The junction at Cantwell is at Mile 209.9 on the Parks Highway. Tangle Lakes Archaeological District lies between mileposts 17 and 35. More than 400 archaeological sites there reveal 10,000 years of man's use of the local natural resources. People can hike along the ridges, but should check with the Bureau of Land Management before setting out in off-road vehicles in the area. Parts of the highway are built on eskers, or ridges of sand and gravel, that mark the former stream channels of glaciers.
Many unmarked trails lead off the road.
Those interested in exploring them should inquire locally and carry a good topographic map. Caribou, moose, grizzly and black bear, ptarmigan, trumpeter swans and numerous waterfowl species can be seen from the Denali Highway. Those who tarryalong the highway increase their chance of viewing wildlife. But the potholes can also give drivers pause. Most of the road is gravel, and its condition varies with the highway maintenance and the weather.