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FAQ / People Often Ask

Where can I get information on Denali National Park and Preserve?

Stop by the Alaska Centers for the Denali Alpenglow and Denali map brochure. Various seasonal newsletters, handouts, and educational material are also available. More information is available on the Denali FAQs webpage of the Denali National Park and preserve website at www.nps.gov/dena.

How do I get a permit to visit the McNeil River State Game Sanctuary?

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game implemented a lottery permit system that allows the winners of a permit to visit the falls for a 4 day period in the summer. You can learn more about applying for a permit at the Alaska Department of Fish and Game's McNeil River State Game Sanctuary and Refuge web page.

Are there good hiking opportunities within Denali National Park and Preserve?

There are many maintained trails originating near the park entrance that offer scenic views without the need for a heavy pack or a compass. There are also Ranger-led hikes available in the summer. However, for the more adventurous visitor, the six million trail-less acres of the park provides the opportunity for a memorable backpacking trip. For more information on day hikes and the backcountry visit the Denali National Park and Preserve website.

Current Fire Information in Alaska

Keep up to date on the currents wildfires in Alaska, especially during our summer season. Summer is when Alaska is the driest and the warmest causing a lot of wildfires spread out on our lands. You can find out more information about wildfires in Alaska on the Alaska Inter-agency Wildfires website.

 

smoke rising from a fire along the coast with snowy mountains in the background

NPS photo of Shipwreck Cove Fire in Katmai National Park and Preserve 

 

Managing Fires in Alaska

AICC Current Fires Map of Alaska

  • At certain periods during a fire season, wildfires can be so widespread, numerous, or burning so hot that they cannot be put out easily.
  • Fire is a natural part of Alaska’s ecosystem. Many positive benefits of fire have been recognized.
  • Fire-suppression efforts sometimes are more damaging than the wildfire.

Fire is a part of the natural environmental cycle as well as a potential destroyer of life, property, and resources.

In remote and unsettled areas, fires are monitored to assure they do not burn unchecked toward areas where human life or development could be threatened. This cooperative AICC plan is working well and has saved millions of local, state, and federal tax dollars.

Resources:

  • Find out more about fires in Alaska on our Fire Facts page
  • Know your fire safety, learn more information on our Fire Safety page
  • Learn more about smokey bear on our Smokey Page

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