Denali National Park. Day One, AK

​I entered Denali National Park today and drove the 15 miles into the park, to the…“military checkpoint.” The last and only area that any private vehicle is allowed to drive. From here you have to turn around, or buy a tour bus ticket. Tomorrow I get to pass the “military checkpoint” to go further towards my campsite, at Teklanika River, where I will spend three nights. I had to buy a shuttle ticket for $32.75 in order to explore this end of the park, starting tomorrow. It seems complicated. Once I check into the campsite, there is no leaving, with the Sylver Gypsy, until my departure on the 17th…or else?…I can’t re-enter? Right?! They certainly are strict here. Like many National Parks it is super busy and crowded. I have a love-hate relationship with entering these places as everyone else has the same intentions to come here! I made it to the Savage River loop trailhead. And of course I was told I’m not allowed to go on a trail with Jo Jo. I know this, and I just wanted to make it to the river, where I once again was told I couldn’t go to the river, but I could park/sit it on the picnic table about 50 yards from the river. The National Park system is not dog friendly at all. Bark, boo, and a hassle. While driving around, finally the clouds seemed to part and a slightly more clear view of Mount Denali came around, although you would have to squint and look at the images side ways to really understand the photo. This park road is not the best vantage point,  as it is north west of the Denali range. I’ve enclosed a photo from a fellow camper who was able to see Denali from the town of Talkeeneta, which is 2 1/2 hours away from the park. I hung around for a while before heading back out of the park, as I tried in multiple veins to find at least one camp close by. I checked my apps over and over, and for the life of me I struggled with finding a decent spot. I pulled into areas, not wanting to enter, as the roads looked awful. I turned around and went back-and-forth. I stopped at at least 10 different spots, trying to assess whether I could enter, or whether I could tolerate the space. I occasionally have these issues, but this is the first time in a while that I’ve had this…issue. I’m about 15 minutes north of the park, off the highway in a very tight space. The advantages is that I doubt anyone will join me here. I’ve hogged up this spot!

It may seem like I’ve complained today. There were a few challenges. I certainly do appreciate all of my travels, and opportunities. But sometimes things are not easy at all!














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