August 11-12, 2019
What a surprise to wake up and find clear blue sky! We had been watching the weather forecast everyday and did not expect today to be so perfect!
We packed a lunch and drove south on the Parks Highway. We were hoping that Denali (Mt McKinley) would be visible…and it was! There it was, covered in snow and so beautiful rising up over the other tall mountains. It was mesmerizing! We made a few stops along the highway (with other southbound travelers) for photos.
Next, we drove north to Denali Park. We drove fifteen miles inside Denali National Park to Savage River, the end of the road for vehicles…Only tour buses are allowed beyond that point. Along the way we found several pull-outs packed with tourists taking pictures of Mt McKinley. This was our fourth visit to the park, but, the first time we have been able to view Denali from within the park. Only 30% of park visitors ever get to see Denali (Mt. McKinley). We are now members of the 30% club…and I have a sweatshirt to prove it!
Before exiting the park, we stopped at the park sign for our Photo. We have to take our pictures when we can since it is rare to find the Park Entry Signs without groups of people standing nearby. Unfortunately, when we arrived there was a large group with tripods set-up, so we had to wait for them to finish. When it was our turn, a nice young couple agreed to take our photo. Our timing ended up being perfect!
We were disappointed that we didn’t see any wildlife on the road today. So far, we are not having good luck with animal sightings on this trip!
We were expecting to wake up to another rainy day on Monday, but, again we were surprised. Sunshine and clear blue sky,! Two days in a row…what luck! So, we returned to the park and drove the 15 miles to the end of the road. No animals, but, Denali (Mt. Mckinley) was showing again! There were not as many tourists in the park today, so, we were able to drive slowly and admire the scenery.
We stopped at the Visitors Center and then we were on our way back to the RV. Driving back to our campground, we passed several cars and motorhomes pulled off alongside the road. We guessed that wildlife must be present. There it was…a BIG Moose! Finally! We stopped, watched, and took photos…I think I took about 200 photos of that one Moose! Very exciting!
Back at the RV Park, we were able to enjoy sitting outdoors in the warm sunshine! I think it was only in the high 60’s, but, it felt great!
Tomorrow – we move to Trapper Creek near Talkeetna
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