What to See & Do in Cantwell, Alaska
Cantwell is a small, peaceful town of under 300 residents, and most travelers pass through on their way to Denali National Park. However, for those who stay, Cantwell offers a quieter, more local experience with seasonal outdoor activities, striking scenery, and proximity to wildlife. Here’s what you can do in and around Cantwell
Summer Activities
Hiking & Biking
Explore scenic trails through tundra and forest with views of the Alaska Range.
- No formal tour operators listed for hiking in Cantwell; most trails are self-guided. Ask local lodges for recommendations.
Berry Picking
In late summer (starting July), blueberries and cranberries are ripe for the picking throughout the area.
- Self-guided activity — no commercial tours offered. Local residents may share good spots if asked politely.
Fishing
Cast for grayling, trout, or salmon in local rivers and lakes. An Alaska fishing license is required.
- Denali Fly Fishing Guides
Half- and full-day fly-fishing excursions with gear, transport, and guide included.
(907) 768-1127 - Hiking Hound Adventures – Guided Kayak Fishing
Full-day kayak fishing tours tailored to all experience levels. Includes kayak, fishing gear, guide, and lunch. (907) 768-2232
Kayaking & Canoeing
Paddle calm rivers and lakes with incredible views. Great for wildlife spotting and photography.
- Hiking Hound Adventures – Guided Kayak Fishing
Kayak fishing or paddle-only options available with a professional guide. (907) 768-2232
Wildlife Viewing & Photography
Moose, caribou, foxes, and even bears can be spotted throughout the area.
- Denali Sightseeing Safaris
Small-group photography and wildlife tours focusing on geology, animal behavior, and scenic landscapes. (907) 240-0357
Dog Mushing (Summer Kennel Tours)
Get an introduction to dog mushing, meet Iditarod huskies, and ride in a wheeled sled.
- Wildthingz Dog Mushing
1.5-hour tour with a side-by-side sled ride, puppy interaction, and kennel visit. (907) 000-0000
Helicopter & ATV Adventures
Experience Cantwell’s backcountry from the air and trail.
- Era Helicopters / Denali ATV Adventures
Combo packages that include ATV rides and helicopter tours over the Alaska Range. (907) 240-0357
Flightseeing
Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the Alaska Range and Denali.
- Denali Express Flightseeing Tour
45-minute narrated flight departing near Cantwell with stunning glacier and peak views.
Winter & Year-Round Experiences
Dog Mushing (Winter & Year-Round)
In winter, hop in a sled and glide through snowy terrain with a trained team of huskies.
- Squid Acres Kennel
Offers both winter mushing and Aurora sled tours, along with year-round kennel visits. (907) 699-4939 - DogGoneIt Tours
Family-friendly tours including sled rides, demonstrations, and musher storytelling. (907) 768-2700
Wildlife & Landscape Tours
Explore Cantwell’s surrounding tundra, rivers, and boreal forest with expert guidance.
- Denali Sightseeing Safaris
Day tours focused on Denali’s lesser-seen landscapes and wildlife corridors. (907) 240-0357
Scenic Driving & Roadside Stops
Drive through Broad Pass for epic views or stop by the quirky abandoned Igloo Hotel at MP 217.
- Self-guided; easily accessed by car on the Parks Highway.
Stampede Trail / Bus 142 Site (advanced hikers only)
A rugged and historic backcountry route made famous by Into the Wild. Only recommended for expert hikers—multiple river crossings required.
- No official guiding service currently operates tours to this area due to safety.
Seasonal Highlights in Cantwell
| Season | Activities & Events |
|---|---|
| Spring (April–June) | Backcountry begins to thaw; wildlife sightings increase; rivers swell for scenic views |
| Summer (July–August) | Prime season for hiking, berry picking, fishing, ATV tours, and kennel visits |
| Fall (September–October) | Brilliant foliage, active wildlife, and first snowfalls; great for photography |
| Winter (November–March) | Dog mushing, northern lights viewing, and snow-covered landscapes |