Whittier to Denali

Transportation at a Glance

Traveling from Whittier to Denali is an unforgettable journey. Glaciers and fjords give way to the rugged Kenai and Chugach Mountains, then open to the broad river valleys of Alaska’s Interior, with Denali rising on the horizon.

By Car

Driving is the most flexible way to explore Denali, but if you’re arriving in Whittier, know that one-way car rentals from the port are very limited. Most travelers take the train or a motorcoach to Anchorage first, where it’s easy to pick up a rental car.

From Whittier, your journey starts with the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel—the longest highway tunnel in North America—then follows the scenic Seward Highway before briefly joining the Glenn Highway and continuing north on the Parks Highway to Denali.

A self-drive trip gives you the freedom to stop for wildlife sightings, take photos, and enjoy short hikes along the way. Having your own car also makes it easy to stay in nearby communities like Healy or visit attractions outside the park. Just keep in mind that private vehicles can only go partway down Denali Park Road—beyond that, you’ll need to hop on a shuttle or guided bus tour.

By Bus

Motorcoach service from Whittier to Denali typically runs on cruise ship days, making it a convenient option if you prefer to relax and let someone else handle the driving and tunnel schedule. Large windows make it easy to soak in the views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife along the way.

By Train

The Alaska Railroad doesn’t offer a direct same-day route from Whittier to Denali. If you want to travel by train, plan to overnight in Anchorage, then continue north to Denali the next day. The full Anchorage-to-Denali trip takes about eight hours, with stops in Wasilla and Talkeetna.

Some cruise lines offer direct rail transfers from Whittier to Denali, making for a scenic and seamless journey. Many travelers also combine a one-way train ride with a return by bus or car to see the landscapes from a different perspective.