Beyond the Savage River Check Station at Mile 15 of the park road, you’ll need to be on a bus, bicycle, or on foot. 

Why do I need to be on a bus?

Prior to the 1972 completion of the George Parks Highway, the main travel artery which opened up interior Alaska, visitation to Denali National Park and Preserve was fairly low.  Anticipation of major increases in traffic resulting from the now-direct route to the park prompted park officials to implement a mass transit system beyond Mile 15 on the Denali Park Road.

The Denali Park Road is the only road in the park, and with few exceptions, private vehicles are not allowed. To provide for visitor access and enjoyment of the world class resources, our Concessioner, Doyon/ARAMARK Joint Venture, offers several types of bus services along the Park Road.

Extending 91 miles from the park entrance to its terminus in the old mining community of Kantishna, the mostly-gravel road traverses boreal forests and sub-arctic tundra. Crossing rolling mountainsides and sheer cliffs, the road meanders through scenic vistas and prime wildlife viewing areas.

By riding a bus, you help to reduce traffic congestion and protect the natural resources of the park. We encourage you to explore the different bus options and decide on the best choice for you!

Which bus shall I take?

A Tool to Help Me Decide!

Shuttle Bus System

The green shuttle buses travel to various destinations along the entire length of the Park Road. This bus system is designed to provide access to visitors wanting to experience the park on more informal terms. Visitors wishing to go on a hike (including a Discovery Hike which is scheduled within the Shuttle Bus System), access a campground, or just spend a bit of time off the bus should consider this transportation option. 

Part of the shuttle bus system, camper buses provide transportation into the park for visitors staying in campgrounds or backcountry units. These buses are specially configured to accommodate packs and bicycles, and may only be reserved by reserving a campsite or securing a backcountry permit beforehand.

Entrance Area Shuttles

Free entrance area shuttle buses will facilitate your movements within the entrance area of the park:

• Savage River Shuttle
• Riley Creek Loop Shuttle
• Sled Dog Demonstration Shuttle

Interpretive Tour Buses

There are three interpretive bus tour options to choose from: the Tundra Wilderness Tour, the Denali Natural History Tour and the Kantishna Experience. All tours offer a formally narrated tour presented by a certified interpretive driver-naturalist.