Miscellaneous Logistics

From Summitpost:


Latrines are established at base camp and the 14,200 foot camp during the peak season. Climbers at the 17,200 foot camp must use Clean Mountain Cans (CMCs). At the rest of the camps, containerize human waste into biodegradable bags and throw them into the nearest crevasse.

All trash must be carried off the mountain. Climbers violating these rules will be fined and may be kicked off the mountain. If you decide to break these rules, be aware that the NPS rangers are not the only people looking for violations. Enough climbers want to see Denali kept pristine that they will not hesitate to snitch on violators.

If you have to be rescued off the mountain, you will likely be billed for the costs which can run into the tens of thousands of dollars. Rescue insurance or health insurance (if your rescue is a medical emergency) should cover the costs of the rescue. The park service monitors Channel 19 on CB radios. Cell phones also work well above 14,200 feet.


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Talkeetna is the main staging area for climbing most routes on Mt. McKinley and its neighboring peaks. Anchorage International Airport is the nearest commercial airport. From the airport, it is a two hour drive to Talkeetna. Limited supplies and equipment are available in Talkeetna, so it is best to get most of your shopping done in Anchorage before heading out. Most climbers will take a shuttle operated either by Denali Overland (800-651-5221) or Talkeetna Shuttle Service (tshuttle@alaska.net or 888-288-6008). Cost runs from $85 to $290 one way depending on how many climbers you share the shuttle with.

You can also take the train from Anchorage to Talkeetna (www.akrr.com or 800-544-0552), or a plane (see below).

Climbing routes on the south side of McKinley require that you take a bush plane from Talkeetna to Base Camp on the Kahiltna Glacier. For a complete listing of bush plane services, see the National Park Service website. Cost of the flight ranges from $500 to $600 round trip. The same services can also arrange to fly you from Anchorage to Talkeetna for an extra charge. Don't forget to keep your camera handy on the flight!

If you are climbing the Muldrow Glacier and wish to have your gear cached in advance of your arrival, contact Denali Dog Freight Expeditions (907-683-1008).