Savage River Canyon Trail in Denali National Park, Alaska
The Savage River Canyon Trail is a beautiful two mile loop trail in Denali National Park. It is a great option for travelers with limited time, young children, or those looking for a non-strenuous trail experience. On clear days, Mt. McKinley can be viewed from the hilltops surrounding the trail. The trail follows the Savage River for approximately one mile on both sides of the river. There is a small footbridge at the halfway point of the trail, which allows you to cross and return on the other side of the river. It is advisable for hikers with small children to utilize the trail on the western side of the river, as it is flatter and wider. The trail on the eastern side of the river is still easy to traverse, but is narrower and steeper in some spots. Snow can be seen on the trail as late as June, so appropriate footwear is a must.
Highlights of the Savage River Canyon Trail include scenic rock outcrop, getting close to the rapid, glacier-fed river, and the wildlife viewing opportunities. Right at the trailhead on the east bank of the river is a very large rock outcrop, with a rough trail that adventurous travelers can hike. Dall sheep can be seen muling around in the large mountains overlooking the river. The Savage River itself is a beautiful steely gray. The trail on the west bank of the river passes a gravel bar where ptarmigan, the Alaska state bird, can be seen and heard.
The Savage River Canyon Trail is located at Mile 15 of the park road. Limited parking is available at the trailhead. The best way to access the trail is to drive your own vehicle on the park road as far as the Savage River Campground. Across from the entrance to the campground is a small parking area, where hikers can catch the Savage River Shuttle to the trailhead. If you choose, the free Savage River Shuttle can also be picked up from the Riley Creek Campground and Visitor's Center, both near the entrance of the park.
The Savage River Loop Trail is a great day hike that offers travelers a taste of the beauty and wonder of Denali National Park.
Published by Robin Kay
Robin is a wife, mother and student who lives in the Far North. View profile
Adams Gap Trailhead: Skyway Loop Hiking Trail An overview of the Skyway Loop hiking trail in Talladega National Forest.- Cross Over! Are You on God's Side of the River?We've all heard of people who live on the wrong side of the tracks. The Old Testament equivalent appears to be dwelling on the wrong side of the river.
On the Other Side of the WorldMoving away from home to the far side of the world is a difficult and often confusing task. It requires a delicate balance to understand and maintain personal identity. The fo...- Archeologists Uncover Treasures at the Site of the New Mississippi River BridgeWhile excavating the site of the Mississippi River bridge at St. Louis, workers find all kinds of rare treasures.
Review of the River Winds Restaurant in West Deptford, New JerseyFine dining has come to Gloucester County with the River Winds Restaurant. First opened in 2009, River Winds has come into its stride beautifully and is now a great choice for s...
- Visit Alaska's Denali National Park for an Unforgettable Adventure
- Denali Park: Sightseeing, Lodging and Transportation Tips
- Great Day Hike Near New York City: Breakneck Ridge Trail on the Hudson River
- Where to Stay and What to Do at Denali National Park
- Planning a Trip to Alaska Denali National Park
- About the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge in Tok, Alaska
- Denali National Park, Alaska: Information for Independent and Tour Travel