I don’t have my own transportation. Can I still book a tour?
Yes! If you’re staying at the Mt. McKinley Princess Lodge, we offer free transportation from the lodge for the Denali Wilderness Hike and Byers Lake Nature Walk. If you’re staying in Talkeetna, we can pick you up at local lodging for the Talkeetna Lakes Hike and Talkeetna Heli-Hike. We can also provide transportation for custom tours.
We do not provide transportation from Talkeetna for regularly- scheduled Denali State Park trips, unless they are arranged as a custom trip.
What should I wear?
Sturdy footwear is recommended for nature walks and is required on longer hikes. Weather conditions are highly variable near the Alaska Range, so it’s best to be prepared for anything. Dress in layers for optimum comfort as conditions change. If you have them, bring rain jackets and pants. If not, we have some to loan. We also provide waterproof overboots, trekking poles, hats, gloves, and daypacks at no extra cost.
What else should I bring?
You will definitely want to bring a camera, and binoculars if you have them. Bottled water is necessary on hikes but not on nature walks, but you are welcome to bring some along if you wish. Alaska Nature Guides also offers small day packs for loan; just let us know!
What about mosquitoes and other pests?
In Alaska, mosquitos can be numerous at times. We provide mosquito repellent. We supply headnets when needed. Luckily, none of Alaska’s mosquitos carry diseases, and, as there are also no ticks, there is no Lyme disease. Guests will also be relieved to know Alaska has no fleas, chiggers, poison oak, ivy, or sumac.
What about bears?
Alaska Nature Guides tours hike in the habitats of both black and grizzly bears, and we like it that way! Wildlife, weather, and wilderness are all part of Alaska’s allure, but these things can also pose risk for the unprepared. Be assured that all guides carry bear protection and are trained in bear encounters, first aid, CPR, and emergency procedures, and carry appropriate communications. Your personal safety is our primary concern.
Will I see wildlife?
Observing Alaska’s wild creatures in their natural habitats is a matter of luck, timing, and awareness. Our local guides are excellent wildlife spotters within this pristine wilderness area, so the chance of seeing at least a few species of local critters is pretty good. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars!
How many other people will be on the trip?
Our maximum group size is 12 people plus a guide. This makes for a more personal experience and a closer connection to the natural world in which we are exploring.
How difficult are the hikes?
Alaska Nature Guides hikes range from an easy stroll to a strenuous trek (see table below for the trip that’s right for you). Anyone who can walk slowly for an extended period can do the Byers Lake Nature Walk. You should be regularly active to embark on the Talkeetna Lakes Hike. The Denali Wilderness Hike is not steep, but involves a long, steady elevation gain (when conditions allow) and is only suitable for those who are fairly fit.
| Trip | Difficulty | Distance | Terrain | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Byers Lake Nature Walk | Easy | 2 Miles | Flat Trail | 0 |
| Talkeetna Lakes Hike | Moderate | 3 Miles | Hilly Trail | 200 ft. |
| Denali Wilderness Hike | Strenuous | 5-6 Miles | Long Trail Ascent | 1000 ft. |
| Heli-Hike | Custom | Custom | Custom | Custom |
| Backpacking Trips | Strenuous | 4 -8 Miles per Day | Hilly Trail and Off-Trail | 1000-1500 ft. per day |
Are your hikes suitable for children?
Alaska Nature Guides tours are great for families. They are a fun, safe, and affordable way to explore Alaska, and, coupled with an abundance of fresh air and exercise, do everyone a lot of good. Parents should be prepared to carry any child who cannot walk the full distance. Children under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
How’s the weather up there?
The South Denali area is much drier than Southeast Alaska’s panhandle, but afternoon showers are common in the summer. Note that even if it’s raining, Alaska Nature Guides tours still go out, and we’re always glad we did. No matter what the weather, we have the gear to keep you dry and comfortable, there’s always a lot to see, and we always have a great time.
What is your payment and cancellation policy?
A full-fare deposit is required for all bookings. Our regularly-scheduled trips are fully refundable for cancellations made at least 7 days prior to the tour date, with no refund for cancellations made less than a week prior to the tour date. Custom trips are fully refundable for cancellations made within 14 days prior to tour date, with no refund for cancellations made within two weeks of tour date. Backpacking trips require a $500 deposit with the balance to be paid in full 60 days prior to the trip with no refund for cancellations within 60 days of the trip.