Episode 5: Exploring Denali National & State Parks

The worst part about my journey through Denali is that we didn't actually get to see "Denali", as in the mountain. We chose a particularly rainy month to visit the park, and thus we were not one of the lucky 30% of visitors to lay eyes upon this peak. But to be honest, there was so much to see that it was a magical experience none the less.

Watch our journey, and then see below for photos, tips, and links...

Alaska to Mexico #5: Exploring Denali National & State Parks

Denali from the bus

One unfortunate aspect of Denali National Park, is that unless you are one of the lucky few to win a road lottery, the only option is to take a bus tour. This can be particularly frustrating as a photographer. Yes, the bus will stop, but only at a few places and only for 10 minutes each - not enough time to get in your photography groove. You are allowed to stay off the bus, hike around, and catch another bus back - but my observation was that this can be difficult as buses are infrequent and often full. So I accepted my fate and prepared for my bus ride.

What I took with me:

• Nikon D850

• Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 (used for landscape shots at bus stops)

• Nikon 200-500 f/5.6 (used for all wildlife shots)

• Tripod - Winston by 3 Legged Thing

• 128GB Hoodman SD Card

• iPhone with Osmo Mobile

• Raingear and coats

• Water & Snacks

What we saw (12 hour ride):

• 8 Moose

• 6 Grizzly Bears

• 3 Wolf pups

• Dall Sheep

• Caribou

• Marmot

• Rabbits

Places & Attractions

Here are links to some of the places we stopped and things we did in this episode:

• Denali National Park- Research the website before you visit.

• Denali Sled Dog Kennels- If you go to the park, make sure to see a demo!

• Savage River Trails- The trails at mile 15 that you can drive to.

• Horseshoe Lake Trail- The trail where we saw the muskrats with my friend Raini.

• Mount Healy Overlook Trail- That trail with the amazing views!

• Denali State Park- The state park has so much to offer too.

• Kesugi Ridge Trail- The crazy muddy trail that Kendrick did.

• Byers Lake Trail- The pretty lake that Mandy walked around.

• 49th Street Brewery- Located in Healy, AK.. the one with the bus.

• Denali Brewing Company- Near Talkeetna, AK, worth a stop!

Photos

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