Denali National Park unveils $230 million bridge over active landslide, restoring road access
A 475-foot steel bridge spanning the active Pretty Rocks landslide in Denali National Park has been completed, reconnecting the park road after its 2021 closure.
A $230 million project to replace the road segment destroyed by the 2021 Pretty Rocks landslide in Denali National Park has culminated in the installation of a 475-foot steel truss bridge. The National Park Service opted to span the active slide rather than rebuild on shifting ground, adding 23 thermosiphons to keep permafrost frozen beneath the eastern end. Constructed in steep, permafrost-laden terrain, the bridge was assembled on the east side and launched across the slope in 2025, reaching its final position in August 2025.
Additional work on approaches, retaining walls, and slope stabilization was completed in 2026. Hikers and cyclists can now travel west of East Fork, but park buses will remain limited until full service resumes in the 2027 visitor season, restoring access to sites such as Eielson Visitor Center, Wonder Lake and Kantishna.
Why it matters
The bridge restores safe vehicle access to Denali's interior, boosting tourism and protecting visitors from landslide hazards.
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