The Murie Science and Learning Center (MSLC) is a dynamic way to discover Alaska’s eight northernmost national parks. Located in Denali National Park and Preserve, it’s a collaborative effort between the National Park Service and many partners. Alaska Geographic plays a vital and central role in the operations of the MSLC through financial support, year-round staffing, publications, and a variety of hands-on education programs developed in full partnership with National Park staff.

The MSLC continually seeks new ways to promote the vital science and research conducted in Denali and seven other northern parks. These findings help the National Park Service and communities better manage Alaska’s healthy wildlife populations and its thriving ecosystems. Researchers unlock fascinating clues of arctic and subarctic environment – everything from why glaciers surge, to population dynamics of wolves and their prey, to the physiological effects of climbing North America’s highest mountain.

The public is invited to participate in the MSLC’s research and exploration through a variety of year-round education programs. Each is specially designed for students, educators, families, and visitors of all ages. Alaska Geographic offers accredited Field Seminars and Teacher Trainings through the MSLC as the original location of its now-statewide Institute. Daily presentations and guided excursions are available to the public as well.

The MSLC is open to the public and features an exhibit area, classroom, dining hall, and office space for visiting scientists. The hub of education and activity throughout the summer, it also serves as Denali’s winter visitor center when many of the Park’s other buildings “go cold.” Throughout the winter, the MSLC continues to offer Park information, community programs, and access to winter activities. The MSLC also operates a remote field camp 29 miles inside the Park as a base for summer education programs and research.