I arrived late and left early and did not get a chance to experience the town of Talkeenta, worth a exploration another time. The town is only one block long but it is a very charming, and reminds me of Bar Harbor, Maine. Someone I met yesterday loved the town so much, he is staying 5 days. He encouraged me to stay to visit but I am not here to visit small town USA, another time, the mountains are calling.
I drove another two hours to Denali National Park and the mountain views were unlike anything I have ever witnessed. The beauty and magnitude made me feel small. I drove single lane highways, passing lush forests and snow covered peaks. Denali is a beautiful place and I love listening to the rushing water around and hearing it whisper to me.
I hiked in the front country today, on maintained trails as my warm up for tomorrow. Tomorrow, taking a shuttle bus to backcountry where you get dropped off and practically roam around the wilderness. Today, photos: views from Mount Healy Overlook Trail, 2.7 miles, 1,700 feet of elevation, 25% grade, and Savage Alpine Trail, 4.0 miles, 1,500 ft elevation, 25% grade.
withoutapillow 
Liane: I know i told you when we had breakfast that my buddy Gary was about to attempt the summit of Denali. The rest of the story is that he did make it about 3 weeks ago.
He spent 4 years at West Point, survived Green Beret and Airborne Ranger training, and said that climbing Denali was the hardest thing he’s ever done. I thought you’d appreciate knowing how the story ended. Mary and I are glad you are having such a great trip.
Keep having fun, Rob Reynolds
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Thanks Rob for the note. I hope to summit Mt. Denali one day but I know it is a long way down the road. Congrats to Gary. Hugs to you all.