With its breathtakingly beautiful scenery, arctic weather, mountainous peaks and range of wildlife, combined with the isolation from the rest of the US, Alaska is a dream location for someone looking for the ultimate adventure holiday.

Alaska is the largest state in the US and yet is the least populated. It has millions of acres of untouched scenery which is sure to delight even the most intrepid of travellers.

For adrenaline junkies who want to experience an Alaska adventure holiday then a trip to the Denali National Park, with its six million acres of stunning scenery, may be ideal.

About the park

Denali National Park is one of Alaska’s most popular destinations and more than one million people holiday there each year. The summer is the most popular time to go, although it is open all year round, and from late June to the end of August it can be quite busy.

From the grandeur of North America’s highest mountain, Mount McKinley, and the awe-inspiring 600 mile-long Alaska Range to the marvels of the Wonder Lake, Denali National Park has much to offer visitors.

Travellers on adventure holidays may want to take time out from their adrenaline-fuelled activities to enjoy a wildlife viewing trip where they may be able to catch a glimpse of some of the animals the park is home to.

Nature lovers are likely to see moose, Dall sheep, fox, lynx and caribou while making their way around the park and they may even catch a glimpse of the elusive wolf.

Fans of the grizzly bear will be pleased to know that the park is home to a number of the species and this creature can often be seen poaching salmon from the river or roaming the park.

Adventure options

Among the popular activities on offer for travellers on an Alaska trip are white water rafting, mountain climbing, kayaking, cycling and hiking.

Some of the park’s highlights include the Nenana River, where visitors can enjoy a rafting trip while admiring the scenery, while the Eielson Visitor Centre is also a popular stop for travellers as it has viewing areas and exhibits explaining the park and eco-system, and the endless hiking opportunities around Mount McKinley are a big draw.

Mountain bikes can be hired inside the park and there are guides available to take people on a tour. However, the more adventurous may want to take a map and explore the sights and stunning scenery on their own.

The Nenana River offers what many believe to be the ultimate Alaska adventure trip. Fed by glaciers, the river’s torrents create a white water experience that adrenalin junkies are certain to enjoy. Visitors can also experience a calmer river rafting trip where they can view the scenery as they travel downstream.

Those who are feeling particularly adventurous may like to try a backpacking trip while they are staying at the park; once armed with a tent and essentials such as a map, torch and contact details they can venture off into the unknown and explore the beauty of the area.

Denali has a number of campsites for hikers to stay in overnight while exploring the park by day and camping is a great way to really experience the outdoors by sleeping under the stars.

Alaska is a great destination for adventure junkies, but it also offers a number of opportunities for those who want to take things a little easier, such as gentle nature walks and rides in snow sleds or nature watching.

Tips for visitors

Located just 300 miles south of the Arctic Circle, with a sub-arctic eco-system, the weather can get a bit chilly in Alaska so those who are on an adventure holiday should make sure that they are wrapped up warm with plenty of layers and snow boots when visiting in the winter.