Journey to Denali Backcountry Lodge: A Unique Experience in Alaska

The Journey to Denali Backcountry Lodge

Last summer, I embarked on an incredible journey that took me over 5,300 kilometers and nearly 50 hours of travel to reach Denali Backcountry Lodge. Starting in Salt Lake City, I flew to Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, where I spent the night before taking an eight-hour train ride north. Stopping near the park entrance, I had the chance to visit the famous dog sledding camps in Denali before finally taking a helicopter flight to the banks of Moose Creek. This journey was not just a means to an end; it was a significant part of my Alaskan adventure, where the phrase "bigger than Texas" became more meaningful than ever.

Denali National Park and Preserve is home to the peak of Denali, the highest mountain in North America, and it is the third-largest national park in the United States, covering over 2.4 million acres—about the size of Vermont. Notably, the park has only one road for vehicle traffic, which is currently closed beyond Mile 43. As a result, visitors now have to opt for helicopter flights through the stunning wilderness of the park to reach Denali Backcountry Lodge.

Choosing the Denali Star Train for the Journey

I decided to take the Denali Star train instead of driving, transforming my trip to Denali into part of the adventure itself. The eight-hour journey spans 350 miles through the interior of Alaska, giving me a firsthand look at the vastness of the state. The train route winds through rivers, forests, and pristine wilderness, showcasing highlights such as the Chugach Range, Knik River, and the border town of Talkeetna.

Staying at Denali Cabins and Visiting the Dog Sled Camp

Upon arriving at the Denali Park Depot near the visitor center, I took a 15-minute shuttle to Denali Cabins, where I would be staying overnight. These cozy cabins are the perfect starting point for a 100-mile trek into the park. Each cabin is well-equipped with comfy beds, private bathrooms, and Wi-Fi.

The next morning, after enjoying breakfast at the on-site restaurant, I took time to visit the Denali dog sledding camps. Surprisingly, there are about 30 Alaskan huskies officially employed by the park. Visitors are allowed to interact with the dogs and watch performances led by the staff.

An Unmissable Helicopter Experience

The helicopter flight was truly an experience not to be missed. Since the Pretty Rocks landslide closed the road beyond Mile 43, this has become the only way for visitors to access the lodge. In recent years, deep explorations into Denali have only been possible via small planes or helicopters.

Life at Denali Backcountry Lodge

Here, I truly immersed myself in lodge life. The wooden cabins provide expansive views of the forest and stream banks. Each cabin is equipped with essentials like backpacks, reusable water bottles, and hiking maps. Meals are served at the lodge, where guests can mingle and connect with the staff.

Notably, the culinary team at the lodge is highly professional. Each dish is meticulously prepared with fresh Alaskan ingredients, leaving me with unforgettable memories of the delicious sockeye salmon I enjoyed during my stay.

Exploring Outdoor Activities

At the lodge, guests can participate in activities such as biking, hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Hiking trails are categorized by difficulty and led by experts. On one trip, I experienced the thrill of catching a glimpse of Denali’s peak during a rare moment of clear skies. Only about 30% of visitors are fortunate enough to witness this stunning view throughout the year.

Wildlife Encounters

Alaska is renowned for its wildlife, especially bears. However, spotting them isn't as easy as it seems. While I didn’t see any bears, I had a delightful moment observing a moose while kayaking on Wonder Lake. However, mosquitoes are a common nuisance that everyone faces when exploring Denali, and they can be quite bothersome. I quickly had to don a mosquito net to shield myself from those pesky critters.

Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

To reach Denali Backcountry Lodge from Vietnam, you’ll need to fly to Anchorage, Alaska. A U.S. visa is required, so be sure to prepare your visa application before planning your trip. One-way airfare from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Anchorage typically ranges from 15 to 20 million VND, depending on the time of year and airline.

The best time to visit Denali is from June to September, when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is vibrant. Get ready for an exciting journey filled with unforgettable experiences!

Article referenced and edited from: Matador Network