[Park Closure] Park Operations Altered Due to Pretty Rocks Landslide

Pretty Rocks Trail Closed, Denali Park Road Shuts Down Through Summer 2026

A significant shift is coming to your summer adventures in Denali National Park – the Pretty Rocks Trail and a large section of the Denali Park Road are closed indefinitely, impacting access to some of the park’s most iconic views and requiring adjustments to your travel plans.

The closure stems from a substantial landslide near Pretty Rocks, a beloved spot just south of the park entrance, that occurred earlier this year. The U.S. National Park Service (NPS) is currently implementing a Polychrome Area Plan to address the long-term stability of the area and ensure visitor safety. The closure of the Denali Park Road at Mile 43, a crucial access point for many visitors heading towards the Savage River area and the scenic views of the Matanuska Glacier, is expected to remain in place through summer 2026. This means the usual summer rush to reach the Polychrome Basin and its stunning waterfalls will be significantly altered.

What This Means for Anchorage

For Anchorage residents and Alaskans who regularly visit Denali, this closure will undoubtedly impact summer travel plans. Many families rely on the road access to experience the park’s incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, hike the trails, and immerse themselves in the Alaskan wilderness. This closure will affect not only tourists but also local residents who utilize the park for recreation and enjoy the beauty of the area. The closure also impacts the local economy, affecting businesses in Healy and surrounding communities that depend on park visitation. It’s a reminder of the powerful forces of nature that shape our state and the importance of responsible tourism in preserving these wild spaces.

Local Context

Denali, nestled in the heart of Alaska, is a landscape shaped by glaciers, mountains, and the traditional subsistence practices of Alaska Native communities, including the Denali Borough’s Dena’ina Athabascan people. The park’s unique ecosystem supports a vast array of wildlife, from grizzly bears and caribou to moose and Dall sheep. The military presence at Eielson Air Force Base further contributes to the region’s dynamic landscape and economy. Alaskans have a deep connection to this land, and the preservation of its natural beauty is a shared responsibility.

What to Know

The NPS is working diligently on a long-term solution, including bridge construction and stabilization efforts as outlined in the Polychrome Area Plan. You can stay updated on the progress and alternative access routes through the NPS website (nps.gov/dena) and by checking the visitor center in Healy. Consider exploring other areas of the park, such as the Horseshoe Lake Trail or the East Tutshi Trail, which remain open. For those planning a winter visit, the Winter Visitor Center remains open, offering opportunities for sled dog kennel tours and ranger programs.

Let’s all appreciate the beauty of Denali and support the park’s efforts to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for generations to come. It’s a reminder that protecting our wild spaces is a community effort, and we’re all part of the Denali family.