Travel Adventures - The Savage River Loop Trail - Denali National Park

Yesterday's short hike around Horseshoe Lake gave us a tiny peek to what we would encounter today - two hikes in the Savage River area of Denali National Park. Located at mile 15 along the Denali Park Road, this is the last area accessible by personal vehicle. There is limited parking at Savage River and additional parking at the Savage River Campground, mile 13.

First up, the Savage River Loop Trail, a simple 2 mile loop traversing the banks of the Savage River.



It's an easy hike yet very scenic with the river carved between two mountain ranges. Even though the trail is marked, there are numerous opportunities to venture off trail - the adventuresome cousins did just that and left us parents behind.



I ventured up off the trail (seen below) just past the halfway point of the hike and you can see the bridge traversing the river to take you back.


The rushing water of the river provides a great backdrop to the experience - who doesn't like the sound of water flowing amidst such beautiful backdrop?

My husband, brother in law (Ray) sister (Teresa):


This is one of those hikes easily accessible for many people - the elevation change is negligible and the trail not highly technical. If you take your time, there are plenty of areas off the path to access and explore, including the dry river beds:


We finished the hike and enjoyed lunch at the parking area picnic tables. Next up, the challenging Savage River Alpine Trail.