Spot iconic animals in Denali National Park
The "Big Five" to spot
Stretching 91 miles into the vast wilderness of middle Alaska, Denali National Park's rugged road hosts rolling beige tour buses. When a bus pulls to a stop, passengers know what that means: a wildlife sighting. They dash toward the windows as the tour guide points out two sandy grizzly bears traversing the open tundra.
This is the thrill of exploring Denali National Park on an Alaska cruisetour.
Among the many animals that roam Denali National Park, the "big five" are a sightseer's prize: moose, bears, Dall sheep, caribou, and wolves. Prepare to scan the tundra and brush with a keen eye — and perhaps a pair of binoculars, too – for legendary Denali National Park animals.
And don't forget to bring your camera to capture these incredible moments. Photographing wildlife in Denali does require some careful planning and techniques, so use these tips when photographing the “Big Five.”
- Use a telephoto lens to get clear shots from a safe distance without disturbing the animals.
- Be patient and keep noise to a minimum to avoid scaring animals away.
- Use a tripod to stabilize your camera, especially in lower light conditions, to enhance the clarity of your shots.
Also, please remember to view the wilderness and wild safety recommendations provided by the National Park Service. You never know when wildlife might sneak up behind you.
Moose
Moose can stand six and a half feet at the shoulder, but that doesn't mean they're easy to spot. The dark earth tones of moose hide blend wonderfully with their surroundings of high brush. A good way to find this Denali animal is to look for things they like to eat: bushes and tree needles or leaves. A lucky few will see a female cow with twin calves. Moose enjoy swimming, too, so search for antlers poking out of the park's shimmering lakes.
Photography tip: Moose are most active around dawn and dusk, making these times ideal for photography. Use a telephoto lens to keep a safe distance and patiently wait for moose to display natural behaviors, such as feeding or wading in water, to capture compelling shots. While moose may seem calm, it’s important to remember that they can be extremely dangerous, especially if they feel threatened or are with calves. If a moose charges, it can be just as hazardous as an encounter with a bear or wolf. Always maintain a safe distance, avoid approaching them, and never stand between a mother and her young. Respect their space to ensure both your safety and theirs.
Bears
A powerful grizzly bear walks calmly through a lush meadow in Alaska, surrounded by the vibrant greenery of late summer.
Black bears live in Denali National Park, but they inhabit the park's forested areas. Focus instead on catching sight of a grizzly bear wandering the open tundra. Their color can range from sandy or beige to dark brown or black. Bears usually roam alone, but the fortunate will spot a mother bear with her cubs, who stay by her side for up to three and a half years.
Photography tip: To photograph bears safely, always use a telephoto lens to keep a respectful distance. Avoid approaching them and aim to shoot during early morning or late evening.
Dall Sheep
While it's best to look across the tundra to locate moose and bears, to find a Dall sheep, look up. They travel in bands among high-altitude ridges and mountain flora, their favorite snack. Rams are distinguished by their stately curled horns. Because of Dall sheep's tendency to be in plain sight, uncamouflaged, it's likely visitors will see a band of sheep or two on a Denali tour, maybe even as you travel the route of the historic Alaska Railroad with our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service.
Photography tip: Dall sheep are commonly found on steep, rugged slopes. A telephoto lens will help you capture these elusive animals without disturbing them. Try to frame them against the backdrop of Denali’s landscapes for striking images.
Caribou
Watch the tundra for a herd of caribou on the roam. Caribou generally have brown fur with a white tail and white tuft under the neck, but their most majestic distinguishing characteristic is their antlers. While both male bulls and female cows grow antlers, bulls' antlers can grow to a length of 53 inches.
Photography tip: Caribou are constantly on the move, so be prepared to take quick action shots. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze their dynamic movements and capture sharp, clear images of these graceful creatures.
Gray Wolves
Probably the rarest animal sighting among Denali park animals is Alaska's gray wolf. Wolf pack numbers vary in Denali National Park, but the best bet for a wolf sighting is near a wolf den. Tour guides will know about any wildlife closures, such as those protecting a wolf den, so feel free to ask them about the locations of recent wolf sightings. Even if you don't actually see any wolves, you can still listen for a wolf's haunting howl, heard most often in the early morning or evening.
Photography tip: Wolves can be elusive, so a good telephoto lens is essential for capturing them from afar. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for wolf photography, as they tend to be more active during these times. Patience will increase your chances of a successful shot.
The best spots for viewing Denali National Park wildlife
Savage River Area (Mile 15): This area is excellent for spotting caribou, moose and Dall sheep. The diverse terrain includes open plains and rugged hills, providing ideal conditions for these animals.
Teklanika River (Mile 30): This river is well known for grizzly bear sightings, especially during the early morning or late evening hours, making it a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The open river bar is a prime spot for observing these powerful creatures as they forage for food.
Polychrome Overlook (Mile 46): Offering stunning views and great wildlife opportunities, this overlook is a prime location for seeing Dall sheep, grizzly bears and golden eagles. The high alpine environment provides a dramatic backdrop for sightings.
Toklat River (Mile 53): A fantastic spot for encountering grizzly bears, caribou and sometimes wolves. The expansive landscape allows for broad views, making it easier to spot wildlife in the distance.
Eielson Visitor Center (Mile 66): This visitor center is a key location for observing grizzly bears, caribou and Dall sheep. The surrounding high alpine area offers expansive views and frequent wildlife activity, particularly during the summer months.
The best time of day to see Denali’s wildlife
Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times to maximize your chances of spotting animals in Denali National Park, as wildlife is more active and feeding during these hours. Animals are also less likely to be disturbed by the park's daily activity, and the soft light enhances your overall viewing experience.
Places to stay while visiting Denali National Park on your cruise
Ready to see some wildlife for yourself? Check out Denali cruisetours, with different options for their length of time and how far they extend into the park. Space is limited and assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it's best to book early. Reserve your Denali tour today — your wilderness adventure awaits.