A winter carnival, with ice and snow carving, is coming to Denali National Park/NPS

Ice-carving, sled dogs, and snow sculpting are among the highlights of this year’s Denali Winterfest, set for Feb. 24-28 in and around Denali National Park and Preserve.

The event, the 16th annual celebration of Alaska’s longest season, has activities for all ages and interests, such as hands-on exhibits about permafrost and geology provided by the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The full schedule is posted on the park’s website.

Weeknight events include Art Night at the Murie Science and Learning Center and a Winterfest Weekend Kickoff Party -- featuring a homebrew and appetizer competition, potluck and live music -- at the McKinley Park Community Center.

The National Park Service will host a variety of free activities throughout the day on Feb. 27, including an ice-carving demonstration, a ranger-led snowshoe walk, sled dog rides, snow sculpting, children’s activities and classroom presentations. Complimentary hot drinks and light lunch items will be provided.

Weather permitting, the Denali Park Road will be open to the public as far as the Mountain Vista Rest Area (Mile 12). The rest area, which has vault toilets and picnic shelters, is an ideal location for viewing Denali and exploring the park via snowshoes, skis or sled dogs.

Meals, lodging and other services are available year-round in the communities of Healy and Cantwell. Free camping is available in the Bear Loop of the park’s Riley Creek Campground. A vault toilet is provided and water is available at the Murie Science and Learning Center.

The center is open daily 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. as the winter visitor center, providing visitor information and backcountry permits.