What to See & Do in Healy, Alaska

Healy is more than a pass-through town — it’s a gateway to the wild. From glacier vistas and scenic hikes to wildlife rafting trips and local art scenes, every visit here holds adventure and discovery.


Outdoor Adventure & Tours

Nenana River Rafting
Float class II–III rapids on the Nenana River, which flows along Healy’s edge and offers scenic views into Denali National Park’s wild boundaries.

Midnight Sun ATV Adventure
Take a guided ATV tour on remote tundra trails around Mount Healy with spectacular 360° views.

Stampede Trail Expedition
Explore the rugged Stampede Trail — historic, remote, and tied to the Into the Wild story — best suited for experienced adventurers.

Denali in a Day Tours & Wilderness Rafting
Full-day guided options include Denali highlights tours, class I–III rafting trips, gold-panning, and fat-truck excursions — all accessible from Healy.


Hiking & Scenic Spots

Mount Healy Overlook Trail
Climb the ridge behind Healy for sweeping views over town, the Nenana Gorge, and Denali’s western flanks — popular among locals.

Savage River Canyon & Tundra Wilderness
Drive into Denali to hike trails with alpine tundra, wildlife sightings, and rare quietness. Park shuttle or bus recommended.

Polychrome Mountain & Park Road Viewpoints
Dramatic rockbands visible from inside the park on the Toklat and Polychrome route — a breathtaking day-trip focus.


Family & Local Character

Dog Team & Sled Experiences
Mush dog teams through winter wilderness near Healy, offered by local lodges that also host summer guided hikes.

Healy Jeep & Fat-Truck Tours
Ride in high-clearance SHERP-style vehicles across tundra and rivers for remote Denali exploration — fun for families and off-road aficionados.

Nenana River Float & Shuttle Bus to Denali
Combine river drift trips with hop-on/hop-off shuttles into the park — a mix of gentle adventure and sightseeing.


Cultural & Scenic Sights

Church Tours & Magic Bus Photo Op
Visit Holy Mary of Guadalupe Church and see the commemorative site for the Magic Bus from Into the Wild (the original bus was removed in 2020).

Flightseeing & Zipline Adventures
Book scenic flights or ziplines from Healy or nearby entrance areas, offering aerial views of Denali and the Alaska Range.


Insider Tips:

  • Denali Park buses only run mid‑May through mid‑September — reserve early for Savage or Tundra Wilderness tours.
  • ATV & SHERP tours are summer-only — check local availability.
  • The Stampede Trail is rugged and often river-swamped — prepare accordingly.
  • River rafting varies by season — April–July brings brisker rapids, while late summer offers calmer floats.