Day 19 - Sunday 26th - Denali National Park

All slept quite well with eye masks used. This was a day for exploring and finding out about Denali National Park. Not all 6 million acres but the bit round the Visitors Centre. After we arrived at the park we went to the excellent Visitors Centre for some basic information and then went on a short hike. Eyes peeled for Moose but all we saw was the wee tiny squirrel and some very fresh bear poop. This caused a fair amount of alarm and generated a lot of loud, out of tune singing, hand clapping and speedy walking back to the safety of the Visitors Centre! Next up was Ranger Dan giving a talk about Lynx and Grey Wolves. It was very interesting although the delivery was a trifle nervy and caused a bit of nodding off in the audience. Looked a various exhibits around the centre followed by video which was brilliant then on to the shuttle bus to the Sled Dog kennels.

We saw 32 Alaskan Huskies who are having a rest over the summer. These wonderful dogs are used to patrol the perimeter of the park in the winter months, which seems to last from September to April! We were able to pat the dogs and listened to Ranger Ellen give a very long explanation and demonstration about the dogs and the sled(sic).

Off now as a very early, 05.30, start for a major drive by bus 66 miles into the heart of the National Park. Watch this space for a full report and hopefully some stunning wildlife pics. Many thanks to Tom who keeps making favourable comments about the pics - feel free to leave comments by clicking on the "Comments" bit below.