and Geological Significance: The park includes historic mining sites and is home to the largest concentration of glaciers in North America.
Activities in Alaska’s National Parks
Exploring Alaska’s national parks is an adventure of a lifetime, but a little preparation and know-how can make your experience even better. Here’s what you can do in these stunning parks and some expert tips to make the most of your visit.
1- Hiking in Alaska National Parks
Hiking in Alaska is a must-do, but it’s not your average stroll in the park. Always wear sturdy boots and dress in layers—you never know when the weather might change. Stick to marked trails like the Savage River Loop in Denali if you’re new to hiking. For more experienced hikers, Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords offers breathtaking glacier views, but be ready for steep climbs.
–Do’s: Carry a map, plenty of water, and snacks. Always check trail conditions beforehand. –Don’ts: Avoid wandering off-trail; it’s easy to get lost in the vast wilderness.
2- Camping in Alaska National Parks
Camping in Alaska is a raw, exhilarating experience. Choose a designated campground like Riley Creek in Denali or go for backcountry camping if you’re feeling adventurous. Always store food in bear-proof containers and keep your campsite clean.
–Do’s: Bring a good sleeping bag rated for cold weather, even in summer. –Don’ts: Never leave food unattended, and avoid setting up camp near animal trails or water sources.
3- Photography of Scenic View in Alaska Parks
Alaska is a photographer’s paradise, but timing is everything. For the best light, head out early in the morning or late in the evening. Bring a tripod for long-exposure shots of the Northern Lights or to steady your camera for wildlife photos.
-Do’s: Use a zoom lens for wildlife and wide-angle lenses for landscapes. –Don’ts: Don’t rush your shots—Alaska rewards patience with jaw-dropping moments.
4- Wildlife in Alaska’s National Parks
Spotting a grizzly bear or a moose in its natural habitat is thrilling, but safety is key. Always keep a safe distance—use binoculars or a zoom lens to get a closer look. In places like Katmai National Park, follow all ranger instructions when near bears.
–Do’s: Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals. Carry bear spray as a precaution. -Don’ts: Never feed or approach wildlife—it’s dangerous for you and harmful to them.
5- National Park Adventures in Alaska
From glacier trekking to ranger-led tours, Alaska offers activities you can’t find anywhere else. If you’re up for a challenge, try walking on a glacier in Wrangell-St. Elias or kayaking in Kenai Fjords. These activities require a guide, so book in advance.
–Do’s: Wear proper gear, like crampons for glacier walks, and listen carefully to your guide. —–Don’ts: Don’t attempt risky activities without proper training or guidance.
6- Boating and Kayaking: Explore Alaska’s Waters
Water adventures are a must, but they require preparation. Kayaking through fjords or taking a boat tour in Glacier Bay lets you see Alaska from a unique perspective. Always wear a life jacket and watch for changing tides.
–Do’s: Dress in waterproof layers and carry a dry bag for essentials. Book guided tours if you’re new to kayaking.
-Don’ts: Don’t venture out in bad weather or without checking tide schedules—it can be dangerous.
7- Snowshoeing And Dog Sledding
Snowshoeing and dog sledding are quintessential Alaskan experiences. Dress warmly in insulated layers and bring hand warmers for extra comfort. If you’re trying dog sledding, make sure to book with a reputable operator for a safe and ethical experience.
–Do’s: Learn basic snow safety and carry a map or GPS for snowshoeing. –Don’ts: Don’t underestimate the cold—frostbite can sneak up on you quickly.
How to Visit Alaska National Parks
Visiting Alaska’s national parks requires planning due to their remote locations and vast landscapes. Here’s how to make your visit successful:
- Choose the Right Time: Visit during summer (June–August) for better weather, accessible trails, and active wildlife.
- Plan Transportation: Many parks are accessible by car, ferry, or plane. Remote parks like Gates of the Arctic or Katmai may require small charter flights or boat trips.
- Decide on Activities: Research activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, or glacier exploration specific to each park.
- Obtain Necessary Permits: Some parks require camping or backcountry permits, especially for popular areas.
- Use an Alaska National Parks Map: Plan routes, locate visitor centers, and identify key attractions using a detailed map.
- Consider Guided Tours: Opt for guided tours for convenience and expert insights, especially if it’s your first visit.
- Prepare for the Wilderness: Pack essentials for Alaska’s unpredictable weather and rugged conditions, including sturdy footwear, layers, and insect repellent.
💡 Fun Fact: Denali National Park accounted for about $475 million in visitor spending, while Glacier Bay contributed around $225 million.
Alaska National Park Tours
Alaska’s national parks are a gateway to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world. With eight national parks, each offering unique experiences, they attract thousands of visitors annually. In 2019, for example, Denali National Park welcomed over 601,000 visitors, while Glacier Bay National Park saw around 672,000 tourists.
Each national park in Alaska showcases incredible natural landmarks that are both awe-inspiring and diverse:
- Denali National Park and Preserve: Home to Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America, this park offers stunning views and a variety of wildlife.
- Glacier Bay National Park: Known for its dynamic glaciers and rich marine ecosystems, it features over 1,000 glaciers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Kenai Fjords National Park: Famous for its fjords carved by glaciers, it is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
These Alaskan natural landmarks not only provide picturesque views but also serve as habitats for diverse wildlife, making them prime locations for eco-tourism.
The vast Alaska wilderness areas are perfect for those seeking adventure and solitude. Parks like Gates of the Arctic National Park and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is largely untouched by human activity, offering visitors a chance to explore pristine landscapes. These areas are ideal for activities such as hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing.
- Gates of the Arctic is known for its remote location above the Arctic Circle, attracting backcountry adventurers.
- Wrangell-St. Elias, the largest national park in the U.S., features rugged mountains and expansive glaciers.
To navigate these stunning parks, an Alaska National Parks map is invaluable. It highlights the locations of each park and provides essential information on accessibility and key attractions. The map can be found through various travel resources and is often included in travel guides to help visitors plan their trips effectively.
Planning Your Alaska National Parks Trip
When planning an Alaska National Parks trip, consider the best times to visit each park based on seasonal activities. Summer months typically see the highest visitor numbers due to milder weather and accessible trails. Popular tour options include guided bus tours in Denali or boat tours in Glacier Bay, allowing travelers to experience these incredible landscapes with expert guidance.
FAQs
How Many People Travel to Alaska for National Parks?
Each year, millions of visitors travel to Alaska, drawn by its incredible wilderness and national parks. Most travelers come during the summer months, with June, July, and August being the busiest times.
- Seasonal Peaks – Summer is the most popular season for park visits.
- Visitor Demographics – Families, solo travelers, and adventure groups.
- Tour Numbers – Guided tours host thousands of participants every year.
What is the best time of year to visit Alaska’s national parks?
The best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is warmer, wildlife is active, and trails are accessible.
How can I access the remote national parks in Alaska?
Remote parks can be accessed via small planes, boats, or guided tours, as most lack road access. Planes are the most common mode of transportation.
What wildlife can I expect to see in these parks?
Expect to see brown bears, moose, caribou, bald eagles, wolves, and whales, depending on the park and season.
Are guided tours available for first-time visitors?
Yes, guided tours are widely available and highly recommended for first-time visitors. These tours provide expert insights and ensure safety in remote areas.
What are the costs associated with visiting these parks?
Costs vary but typically include park entry fees ($10–$15 per person), transportation, and optional guided tours or accommodations. Guided tours can range from $100 to $500+ depending on the experience.
