Black Diamond Treasure Hunt Excursion with Backcountry Dining

Denali National Park , United States

Black Diamond Treasure Hunt Excursion with Backcountry Dining

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(181 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Journey into the wilds of Alaska on a unique family-friendly treasure hunt aboard an off-road vehicle driven by our trained guide. Set out from Healy for this 3-hour guided adventure and work together searching for hidden clues, seeking out quartz and granite rocks, and exchanging geocache treasures, which results in a take-home souvenir. Learn about local history, flora, and fauna and refuel with a traditional back country meal.

Please let us know when booking if you are driving yourself or if you need to be picked up at your hotel choice. The pick up time at your hotel is the listed booking time. If you are driving yourself to our location plase arrive 15 minutes later. We are located at 1.2 Mile Otto Lake Road, turn onto Otto Lake Raod at Mile 247 off the George Parks Highway.

Available options

Black Diamond Treasure Hunt Excursion with Backcountry Dining

Option 1: 3-hour back country adventure with full service dining. Driven by guide and includes an adult beverage<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Round-trip transport from Healy lodgings (if option selected)

Snacks

Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)

Detailed itinerary

Enjoy complimentary transport from your Healy hotel to Black Diamond Resort Co, where you’ll embark on a family-friendly backcountry treasure hunt.

After a short safety briefing, you'll hop aboard your own Polaris Ranger, outfitted with seat belts, a windshield and cover. It’s similar to a small open-air Jeep but sports the exciting flair of an ATV. Then, head out into the wilds of Alaska with your professional guide.

Navigate the back country trails, searching for hidden secrets, granite rocks, and additional clues that bring you closer and closer to finding your treasure: a rustic pavilion in the woods where a camp-style meal awaits.

Traverse old mining paths that spill out onto the Dry Creek River Bed, stop on a whim to take in the surrounding scenery, or walk along the tundra and travel up the side of Black Diamond Peak for spectacular views of the Healy Valley — all the while working together to strategize and plan your next moves.

Stop 2

Your guide also fills you in on local history, culture, flora, and fauna throughout.

Soon, it’s time to reap the benefits of your treasure hunt: a delicious and hearty meal. Morning tours include a lumberjack breakfast with fresh-baked biscuits and gravy, reindeer sausage, flapjacks and more, while afternoon and evening tours feature mouthwatering ribs, steak, chicken and even fresh-caught Alaska salmon. Juice, coffee, tea, hot chocolate and adult beverages are also available.

Your tour concludes with hotel drop-off.

What's not included

Gratuities

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

37 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

144 reviews

5★

139

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Infant seats are available; please request when booking

No experience necessary.

Drinking age is 21 and older

Vegetarian food option is available; please request when booking

The tour is wheelchair accessible, though please let us know beforehand so we can plan accordingly

Operates rain or shine; please dress for the weather

Meeting point

Drive to mile 247 off the george parks highway, turn onto Otto Lake Road (you will see some blue and gold train cars) drive past the Denali Park hotel on Otto Lake Road and park anywhere in our parking lot and come into Black Diamond Front Desk to check in.

Important notes

Minimum drinking age is 21 years

About Denali National Park

Denali National Park is home to North America's tallest peak, Denali (Mount McKinley), and offers vast wilderness, incredible wildlife, and stunning landscapes. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing unparalleled opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

Top Attractions

Denali (Mount McKinley)

Denali is the tallest peak in North America, standing at 20,310 feet (6,190 meters). It's a dominant feature of the park and a must-see for visitors.

Nature Varies by activity (scenic views: minutes to hours; climbing: weeks) Free

Denali Visitor Center

The park's main visitor center offers exhibits, ranger-led programs, and information about the park's natural and cultural history.

Visitor Center 1 to 2 hours Free

Horseshoe Lake Trail

A scenic, easy hike around a beautiful lake, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Hiking 1 to 2 hours Free

Eielson Visitor Center

Located 66 miles into the park, this visitor center offers stunning views of Denali and exhibits on the park's natural and cultural history.

Visitor Center Half-day visit Free

Wonder Lake

A stunning, remote lake offering one of the best reflections of Denali when conditions are right.

Nature Full-day visit Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon

Alaskan salmon is a staple of the region, often grilled or smoked and served with local vegetables.

Dinner Gluten-free options available

Reindeer Sausage

A local delicacy made from reindeer meat, often served as a sausage or in stews.

Snack/Dinner Gluten-free options available

Bannock

A traditional quick bread often served with jam or honey.

Breakfast/Snack Vegetarian, gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Wildlife viewing Flightseeing Rafting Ice climbing Scenic drives Photography Picnicking

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Denali as the weather is relatively warm, and most park facilities and services are open. Wildlife is active, and all park roads are accessible.

5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) 41°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKT, GMT-9)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in remote areas

Denali National Park is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of the park's remote and rugged terrain. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and wildlife encounters can be dangerous.

Important Precautions:

• Be prepared for all weather conditions.
• Carry a map, compass, and other navigation tools.
• Stay on established trails and follow park regulations.

Getting there

By air

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport • 240 miles (386 km) south of Denali
Fairbanks International Airport • 120 miles (193 km) north of Denali

By train

Denali Park Station

By bus

Anchorage, Fairbanks

Getting around

Public transport

The park's transit bus system offers several routes, including access to the Eielson Visitor Center and Wonder Lake.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Not widely available

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Denali Park Village Savage River Area Eielson Area

Day trips

Talkeetna

70 miles (113 km) south of Denali • Half-day to full-day trip

A charming, historic town known for its Alaskan adventure culture and as the jumping-off point for Denali expeditions.

Healy

35 miles (56 km) north of Denali • Half-day to full-day trip

A small town with a rich history in mining and agriculture, offering a glimpse into rural Alaskan life.

Matanuska Glacier

150 miles (241 km) south of Denali • Full-day trip

One of the largest glaciers in Alaska, offering stunning views and a variety of adventure activities.

Festivals

Denali Arts Festival • June Talkeetna Winterfest • February

Pro tips

Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak season.
Pack layers and be prepared for all weather conditions.
Consider hiring a local guide for a more immersive and educational experience.
Take advantage of ranger-led programs and exhibits at visitor centers.
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance.