Day Program: Roadside Naturalist Field Course

IN DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE

Explore and learn about our public lands.

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Denali National Park and Preserve? Join us for our exciting NEW Roadside Naturalist Field Courses and discover the captivating world of Denali like never before. Here’s your chance to explore the park’s hidden gems, learn about its dynamic ecosystems, and connect with nature in a small group setting.

Join an Alaska Geographic Science Educator for a unique, small group experience in Denali National Park and Preserve. Explore the park road by van, walk in the wilderness, and learn about the dynamic ecosystems of Denali. You can expect a knowledgeable guide to engage you in conversation about natural history, safe off-trail exploration, and a tasty lunch! Open to everyone over the age of seven, no unaccompanied minors.

Course details: 

$250/ person 

Time: 7:30am to approximately 3pm, most days, some programs may extend to 4pm dependent on road conditions. 

Ability level: A moderate level of fitness is required.  Hiking will cover one to three miles round trip with up to 1000 feet elevation gain over uneven terrain.  We may be able to accommodate some mobility differences with advanced communication. Open to everyone over the age of seven, no unaccompanied minors. 

Register Here

Why Choose Alaska Geographic’s Roadside Naturalist Field Courses? 

Expert Guidance: You’ll be in the capable hands of an experienced Alaska Geographic Science Educator who is passionate about the park’s natural wonders. Our guides are expert naturalists and will enrich your experience with their extensive knowledge of Denali’s ecosystems, flora, and fauna. They will help you seek out wildlife viewing opportunities while also keeping your safety as the top priority.  

Small Group Experience: With a maximum group size of just 10 participants, you’ll enjoy an intimate, personalized adventure. This means more opportunities for one-on-one interactions with your guide, making it a truly immersive experience. 

Diverse Exploration: Our courses offer a well-rounded experience. You’ll explore the park road by van, venture into the wilderness on foot, and witness the park’s incredible biodiversity. The program will take you through the Boreal Forest, Sub-Alpine, and Alpine ecosystems starting and ending at the Murie Science and Learning Center and utilizing all the open road in the park with an East Fork River turn around.  

Wilderness Connection: Safety is our priority, and we’ll teach you the art of safe off-trail travel. This enables you to see places that most visitors to Denali never have the chance to experience, enhancing your connection to the park’s untamed beauty. 

Engaging Conversations: Expect stimulating and enriching conversations about Denali’s natural history. Our guides will share captivating stories and insights, ensuring your experience is not only educational but also thoroughly enjoyable. 

Lunch in the Park: We’ll start the day at the Murie Science and Learning Center which is home to the first dinosaur track found in the park. We’ll pack a bag lunch which includes a meat or veggie sandwich or wrap, fruit, and snacks to keep us nourished as we explore and learn in the park.   

Questions? Call 907-683-9632 or email courses@akgeo.org

Register Here

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations that occur 30 days in advance of the course date will be refunded the course fee, less a processing fee of $35 per space. Substitutions (changing the participant or the course date) is allowed up to 10 days prior to the course for a fee of $35 per space. For cancellations 29 days or less before the course date, the entire fee will be retained.

If you’re interested in a group program, please call or email us to discuss our availability for custom courses.