Frequently Asked Questions
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Our tours take off from the Denali Hostel & Cabins (Across the Highway from McKinley Creekside Cabins) parking lot. Unfortunately, we’re not able to provide transportation at this time. If you’re staying at a lodge too far away for walking, we recommend booking a Sheep Shuttle.
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Children 15 and under must be accompanied by and adult. Children under 5 are welcome free of charge.
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Because we are in such a mountainous area, the weather here can change on a dime. Some days can flip between sunshine, wind, rain, and back again. Unless the weather is extreme (such as heavy snow), our tours depart rain or shine.
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The weather can change quickly. Wear layered clothing, avoiding cotton/ jeans. It’s also best to hydrate and eat before going out.
We will send you a gear checklist upon booking, but these are the essentials:Essential items:
Water (two liters minimum)
Rain jacket
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Long pants
Warm layers (fleece or wool)
Warm hat and gloves
Snacks
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The trail is outside of the park, and therefore not maintained by a crew. This hike can include this mud, uneven terrain, and rocky conditions. The elevation gain is less than 1000 ft., and will be taken at a gradual pace.
Especially during rainy times of year, the trail can become muddy and wet. We recommend wearing waterproof hiking boots.
We provide hiking poles to any guest that needs them.
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Temperature, time of day, amount of wind and general weather conditions all factor into how many mosquitos will be out. As guides, we always wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect ourselves from bites. In locations where the bugs find us and become a nuisance, then we will use bug spray sparingly on the outside of our clothing and hats. Guides carry bug spray, but if you are extra sensitive, we recommend bringing your own bug spray or wipes, and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect your skin.
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Once we have set off, there are no bathrooms available for the duration of the hike. However there are many “facili-trees” that you can use at any time. We do not have scheduled stops for bathroom breaks but we will stop if needed. Our guides carry toilet paper, trash bags, wipes, and hand sanitizer.
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No, but we’re very close and in our area the scenery is so beautiful you can’t tell where the park begins or where it ends. The trail we’ll be following (the Carlo Creek Trail) is a public easement trail on Ahtna Land, starting at about mile post 224 on the George Parks Highway.
If you still have a question that this list doesn’t cover, feel free to reach out!