Denali National Park & Preserve, located in Alaska, and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, located in southeast Alaska, are two of the most magnificent natural wonders in the United States. Both parks offer breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and endless opportunities for adventure. But which one is right for you? That’s what we’re here to find out!
Imagine standing at the base of the tallest peak in North America, Denali, or exploring a glacier that’s constantly changing and growing. Both parks have their own unique appeal, from the rugged Alaskan wilderness of Denali to the stunning fjords and glaciers of Glacier Bay. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a peaceful escape, these parks have something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for some serious travel inspiration as we compare and contrast these two incredible parks. Join us on a journey through the wild landscapes of Denali and Glacier Bay, as we discover which park is the ultimate destination for your next adventure.
Hiking Trails in Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve are two of Alaska’s most popular national parks. Both parks offer a wide range of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous backcountry treks. In Denali, some of the easiest hikes include the Horseshoe Lake Trail, a 1.5-mile loop trail, and the Mount Healy Overlook Trail, a 2.5-mile round-trip hike. For those looking for a more challenging hike, the park offers the challenging 20-mile round-trip hike to the summit of Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America.
In Glacier Bay, the easiest hike is the Bartlett Cove Trail, a 1.5-mile loop trail that offers views of the bay and its glaciers. For those looking for a more strenuous hike, the park offers the challenging 50-mile round-trip hike to the summit of Mount Fairweather. This hike requires a backcountry permit and is only recommended for experienced hikers.
Both Denali and Glacier Bay offer a wide range of hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging backcountry adventure, both parks have something to offer. With their stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and exceptional hiking trails, Denali and Glacier Bay are truly must-visit destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Denali National Park & Preserve
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Healy Overlook Trail | 6920.162 | 507.7968 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Horseshoe Lake Trail | 3379.614 | 119.7864 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Triple Lakes Trail | 29772.79 | 1124.712 | Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
| Bison Gulch | 11265.38 | 1178.9664 | Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
| Rock Creek Trail | 7081.096 | 287.7312 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
| Taiga Trail | 2574.944 | 62.7888 | Moderate | loop | 4 |
| McKinley Station Trail | 4667.086 | 113.9952 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Mount Thorofare Ridge Loop | 6598.294 | 507.7968 | Hard | loop | 4.5 |
| McKinley Bar Trail | 7402.964 | 295.9608 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Tiaga Loop and Horseshoe Lake Trail to Beaver Dam | 4828.02 | 158.8008 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bartlett Cove Forest Loop Trail | 1770.274 | 33.8328 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Bartlett River Trail | 11104.446 | 266.7 | Easy | out and back | 3 |
| Bartlet Lake Trail | 9495.106 | 141.732 | Easy | out and back | 3.5 |
| Tlingit Trail | 1770.274 | 19.812 | Easy | out and back | 3.5 |
| Point Gustavus | 20116.75 | 117.9576 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
Wildlife in Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve are two of Alaska’s most famous national parks. Both are known for their unique wildlife and breathtaking scenery, but each has its own unique set of animals and birds.
In Denali, visitors will be able to see a variety of large mammals such as grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and Dall’s sheep. The park is also home to several bird species, including the bald eagle, raven, and ptarmigan. Visitors also have the opportunity to see smaller mammals like arctic ground squirrels, red foxes, and beavers. In addition to wildlife, the park is also home to a variety of trees and flowering plants, including willows, birches, and fireweed.
Glacier Bay, on the other hand, is known for its marine wildlife and glaciers. Visitors can see a variety of whales, including humpback and orca, as well as sea otters and seals. The park is also home to a large number of bird species, including the common loon, bald eagle, and pigeon guillemot. Visitors can also spot a variety of plants, including northern bush willow, devil’s club, and fireweed.
Both Denali and Glacier Bay offer unique and unforgettable wildlife viewing opportunities, making them must-see destinations for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are interested in large mammals or marine life, both parks are sure to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Denali National Park & Preserve | Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Northern Harrier | Northern Harrier |
| Sharp-Shinned Hawk | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
| Osprey | Osprey |
| Tree Swallow | Tree Swallow |
| Mallard | Mallard |
| Canada Goose | Canada Goose |
| Lincoln’s Sparrow | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
| Ruby-Crowned Kinglet | Ruby-Crowned Kinglet |
| American Robin | American Robin |
| Great Horned Owl | Great Horned Owl |
| Red-Tailed Hawk | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| Northern Flicker | Northern Flicker |
| Merlin | Merlin |
| Barn Swallow | Barn Swallow |
| Savannah Sparrow | Savannah Sparrow |
| Hermit Thrush | Great Blue Heron |
| American Kestrel | Hermit Thrush |
| Bald Eagle | American Kestrel |
| Song Sparrow | Bald Eagle |
| European Starling | Song Sparrow |
| Northern Pintail | European Starling |
| American Wigeon | Northern Pintail |
| Green-Winged Teal | American Wigeon |
| Swainson’s Thrush | Green-Winged Teal |
Mammals
| Denali National Park & Preserve | Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| Coyote | Coyote |
| American Beaver | American Beaver |
| Muskrat | Little Brown Bat |
| Little Brown Bat | Deer Mouse |
| Black Bear | Black Bear |
| Porcupine | Porcupine |
| Red Fox | Red Fox |
| Mink | House Mouse |
| Wolf | Mountain Lion |
| Short-Tailed Weasel | Mink |
| Snowshoe Hare | Mule Deer |
| River Otter | Gray Wolf |
| Common Shrew | Short-Tailed Weasel |
| Water Shrew | Snowshoe Hare |
| Red Squirrel | River Otter |
| Montane Shrew | Masked Shrew |
| Lynx | Water Shrew |
| Wolverine | Red Squirrel |
| American Marten | Montane Shrew |
| Northern Flying Squirrel | Long-Tailed Vole |
| Grizzly Bear | Lynx |
| Meadow Vole | Wolverine |
| Moose | Marten |
| Least Weasel | Northern Flying Squirrel |
| Pygmy Shrew | Grizzly Bear |
Fish
| Denali National Park & Preserve | Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| Longnose Sucker | Rainbow Trout |
| Lake Trout | Brook Trout |
| Northern Pike | Longnose Sucker |
| Burbot | Lake Trout |
| Coho Salmon | Northern Pike |
| Chinook Salmon | Burbot |
| Slimy Sculpin | Silver Salmon |
| Chum Salmon | Chinook Salmon |
| Dolly Varden | Slimy Sculpin |
| Arctic Grayling | Threespine Stickleback |
| Sockeye Salmon | |
| Pink Salmon | |
| Chum Salmon | |
| Dolly Varden | |
| Cutthroat Trout | |
| Arctic Grayling |
Amphibians
| Denali National Park & Preserve | Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve |
|---|---|
| Wood Frog | Wood Frog |
Beautiful Landscapes in Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Denali National Park & Preserve is located in Alaska and is well known for its stunning, natural landscapes. The park’s most famous feature is Mount Denali, which is the highest peak in North America and draws millions of visitors each year. In addition to Mount Denali, the park also boasts beautiful glaciers, expansive tundra, and wildlife, such as grizzly bears, moose, and wolves. The park also has several scenic drives, such as the Denali Park Road, that offer visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, also located in Alaska, is famous for its majestic glaciers, which are among the largest in the world. Visitors can take a cruise or kayak tour to get up close to the glaciers, or they can hike to the top of the glaciers for panoramic views. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including whales, sea lions, and bald eagles. The park’s beautiful landscapes include glistening fjords, towering mountains, and dense forests. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Glacier Bay Road to admire the stunning views of this natural wonder.
Things To-Do and Activities in Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve are two of Alaska’s most popular national parks, each offering unique and exciting experiences. In Denali, visitors can take a scenic drive on the park’s road or take a guided tour to see the park’s wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, and Dall sheep. Visitors can also take a scenic flightseeing tour to get a bird’s-eye view of the park’s stunning mountain vistas.
In Glacier Bay, visitors can take a boat tour to see the park’s glaciers and wildlife, including humpback whales, sea lions, and harbor seals. Kayaking and camping are also popular activities in the park, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the park’s glaciers and wildlife. In addition, visitors can take a guided hike to see the park’s stunning landscapes and unique vegetation.
Both Denali and Glacier Bay offer a range of activities for visitors of all interests and abilities, from scenic drives and boat tours to guided hikes and wildlife viewing. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic experience or an adventure-filled adventure, both parks have something to offer. Visitors can choose to spend one day or several days exploring these magnificent parks, making memories that will last a lifetime.
Best Time to Visit Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve are two of Alaska’s most popular national parks. The seasonal weather in these parks can vary greatly, affecting when is the best time of year to visit.
Denali is known for its long, harsh winters and short, cool summers. Winter temperatures can drop below -40°F, while summer temperatures average around 50°F. Due to its high latitude, the park experiences long periods of daylight in the summer and near-constant darkness in the winter. Visitors to Denali during the summer months can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and wildlife viewing, while winter visitors can experience the park’s unique beauty through activities such as dog sledding and cross-country skiing.
Glacier Bay, on the other hand, experiences a more moderate climate with mild summers and cool, rainy winters. Winter temperatures average around 40°F, while summer temperatures can reach into the 60s. The park is known for its stunning glaciers, which are best viewed from the water. Visitors can take boat tours to see the glaciers up close and observe the calving of ice into the bay. The best time to visit Glacier Bay for glacier viewing is from May to September, when the waters are ice-free and access to the glaciers is possible.
Overall, the seasonal weather in Denali and Glacier Bay greatly affects when is the best time to visit each park. While Denali is best visited in the summer, Glacier Bay is best visited during the summer months for glacier viewing. Visitors should plan their trip well in advance and be prepared for the weather conditions they may encounter.
Family Friendliness of Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Denali National Park & Preserve and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve are two stunning parks in Alaska that offer unique experiences for families. Denali is known for its sprawling wilderness and opportunities to see wildlife, including grizzly bears and wolves. The park offers shuttle buses and campgrounds for families to explore the park and enjoy the scenery.
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, on the other hand, is known for its stunning glaciers and opportunities to go kayaking, whale watching, and fishing. The park also has a visitors center and ranger-led activities that are great for families. The park is accessible by boat or plane, making it a bit more remote and wild than Denali.
For families traveling with children, Denali may be the better option as it has more amenities and is easier to access. The shuttle buses and campgrounds make it a great option for families who want to explore the park and enjoy the wilderness. However, if families are looking for a more remote and adventurous experience, Glacier Bay may be the better option. With its stunning glaciers and opportunities for kayaking, whale watching, and fishing, it offers a unique experience that families won’t find anywhere else.