Savage River

Savage River is at the end of the "public access road" in Denali National Park. This means that the public can drive their own cars up to this point but any farther they would have to take one of the buses. Savage River has a loop trail and is a beautiful hike that is quite popular. The Savage River Trail is accessed at about the 15 mile marker in Denali National Park. There are parking lots on either side of the river and even though there is a ranger station blocking access to the other side if you stop and ask if you can park at the west parking lot they will let you. Both parking lots (east and west) have bathrooms (pit style) and picnic benches. I usually start hiking on the east side and then just circle around back to where I parked but it really doesn't matter. Some people park on the east side, hike to the bridge, and then come back the same way. It's up to you! The trail is easy to see and follow. It is dirt and gravel and you will have no trouble seeing where you are going. Here is where you can cross over or turn back the same way you came. There are other trails near the bridge that lead to various spots but for the most part, they don't go anywhere. You will be hiking right next to Savage River for the entire time. The trail makes a loop with a wooden bridge at the halfway point. The trail winds around to the west side and comes back to the parking lot. The trail on the west side is a little bit easier to hike because the east side trail tends to wind up and down more. Either way you start you will enjoy your hike on this trail. There is a waterfall or "falls" if you continue to hike north past the bridge. There is a narrow trail that leads to the falls. There is also Savage Rock, which is accessed on the east side parking lot. The trail head is right next to the restrooms and it goes straight up to the massive rocks just above the parking lot. It offers a great overlook of the valley. The many times that I have hiked this trail I usually see wildlife. I have seen ptarmigan, hoary marmots, moose, caribou and even bears. Just keep your distance from these animals and they won't bother with you as you enjoy the beautiful surroundings. I enjoy hiking on this trail in autumn. The leaves are changing and the tundra is changing colors too. It is during this time that I tend to see more animals. It is quite incredible to see all the little plants and insects that keep the tundra alive and active. This is a beautiful place and a fun hike if you have some extra time.