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Mount Healy Overlook Trail

Widely regarded as the best hike in Denali National Park!

Hiking Difficult

Distance
7.3 km
Ascent
534 m
Descent
534 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
545 m
High Point
1.1 km
Gradient
13˚
Mount Healy Overlook Trail Map

Even though the Mount Healy Overlook Trail is accessible directly from the visitor center just inside the entrance to Denali National Park, it's widely regarded as one of the very best day hikes in Alaska!

Description

This short climb busts 2.7 miles straight up the mountainside, gaining over 1,800 vertical feet to reach the overlook. The first mile is quite mild on a well-maintained gravel path, but the last 1.7 miles gains the vast majority of this elevation rapidly through a series of steep switchbacks. These upper reaches of the trail progressively break out of the forest, providing sweeping views as you climb.

The final destination is a stunning rock outcropping providing breathtaking views of Denali National Park! Plan to spend some time sitting on this rock and enjoying the views of some of the most spectacular mountains in the world!

If 2.7 miles isn't enough hiking for you, a primitive trail continues to ascend the ridge to the summit of Mount Healy. However, the NPS warns that you must be prepared for a more rugged trail experience beyond this point, as the ridge "can be dangerous." The NPS warns that "people have died in falls on Mount Healy, so be cautious if you intend to hike toward the true summit, which is approximately 1,500' higher on the mountain and another 1.5 miles or so past the overlook (i.e., where the official trail ends)."

If you aren't interested in making an attempt on the summit of Mount Healy, simply turn around when you're done at the overlook and return the way you came.

Sources: https://www.theoutbound.com/alaska/hiking/hike-mount-healy-overlook-trail https://www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit/overlook.htm

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between July and September

Features

  • Alpine
  • Picturesque

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area