Denali opens park road to private vehicles as far as mile 30 on Friday

Drivers can take their own vehicles 30 miles into Denali National Park and Preserve starting Friday, Sept. 18, as far as the Teklanika Rest Area, weather and road conditions permitting.

That is 15 miles farther than the summer limit at Savage River, mile 15. Fall access continues as conditions allow through Oct. 15. After that, weather permitting, private vehicles can reach Mountain Vista Rest Area at mile 13 until winter closure.

The drivable stretch may shift between Teklanika and Mountain Vista as snow and ice develop, the Park Service said. Access may end earlier if the road closes at headquarters, mile 3.4, and sections can open or close with little notice. The park said to check conditions before traveling.

Visitors may encounter snow, ice and mud, particularly in shaded sections. Motorists should watch for wildlife, park employees and heavy equipment on the road.

The final night for bus access to Sanctuary and Igloo campgrounds is Wednesday, Sept. 16. Teklanika Campground's last night is Thursday, Sept. 17. Savage River Campground closes Sunday, Sept. 20.

Dangerous bear activity has already closed Igloo campground and limited Teklanika to hard-sided vehicles, no tents, for the rest of the season, the park said in a notice the same day. Existing reservations will be accommodated at another campground at check-in.

From Monday, Sept. 21, the Bear Loop at Riley Creek Campground is free and first-come, first-served, with no water or trash service. Visitors must bring water and pack out trash. At least five sites stay open through winter.

Vehicles have stopped at East Fork, mile 43, since the Pretty Rocks landslide in August 2021. The 475-foot Pretty Rocks Bridge, a roughly $230 million project, was completed this month, but bus service to Eielson, Wonder Lake and Kantishna is not expected to resume until 2027.

The park's number is 907-683-9532.