We knew going in that, even as immense as it is, Denali's Mount McKinley can often be obscured by clouds. An additional challenge is that about half of the road through the park was closed while they construct a bridge (after a big landslide last year). So we set our expectations low and were committed to enjoy whatever we were able to see. Thankfully, it turned out great. We got a glimpse of Denali's Alaska Range at a viewpoint to the south of the park. Then, more while in the park. And some exciting wildlife sightings along the way.
We stayed in Healy for two nights at the very nice Denali Lakeview Inn. The view from the deck off my room was lovely. One surprise that I hadn't considered regarding Alaska's famously long summer days is that sunrises and sunsets last a lot longer to enjoy. You just have to stay up late or wake up early!
Alaska boasts seven of America's ten largest National Parks. At six million acres, Denali ranks only third on that list. But it is still larger than five U.S. states, and contains over 400 glaciers. With only one highway and one railroad that pass it, and only one road that bisects it, Denali's remoteness only adds to its natural beauty.
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| Caribou |
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| Dahl Sheep |
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| Dahl Sheep |
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| Dahl Sheep. Let's be real - In this shot, he is rubbing his backside much like dogs do! |
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| Willow Ptarmigan, Alaska's state bird. White in winter, reds and browns in summer. |
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