Tourism experts agree that no trip to Alaska is complete without driving the Denali Park Road. Snaking through Denali National Park, the road runs parallel to the Alaska Range, making for breathtaking vistas at every turn. If you're planning a trip to Alaska, here's what you should know about adding this excursion to your itinerary. 

Why Book a Bus Tour of Denali Park Road?

The only road in Denali National Park, the Denali Park Road, runs east to west through valleys and mountain passes. Stretching 92 miles, the road doesn't permit personal vehicles beyond mile 15 at the Savage River Check Station. If you want to see the heart of the park, you're going to have to proceed on foot, by bicycle, or with a bus tour. 

The average person can't complete the remaining 77 miles on foot or by bicycle without some extensive training. If you take a bus tour, you'll get to see all that Denali National Park has to offer, from steep cliffs and rolling peaks to the vast tundra with its roaming wildlife. 

What Is the Half-Day Bus Tour Like?

If you're trying to fit as much tourism as possible into your Alaska trip, opt for the half-day bus tour. Spanning seven to eight hours, this is the park's most popular tour. It will take you about 60 miles into the park and provide exceptional views of Mt. Denali. Along the way, you might see Dall sheep, bears, and wolves. You'll also get to see Toklat River and Toklat Bridge, and the bus drives over Polychrome Pass, which allows for an unforgettable view of the Plains of Murie. 

What Is the Full-Day Bus Tour Like?

Spanning about 12 hours, the full-day bus tour takes passengers on all 92 miles of Denali Park Road, ending at Kantishna, an old gold-mining town. In addition to all that the half-day tour offers, you'll get to see impressive geological formations and hopefully more wildlife. You'll also embark on a private tour of Wonder Lake at mile 85. On clear days, the glassy surface of the water reflects the mountain, making it one of the most photographed features of the park. 

If you're planning a trip to Denali National Park, start by reserving a room at the Denali Totem Inn. Conveniently located in Healy, AK, this full-service hotel boasts a bar and restaurant on site, not to mention a knowledgeable tourism department that helps guests book tours throughout the area. To learn more about their accommodations, visit their website, or call (907) 683-6500 to reserve your stay.