K’esugi Ridge Hike: Epic Alpine Traverse in Denali State Park
Updated January 2026 (originally published May 2022)
K’esugi Ridge (also known as Kesugi or Curry Ridge) offers one of Alaska’s premier multi-day backpacking routes: a 29+ mile alpine traverse with jaw-dropping views across the valley to Denali (North America’s tallest peak at 20,310 ft) and the Alaska Range. Located in Denali State Park (not National Park), this trail delivers open tundra, wildflowers, tarns, funky rock formations, and potential wildlife sightings—all without crowds or permits.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (rolling terrain, exposure, weather-dependent).
Trailheads & Logistics (2026 Update)
Recommended direction: Little Coal Creek Trailhead (MP 163.9 Parks Hwy) to Byers Lake (MP ~137) — minimizes net elevation gain.
- Distance: ~29.3 miles one-way.
- Elevation: +7,431 ft / -8,028 ft.
- Time: 3-4 days (most common).
- Options: Shorter via Ermine Hill (~18.5 miles each segment); extend to Troublesome Creek (+7.7 miles).
- Shuttles: Denali River Guides/Southside River Guides (Talkeetna-based) or similar (~$50-80/person; seasonal May–mid-Sep). Hitchhiking common on Parks Hwy. No public transit.
- Parking: Day-use free; overnight may require state park pass.
Best Time
July–August prime (warmer, drier, berries). Early September good for fall colors/blueberries but cooler/nights below freezing. June wetter/mud; avoid post-rain for swampy sections. Denali visible ~30% of summer days—check forecasts!
Trail Breakdown (Little Coal Creek → Byers Lake)
- Little Coal Creek to Mile 8 Divide (~8-10 miles): Forest start, steep switchbacks to alpine (2,000+ ft gain quick). Ridge views open early.
- Mile 8 Divide to Skinny Lake (~9 miles): Rolling tundra, Ermine Hill junction (~13 miles), spectacular rock formations (highlight!).
- Skinny Lake to Byers Lake (~10 miles): Tarns/lakes, Troublesome Creek junction, final forested descent (muddy/roots—caution).
Essentials to Pack
- Bear spray + food storage (vault/canister—bears common).
- Layers/rain gear (exposed alpine—sudden storms).
- Trekking poles, bug net/head, water filter.
- InReach/SOS device (limited cell).
- Sturdy boots (mud, roots, overgrowth).
Safety Notes
Bears active—make noise, store food properly. Weather shifts fast (wind/rain/fog). Trail well-marked but Alaskan-standard (overgrown/muddy patches). No permits/fees, but check Alaska State Parks for updates/closures.
Stunning reward if Denali shows—plan flexibly! Questions on planning? Ask below.