Eielson Visitor Center
Known for spectacular views of Denali (Mt. McKinley) from both inside and outside the building.
Plan Around Eielson Visitor Center
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Eielson Visitor Center Details
A showcase for eco-friendly design and low energy use, the Eielson Visitor Center is located at mile 66 of Denali Park Road -- an 8-hour shuttle bus ride from the park entrance area. The modern facility has spectacular views of Denali (Mt. McKinley) from both inside and outside the building. The "green" design of the building includes a low profile and tundra growing on the roof; power is supplied by a variety of environmentally friendly means, including solar and hydroelectric. The current facility is named for legendary Alaskan bush pilot and Alaskan Airlines founder Carl Ben Eielson (who also was one of the first two men to fly across the Arctic Ocean) and is only the latest in a series of visitor center that have been located in this spot since 1934. Eielson's facilities include a visitor information desk staffed by park rangers, a gallery of artwork inspired by Denali's natural wonders, a picnic area, and restrooms (wheelchair-accessible and open 24 hours a day in summer). There's also a water filling station, but no food. Daily ranger-led talks and walks originate here, as does a short interpretive trail of the surrounding tundra and the strenuous Thorofare Ridge Trail. Visitors can also begin off-trail hikes here. The shuttle ride to Eielson costs $35 for adults ages 16 and over. The Kantishna Experience tour bus also stops here. The Eielson Visitor Center is open June 1 to mid-September, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Difficulty
Moderate
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Nearby Parks Around Eielson Visitor Center
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Nearby Points of Interest Around Eielson Visitor Center
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0.0 mi away
Eielson Visitor Center
Know for spectacular views of Denali (Mt. McKinley) from both inside and outside the building.
0.0 mi away
Thorofare Ridge Trail
This short but steep trail climbs the Thorofare Ridge for outstanding views of Denali (Mt. McKinley).
0.0 mi away
Tundra Loop Trail
Set out from the Eielson Visitor Center for a 0.3-mile walk through the park's alpine tundra.
1.6 mi away
Thorofare Pass
Thorofare Pass at mile 64.45 of the park road is a popular photo spot.
3.5 mi away
Stony Dome
Hop off the shuttle bus between Highway Pass and Thorofare Pass to explore the Stony Dome area.
