Apparently, Denali Resorts (the Aramark contractor running the nearby hotels) has a two-for-one special - buy one night, get the next free. Can't beat that deal, so we ended up booking the McKinley Chalet Resort (the Grande Denali was sold out). You can call their central booking number and mention the 2-4-1 deal and they know exactly how to book it (standard rooms only, no upgrades).

Now we're trying to figure out what to do in the park. Originally, we wanted to do a bus tour, but it seems the premier company, Doyle, is not operating until early June. We wanted to get as far as Wonder Lake, but it appears there are not shuttles or buses going that far in until mid June.

So...are there are other recommended tours that get as far as Tolkat River, or is it OK to take the shuttle to Tolkat, get off and hike around? Is Tolkat the best jump-off spot for wildlife? What are some other good spots to get off the shuttle for relatively short hikes with decent animal viewing, perhaps wildflowers and mountain/landscape views?