Blogs from Denali National Park, Alaska, United States, North America - page 4

We arrived very early, not quite with the sun as the sun rises around 3 AM, but around 6 AM. We make breakfast, pack our lunches and head off to the park. We start our day with a summit of Mount Healy. It's only a 3100 foot elevation gain, but this is accomplished in less than 2 miles so it is quite steep. And to our happy surprise, the sun is bright and shining and it's almost 70°. It is crystal clear, and we have the promise of getting a great view of Mount Denali. Alaska fun fact: Mt Denali is the tallest mountain in the United States, also known as Mt McKinley. The highest peak is over 20,000 feet. Mt Healy is challenging, but the views at the top are incredible. We make our way ... read more

I just came back from an 11 day Denali Park Tour and 7 cruise. I organized this trip for 20 people, consisting of family and friends. We saw so much beautiful scencery on this tour: glaciers, wildlife, waterfalls, the Tongress Rain Forest. We were also surprised at how much we learned about the rich Alaskan history and culture.... read more

Last night was our “welcome” dinner even though it was our second night. It was at the Murie Learning Center. Dinner itself was a buffet, with Tuscan chicken, veggie lasagna, bowtie pasta with shrimp and salad. Dessert was tiramisu which was interesting because it was frozen. After dinner we had a talk by a naturalist, which was interesting, but a bit long winded. Another early morning today, bus for the Park left at 7 am. Converted school bus, so a bit uncomfortable, but it was equipped with a camera controlled by the driver, and some screens, so when we spotted animals in the distance, he zoomed in and we were able to see them. This place was GORGEOUS. My pictures will never do it justice. The foliage is changing color, so the meadows are a mix ... read more

Geoff cooked up a great hot breakfast this morning - maple flavoured bacon, eggs, tomato and toast. It was a much needed change from the regular cereal, yoghurt and bagels we have been having each morning. Drove to Mile 15 and hiked the 2 mile savage river loop trail. It was a good hike but very windy. At one section of the trail we veered off up the mountain to get a better view of the river and the wind was blowing so strong it was difficult to keep standing upright. The air is so fresh out here. You fill your lungs up with nothing but pure fresh air. There is no pollution - and the scenery is something else too. The leaves are quickly changing into autumn colours - just an awesome sight to see. ... read more

Woke up this morning to the sound of rain on the roof of the RV. Had an early breakfast then headed over to the bus stop over from the campground as we were booked in for a 6.45ampick up by the shuttle bus. Today we were heading into the park to Mile 85 on a bus trip to Wonder Lake. Cars can only drive to mile 15 of the park. After that you need to catch a shuttle bus, tour bus, cycle or walk through the park. This helps to preserve the environment and keep the wildlife safe in this beautiful park. The shuttle bus costs $46 per person for the return journey to Wonder Lake and is an 11 hour bus ride on a gravel road through mountains. The road is very narrow with huge ... read more