Alaska: Denali & Talkeetna

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

This morning after some oatmeal and hot chocolate we packed up camp and head to the front of Denali National Park.

Another clear day with a great view of Denali.

Although we had our eyes peeled for a moose sighting, we were not that lucky. But you can’t beat this scenery and we did find another caribou.

Slow drive and stopped for every great view of Denali on our way out.

We went to see the Denali Sled Dogs at their kennels. The sled dogs have a long history and tradition in Denali National Park. There are about 30 dogs that do work during winter patrol of the inner 2 million acres where mechanized vehicles are prohibited. The dogs are not particular pure breeds.  These Alaskan huskie sled dogs are bred to run and pull sleds that can adapt to cold weather with 2 layer coat of fur and long legs.

Sled dog pup.

When it was time to do their demonstration and the rangers went to get the dogs, they all went crazy barking and jumping up on the roofs of their homes.

 

The old-fashioned sled is on wheels and the 5 dogs do a loop and stop in front of the crowd for the demonstration.

 

 Getting rewarded for their hard work.

We drove south to Talkeetna to spend the night in a cabin. It sure was nice to take a shower. Joe enjoyed having a few minutes for an ESPN fix.

We stayed at a cabin. The only downside was it was on the main highway into town, but it was a really nice room with private bath, hotel-like small fridge, living space with tv separate from a nice comforty bed.

We went to eat dinner and do laundry at Talkeetna Roadhouse.