Spot iconic animals in Denali National Park
The "Big Five" to spot
Stretching 91 miles into the vast wilderness of middle Alaska, Denali National Park's rugged road hosts rolling beige tour buses. バスが停まると、野生生物観賞の時間が始まります。ツアーガイドが、ツンドラの中を進む2頭のハイイログマを指さすと、お客様は一斉にその様子が見える窓に向かって移動します。
This is the thrill of exploring Denali National Park on an Alaska cruisetour.
Among the many animals that roam Denali National Park, the "big five" are a sightseer's prize: ヘラジカ、クマ、ドールシープ、カリブ、オオカミを見た人はラッキーです。伝説のデナリ国立公園で動物を見つけるために鋭い目でツンドラの中を探しましょう。双眼鏡が役に立つかも知れません。
And don't forget to bring your camera to capture these incredible moments. Photographing wildlife in Denali does require some careful planning and techniques, so use these tips when photographing the “Big Five.”
- Use a telephoto lens to get clear shots from a safe distance without disturbing the animals.
- Be patient and keep noise to a minimum to avoid scaring animals away.
- Use a tripod to stabilize your camera, especially in lower light conditions, to enhance the clarity of your shots.
Also, please remember to view the wilderness and wild safety recommendations provided by the National Park Service. You never know when wildlife might sneak up behind you.
ヘラジカ
ヘラジカは立ちあがると肩の高さが2mのところにありますが、だからと言って見つかりやすいわけではありません。ヘラジカは黒っぽい土の色をしているため、背が高くとも周囲にブレンドして分かりにくいのです。デナリでこの動物を見つけるいい方法は、茂み、針葉、葉などの好物のありかを探すことです。双子の子牛を連れた牝牛を見た人はとても幸運だと言えます。ヘラジカは泳ぐことも好きなので、公園内の輝く湖水から枝角が飛び出ているかどうかも確かめてみましょう。
Photography tip: Moose are most active around dawn and dusk, making these times ideal for photography. Use a telephoto lens to keep a safe distance and patiently wait for moose to display natural behaviors, such as feeding or wading in water, to capture compelling shots. While moose may seem calm, it’s important to remember that they can be extremely dangerous, especially if they feel threatened or are with calves. If a moose charges, it can be just as hazardous as an encounter with a bear or wolf. Always maintain a safe distance, avoid approaching them, and never stand between a mother and her young. Respect their space to ensure both your safety and theirs.
クマ
A powerful grizzly bear walks calmly through a lush meadow in Alaska, surrounded by the vibrant greenery of late summer.
アメリカクロクマはデナリ国立公園に生息していますが、それはもっとも木立の険しいエリアです。木立の中は諦めて、開けているツンドラを歩いているハイイログマを見つけるほうに集中しましょう。ハイイログマの色は、灰色やベージュから濃い茶色や黒まで様々です。クマは通常自分だけで行動します。運の良い人は母グマと小グマを一緒に見ることができるかも知れません。小グマが母グマと一緒に過ごす期間は最大で3年半です。
Photography tip: To photograph bears safely, always use a telephoto lens to keep a respectful distance. Avoid approaching them and aim to shoot during early morning or late evening.
ドールシープ
ヘラジカやクマを見つけるにはツンドラを見渡しますが、ドールシープを見つけるには上を見上げます。高い高度の山の尾根や大好物の山の植物の間を歩いて行きます。雄は威厳のある曲がったツノが特徴です。Because of Dall sheep's tendency to be in plain sight, uncamouflaged, it's likely visitors will see a band of sheep or two on a Denali tour, maybe even as you travel the route of the historic Alaska Railroad with our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service.
Photography tip: Dall sheep are commonly found on steep, rugged slopes. A telephoto lens will help you capture these elusive animals without disturbing them. Try to frame them against the backdrop of Denali’s landscapes for striking images.
カリブ
カリブの群れがツンドラを目指す様子をご覧ください。カリブは通常、茶色の毛並に白い尾を持ち、首の下に白いひげが生えています。しかしもっとも高貴な印象を与える特徴はツノです。雄牛にも牝牛にもツノは生えていますが、雄牛のツノは135cmまで伸びます。
Photography tip: Caribou are constantly on the move, so be prepared to take quick action shots. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze their dynamic movements and capture sharp, clear images of these graceful creatures.
灰色オオカミ
デナリ公園の動物の中でもっとも見つけにくいのは、アラスカ灰色オオカミかも知れません。Wolf pack numbers vary in Denali National Park, but the best bet for a wolf sighting is near a wolf den. Tour guides will know about any wildlife closures, such as those protecting a wolf den, so feel free to ask them about the locations of recent wolf sightings. オオカミが見えなくとも、特に朝や夕方に遠吠えを聞いたりすることもあります。
Photography tip: Wolves can be elusive, so a good telephoto lens is essential for capturing them from afar. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for wolf photography, as they tend to be more active during these times. Patience will increase your chances of a successful shot.
The best spots for viewing Denali National Park wildlife
Savage River Area (Mile 15): This area is excellent for spotting caribou, moose and Dall sheep. The diverse terrain includes open plains and rugged hills, providing ideal conditions for these animals.
Teklanika River (Mile 30): This river is well known for grizzly bear sightings, especially during the early morning or late evening hours, making it a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The open river bar is a prime spot for observing these powerful creatures as they forage for food.
Polychrome Overlook (Mile 46): Offering stunning views and great wildlife opportunities, this overlook is a prime location for seeing Dall sheep, grizzly bears and golden eagles. The high alpine environment provides a dramatic backdrop for sightings.
Toklat River (Mile 53): A fantastic spot for encountering grizzly bears, caribou and sometimes wolves. The expansive landscape allows for broad views, making it easier to spot wildlife in the distance.
Eielson Visitor Center (Mile 66): This visitor center is a key location for observing grizzly bears, caribou and Dall sheep. The surrounding high alpine area offers expansive views and frequent wildlife activity, particularly during the summer months.
The best time of day to see Denali’s wildlife
Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times to maximize your chances of spotting animals in Denali National Park, as wildlife is more active and feeding during these hours. Animals are also less likely to be disturbed by the park's daily activity, and the soft light enhances your overall viewing experience.
Places to stay while visiting Denali National Park on your cruise
野生生物を見る準備はできていますか?デナリ・クルーズツアーにはオプションや公園内での滞在期間が異なるプランがありますので、ご確認ください。Space is limited and assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it's best to book early. 今すぐデナリツアーをご予約ください — 大自然の冒険があなたを待っています。