25th Annual Chili Cook-Off May 16-17th | Specials up to 50% OFF

Welcome to

McKinley Creekside Cabins

Name: McKinley Creekside Cabins, Café & Bakery
Address: 224 Parks Highway, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK, 99755, US
Telephone: 907-683-2277

Located 15 minutes south of Denali National Park. We offer lodging and cabin accommodations, dining options, customized itineraries, and gift shop with locally crafted items for our guests.

Book Now

Lodging, Dining, Tours, and Excursions

Discover the heart of Alaska at McKinley Creekside Cabins, Indulge in the culinary delights of our Creekside Cafe', and explore all of the tours and adventures Denali has to offer.

Cabins & Lodging

We cater to independent travelers and small groups looking for thoughtful accommodations close to Denali National Park.

Creekside Cafe & Bakery

We offer a selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options for our friends with dietary restrictions.

Tours & Excursions

With countless excursions to choose from, We can customize the perfect itinerary for your Denali adventure.

See More Videos

Alaskan Hospitality in Every Detail

A small locally owned and operated boutique Alaskan lodge, restaurant, bakery, and gift shop.

McKinley Creekside Cabins and Cafe is located 15 minutes south of Denali National Park on beautiful Carlo Creek.

At the core of McKinley Creekside Cabins & Cafe' is our dedication to our guests, staff, and community. Our knowledgeable crew is passionate about sharing the wonders of Denali National Park, from encounters with native wildlife to awe-inspiring views of the iconic mountain itself.

Whether you're a solo traveler or a group of explorers, our commitment to exceptional service ensures that your stay is as enriching as the landscapes that surround us. Book your stay today and let McKinley Creekside Cabins be your home in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness.

About Us

People mining for gold in Kantishna Alaska

Historical Mt. McKinley National Park Sign

Cabin & Lodging Options

Latest News

7 tips to Denali National Park: Alaska’s Untamed Wilderness

Nestled deep in the heart of Alaska, Denali National Park and Preserve is a place of rugged beauty, towering peaks, and endless...

A student learning camera features from his teacher

Discover why a photography tour is the smartest move you can make for your Alaskan adventure.

Picture this: you’re standing in the heart of Denali, surrounded by sweeping mountain vistas, golden light kissing the tundra

25th Carlo Creek Chili Cook-Off

The annual Carlo Creek Chili Cook-Off is an event held at McKinley Creekside Cabins & Café in Denali National Park, Alaska.

He has risen! Happy Easter.

#hehasrisen #mckinleycreeksidecabins #mckinleycreeksidecabinsandcafe

Make a Splash with Denali Raft Adventures!

Looking for a thrilling way to experience Denali? Our friends and neighbors at Denali Raft Adventures have been crafting unforgettable rafting trips since 1974! Whether you’re craving a wild ride or something a little more mild, their expert guides have you covered with both oar boat and paddle rafting options.

Why we love this adventure:
Decades of experience and local knowledge.
Options for every adventure level—Wild or Mild!
A fun, safe, and exhilarating way to see Denali from a whole new perspective.
Our guests love rafting the Nenana River ❤

👉Reserve today with our flexible BOOK NOW/pay on arrival option by booking online at https://www.mckinleycabins.com/rafting-trips or calling us at 1-907-683-2277.

#DenaliRaftAdventures #RaftDenali #McKinleyCreeksideCabins #DenaliNationalPark #besttoursindenali

#magical #ExploreDenali #alaska #visitalaska #denalinationalpark #mckinleycreeksidecabins

#chilicookoff #ChiliCookOff2025 #goodtimes #goodtimeswithgoodpeople #mckinleycreeksidecabins #mckinleycreeksidecabinsandcafe

Wildlife Wednesday: Meet Denali’s Northern Hawk Owl!

The Northern Hawk Owl (Surnia ulula) is one of Denali’s most fascinating and elusive birds of prey. Unlike most owls, this daytime hunter (diurnal) is often spotted perching high in trees, scanning the tundra for its next meal. With hawk-like flight and sharp vision, it’s no wonder this owl is named after two top predators!

🌟 Fun Facts About the Northern Hawk Owl:
✅ Daytime Predator: Unlike most owls, the Northern Hawk Owl hunts during daylight hours, using keen eyesight to spot prey from half a mile away.
✅ Silent Hunter: This owl swoops down silently, surprising small mammals like voles, lemmings, and even small birds.
✅ Masters of the Cold: Northern Hawk Owls thrive in Alaska’s harsh winters, nesting in hollowed-out trees and staying active even in deep snow.
✅ Long-Tailed Aerialist: Unlike other owls, it has a long tail like a hawk and flies in a straight line rather than gliding.
✅ Unique Calls: Their vocalizations include high-pitched trills and whistles, often heard during mating season.

👀 Where to Spot Northern Hawk Owls in Denali:
📍 Along Denali Park Road – Look for them perched high in dead trees near open spaces.
📍 Boreal forests & spruce trees – They prefer areas with a mix of trees and open tundra for hunting.
📍 Early morning & late afternoon – Best times to see them actively hunting.

🔎 Owl-Spotting Tips:
✅ Scan treetops and open perches—they sit still for long periods while watching for prey.
✅ Bring binoculars or a zoom lens for a better look at their striking facial markings.
✅ Listen for their distinct whistling calls, especially in spring.

Have you ever spotted a Northern Hawk Owl in the wild? Share your photos & experiences in the comments! 👇

#WildlifeWednesday #birdsofalaska #ExploreDenali #alaskawildlife #denalinationalpark #mckinleycreeksidecabins #wildlife

#bucketlist #ExploreDenali #alaska #denali #TheGreatOne #mckinleycreeksidecabins #mckinleycreeksidecabinsandcafe

Adventure Awaits with Traverse Alaska!

Looking for a truly personalized Denali experience? Our friends at Traverse Alaska offer private custom guided hikes and rafting trips with local expert guides. Whether you're a photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or nature lover, they’ll create a tour tailored to your interests and abilities.

Why We Love This Tour:
Discover Denali’s hidden gems with a passionate local guide.
Perfect for all skill levels and interests.
Create unforgettable memories, from scenic hikes to thrilling rafting adventures.

👣 Space is limited, so reserve you space now with our flexible Book Now/pay on arrival option!
👉 Reserve your custom adventure online https://www.mckinleycabins.com/custom-trips or call us at 1-907-683-2277

#TraverseAlaska #TakeAHike #DenaliNationalPark #McKinleyCreeksideCabins #ExploreDenali

Just another beautiful Alaskan view. Any guesses where this picture is taken?

#bucketlist #explorealaska #hikealaska #alaska #visitalaska #mckinleycreeksidecabins #mckinleycreeksidecabinsandcafe

A BIG Thank You to guest Jose D. for sharing this great video of our resident Mama Moose and baby calf. She comes around every year usually in June with her calf/calves and it is always a treat.

#ExploreDenali #explorealaska #alaskawildlife #alaska #denalinationalpark #mckinleycreeksidecabins #mooseontheloose

Explore Denali! Alaska’s wild beauty and weather changes require smart packing, especially if you plan on hiking to capturing its stunning landscapes.

Hiking Essentials 🥾
1️⃣ Waterproof Hiking Boots – Sturdy, comfortable, and broken-in!
2️⃣ Layered Clothing System – Base layer (moisture-wicking), mid-layer (fleece/wool), and outer layer (waterproof/windproof).
3️⃣ Rain Gear – Waterproof jacket & pants (Alaska’s weather changes fast!).
4️⃣ Warm Hat & Gloves – Even in summer, mornings and evenings are chilly.
5️⃣ Quality Socks – Wool or synthetic to keep feet dry and blister-free.
6️⃣ Hiking Backpack – 20-30L for day hikes (snacks, layers, camera gear).
7️⃣ Bear Spray and bear bells– A must for safety on trails (know how to use it!).
8️⃣ Bug Spray & Head Net – Mosquitoes can be relentless in summer.
9️⃣ Trekking Poles – Help with uneven terrain and long hikes.
🔟 Water Bottle – Hydration is key; streams are plentiful but filter water.

Bonus Tips:
✔ Check the weather forecast before heading out—Alaska’s climate is unpredictable!
✔ Always carry snacks & emergency gear (whistle, headlamp, small first-aid kit).
✔ Be wildlife-aware—give moose & bears plenty of space!
✔Understand Leave No Trace-pack out what you pack in.
️⃣ ✔Notebook & Pen – Journal your adventure

#bucketlist #ExploreDenali #hikealaska #alaska #denalinationalpark #mckinleycreeksidecabins

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}

Follow us on Instagram

@mckinley_creekside_cabins

Contact McKinley Creekside Cabins

We are here to help and assist with your planning and happy to answer any questions you may have. Please don't hesitate to give us a call, send an email, or fill out the contact form provided. Thank you!

907-683-2277

info@mckinleycabins.com