Thorofare Pass Off-trail Route

Denali National Park has very few designated trails and exists to provide people with a place to explore trail free wilderness. This is not a formal or designated route but instead represents a general area that one can explore. Please leave no trace and explore the park freely. For more information on hiking in Denali NP visit - https://www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit/dayhiking.htm After completing the bear-check before disembarking from the bus, head across the tundra on a subtle divide between drainage areas. The tundra here is frequently wet and there are some small streams to forge so there's the potential for wet feet.After crossing the low meadow, follow the stream feeding in from the right until it branches against the base of Gravel Mountain. Head onto the ridge to the left that serves as a divider between the adjacent drainage. At the top of the ridge, cross over the small stream in favor for the adjoining ridge that points toward Stony Dome. Follow along the ridge until its end where a turn to the left will head back to the road along firm tundra.This route is open for interpretation and invites visitors wander around and explore at leisure. The second ridge and other high points make a great spot to enjoy lunch and watch for wildlife. While you can return on the road, an out and back route will give you more time to appreciate hiking in the stunning landscape. This content was contributed by author Ike Waits. For a comprehensive hiking guide to Denali National Park and to see more by Ike, click here.