Denali Park Zipline: An Unforgettable Family Adventure
When we planned our Denali trip, we knew we wanted to balance sightseeing with something a little more exciting. That’s how we landed on ziplining—and Denali Park Zipline ended up being one of the highlights of our whole Alaska vacation.
My daughter is quite the adventurer and we typically go ziplining at least once per vacation. Honestly, we went twice during our Alaska vacation. Is there any place more wild and fun than Alaska to go on an adventure like this?
Related: Matanuska Glacier hike and Zipline tour– an unforgettable experience!
First Impressions & Getting There
The course is tucked away in Healy, just outside Denali National Park. If you’re staying nearby, they offer a free shuttle that makes things easy.
We drove to the Denali Park Zipine tour office, which is at the end of the tourist shopping outside of the Denali National Park main gate. From there, everyone loaded up into an off-road vehicle for the short ride up a gravel road had everyone buzzing with excitement.
Getting Geared Up
Once we arrived, the crew helped us into harnesses and helmets. They walked us through safety instructions in a way that was clear but casual—nothing felt too intense. Honestly, their relaxed vibe helped a lot, especially for those of us feeling a little nervous. They mixed in humor and high-fives like pros.
Related: Husky Homestead Sled Dog Tour is a Must Do in Denali
Taking to the Trees
The course features seven zip lines and six sky bridges. The first few lines are short—perfect for warming up. My daughter wasn’t hesitant at all, but I certainly was. It didn’t take long for my confidence (and speed) to kick in. By the time we reached the final dual-racing line, we were trash talking and laughing our way to the finish. (Spoiler: she won. She’ll remind you of that, too.)
One thing I really appreciated: you don’t have to control the braking. Their system does all of that, which makes the whole experience less stressful and way more fun.
Related: The Perfect 3-day Itinerary for Fairbanks, Alaska
Soaking In the Scenery
Surprisingly, the views were a standout. I didn’t expect to be zipping through trees and also catching glimpses of the Alaska Range, but there they were. We even spotted a few birds gliding by as we zipped from platform to platform.
Worth the Time and Money?
Absolutely. The Denali Park Zipline is not the cheapest excursion, but the memories we made were priceless. The guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and great with kids. And it’s just the right amount of adventure—you’ll feel like you did something big, but you won’t be totally wiped out afterward.
If you’re visiting Denali in the summer and want to switch things up from hiking or bus tours, this is a fantastic pick. Our daughter voted it her favorite part of Denali, and I’m inclined to agree.
Related: Read our review of the Arctic Circle Fly and Drive Tour
A Few Tips Before You Go On the Denali Park Zipline
- Reserve early – It’s a popular activity, especially mid-summer.
- Closed-toe shoes are a must – No exceptions.
- Dress smart – Layers work best. It can be chilly up on the platforms.
- Minimum age is 8 – And there are weight limits, so double-check.
- The guides are awesome – Lean into their advice and let them guide the fun.
Final Thoughts
Ziplining in Denali wasn’t just an activity—it was a core memory. The perfect mix of adventure, scenic views, and family bonding. If your kid beats you on the last line, just smile, take the photo, and let them bask in the glory. (Then maybe challenge them to a rematch next time.)
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