How to get from Talkeetna to Denali Park

There are plenty of options for the short trip from Talkeetna to Denali Park, and whichever one you choose offers plenty of opportunities to see Mt. Denali on clear days.

4.5 hours by train | 3 hours by bus | 2.5 hours by car

Keep reading for more details, but if are ready to book train or bus trips online, you will find the quickest way is our Train & Bus Express Checkout.

Ride the Bus

With late morning and late afternoon departures from Talkeetna to Denali Park, the Park Connection Motorcoach provides plenty of flexibility for scheduling great Talkeetna activities like flightseeing and jetboats tours, or even just exploring on your own in this quirky Alaskan town. The trip to Denali by bus travels 150 miles and takes approximately three hours.

Take the Train

The Denali Star train departs Talkeetna at 11:20 AM and arrives in Denali Park just over four hours later at approximately 3:40 PM. You can travel in Adventure Class or the GoldStar Dome service from the Alaska Railroad, or onboard the Wilderness Express or McKinley Explorer dome railcars. Do note that the last option is a separate train that operates on a slightly different schedule.

Drive Yourself

You can't rent a car in Talkeetna, but if you arrive by rental car, you will enjoy the scenic drive north to Denali as well. There are several nice pullouts to view Mt. Denali, and you should consider a stop for a few hours at Denali State Park for some kayaking or a hike.