If you go to Camp Denali
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Getting there: Most guests arrive aboard Camp Denali's private bus from the park entrance. By car, the park is about six hours from Anchorage and three hours from Fairbanks. Alaska Railroad provides daily service to the park entrance. Charter flights are available to a small airstrip near Camp Denali.
Season: June through early September.
Rates: Minimum stay three nights. $365 plus tax per night per adult, based on double occupancy. Children younger than 12: $275 per night (not recommended for children younger than 8). 10 percent discount if three or more family members occupy same cabin. Rate includes 180-mile round-trip bus transportation with naturalist narration; park entry fee; lodging; all meals; equipment and facilities; daily naturalist-guided outings and nightly talks.
Denali Institute: Periodically included are outings, workshops and presentations (at no extra charge and well worth investigating) sponsored by the nonprofit Denali Institute, with noted visiting naturalists, academics, photographers and musicians. Brochure with Camp Denali mailings.
Specials: When I booked last May (as an individual, not a newspaper writer), a half-price rate was offered in June because of poor bookings, unusual for this popular destination. Ask about specials.
Mosquitoes: If you're especially sensitive to them, consider another destination. Backcountry Alaska is rightfully famous for its mosquitoes; powerful repellent and appropriate dress help.
Affiliated lodge: At the base of the Camp Denali ridge (thus claiming a lesser view) and under same ownership is North Face Lodge, built in 1973 and more like a traditional inn (with indoor plumbing). Has 15 guest rooms. Rates are identical.
Caveats: Mention special dietary needs when you make a reservation. Neither lodge has a liquor license; alcohol is allowed in private rooms only (BYOB).
More information: 907-683-2290 or www.campdenali.com.
Nearby lodges: Two other private lodges have similar packages to Camp Denali, minus the view and with more limited access to the park:
• Kantishna Roadhouse, owned by Doyon Ltd., an Alaska Native corporation; $310 per adult per night. 800-942-7420 or www.kantishnaroadhouse.com.
• Denali Backcountry Lodge, $340 per adult per night, 800-841-0692 or www.denalilodge.com.