Denali State Park a hidden treasure

MAT-SU — While Denali National Park and Preserve garners most of the headlines and attention of visitors, its “little brother” of sorts, Denali State Park, is a true gem in the Mat-Su Valley.

Denali State Park, which was established in 1970, covers 325,240 acres, which is almost half the size of Rhode Island. Within the park is some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities you can find in Alaska, from hiking to fishing.

The eastern half of the park has world-class hiking, with spectacular views of Mount McKinley. A 35-mile stretch contains both Kesugi Ridge and Curry Ridge, which offer amazing scenery and endless backpacking opportunities. The park itself is cut in half by the Parks Highway, with the Talkeetna Mountains to the east and the Alaska Range to the west. The park’s western edge shares a border with Denali National Park and Preserve, in which Mount McKinley is located.

Whether it be hiking, biking, kayaking or just relaxing, the Byers Lake area is hard to beat. The non-motorized lake is ideal for kayaking and canoeing, and there’s a chance you’ll get to see moose, bear and other wildlife during your time on the water. When you are done, head to Byers Lake Campground for the night – there are 65 camping units available for tents and RV campers. If you plan ahead, you can rent one of the public-use cabins along the shores of Byers Lake, through the Alaska State Parks offices.

Hikers find the area particularly enjoyable. There are six backcountry trails available, with levels ranging from easy to difficult. An easy day hike is the 4.8-mile Byers Lake Loop, which begins and ends at the campground (Mile 147 Parks Highway). Make sure you pack appropriate clothing, as the weather is unpredictable at best. Also, don’t forget your camera and an Alaska wildflower guidebook to help identify the flora and fauna you come across in your travels.

Birders will also find Denali State Park a must-visit area. Trumpeter swans and loons call the area home, and migratory birds return to the state park each spring.

Denali State Park isn’t just for outdoor enthusiasts, however. There’s also a must-see for every Alaskan — the Alaska Veterans Memorial, which is adjacent to the Byers Lake Campground. The memorial consists of five standing pillars, representing each branch of the armed forces. Spend a solemn moment and reflect on the stories of those who fought in Alaska while gazing across the Alaska Range.

Casey Ressler (casey@alaskavisit.com) is the marketing and communications manager at the Mat-Su Convention & Visitors Bureau.