Shuttle Bus Tours 


The shuttle bus system was established in 1972 after the completion of the George Parks Highway. Having shuttle buses transport visitors into Denali National Park and Preserve (then Mt. McKinley National Park) helps to protect the natural resources. By using the park's shuttle system, visitors actively support the National Park's Services mission of preserving and protecting park resources for future generations while providing a high quality experience to present day visitors. As added benefits to the shuttle bus system, visitors now can enjoy viewing the park without worrying about maneuvering a vehicle, and riding in a bus enhances the chances of spotting wildlife. Visitors are sitting higher than in a car and there are many pairs of eyes searching, which increases the chance of seeing wildlife.

 

Some general information to be aware of:

  • The shuttle system gives visitors the option of getting on and off the shuttle buses throughout their time in the park.

  • Beginning at mile 20, a visitor can exit a bus to do some day hiking or exploring, then return to the road when ready and re-board the next shuttle (green) bus that has space available. During peak hours/peak season this can be a wait up to an hour or more.

  • The visitor must keep their ticket stub in order to re-board a different shuttle bus.

  • Shuttle buses stop approximately every hour and a half for a restroom break. Bottled water is available for purchase at the Toklat rest area (mile 53). No food is available for purchase after leaving the Wilderness Access Center.

  • State law requires children under the age of 4 and or less than 40 pounds, to be in a car seat. Parents are responsible for providing appropriate car seat.

  • Smoking or consumption of alcoholic beverages is not permitted on shuttle buses.
  • Suggested list of items to bring: warm clothes, rainwear, walking shoes or boots, insect repellant, camera and film, binoculars and personal medications as necessary.
     

Description of the shuttles available:

Polychrome

This shuttle ride is named after the area's multi-colored bluffs, Polychrome Overlook offers spectacular views of the Alaska Range.

46 miles one-way, 5 hours round-trip

Click here to see pricing.

Toklat

Toklat River is an area of merging glacial rivers and towering cliffs.  Dall Sheep are often seen and grizzlies sometimes graze the riverbed's soapberries.

53 miles one-way, 6 hours round-trip

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Fish Creek Turnaround

Fish Creek is situated on the rolling tundra slopes of the Thorofare Valley.  On a clear day, this 8-hour shuttle bus trip into the park affords outstanding views of Mt. McKinley, the Alaska Range, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

63 miles one-way, 8 hours round-trip

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Wonder Lake

Wonder Lake was created by the Muldrow Glacier.  Along the road alder and willow-carpeted hills are dotted with kettle ponds.

86 miles one-way, 11 hours round-trip

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Kantishna

Kantishna is primarily a destination for lodge visitors and backpackers for backcountry access.  Please respect the private lands in this area.

91 miles one-way, 13 hours round-trip

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Prices and Times

Adult   Child

  Times 

Available May 20 - September 14, 2006

Polychrome $19.00 $9.50 Call for Times
Toklat $19.00 $9.50 Call for Times
Fish Creek Turnaround $24.25 $12.15 Call for Times
Wonder Lake $33.25 $16.65 Call for Times
Kantishna $36.25 $18.15 Call for Times
 

Prices, tour dates, and taxes are subject to change without notice.

Alaska Tickets and Tours
PO Box 80606 Fairbanks, AK 99708
1-907-374-1999 or 1-866-374-1999 Toll Free
1-907-374-1313  Fax
Email us at tickets@alaska.com

www.alaskaticketsandtours.com