Far less developed or visited than other iconic wilderness parks, it's home to the funky mountain folk town of McCarthy. Grand and expansive, Wrangell St Elias is the continent’s second-highest peak and largest wilderness preserve.

Another less crowded option is to utilize the trail system of Denali State Park next door, which has more easy-access campgrounds for those using vehicles.

For backpackers, check out the backcountry office and plan out an unforgettable trip in the national park. Local tip: Give yourself multiple days to ensure mountain views it can be elusive due to the weather. The park’s bus system is a great family option, making for an interpretive wildlife safari in the shadow of the park’s namesake mountain. On a clear day – or even a foggy one – the backdrop of this peak and the surrounding wildlife-filled Taiga northern boreal forest through the Alaska Range makes for an explorer’s paradise with countless hikes and journeys awaiting the well-equipped traveler. At 20,310ft (6194 m), starting at almost sea level, Denali is the tallest mountain in the world, measured from its base to summit.

There's good reason the peak itself is the stuff of legend, most notably its height. The name Denali refers to the peak itself, the region and one of the grandest set of parks in the world. The High One is North America’s highest peak, grandest of grand and tallest of tall. Denali National Park is accessible by bus © Jonathan A.

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