How many national parks in Alaska? Answer is – Alaska has a total of eight spectacular national parks.

Explore Alaska’s National Parks

Overview of Alaska’s natural beauty

Alaska, the Last Frontier, evokes images of breathtaking wilderness. From the majestic, ice-capped peaks of Denali to the shimmering glaciers of Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska’s landscapes embody the raw power and sublime beauty of nature.

Its vast stretches of tundra, boreal forests teeming with wildlife, and pristine coastlines offer a glimpse into a world where nature reigns supreme. Alaska isn’t merely a place to visit; it’s an experience that awakens the adventurous spirit within.

The significance of national parks in Alaska

Alaska’s national parks hold a profound importance, not only for the state but for the entire nation. These protected lands play a crucial role in safeguarding Alaska’s exceptional ecosystems, which encompass a staggering array of biodiversity.

They ensure that these wild places – home to grizzly bears, caribou herds, soaring eagles, and countless other species – can thrive for generations to come.

Beyond their ecological significance, Alaska’s national parks provide unparalleled opportunities for exploration, education, and simply connecting with the natural world.

They allow visitors to witness the majesty of nature, whether hiking through Denali’s alpine meadows, kayaking the icy waters of Kenai Fjords, or standing in awe beneath the dancing lights of the aurora borealis.

Dr. Karen Brewster Expert Opinion

“Alaska’s national parks are living laboratories,” says Dr. Karen Brewster, a renowned ecologist specializing in Alaskan ecosystems. “They offer us a chance to study the delicate balance of nature and understand the impact we have on this extraordinary landscape. Preserving these parks ensures that we can continue to learn from and be inspired by the wild heart of Alaska.”

Alaska’s Eight National Parks

1. Denali National Park & Preserve

Denali National Park & Preserve, a six-million-acre masterpiece, embodies the wild spirit of Alaska.

This park’s centerpiece is the awe-inspiring Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), North America’s tallest peak, rising a monumental 20,310 feet above the surrounding landscape.

Home to North America’s tallest peak

Denali, meaning “The High One” in the Athabascan language, dominates the skyline, its snow-capped summit often shrouded in clouds.

The mountain’s sheer scale and magnificence create a humbling and unforgettable experience for visitors lucky enough to witness it in all its glory.

Incredible wildlife viewing opportunities

Denali is not only a geological wonder but also a vital wildlife sanctuary. Roaming freely within the park are grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, wolves, and a wide array of smaller mammals and birds.

Wildlife sightings are a highlight of any Denali adventure, and visitors are encouraged to observe animals safely and respectfully from a distance.

Sarah Stevenson Expert Opinion

“Denali is more than just a mountain; it’s an entire ecosystem,” explains Sarah Stevenson, a park ranger with over a decade of experience in Denali National Park & Preserve. “The wildlife here are an integral part of this unique environment, and observing them in their natural habitat is a privilege.”

Exploring Denali

The Park Road, a mostly gravel 92-mile route, provides access to the heart of Denali.

While private vehicles are restricted, visitors can utilize shuttle buses or guided tours to explore breathtaking scenery, hike scenic trails, and seek out wildlife.

Backcountry adventurers can venture off the beaten path, gaining a true wilderness experience amidst Denali’s vastness.

2. Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve

If Denali represents Alaska’s iconic grandeur, Gates of the Arctic embodies its raw, untamed spirit. Located entirely north of the Arctic Circle, this park is a realm of rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and sweeping tundra valleys.

Gates of the Arctic protects a vast swath of the Brooks Range, a rugged mountain chain that stretches across northern Alaska. Within its boundaries, you’ll find no roads, no trails, and no established campsites, making it a true wilderness paradise.

A pristine wilderness in the Brooks Range

Gates of the Arctic is an ecosystem untouched by modern development. Visitors experience the land as it has existed for millennia, shaped by the relentless forces of nature.

The park’s name comes from two peaks, Frigid Crags and Boreal Mountain, that flank the North Fork of the Koyukuk River, creating a striking natural “gate” into the Arctic wilderness.

Excellent for backcountry adventures

Gates of the Arctic is a dream destination for experienced backcountry adventurers. Hikers, backpackers, and river rafters can immerse themselves in the solitude and wild beauty of this place.

The park’s six designated Wild and Scenic Rivers offer exceptional opportunities for multi-day float trips through breathtaking landscapes.

Wildlife sightings are common, with caribou, Dall sheep, bears, and other Arctic creatures roaming freely.

Michael Wald Expert Opinion

“Gates of the Arctic is a humbling place,” remarks Michael Wald, a seasoned backcountry guide with extensive experience in the park. “It reminds you of the power of nature and our place within it. Every step you take here feels like a step back in time.”

Embarking on a Gates of the Arctic Adventure

Since Gates of the Arctic offers no established trails or facilities, meticulous planning and wilderness expertise are essential.

Most visitors arrive by air taxi, landing on remote lakes or gravel bars within the park. Backcountry permits are required, and an understanding of wilderness survival skills is crucial.

3. Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve offers a breathtaking fusion of ice and ocean.

This park, located in Southeast Alaska, protects a dynamic landscape of towering tidewater glaciers, sheltered fjords, lush rainforests, and an abundance of marine wildlife.

Witnessing the spectacle of glaciers calving, with massive chunks of ice crashing into the sea, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Spectacular tidewater glaciers and marine life

Glacier Bay is a world renowned for its tidewater glaciers. These massive rivers of ice flow from the snow-capped peaks of the Fairweather Range down to the sea, where they carve icebergs in a dramatic display of nature’s power. The most famous of these, Johns Hopkins Glacier, is a wonder to behold.

The park’s rich marine environment teems with life. Humpback whales breach the waters, playful sea otters bob in the fjords, sea lions bask on rocky shores, and pods of orcas patrol the coastline. Birders will delight in spotting puffins, murres, cormorants, and a variety of other seabirds.

Kayaking and boat tours

The best way to experience Glacier Bay is on the water. Kayaking offers an intimate encounter, allowing you to paddle alongside icebergs and get close to wildlife.

Boat tours of various sizes provide a more comfortable platform, taking visitors deeper into the fjords for spectacular views of the glaciers and wildlife.

Allison Smidt Expert Opinion

“There’s a sense of magic in Glacier Bay,” says Allison Smidt, a marine biologist who has studied the park’s wildlife for over 20 years. “The connection between the glaciers, the ocean, and the life that thrives here creates a truly awe-inspiring ecosystem.”

4. Katmai National Park & Preserve

Katmai National Park & Preserve, situated on the Alaska Peninsula, is a land of brown bears, smoking volcanoes, and wild salmon runs.

This remote park is famous for its exceptional brown bear viewing opportunities, notably at Brooks Falls, where bears gather in large numbers to feast on migrating salmon.

Renowned for brown bear viewing

Katmai boasts one of the world’s highest concentrations of brown bears. These majestic creatures roam the park’s rivers, lakeshores, and meadows in search of food.

Brooks Falls provides a spectacular setting to observe bear behavior. Viewing platforms offer close-up (and safe!) encounters with bears as they expertly snatch salmon leaping from the waterfall.

Brooks Falls and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes

Brooks Falls isn’t Katmai’s only draw. The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, formed during the cataclysmic Novarupta volcanic eruption in 1912, is a testament to the park’s fiery geology.

This otherworldly landscape is a mosaic of ash, pumice, and still-steaming fumaroles, offering a glimpse into the earth’s raw power.

Dr. Melanie Culver Expert Opinion

“Katmai is where you witness the delicate balance of life in a dynamic environment,” remarks Dr. Melanie Culver, a wildlife biologist specializing in brown bear ecology. “The abundance of salmon fuels the ecosystem, supporting a thriving bear population and demonstrating how interconnected nature truly is.”

Experiencing Katmai

Accessing Katmai requires careful planning. Most visitors reach the park by small aircraft, often landing on beaches or lakes.

Bear viewing at Brooks Falls is highly regulated, with designated platforms and limited visitor numbers to ensure both human and bear safety.

Backcountry opportunities abound for those seeking a wilder experience, offering opportunities for fishing, camping, and exploring scenic landscapes.

5. Kenai Fjords National Park

Located on the southern coast of Alaska, Kenai Fjords National Park safeguards a spectacular fusion of rugged coastline, icy fjords, and abundant marine life.

Here, the massive Harding Icefield spills forth, giving birth to dozens of glaciers that carve their way down to the sea.

Witnessing the spectacle of glaciers calving, with massive chunks of ice crashing into the sea, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Coastal landscapes with abundant marine life

Kenai Fjords is renowned for its rich marine environment.

Humpback and orca whales navigate the waters, sea lions bask on rocky shores, sea otters playfully float in kelp beds, and puffins with their colorful beaks nest on cliffs.

Visitors might even spy harbor seals or Dall’s porpoises amidst the waves.

Opportunities for glacier and wildlife viewing

The best way to experience the beauty of Kenai Fjords is by boat. Scenic cruises departing from Seward take passengers deep into the heart of the park, offering breathtaking views of glaciers like Holgate and Aialik.

Keep your eyes peeled and cameras ready; you’re likely to encounter a variety of marine wildlife along the way.

For those seeking a more active adventure, sea kayaking provides a front-row seat to the park’s icy wonders and a chance to paddle among icebergs and wildlife.

Emily Miller Expert Opinion

“Kenai Fjords serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of land and sea,” explains Emily Miller, a marine biologist with the Alaska SeaLife Center who focuses on the wildlife of Kenai Fjords. “The glaciers nourish the ocean, creating a rich environment that supports a breathtaking array of life.”

6. Kobuk Valley National Park

Kobuk Valley National Park, located in northwestern Alaska above the Arctic Circle, protects a unique and less-explored environment.

This remote park is characterized by sweeping sand dunes, a vast river valley, and the annual migration of one of the world’s largest caribou herds.

Kobuk Valley offers a truly off-the-grid experience, attracting intrepid adventurers seeking solitude and a peek into a less-visited corner of Alaska.

Great Sand Dunes and caribou migrations

One of Kobuk Valley’s most striking features is the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes. This surprising desert-like landscape within the Arctic Circle creates a fascinating contrast with the surrounding tundra and boreal forest.

The dunes, formed by glacial deposits, can reach up to 100 feet in height and offer an unexpected and exhilarating place for hiking and exploration.

Each year, the Western Arctic Caribou Herd, numbering hundreds of thousands of animals, traverses Kobuk Valley.

Witnessing this mass migration is a breathtaking spectacle of the natural world, a reminder of the timeless cycles of life that play out in Alaska’s wilderness.

Remote and less-visited park

Kobuk Valley’s remote location and lack of established infrastructure mean it receives far fewer visitors than some of Alaska’s other national parks.

This can be a major draw for those seeking a true wilderness experience free from crowds. Visitors reach the park primarily by small aircraft, landing on remote airstrips or gravel bars within the park.

Dr. Lucas St. Clair Expert Opinion

“Kobuk Valley is a place that leaves you in awe of the adaptability of nature,” says Dr. Lucas St. Clair, an Arctic ecologist who has conducted extensive research in the park. “From the shifting sands to the thundering caribou migrations, it showcases the resilience of life in a seemingly harsh yet surprisingly diverse environment.”

Embarking on a Kobuk Valley Adventure

Exploring Kobuk Valley independently requires meticulous planning and wilderness expertise.

Backcountry camping and float trips down the Kobuk River are popular ways to immerse oneself in this wild landscape.

Always be prepared for extreme weather, challenging conditions, and the absence of modern amenities.

7. Lake Clark National Park & Preserve

Located in southwest Alaska, Lake Clark National Park & Preserve encompasses a breathtaking array of landscapes—from jagged volcanic peaks and turquoise lakes to coastal rainforests and salmon-filled rivers.

Here, the raw power of nature is on full display, offering visitors a chance to experience the true essence of Alaska’s vast wilderness.

Volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems

Lake Clark preserves a dynamic geological environment shaped by active volcanoes. Two smoking giants, Mount Redoubt and Mount Iliamna, rise majestically over the landscape.

The park’s namesake, Lake Clark, stretches for 40 turquoise miles, reflecting the surrounding mountains in its pristine waters.

Diverse ecosystems thrive within the park, including lush rainforests along the coast, alpine tundra, and expansive wetlands teeming with wildlife.

Excellent backcountry hiking and fishing

Lake Clark is a dream destination for backcountry enthusiasts. Remote trails wind through stunning scenery, leading hikers to hidden waterfalls, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes.

Anglers will find unparalleled opportunities to fish for salmon and trout in the park’s abundant rivers and streams.

The chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat adds to the allure, with brown bear sightings a common occurrence in some areas.

Jenna Lawson Expert Opinion

“Lake Clark embodies Alaska’s wild heart,” says Jenna Lawson, a park ranger who has spent years exploring its backcountry. “From the towering volcanoes to the abundant wildlife, it’s a place that constantly reminds you of the immense power and beauty of nature.”

Accessing the Wilderness

Most visitors arrive at Lake Clark by small aircraft, with flights landing on beaches, lakeshores, or within the park on designated airstrips.

Guided multi-day rafting trips on the Chilikadrotna, Mulchatna, and Tlikakila rivers are another popular way to experience the park’s scenic beauty and remote wilderness.

8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

Wrangell-St. Elias is a park of immense proportions. As the largest national park in the entire United States, it encompasses 13.2 million acres – an area larger than Switzerland.

This vast wilderness sanctuary contains four major mountain ranges, including a significant portion of the Saint Elias Mountains, which boast some of North America’s highest peaks.

Glaciers dominate the landscape, with the Nabesna Glacier holding the title of the longest valley glacier in North America.

Diverse wildlife finds a home here, from mountain goats navigating the high peaks to grizzlies and wolves roaming the vast valleys.

The largest national park in the United States

The sheer scale of Wrangell-St. Elias is difficult to comprehend. To put it in perspective, six Yellowstones could fit inside its boundaries.

This immense wilderness offers endless opportunities for exploration, whether you’re seeking day hikes or multi-week backpacking expeditions.

Mountain ranges, glaciers, and diverse wildlife

Wrangell-St. Elias boasts nine of the sixteen tallest peaks in the United States, including Mount Saint Elias, the second-highest peak in both the US and Canada.

Sparkling glaciers cover a substantial portion of the park, shaping the landscape with their immense power.

Wildlife thrives here as well. Dall sheep, mountain goats, bears, moose, caribou, and smaller mammals roam freely.

Avid birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot golden eagles, falcons, and a variety of waterfowl.

Ben Hayes Expert Opinion

“Wrangell-St. Elias is a humbling place,” observes Ben Hayes, a mountaineer and wilderness guide with decades of experience in the park. “The sheer scale of the mountains and glaciers leaves you in awe. It’s a reminder of how small we are in comparison to the vastness and power of the natural world.”

Exploring the Alaskan Giant

Accessing Wrangell-St. Elias can be an adventure in itself. The McCarthy Road, a 60-mile gravel road, provides access to the historic mining towns of Kennicott and McCarthy within the heart of the park.

Small aircraft are another mode of transportation, often landing on remote gravel bars or glaciers.

Backcountry enthusiasts find limitless possibilities for hiking, mountaineering, rafting, and exploring remote corners of this expansive wilderness.

What Does It Mean to Have So Many National Parks in Alaska?

Alaska stands apart within the United States for the sheer abundance and scale of its protected lands.

Its eight national parks encompass a staggering portion of the state, safeguarding exceptional ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and opportunities for exploration and understanding.

This commitment to conservation holds profound meaning on multiple levels.

1. Preservation of vast and unique ecosystems

Alaska’s diverse landscapes, ranging from icy fjords and towering mountains to Arctic tundra and sweeping sand dunes, are a national treasure.

These parks act as sanctuaries, ensuring that these wild places – shaped by glaciers, volcanoes, and the timeless forces of nature – will remain intact for generations to come.

They protect intricate ecosystems that support a vast array of plant and animal life, preserving biodiversity and the delicate balance of the natural world.

2. Protection of wildlife habitats

Alaska’s national parks provide critical habitats for an array of iconic and ecologically important species.

They are strongholds for brown bears, caribou, wolves, moose, Dall sheep, marine mammals, and countless bird species.

Protecting these lands means ensuring that these creatures have space to roam, hunt, breed, and thrive as they have done for millennia.

Wildlife populations within the parks benefit from reduced habitat fragmentation, decreased pressure from development, and the preservation of essential migration corridors.

3. Opportunities for public enjoyment and education

Perhaps the most important aspect of these parks is their accessibility to the public. The National Park Service strives to make these treasures available for everyone to experience, learn from, and be inspired by.

Whether hiking a scenic trail in Denali, witnessing the otherworldly spectacle of glaciers calving in Glacier Bay, or marveling at the raw power of a volcanic landscape in Lake Clark, these parks offer transformative encounters with the natural world.

They have the power to ignite a sense of wonder, foster environmental awareness, and create lifelong advocates for conservation.

Dr. Sarah Apsens Expert Opinion

“Alaska’s national parks are living laboratories and classrooms,” says Dr. Sarah Apsens, a conservation biologist dedicated to Alaskan ecosystems. “By safeguarding these exceptional places, we not only ensure their protection but create invaluable opportunities to study nature, understand the impacts we have, and ultimately inspire solutions for a healthier planet.”

FAQs and Information

How to access each national park

Access to Alaska’s national parks is unique and often adventurous! Here’s a general overview, but always refer to each park’s official website for the most up-to-date information:

• Road-Accessible Parks: Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Wrangell-St. Elias are partially accessible by road. However, even within these parks, roads are often limited to certain areas.
• Air Access: The majority of Alaska’s national parks require air travel to reach their interior. Flightseeing tours and small bush planes (air taxis) are common modes of transportation, landing on lakes, beaches, gravel bars, or designated airstrips.
• Boat Access: Coastal parks like Glacier Bay and Kenai Fjords are primarily explored by boat. Cruise ships and smaller vessels offer a variety of sightseeing and wildlife viewing options.

Best times to visit

Alaska’s peak visitor season is generally during the summer months (June-August). This is when weather is milder, wildlife sightings are frequent, and visitor facilities are fully operational. However, consider these factors:

• Shoulder Seasons: May and September offer fewer crowds and potentially more affordable options.
• Wildlife Viewing: Timing your visit with wildlife events (salmon runs, caribou migrations) can significantly enhance the experience.
• Northern Lights: Late August through April offers a chance to witness the aurora borealis, with fall and spring being ideal for less extreme weather.

Visitor center resources

Visitor centers are treasure troves of information! Rangers can provide:

• Up-to-date trail and weather conditions
• Wildlife safety information
• Ranger-led programs and guided hikes
• Backcountry trip planning advice
• Educational exhibits on the park’s natural and cultural history

Camping and lodging options

Accommodation options vary between parks:

• Developed Campgrounds: Some parks, like Denali, offer established campgrounds with varying levels of amenities.
• Backcountry Camping: Most parks offer the opportunity to backpack and camp in designated or wilderness areas. Permits are often required.
• Limited Lodges: A few parks have rustic lodges or cabins, generally found near park entrances or historic areas.
• Gateway Communities: Towns and villages near national parks provide accommodations like hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals.

Safety considerations in the Alaskan wilderness

Preparation is KEY for a safe Alaskan adventure. Before setting out:

• Wildlife Awareness: Learn about bear safety, how to store food properly, and give all wildlife a wide berth.
• Weather: Alaskan weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for rain, wind, and cold even in summer. Dress in layers and carry waterproof gear.
• Inform Others: Share your itinerary with someone, check-in as planned, and research emergency communications options for your destination.
• Wilderness Skills: Know how to navigate, practice Leave No Trace, and be competent in first aid.

Conclusion

Visiting Alaska’s national parks is a journey that demands preparation and respect for the wildness of the environment.

In return, these parks offer unparalleled opportunities for adventure, awe-inspiring encounters with nature, and memories to last a lifetime.

By planning responsibly and embracing the Alaskan spirit, your trip will be an extraordinary experience.