Denali National Park is a major destination for tourism in Alaska. Spanning more than six million acres, the park is home to the tallest mountain in North America, Denali, which reaches a magnificent peak of 20,310 feet. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the park in droves each year to take in the exquisite wilderness. If you’re planning a trip to the area, find out when you should book your accommodations below.

Spring

Early spring remains cold in Denali, with many eateries, shops, and other tourism hot spots remaining closed through mid-May. Nonetheless, you can still get out and see the Alaskan wilderness in all of its glory. By mid-May, temperatures may reach the low 50s, and most of the snow has begun to melt. May also tends to be dry but remains outside the busy season, so you could enjoy cheaper airfare during this “shoulder season” before the busier times roll around.

Summer

Mid-June through the end of August is the peak time for tourism in Alaska. It’s around this time of year that you can enjoy long stretches of daylight, with June 21st delivering a remarkable 19 hours of sun. Through June and July, you can take in the beautiful wildflowers throughout the park, and you may also spot wildlife as they begin their most active phases. Wolves, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and grizzlies populate the region, and the park also comes to life with hiking, biking, and mountaineering.

Fall

Like late spring, early fall makes for a favorable time to visit the park. The temperature hovers in the low 50s once again, and many services remain open through mid-September. Crowds begin to thin once Labor Day passes, but you can still take in the outstanding show of foliage on display, which typically runs through late August through early September. Plus, early fall makes for one of the best times to spot the Northern Lights.

Winter

Once mid-September approaches, temperatures begin to drop, and by October, it isn’t uncommon for the park to reach freezing weather. Snowfall picks up in earnest, making many areas of the park difficult to traverse. The road through the park closes at Mile 3, and temperatures may plummet to 40° F below zero. With that being said, those brave enough to trek through the areas that do remain open can enjoy snowshoeing, skiing, and other outdoor activities, along with the breathtaking winter landscape.

No matter what brings you to the park, make Denali Totem Inn your first choice during your stay. Catering to local tourism, this family-owned and -operated hotel is conveniently situated just miles from the park’s entrance. With an onsite restaurant and fitness room as well as free Wi-Fi, this lodging option offers everything you need for a comfortable stay. Book your visit online now or by calling (907) 683-6500.