Denali Education Center Youth Programs create immersive experiences in Denali through meaningful education. Our programs challenge you to rethink Denali, and what you thought was possible.
Denali Education Center offers a variety of fun, affordable, educational programs for kids and young adults in Alaska. Our programs range from day camps to multi-day backcountry expeditions and are offered to youth of all ages and abilities. Our programs encourage participants to develop personal connections to Denali National Park and Preserve by providing them with opportunities to experience, explore, and discover this untouched landscape along with their peers. All youth programs teach and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Unlock the appreciation, leadership, and stewardship we all possess with the Denali Education Center.
COVID-19 Updates
The health and safety of our program participants is our top priority! Thus, after months of deliberation and planning, the DEC has made the difficult decisions to cancel our youth programs this summer.
Tundra Tots
Tundra Tots is a toddler and preschool program that employs
storytelling, play, and art to provide meaningful outdoor experiences
for the whole family. Tundra Tots will get your kids laughing,
learning, and exploring all the wonders that Denali has to offer!
For ages 2-5 – siblings welcome!
Older siblings may be recruited to help!
Denali Discovery Camp
Denali Discovery Camp (DDC) provides local youth with experiential learning adventures through hiking, camping, exploring, and discovering the diverse habitats of Denali National Park and Preserve. This week-long day camp is open to students entering 1st through 8th grades.
Nature Scouts…students entering 1st & 2nd grades
Denali Detectives…students entering 3rd & 4th grades
Ecosystem Explorers…students entering 5th & 6th grades
Wilderness Researchers…students entering 7th & 8th grades
Denali Backcountry Adventures
Denali Backcountry Adventures is a summer backpacking expedition for high school students interested in exploring
Denali’s vast wilderness. Throughout the program, Denali
Backcountry Adventure participants learn experientially about
the physical and mental preparations required to launch a backcountry expedition. The program offers the opportunity to develop awareness, knowledge, and skills that increase
the student’s understanding and enjoyment of Denali.
W.I.L.D. About Denali
Wilderness Intensive Learning Development (W.I.L.D.) teaches respect, self-confidence, and teamwork during a three day, two-night wilderness camping experience in Denali National Park. W.I.L.D. is supported by McKinley Creekside Cabins and Cafe, and the Maureen Sims Memorial Endowment.
Scott Menke Memorial Fund
Denali Education Center and the Menke family created the Scott Menke Memorial Fund to honor his memory and benefit local youth. Working together with the Menke family, we continue to inspire future generations and embody the incomparable spirit Scott shared with us.
