Victoria Lupascu 
Set in the middle of nowhere, this world-famous national park attracts more and more visitors every year! Who wouldn’t want to explore the pristine parkland, observe the magnificent wildlife (watch out for the grizzly bears), and admire Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America for hours?
You’re probably packing your bags already, so we’ll head straight to business:
In this post, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the best places to stay in Denali. Usually, people who visit this national park find a hotel in the nearest towns. The accommodations inside the park are limited to campgrounds or lodges that generally sell out months in advance. But don’t worry, if you want to stay inside the park, I have a bonus section that will help you.
Denali National Park has only 1 entrance, located at Mile 237 of Highway 3, also known as the George Parks Highway. The closest town to the entrance is Healy and my top choice for where to stay near Denali.
However, in the list below, you’ll find 4 more places perfect for nature lovers, budget travelers, people who want to stay in a bigger city, or those who just want to relax. Plus stick around for the bonus sections if you are looking for some cool cabins to stay near the park!
Before we start, I should tell you that these are the best hotels around Denali and I highly recommend booking them in advance as the area is pretty secluded meaning options are limited and they sell out fast!
Let’s hit the road!
Contents
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Want to book right now? Then browse through this shortlist of the best hotels, all located in Healy
Here’s a map that will help you visualize all the areas to stay in Denali that I will be talking about in this post:
- Healy: for first-timers
- Fairbanks: for the urban atmosphere
- Talkeetna: for budget
- Trapper Creek: for nature lovers
- Cantwell : for tranquility
1. Healy – the best place to stay in Denali for the first time
Denali National Park is the dream location for outdoor enthusiasts, right?
What can be better than exploring Denali, the tallest mountain in North America, and hiking around the Alaskan wilderness? It’s the adventure of a lifetime!
If you’re traveling for the first time, then I recommend finding a place to stay in Healy, a town that’s located 12 miles (19 km) north of the park’s only entrance!
Healy sits along the stunning Nenana River, and although it’s small, it has all the facilities you need and offers easy access to Denali National Park.
I highly recommend booking your hotels in advance especially if you choose Healy, as it’s a great location and it sits super close to the park entrance. Most tourists will look for places here, so hurry!
Not only is this small town a great base for exploring Denali National Park, but it also offers plenty of things to do. Before you head to visit the park, you can try whitewater rafting on the Nenana River or hike around Bison Gulch.
You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and shops where you can stock up for your trip to Denali Park. And if you’re looking for other incredible places to visit in Alaska, I recommend you check out Anchorage!
Tucked away between the trees, these comfortable accommodations are perfect for your stay in Denali! Offering great amenities including free wifi, a kitchen, and BBQ facilities, the cabins also provide free parking.
Other accommodation options in Healy
The best hotel for your trip that has comfortable rooms, free wifi, and a snack for the guests
Enjoy your stay in Denali at this hotel that offers all the amenities you need, including breakfast and a tour desk
I love the design of this cabin! Admire the sweeping views from the balcony and chill in the backyard
Things to do in Healy
- Try whitewater rafting on the Nenana River
- Hike around the Black Diamond Peak
- Enjoy a delicious beer at 49th State Brewing
- Go on a trip to explore Dora Peak
- Have a cup of coffee at The Alaskan Coffee Bean
- Take the kids to play at Mountains of Fun
2. Fairbanks – best place for an urban atmosphere
If small towns aren’t really your piece of cake and you’d rather spend your time outside of Denali Park in a place that offers different types of places to visit like museums and attractions, then I think Fairbanks is the place for you!
Alaska’s 2nd largest city sits 120 miles (190 km) north of Denali National Park’s entrance, and it’s perfect for those who also want to explore some historic sites, shop, and eat in the best restaurants!
Fear not, you’ll also have easy access to the Alaskan wilderness, and you’ll also learn a lot about the Alaska Native culture here.
Before you head to visit Denali Park, take a day or 2 to search for the best attractions in the city. You can start with the Museum of the North and Pioneer Park, both places are fantastic, and you’ll find out so many cool things about Fairbanks.
We’re still in Alaska, so we’ve got plenty of natural sites in the cities as well. One of the best ones is Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. Here you’ll spot so many cute birds (I’m sure the kids will love this one)!
Go for a swim in the pool and enjoy your stay at the best hotel in Fairbanks! The accommodation has comfortable rooms and free wifi. Guests will have access to other amenities like breakfast each morning and free parking.
Other accommodation options in Fairbanks
Feel at home in this cozy b&b that offers many amenities, including breakfast and laundry facilities
Chill out by the outdoor fireplace at this hostel that offers comfortable rooms, free wifi, and free bikes
Stargaze at night in the yard at this cute cottage that has rooms for 3 guests, a river view, and free wifi
As you’ve noticed Fairbanks offers many comfortable accommodations and I’m sure many of you will want to stay in a city that provides all the amenities you’ll need for your trip to Denali Park. So in case you’ve missed your chance at the accommodations from the list above or still haven’t found the best hotel for you, here are 4 more:
- Luxury: Aurora Villa – The best hotel ever! I love the design, and the surroundings look fantastic too. Aurora Villa has great amenities, including spacious rooms, free wifi, and a tour desk. Cozy up by the outdoor fireplace and enjoy the views of the mountains!
- Mid Range: River’s Edge Resort – Enjoy the river views from the terrace at this hotel with rooms that feature tea and coffee makers. Guests at the accommodation will have access to a restaurant and free wifi.
- Budget: Pike’s Waterfront Lodge – Relax in the sauna after your trip to Denali National Park at the best hotel ever! The accommodation offers rooms equipped with a flat-screen tv, laundry facilities, and a tour desk. The next day you can grab a quick breakfast at the restaurant and continue your holiday the next day!
- Airbnb: Cozy Log Cabin – A perfect place for nature lovers, that offers easy access to the Alaskan wilderness, a kitchen, and a cozy room. During the day you can explore around the accommodation and go hiking!
Things to do in Fairbanks
- Learn new things at the Museum of the North
- Explore the Pioneer Park
- Visit the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
- Spot the cute birds at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
- Check out the ice sculptures at Fairbanks Ice Museum
- Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Hometown Restaurant
Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!
3. Talkeetna – best place to stay in Denali on a budget
This town sits 150 miles (240 km) south of Denali National Park, and it’s one of the best places to stay in Denali for people looking for affordable hotels! It’s also located pretty close to Trapper Creek, only a 30-minute drive away.
Founded in the 20th century as a railroad town, Talkeetna is located at the confluence of 3 rivers. It offers plenty of things to do outdoors while you’re not exploring Denali National Park.
The hiking areas near the lake are absolutely amazing. The views are like none other! There are plenty of those around so trust me when I tell you that you’ll want to spend a lot of time here!
Back in the town area, you can visit the Historical Society, to learn more about the town’s past and have a look at the restaurants and cafes around, you’ll probably be famished after all the walking and hiking. Plus there are also a few cute shops from where you can buy souvenirs.
Talkeetna is full of life, and although it’s a bit further away from Denali National Park, you’ll find plenty of things to do here during your trip!
I like how cozy this place looks, and it has so many amenities (including a tour desk and a bakery, yum)! Enjoy a delicious breakfast in the morning before you start your day in Talkeetna or go to Denali National Park. This is the best hotel here as it also has a games room and free wifi.
Other accommodation options in Talkeetna
These great Denali cabins offer super comfortable accommodations with private balconies, and a garden
Mingle with the guests in the picnic area or make a barbecue at this lodge that has free wifi and games
This cabin looks straight from a fairytale! It has room for 2 guests and many amenities including free wifi
Things to do in Talkeetna
- Learn new things at the Talkeetna Historical Society
- Go for a hike around the Chulitna River
- Enjoy a day of fishing at Christiansen Lake
- Have a drink at Denali Brewpub
- Take a trip to Trapper Creek
- Catch a sunset in Talkeetna Riverfront Park
- Go on a zip line tour in Talkeetna
- Check out Mountain High Pizza Pie and the other restaurants
4. Trapper Creek – where to stay in Denali for nature lovers
Located 120 miles (190 km) south of Denali National Park, Trapper Creek is one of the best places to stay in Denali! Why?
Well, the views of the tallest mountain in North America are pretty incredible! Also, Trapper Creek offers the most amazing natural surroundings. There are so many places to explore in the outdoors here that you won’t know where to start.
Don’t worry. I’ll help you with that!
You should be camera-ready at all times during your stay in Trapper Creek because you’ll want to take pics of Denali Mountain at every stop!
Grab your hiking shoes because you’ll walk for hours! Trapper Creek is known for its pretty countryside and rivers. On some of them, like Susitna River, you can even rent kayaks and spend a few hours enjoying some peace and quiet!
There are a few restaurants in Trapper Creek as well, 20320 Alaskan Grill is probably the most popular one around, and it has a terrace where you can chill in the sun.
Now let’s check out the accommodation in Trapper Creek. I’m sure you’ll find your favorite on this list!
Beautiful decor? Check! Great amenities? Check? The views? Absolutely amazing! Enjoy your stay in Denali at the best hotel in Trapper Creek. The accommodation offers easy access to the lake and it has a kitchen, a backyard, and free wifi.
Other accommodation options in Trapper Creek
This cozy Trapper Creek guesthouse offers ski-in access and ski storage space plus a sun terrace
Enjoy your morning coffee on the balcony of this Trapper Creek B&B that has cozy rooms and a garden
Chill out in the backyard at this accommodation that has a kitchen, free wifi, and children’s books
Things to do in Trapper Creek
- Spend a few hours kayaking on Susitna River
- Visit the beautiful Swan Lake in Trapper Creek
- Explore the area around Scotty Lake in Trapper Creek
- Have a delicious dinner at 20320 Alaskan Grill
- Buy souvenirs from the Trapper Creek Wal Mikes gift shop
- Stop at Denali Mountains View Pullout on Parks Highway to admire the views
5. Cantwell – where to stay in Denali for tranquility
Located 30 miles (50 km) south of Denali National Park’s entrance, Cantwell is a great town for people who seek to relax enjoy some peace and quiet during their trip!
Named after Cantwell River (the original name for Nenana River) this town was also established as a railroad community back in the 1920s (just like Talkeetna). Besides offering easy access to Denali Park, Cantwell also serves as a base for dog mushing (sled dog racing), fishing, and sightseeing tours.
There are so many scenic spots in Cantwell! You’ll find most of them as you drive along Parks Highway on the way to the National Park. One of my favorites is the Pass Creek Scenic View. The mountain and river views are simply breathtaking.
Not too far from here, you will find Wildthingz Dog Mushing who organize different sled dog tours, which are super fun if you want to see as much of the area as possible, plus you’ll learn so many things about dog mushing including what it takes to take care of the dogs.
Enjoy a tranquil holiday in Cantwell at the best hotel in the area, surrounded by trees and beautiful views of Denali mountain! The accommodation has rooms equipped with coffee and tea makers plus a nice picnic area outside where you can chill after a long hike.
Other accommodation options in Cantwell
This lodge has a restaurant on-site, family rooms and a bar where you can mingle with the other tourists
Admire the mountain views from this affordable spot that offers ski-in access and breakfast
Relax all day long at this secluded cabin that offers beach access, a kitchen, and a balcony
Things to do in Cantwell
- Go on tour with Wildthingz Dog Mushing
- Stop at Pass Creek Scenic View
- Hike from the Windy Creek Trailhead
- Grab a bite at Jam Jam’s Spot
- Enjoy a sunset walk along the Cantwell Creek
- Try fishing with Denali Angler
| 👑 Luxury price: | $250 |
| 💵 Mid Range: | $180 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $120 |
| 🏠 Airbnb: | $200 |
| 💰 Accommodation prices: | Medium |
| 📍 Best area: | Healy |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Fairbanks |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Tri-Valley Cabins |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | Denali Park |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Aurora Denali Lodge |
BONUS 1: Best lodges and cabins in Denali National Park
I don’t know about you but I love lodges! I think they’re one of the best options for accommodations when visiting places like Denali National Park or anywhere that has a bit of nature around.
Most of them are made of wood, have cute amenities like fireplaces, cozy lounge areas where you can meet other travelers and chill. If you’re looking for some lodges where you can stay during your trip to Denali, have a look at the list below. It has the best ones!
1.1 Accommodations inside Denali National Park
If you really want to stay in the heart of the national park, you do have some options although most of them require flying in on a small plane or helicopter! They are pretty unique, and as you can see, there aren’t many, so I highly recommend booking them months in advance if you choose this is the way to go.
All the lodges below inside Denali National Park have prices starting from US$500 to US$1500.
- Camp Denali – Set in the heart of Denali, this is the only accommodation inside the park that offers direct views of Denali and the Alaska Range! In fact, this has recently become a fly-in lodge meaning you will take a small plane to reach your accommodation. How cool is that! They have all the facilities you need for a comfortable stay in the wilderness.
- Kantishna Roadhouse – Relax and enjoy your stay in Denali at this accommodation that’s located right in the center of the park and also requires flying in on a plane. These cozy cabins are tucked away between the trees and have a front porch and rustic decor.
- Denali Backcountry Lodge – Surrounded by a beautiful landscape, this lodge has comfortable rooms plus all the amenities you’ll need for your holiday! Even though it is accessible only by helicopter, the accommodation even has a spa center that guests can use and a restaurant on-site!
- Skyline Lodge – Enjoy your stay in Denali at this beautiful lodge that has the option to either fly or bus into the location, 90 miles from the park entrance. During the day you can sign up for different activities like hiking, most trails are just a few steps away from the lodge, and come back to enjoy the delicious on-site restaurant.
1.2 Best lodges near Denali National Park
For those of you who love the idea of staying in a lodge but don’t quite have the budget to spend hundreds on one inside the park, this list has some unique lodges located near Denali Park for a fraction of the cost:
Luxury (US$270 and up)
- Grande Denali Lodge – Just look at those panoramic views of Denali Canyon! This lodge is located in McKinley Park, just a 10-minute drive away from the park and it has a restaurant on-site and family rooms. After a long day of hiking and exploring around. At night you can get a cup of tea and sit comfortably by the fireplace!
- McKinley Creekside – I’m loving those river views! Get up early to grab a chair near the creek and drink your morning coffee there. The accommodations is located 12 miles (20 km) away from Denali National Park, and it has family rooms and a few restaurants nearby, plus on-site dining. Gather up by the outdoor fireplace and enjoy the atmosphere!
Mid Range (US$180 – US$270)
- Denali Fireside – A great lodge that sits in Talkeetna, just 150 miles (240 km) away from Denali National Park and not too far from Trapper Creek, that has free wifi and family rooms. Guests at the lodge can try different activities like hiking and fishing. There’s also a picnic area and some board games for those who want to chill out for a few days and enjoy the fresh air!
Budget (up to US$120)
- FireWeed RoadHouse – Feel at home at this comfortable lodge that sits along the Parks Highway, in Nenana, just a 1-hour drive away from Denali National Park. The accommodation has a few restaurants nearby but it also offers on-site dining and family rooms. During the day you can relax on the sun terrace or in the picnic area.
BONUS 2: Best VRBOs near Denali National Park
I know some of you won’t go for the fancy hotels (even if it’s the best hotel in the area). You’ll probably want to stay at a cabin that’s a bit secluded and surrounded mainly by nature with your family or friends. I’m the same!
When I go to places like Denali National Park I want to forget about urban life and feel as close to nature as possible! With that in mind, I decided to list the best cabins to stay in Denali! All of them are just a few miles away from the park so you can get there quickly!
Luxury (US$215 and up)
- Alaskan Elegance – A cozy and comfortable home that sits in McKinley Park, less than 1 mile away from Denali National Park! The place can accommodate up to 4 people, and it has many amenities, including a kitchen and free wifi. Drink your morning coffee on the patio and admire those stunning views of Denali mountain!
- The Aurora Yurt – How pretty is this yurt? Located in Fairbanks, 120 miles (190 km) away from Denali National Park, the accommodation has 3 rooms, perfect for 5 guests, and amenities that include a hot tub and free wifi. Disconnect from daily life and relax on the patio all day long!
Mid Range (US$120 – US$180)
- Quiet Cabin – Looking for a secluded cabin where you can enjoy all the privacy you need during your Alaska trip? Then have a look at this cozy accommodation that’s located in Healy, just 15 miles (24 km) away from Denali. Enjoy a quiet night in the lounge area after a day of exploring Denali National Park.
Frequently asked questions about hotels in Denali
🏞️ Where do people stay in Denali National Park?
Most people who visit Denali National Park stay in Healy, as it’s the closest town to the park and has plenty of great accommodations like Tri-Valley Cabins and Denali Park.
🌄 Does Denali National Park have cabins?
Yes, there are a few lodges and cabins to stay in Denali, like Camp Denali and Kantishna Roadhouse, but you’ll need to book them super far in advance if you wish to stay here.
📅 What is the best month to see Denali?
The best time to visit Denali National Park is from late May until mid-September. During this time, the weather is perfect, and shuttle busses can drive visitors into the wilderness.
❓How many days do you need in Denali National Park?
I recommend spending 3 or 4 days in Denali, especially if your accommodation is a bit further away from the park as it will take you longer to get there.
Conclusion
What a fun ride! Alaska sure has lots of surprises in store for you!
Let’s quickly sum up what I’ve talked about in this post about the best places to stay in Denali:
In the first part of the post, you’ll find the best towns to stay near the national park. As I told you, most travelers stay outside national parks as there’s a broader range of hotels and restaurants. However, if you want to stay inside, you’ll fund a list of the best lodges inside Denali in the bonus section, plus 2 more sections with the top VRBOs and cabins near the park.
So you’ve got lots of options to consider. In case you need some extra help, here are my 2 favorite hotels, both located in Healy:
- Tri-Valley Cabins – The best hotel which offers access to a garden
- Denali Park – A cozy motel that has family rooms and lots of restaurants nearby
Just remember that these are the best hotels nearby Denali (which is a pretty secluded area) and everyone will want to secure a room in one of these places. That’s why I recommend booking your accommodation in advance and avoiding any inconveniences.
Enjoy your stay in Denali National Park! Explore around all day long, admire Mount McKinley, go hiking around the Nenana River, and eat at the best restaurants!
If you have any other questions about Denali, Trapper Creek, or anything else, leave me a comment below, and I’ll answer them as quickly as possible!
Safe travels,
Victoria
