Alaska- Denali

[Early Riser]

My wife and I will be heading off to Alaska soon. We will only spend 2 days in Denali and I am well aware of the shuttles and tours buses and how they work. I am curious though as to just how uncomfortable they are. I have a pretty sensitive back and the idea of 12 hours on a school bus seems a little harrowing but I'd hate to miss any parts of Denali. So my questions are just how torturous is the bus/shuttle and how far does one need to go on the denali road, all the way to Wonder Lake, or does it peak visually far short of that?

Thanks.

 

[climbabout]

Denali

My wife and son and I took these park buses 2 summers ago and I did not find them uncomfortable at all. When we were there we did the all day trip and it went as far as Kantishna. There are several scenic vistas along the way - hard to say where it visually peaks - all the vistas are stunning. There are several scenic spots along the way where the bus stops to view wildlife and also some spots where you get off to take pictures and stretch your legs - we found it quite enjoyable. The stops were frequent enough so you don't feel confined and trapped. Enjoy it, but also be prepared for the possibility that you may not see the mountain. Mount Mckinley creates it's own weather and is in the clouds the majority of the time - good luck and enjoy!
Tim

 

[cysewski]

If you go to Eilson visitor center you will see the exciting parts of the park. Try not to sit over the rear wheels, the buses are not too bad, the road is well maintained, it is worth it to go on the bus. There are paid wildlife tours that are marginally more comfortable and usually have better narrative. If you come to Alaska do not miss the bus trips. Take two, early morning and then one in the afternoon. There are plenty of opportunities to get out for rest stops and to see wildlife if you are lucky. I live in Alaska and visit Denali each year.
Steve

 

[thefizz]

I got the bus as far as the Polychrome area and then hiked for the day. The bus ride was fine that far and the scenery stunning.

 

[Early Riser]

Thanks for the advice. We decided on the long bus trip, 12 hours. Hopefully Mt Mckinley will come out to play.