Denali Park Road

The feel

Bicycles may travel the full 92-mile Park Road with no permit and no shuttle-bus fee, which makes it one of the best-known rides in Alaska. You share a narrow, shoulderless road with buses, dust and wildlife.

The first 15 miles to Savage River are paved and see the most traffic. Beyond that, private vehicles are barred and only permitted buses, bikes and hikers use the gravel road, so traffic is lighter. Most riders go a fraction of the way to Kantishna.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Up to 92 miles one way to Kantishna. Paved for the first 15 miles to Savage River, then graded gravel from mile 15 to 92. No shoulder or bicycle lane on any section. Rated Advanced.

Crowds and best time

The paved first 15 miles see the most traffic. Beyond mile 15 it is lighter.

Fees and passes

No permit and no shuttle-bus fee for bicycles. The Savage River Shuttle is free.

Hazards

Buses, dust and wildlife on a narrow road with no shoulder. Sections have been closed for bridge repair, and a bridge failure near Polychrome (Pretty Rocks) has restricted travel past certain miles in recent years.

Season and access

Generally open to cyclists late May through mid-September. Confirm current mile-marker access before planning a long ride.

Mingo says

Ride between late May and mid-September, while the road is running. Start at Mile 15 for lighter traffic, then turn around when you choose. Check the mile-marker closures first, because the bridge near Polychrome has cut rides short.

Before you go

• Check in with a ranger at the Savage River check station, or use the logbook when staff are off duty.
• Get a safety chat and a Denali cycling sticker at the Denali Visitor Center, the Backcountry Information Center, the Savage Check Station, or from a rental provider.
• Take the free Savage River Shuttle to Mile 15; bike rack space is limited to two bicycles per bus.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.