McKinley Creekside Cafe
McKinley Creekside Café & Bakery
A small creekside café in Carlo Creek that opens at 6:00 AM. Its giant cinnamon rolls and smoked salmon dip are popular.
Located in Carlo Creek, about 21 kilometers south of the park entrance, within the McKinley Creekside cabins. It has a 4.6 TripAdvisor rating. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Opens at 6:00 AM, which is convenient for anyone catching an early park bus. The in-house bakery makes giant cinnamon rolls, handmade bread, and pastries daily. Housemade cookies come with the signature smoked salmon dip. Dinner recommendations often include the halibut chef's special, spicy bean soup, and meat patties. Some vegetables come from their own greenhouse. The space is small, and there are waits in peak season. Expect about $20–40 per person. You'll need to drive here.
Opening hours
Mid-May to mid-September, daily from about 6:00 AM, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Nearby sights
- Triple Lakes Trail
- Denali Flightseeing
- Denali Visitor Center
- Mount Healy Overlook Trail
- Murie Science and Learning Center
- Horseshoe Lake Trail
- Nenana River Canyon Rafting
- Denali Sled Dog Kennels