I have made a living out of travel for 39 years. I spend my off time well off the beaten path…read more Kantishna Road House Backcountry Lodge far exceeded my expectations. From the moment I arrived, I felt like family. A warm and welcoming coordinator and crew, and an impeccable lodge was ready for anything I might want to do or see. Guided hikes, self guided mountain tours for wildlife photos, bike rides to the lake or beyond and of course, a campfire. The guides are very knowledgeable and love to share. It is difficult to explain just how truly awe inspiring the beauty of the park is, and how much I felt at home in the hills and the lodge. Flyfishing moose creek and panning for gold was just a bonus to the week. And a quick word about the food. In all my travels this is the first time Ive ever photographed my meals. Visual works of art, and a taste from the Gods. Every meal was an experience. They even catered to my special dietary needs. I could chat forever about this beautiful place and its family of people, but I think I'll finish with this. I cannot wait to return and experience everything again and again. A special lodge, in a special place, with special people, who are especially sincere. Kantishna Roadhouse! What are you waiting for ...

We stayed here 15 years ago and enjoyed it very much so we dcided to splurge again and spend…read moreanother 3 days. Many people complain about the 6 hour bus ride to cover the 92 miles to the lodge but for us it is one of the highlights of the trip because that is the best place to see the wild game of the park. Certainly there are no guarantees but we saw bears, carabou, dall sheep, a golden eagle, an arctic ground squirrel and magnificant scenery. The bus drivers are knowledgable, experienced and excellent game spotters because they know where to look. Some people choose to fly in or out which provides unimaginable views of Denali if the weather is good. We chose to return by the Kantishna bus because the first vehicle on the park road in the morning has the best chance to see wildlife. Compared to our previous trip, we had the place to ourselves. Only about 25% of the dining room was utilized and many cabins were empty. Covid rules required that brakfast be served instead of a buffet but the meals were memorable. The meals were some of our best in Alaska and the chef was really creative in his preparation. Service was attentive and friendly. It was obvious that the lodge was short staffed but everyone did a good job of meeting our every need. The guided hikes were informative and varying levels of difficulty were offered. The staff shared duties guiding, serving in the dining room, driving vans, etc. but each had speciaties as naturalists and they were expert sources of knowledge about birds, flowers, plants and geology. We were exceptionally lucky in that Denali was "out" every night and morning and we were shuttled to Wonder Lake to get the best views. This involves a 1/2 mile walk from the required parking area. Prices in the bar were comparable to what you would pay in Anchorage or Fairbanks. Be aware that in June, hoards of mosquitos will try to carry you away. Be prepared with long sleeved shirts and lots of repellent. Without question, this place is expensive at $1150 a day per couple but it is an incomperable experience. The cabins are large and comfortable but at the same time rustic. Any place else in Alaska, this cabin would rent for about $150 a night without the food, guide service and transportation but in this special spot there are no inexpensive options. Some people choose to spend outrageous amounts on elaborate weddings or first class airfare. This is the same kind of once in a lifetime experience, so go big if you are willing to forget the cost.

We stayed at 2 campgrounds here, Riley Creek (1 week) and Teklanika (4 nights). Both were…read moreexcellent but neither have hookups; the sites are well spaced and private. Denali is a wonderful experience, and we loved our time in the park. The scenery is spectacular and the ability to see wildlife is excellent. In fact you need to take care when hiking as it is bear country and we carried bear spray. We took the Tundra Wilderness Tour which was great, but you need to reserve very early, like when you get your camping reservations as these sell out fast. We saw moose, caribou, grizzly bears, arctic squirrels, ptarmigan, fall sheep, and so many birds and pretty wildflowers in bloom everywhere. It's a fantastic park and a must see if you are in Alaska.

If you want to see wildlife then get up very early. Moose stay close to the main entrance and are…read morevisible all day. Register in advance for a bus tour. We rode the transit bus.

This is one of those "once in a lifetime" experiences, but be prepared to pay for it. Kantishna…read moreRoadhouse effectively offers you an Alaskan safari. Personal vehicles are only allowed into Denali National Park for about the first 25-30 miles. Kantishna is located at the end of the road at mile marker 92.5. So, to go beyond that 25-30 mile mark, which is where we saw most wildlife, you must be on a bus or plane. My friend and I booked a single room with two beds in early August. The total was $1100 per person for two nights. This included the round trip transportation to and from the park entrance, accommodations, guided activities, and most meals. I say "most meals" because we boarded the bus at 12 PM and we were not fed anything except a Nutri-grain bar and a bottle of water until we reached the roadhouse at 8 PM. For the amount of money we paid, even a sandwich on the bus would have been a nice touch. That said, we were warned to eat before we arrived. Even so, the very limited dining options at the Denali visitor center were closed due to Covid, and there are hardly any food options on the way to Denali. So you should be prepared to pack your own food, and a lot of it. The bus ride from the entrance to the Roadhouse will take a minimum of six hours. The travel time builds in 3-4 bathroom stops and accounts for wildlife viewing and photographing whenever they appear. Round trip, we saw a total of 12 bears, including one about 20 yard from the bus, 3 moose, several caribou, and golden and bald eagles. It should go without saying that wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. We just happened to get very lucky. In fact, the staff thought the 9 bears we saw on the way in may have been a record. Overall, the staff was very professional, the food was delicious and the accommodations were satisfactory. We were fed a beef stew the first night and had a choice of prime rib or lasagna the second night. We took a hike with a guide on the second day and were provided sandwiches. The guide was excellent and considerate of our needs and wishes as far as time and distance and when to stop and eat and return to the roadhouse. Other activities include fly fishing, biking, a nature walk, and a lecture night. Guests can also hop on a short 7 minute drive to learn more about the history of the roadhouse. There are also plenty of quiet spots by the river when you can do yoga or meditate. The only reason I am stuck on 4 stars is because I arrived hangry and because the guy I booked my stay with on the phone questioned why one of us didn't have the Covid vaccine. He then proceeded to provide incorrect information about having to take and produce a negative test result 72 hours before check-in. I told him he was wrong and that the test had to be taken within 72 hours of check-in, at which time he acquiesced. All in all, I highly recommend this experience and would certainly consider it a bucket list item.

baked alaska in all of its senses in a remote fly-in-only resort in denali, ak. NBD, fly in from…read moreafar. settle in, go for a hike take an alaskan wilderness safari, kayak on wonder lake and take in the breathtaking mt. denali (tallest peak in north america - another NBD) and when you're craving culinary magic, stop by the chef's lodge. maybe you'll even see a bear or a wolf! right @ kantishna roadhouse. it's been known to happen. kantishna roadhouse is a gateway to alaskan paradise. "wheels up!"

This is something everyone should try when they go up to Denali Park! It is not scary as it seems…read moreor anything like in the pictures....I was freaking out when I arrived and looked at the rapids but once you are on the water, it is so nice. The rapids are Class III and IV...for those who are not familiar how bad it is, it is actually like going on the Log Ride at Great America! But one word of advise! MAKE SURE YOU DRESS WARMLY!!! IT CAN GET FREEZING COLD, esp since the water is from the glaciers...so you can imagine!! and bring a glove!! I'm so glad I brought mine!! You also get your pictures taken so bring some money with you on the ride!! I find it so strange they make you leave everything at the beginning but they sell you the picture right after you get off the raft!!! GOOD thing our friends had some money on them! haha!

This is the ideal place to stay in Denali for the budget savvy traveler. Denali lodging is pricey…read moreand highly seasonal so it is a relief to find comfortable lodging that's close to the park and far below the cost of all the neighboring resorts. I only found one place at a similar price and it was 25 miles away from the park entrance! The Bake cabins run a shuttle to the park all day but I don't mind the 15-20 min walk. I walk that distance everyday to get to work in the city! They offer a deluxe suite with all the trimmings, and a middle tier, but i was happy in the economy cabin. I spent my time exploring and came back to comfortable rest. Check-in was actually in the bar/restaurant at the entrance to the property. It wasn't too tricky to navigate.

Went here last night and again this mourning. We had Cajun…read moreRockfish, very good. For breakfast my wife and I split the Lumberjack, two very large pancakes, two eggs, two bacon, potatoes and toast. More than enough for us to split and very good.

I'd really like to highlight this Mount Healy Overlook Trail…read more Because...in my opinion...it's this hike that is the best thing to do in Denali National Park! I wasn't so impressed with my explorations, though I did appreciate hanging out with Denali's sled dogs, lol, but in terms of enjoying the sights and surroundings...I was left feeling just okay about the experience. It wasn't until my final few hours in the afternoon that I discovered this Mount Healy Overlook Trail. And it was hiking to the halfway summit area (which is as far as you can go) that left me departing on a great note from this section of Alaska. Reflecting back, I was surprised that nothing was mentioned about this hike during my research for discovering Denali. As per the usual routine that tourists do, I signed up and took the all day Tundra Wilderness Bus Tour. But, I found it to be lacking the beautiful scenery that I was anticipating for visiting one of the most popular parks out of the 8 located in Alaska. So...with some extra time on my hands, I inquired with the Denali Park Visitor Center about what else can be done while here and it was a Park Ranger who recommended this hike as a way to immerse yourself in a postcard type of setting. And...the trailhead is situated right across from the VC. So, I didn't need to move my car and simply walked across Denali Park Road and was prepared for the climb higher. For this Mount Healy Overlook Trail...it is described as strenuous, and I would agree with that, especially when you're almost finished making those last few steps at the end. There are a bunch of never ending switchbacks, but eventually...the hard work pays off as you're rewarded with undisturbed views of the entire Denali Park region. No, lol...you can't see Denali's famous peak from here (or at least I didn't), but still, standing at the midpoint of Mount Healy (which is as far as the trail pathway leads) you're offered 360 degree sights and many photogenic opportunities. Some more details about the hike... - 2.7 miles each way. - 1700 foot gain in elevation, especially accentuated towards the end of the trail. - It takes about 4 - 5 hours to complete and depending on how much time you afford yourself for pictures. According to the park's website, nps.gov... "This is one of the steepest trails in Denali. It travels part-way up Mount Healy, a small mountain overlooking the entrance area of the park. The trail starts with a steady, mild uphill grade, eventually becoming quite steep near its finish. The official end of the trail is not the peak of Mount Healy, but it is an open spot with outstanding views to the south". I feel like Denali NP is not really known for hiking, so I'm glad I got to talk about this Mount Healy Overlook Trail. It deserves more recognition and I feel confident you'll be impressed with the vista point perspectives.

This restaurant was so cool. We stayed in Denali and camped and came here for lunch. Good food and…read morea neat building. Definitely not your normal restaurant and the service was great. Love to explore locally and experience things that aren't the norm. The building was built on a hill I think and the building has changed with movement over the years. It definitely wasn't a perfectly straight building and it felt uneven walking through it but that was all in the character and uniqueness of it. I didn't try the salmon.

Salmon Bake was our accommodation of choice during our short trip to Denali. They have two types of…read morecabins - economy and standard. Being the cheapos that we are, we stayed at the economy ones. Their economy cabins were basically foam insulated tent-like cabins that look like a tent from the outside, but are finished like cabins on the inside with painted wood walls, screened windows, electric heat and lights. There were 2 double beds complete with linens, blankets and towels inside. And then the bathroom facilities are shared with the other economy cabins. What was kinda creepy though was that there were locks on all of the cabins from the outside... So if you were inside and you left your lock outside or if someone else came by with their own lock, well - watch out! ;) No such prank occurred in our group, luckily! Since they only have 12 of these suckers, make reservations! Also, they have a free shuttle which takes you to Denali's visitor center. Very convenient for spending your days at the park. And awesome on the wallet.

My Dad and I stayed at Wonder Lake Campground for two nights in mid-June of 2019 (6/21 and 6/22)…read more We took the 6:55am Camper Bus from the Denali Wilderness Access Center hours and hours down the Denali Park Road. The time absolutely flew by as we looked for wildlife and made a couple stops along the way. Before we knew it, we were at Mile 85 and ready to set up camp at Wonder Lake! The campground itself is rather spacious and campsites have an adequate amount of space. Some sites actually face The High One and we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Denali from our tent!!! The first day we were at Wonder Lake, we decided to hike the nearby McKinely Bar Trail and hiked about three miles to the 'tundra' aka McKinley River and back. An absolute highlight of staying at Wonder Lake Campground was Ranger Frank Jahn. Our first night, Ranger Frank presented on the Gastronomy of Bears. It was so fascinating and I learned a lot. Ranger Frank is an excellent public speaker. The following day when we took the park shuttle to the end of the road (Mile 92.5) and then to the ranger station, Ranger Frank swore me in as a Junior Ranger and even let me help him take the weather. And, of course, his program the next night about mining and Fannie Quigley was another highlight. In terms of the campground and logistics, you need to reserve in advance and you'll need to take the park shuttle to Wonder Lake Campground. You cannot take a private vehicle to this campground. After all, it's located 85 miles down the Park Road. Since there is plenty of wildlife in the area (it's pretty remote, after all), you need to keep your food in the food storage area and cook in the designated spaces. No campfires were permitted. If you're lucky enough to snag a campsite down here, I'd highly recommend it. It was far off the beaten path but not quite backcountry. Bring bug spray and a bug net. We didn't have significant problems with the mosquitos but that's because I heeded the warnings from others! Thank you Ranger Frank for making our stay at Wonder Lake extra memorable!

Stayed in late June. A well spaced out campground with amazing views. It is not backcountry by any…read moremeans. The bus drops you off right at the campground after a scenic 5.5 hour 85 mile drive. There are flush toilets, a sink for dish washing, and large walk in food lockers to prevent bears. There are currently 28 sites and most have a view of the mountain. We got lucky and it cleared for about ten hours. It had been clouded in for five days prior and stayed that way for another few days after. I would plan to spend a few nights to have a good chance of seeing it. The Mosquitos don't actually bite that much but they are annoying so buy a bug jacket off amazon or somewhere. Also bring rain gear. This camp spot was well worth the views. The hike to McKinley Bar is a 6 mile round trip from the campground and pretty as well. That the only real trail so check in with the backcountry office if you will want to hike anywhere else. They just let you wander off trail unlike most parks but you need a map and some knowledge.