Pirate Creek, Denali National Park

Hike Name: Pirate Creek, Denali National Park Location: central AK Length: 30 miles round trip Submitted by: Paul Dornisch Date Submitted: 1/17/08 Rating:	more Alaska trail reviews Alaska national parks Alaska state parks
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Description
This is a hike of beauty, solitude and wildlife at its finest. This journey is easily accomplished within a week from anywhere in the United States, making for a great adventure for those with limited time.

The walking begins at Eilsen Visitor Center following a 50 mile bus ride (reservations required) on the dirt road to Wonder Lake in Denali National Park. Drop down to the major drainage below and follow it southwest to the snout area of the Muldrow Glacier. The crossing of the glacier is by far the crux of this route. There are no hidden crevasses or avalanche danger, but you will notice this ice river has a covering of 6-24" of dirt and sharp rock which can make footing tricky in places. Slips and falls can easily happen, but you will limit the risk by taking your time, enjoying the view, and using common sense. Avoid the numerous streams and lakes that are surrounded by bare ice. A fall into these waters may easily be fatal. Again, use good judgement.

Once you exit the Muldrow Glacier on the far side you may feel like you have mastered a technical difficulty.... you have! You are now entering the Pirate Creek drainage which abounds with wildlife and huge views, weather permitting. There is no specific route from here as you may head deeper into the Alaska Range, parallel it southwest like I did, or head downslope towards the McKinley Bar which can be difficult to cross, and very cold (34 degrees). Signs of the spectacular Grizzly Bear abound, and if you are fortunate you will see one! Remember they are much more afraid of you, so make your presence know to avoid surprize encounters. This area also abounds with caribou (very curious about you, but harmless), and my only sighting ever of wolves occured in this area (very shy so consider yourself honored if you see some!). Wildlife is the highlight in this Park! The weather can be marginal at any time of year, so be prepared for precipation. A mosquito headnet and plenty of repellent is well worth the investment, especially around drainages. Do not underestimate the anguish mosquitos can cause to your adventure anywhere in Alaska. Daylight exists 24/7 during June and July.

Return the same way you came unless you are prepared to ford the McKinley Bar.

Directions to Hike
Fly to Anchorage and take the Alaska Railroad (a grand adventure in itself!) to Denali National Park and Riley Creek Visitor Center. This is where you will board the bus heading to Eilson Visitor Center and beyond. Since you are allowed to exit the bus at anytime you please, hundreds of hiking opportunities await you!

Contact Information
Search Denali National Park on the web or dial 907-555-1212 for information on the phone number for the National Park Service. All the information you need for reservations is on the NPS web site, or contact me (Paul)at janoflamingo@comcast.net

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