Mount Healy Overlook - Denali National Park & Preserve

Length: 4.9 mi (7.9 km)

Elevation Gain: 1,700 ft (518 m)

Route Type: Out and Back

Difficulty: Hard

The Mount Healy Overlook Trail in Denali National Park & Preserve offers one of the most rewarding panoramic views near the park entrance. This moderately strenuous trail climbs through boreal forest and open alpine tundra, providing sweeping vistas of the Nenana River Valley, the Alaska Range, and the surrounding wilderness. On clear days, the viewpoint rewards hikers and photographers alike with a vast, cinematic perspective of Denali’s rugged landscape.

Accessing the Mount Healy Overlook in Denali National Park and Preserve

Starting Location: Denali Visitor Center, Park Rd, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK 99755

GPS (DD): 63.731498, -148.919180

The trail to the Mount Healy Overlook begins at the Denali Visitor Center, easily accessible from the park road and main parking area. You will begin on the Taiga Trail and will eventually turn left at the “T” to continue onto the Mount Healy Overlook Trail. The path is well-marked and starts with a gradual incline before becoming steeper as it ascends toward the overlook. The trail is typically open from late May through early September, depending on snow conditions. Winter access may be limited due to snow and ice, and traction devices are recommended if hiking early or late in the season.

^{Mount Healy Overlook, Denali National Park & Preserve, Alaska | Photo Credit: NPS / Clair Abendroth}

Hiking Tips for the Mount Healy Overlook

The trail is well-maintained but climbs quickly in elevation, gaining nearly 1,700 feet over a short distance. The ascent is steady and can feel strenuous, especially in the upper section where the switchbacks become steeper. The hike is largely exposed in the last mile, so be prepared for wind gusts and minimal protection. Be sure to bring layers, hats, water, and sturdy footwear. The viewpoint is marked with a sign, but many hikers continue a bit farther along the ridge for an even broader perspective.

Recommended Emergency Supplies in Denali National Park & Preserve

Whenever you are traveling, it is always a good idea to bring extra emergency supplies. This is especially true if you will be hiking to more remote locations during your stay. Here are some highly recommended supplies to bring with you on your journey:

Water
Food
Sun Protection (sunscreen SPF 30+, hat, sunglasses)
Insect Repellent
First Aid Kit
Map (NPS trail map or offline GPS app)
Flashlight /Headlamp (with batteries)
Emergency Shelter (space blanket or poncho)
Whistle /Signaling Device
Extra Clothing
Multi-Tool or Knife

Additional Emergency Supplies (Click here for a complete list of our recommended photography and hiking gear)

Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service

National parks often have limited or spotty cell service so it is always helpful to have some sort of map or GPS-tracking device handy to assist with trail and road navigation. Even when you don’t think you will get lost, if the trails or roads are poorly marked, it is a possibility. Some GPS trackers, like the Garmin inReach and the Garmin inReach Mini, can also communicate your location to others. At a minimum, have a printed copy of the maps and hiking trails or download them to your phone.

Best Time of Day to Photograph the Mount Healy Overlook

Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography, with long shadows and soft hues over the valley. Summer months (June–August) offer lush greens and wildflowers, while autumn brings vibrant golds and reds across the tundra.

Photography Tips for the Mount Healy Overlook

I used an 18–135 mm lens for landscape shots to capture the valley and the mountains in this photo. I also used a telephoto zoom lens (100–400 mm) to frame distant details of the Alaska Range. Depending on the weather and light conditions, both lenses can produce stunning results. A tripod helps stabilize shots during softer light or breezy conditions. Drones are not permitted within Denali National Park, so plan your compositions accordingly and take advantage of natural vantage points along the ridge.

Midday to early afternoon is an excellent time to photograph the Mount Healy Overlook, especially on clear days when the light is bright and visibility is at its best. During this time, the valley, river, and Alaska Range appear crisp and vibrant, with natural contrast between the greens of the forest and the blues of the distant peaks. The even lighting helps reveal fine details across the landscape without harsh shadowing, making it ideal for wide, expansive shots. While early morning and evening light can offer warmer tones, the midday clarity often provides the sharpest view of Denali’s front range and the surrounding wilderness.

Closing Remarks

The Mount Healy Overlook Trail rewards every step of the climb with breathtaking Alaskan scenery and endless photographic inspiration. Take your time to explore different vantage points, observe the shifting light, and enjoy the solitude of Denali’s front country.

Find Your Favorite Location

No matter where you go in Denali National Park & Preserve, be sure to take your time and find your favorite location along the way. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife! Don’t forget to add detailed macro shots, change your perspective, and most importantly have fun.

Before making your trip, consider checking the official Denali National Park & Preserve website or contacting the park’s visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, accessibility, and any recent changes. As with any visit to a national park, it’s important to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while exploring this beautiful area. I hope you enjoy your time photographing the Mount Healy Overlook!

Happy Shooting!

Tahmoures Tom Tabatabaei, Featured National Park Photographer

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Mount Healy Overlook
Denali National Park and Preserve