Denali NP
Denali National Park- Was created in 1917 and is over 6 million acres and is home to North America's tallest peak, 20,310' Denali.
There is no lodge nor hotel it is just nature and wild. They do have a half dozen or so campgrounds but if you didn’t pack a tent you will have to find refuge somewhere else. There is just one road that runs thru it and a few trails that surround the visitors center which I do recommend you visit and hike. This place is like no other and simply amazing. Find out more on the NPS website: https://www.nps.gov/dena/index.htm
Denali in the Fall
Arriving in the Fall is a good idea because you get all the best! The changing leaves on the Birch Tree light up the hillsides with a bright yellow hue. A few miscellaneous other trees are mixed in to a random splash of color to the landscape. The under brush displayed assorted shades of reds and purples and there was plenty of late blooming wild flowers reaching their last days as a final mix of color. There is a window to catch and we chose the second week of September, that proved correct. We had many bright sunny days but the mix of clouds rolling off the mountains and overcast coverage was the most enjoyable.
Hikes and Trails
As I mentioned in the introduction there is not a lot of trails and the ones they have are all located in close proximity to the visitors center. They are all worth your time and you can’t pick a bad one.
Throw a windbreaker and related accessories in your backpack as the weather is always changing as the sun moves and your elevation changes.
Pro Tip-Throw these items in your husbands bag so you can have them when necessary and he can carry them.
Water Features
There are several rivers, ponds, streams and lakes throughout the park and they just magnify the experiences. They all seem to be made of glass and reflect making them perfect for picture taking or a spot to sit and gather your thoughts.
Mornings in Denali
Are generally my favorite time of day no matter where I am at because they have the promise of a fresh start and endless possibilities. Here morning holds a special value. The meadows have dew and the valleys have a low fog that lingers for a few hours before being burned off. The animals and birds are going about their rituals and assuming you did the right and cleaned and filled your coffee thermos your off to a great start. This is it, this what you came for so soak it up and enjoy.
Getting There
Driving
You can drive straight up from Anchorage, its 4 hours on the dot.
I always prefer to do things on my own. If I see something interesting like a pond, restaurant, shop or person I want to be able to pullover and stop to investigate.
Train
Or you can sit back and take the an Alaska Express which seemed to be the preferred method for seniors.
Personally I drove but the train seemed like it was pretty cool and I could smell the good eats as I approached to take this picture.
