Posted in Alaska Hiking, Nature January 22, 2022 by

Take In The Frozen Views Of Denali National Park On The Mount Healy Overlook Trail This Winter

Looking for great things to do outside in Alaska? Head to the interior of The Last Frontier! The Mount Healy Overlook Trail is one of our favorite hiking trails in Alaska. It provides incredible winter scenery and white wintry views into Denali National Park. This is a great hike for any time of year, but we think it’s just perfect for winter. It’s carefully marked and easy to follow, making it a great option for your winter hiking list. Check it out:

The Mount Healy Overlook Trail is in Healy, right outside of Denali National Park. This is one of the best national parks to visit in Alaska, so stop by the trail before you leave town. It's popular all year round, but we particularly love the winter views.
Blair C. / AllTrails
This is a gorgeous hike no matter the season. It's got well-marked trails that mean the route to the overlook is easy to follow, even after a lot of snowfall.
The trail starts with an easy and flat beginning before you start to ascend.
Blair C. / AllTrails
The entire elevation gain through the trail is 1,666 feet. That means that by the trail's end, the views are panoramic and absolutely breathtaking.
The out and back trail ends at a beautiful overlook.
Joseph Lis / AllTrails
The trail measures 4.3 miles and is rated moderate for difficulty in good conditions, so it can be a little harder after heavy snowfall. If there's been a lot of precipitation, make sure to bring good snow equipment like snowshoes.
On clear days, you can even see Denali in the distance.
Blair C. / AllTrails
The trail is located outside of the park, so you can access it in your own vehicle. Depending on your fitness level, it should take around three to four hours to complete.
The trailhead starts at the Murie Science and Learning Center, which isn't far from the Denali National Park Visitor's Center.
Joseph Lis / AllTrails
You'll actually start on the Taiga Trail, which eventually branches off onto the Mount Healy Overlook Trail. This can be quite a strenuous hike, but don't worry. There are plenty of benches where you can stop to catch your breath before moving on. Besides, the views at the end are totally worth it!
The trail is definitely a lot busier in the summer, but it's still a well-maintained trek in the winter.
Blair C. / AllTrails
Because the signs and borders are so visible, it's a safe hike (or snowshoe) even through thick, recent snowfall. It's so much quieter in the winter, giving you a great opportunity to hike in peaceful tranquility.
This trail is an absolute blast to complete, and there's no way you won't be entranced with these magnificent views.
Joseph Lis / AllTrails
No matter when you choose to head out, this is a perfect day hike. Take your time and enjoy the scenery. This is a spectacular trek like no other in the state!

 

Have you hiked the gorgeous Mount Healy Overlook Trail during the winter? What did you think? Tell us all about the stunning views you saw in the comments!

If you’re looking for more beautiful photos of the winter scenes in this area, check out Be In Awe Of The Frozen Alaska Landscape At Denali National Park! Denali is one of the best national parks to visit in Alaska, and no matter how many times you’ve gone, it’s still incredible.

Address: Healy, AK 99743, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Things to Do Outside in Alaska

January 27, 2022
Lisa Sammons

What are some more of the best hiking trails in Alaska?

Alaska is one of the absolute best states for hiking. Whether you’re looking for multi-day treks or want something a little easier, there’s something for everyone here. Check out these 15 hiking trails in Alaska that are all under five miles.

What are some of the best parks in Alaska?

Well, with 60% of all National Park Service land in the country being in Alaska, it goes without saying we have some fantastic parks here. We’ve got eight national parks, three of which are reachable by car (Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Wrangell St. Elias). Kenai Fjords is in the south-central part of the state and is particularly notable for having 40 glaciers.

What are some other things to do outside in Alaska?

Due to Alaska’s remote location and sometimes frigid temperatures, we feel like a lot of people get an unfair few of the state and think there’s not much to do outdoors. We’ve got surroundings that are so magnificent they look like they’re straight off a postcard, so plenty of Alaskans prefer to be outdoors, even in the winter. Hiking is so much fun here, but there are tons of other outdoor activities in Alaska to enjoy. Hunting, skiing, snow tubing, ice fishing: the list goes on and on!

 

Address: Healy, AK 99743, USA