Denali: ATV Boreal Forest Ride & Alaska Range Views Tour

Summary

Denali’s wild taiga trails, glacial creek beds and blueberry grins

You’ll ride deep into Denali’s boreal forest by ATV with a local guide, splash through mountain-fed creeks, taste fireweed tea, and stop for wide-open Alaska Range views. Expect muddy boots, real stories, and laughter echoing through the trees—plus hotel pickup so you can just show up ready to ride.

What’s the experience like?

You hear it first—the low rumble of engines echoing off the trees, then the sharp scent of wet earth mixing with that chilly Alaskan air. I was still fiddling with my helmet strap when our guide, Sarah (born and raised in Healy), grinned and promised we’d “get a little muddy.” She wasn’t kidding. The Denali ATV tour kicked off right in the thick of the boreal forest, spruce needles brushing past as we rolled out. I kept thinking how different the light looks here—sort of silvery, filtered through all that green.

The first creek crossing surprised me. Water splashed up cold against my boots (definitely wear something you don’t mind wrecking), and Sarah pointed out where glacial silt had settled into soft grey banks. We stopped at this open spot where you could see the Alaska Range stretched out—clouds snagged on the peaks—and she told us about fireweed tea. I tried a sip; tasted like summer if summer was a little bit tart and earthy. Someone in our group tried to spot moose tracks but ended up laughing at their own guesswork instead.

I didn’t expect to learn about old archaeological digs tucked along these trails—Sarah just started telling us about them while we caught our breath after a rough patch (my arms are still sore). There’s something about bouncing over rutted paths, mud flying everywhere, that makes strangers start swapping stories fast. At one point I realized I’d been grinning for half an hour straight—blueberry-stained teeth included.

By the end, my jeans were basically camouflage and my face hurt from smiling. We loaded back into the van for hotel drop-off, smelling like pine needles and cold air. Even now, sometimes I catch that scent on my jacket and think about those wild miles outside Denali—how small you feel out there, in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Denali ATV Trailblazer Tour

• Hotel pickup for tour start
• Drive to ATV riding location
• Choose single or side-by-side ATV
• Ride ATV through Alaskan Boreal Forest
• Navigate trails, creek beds, and tundra
• Observe glacial moraines and archaeological sites
• Stop periodically for photos and wildlife
• Learn about fireweed tea and survival
• Complete 20 miles in 2.5 hours

Top questions

How long is the Denali ATV tour?

The total tour is 3.5 hours with about 2.5 hours spent riding on the trail.

Is hotel pickup included in this Denali ATV adventure?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from select hotels near Denali.

What should I wear for the Denali ATV tour?

You should dress for mud and changing weather; wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.

Do I need experience to drive an ATV in Denali?

No previous ATV experience is necessary; guides provide instruction before starting.

Are there single-rider and multi-passenger ATVs available?

Yes, both single-rider ATVs and side-by-side options for two passengers are available.

Can children join this Denali ATV day trip?

Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; drivers must be at least 16 years old.

Will we see wildlife during the tour?

You may spot wildlife or tracks along the trail but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Is lunch included on this ATV tour?

No lunch is provided; however you may get to taste fireweed tea or fresh blueberries if they’re in season.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select hotels near Denali, all necessary equipment for riding either a single or side-by-side ATV (with automatic transmission), plus guidance from experienced locals who share stories along the way—you just need to dress for mud and bring your sense of adventure.