Donnelly Dome

The feel

Donnelly Dome is a 3,832 foot dome west of the Richardson Highway, 18 miles south of Delta Junction. It is a well known day hike with views over the Delta River valley and the Alaska Range.

The dome sits on Army land in the Donnelly Training Area, so a visit starts with paperwork. Every recreational user 16 or older needs a free Recreation Access Permit and has to check in before heading out.

What to expect

What it is

A 3,832 foot dome with a well known day hike, on Army training land west of the Richardson Highway. A Donnelly Dome Trail map is among the non-motorized trail maps for the training area.

Crowds and best time

Areas that are open can close temporarily during military use, and you cannot check in to a closed area.

Fees and passes

A Recreation Access Permit is free and good for 2 years. Register for an iSportsman account to get it.

Kids

Everyone 16 years of age or older needs the permit.

Hazards

Unexploded live ordnance may turn up on Army training lands; do not touch or handle it. Off-limit and impact areas are restricted year round.

Season and access

West of the Richardson Highway. Check in the day of or the day before your outing, good for up to 14 days; no check-out is required.

Mingo says

Sign in close to your outing, so a training closure does not catch you out. A closed area will not accept a sign-in.

Before you go

• Register for your free Recreation Access Permit through iSportsman before the trip.
• Check in on the iSportsman website or by phone at 877-250-9781.
• Stay out of off-limit and impact areas, and leave any suspected ordnance alone.

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