Before arriving in Alaska, I will travel across Canada through Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and finally the Yukon Territory. The chance to drive through and be a part of this wilderness is a dream come true for me. The list of animals and birds I could encounter almost boggles my mind not to mention the wildflowers and many terrains. The excitement I am feeling grows more as the time of departure draws near.
Once in Alaska I will be staying in the Broad Pass area near the small community of Cantwell. Located about fifty miles south of the entrance to Denali National Park I will have the opportunity to explore the area that borders this national park. After my time in Broad Pass I will head into Denali National Park to visit a friend at the Wonder Lake campground 85 miles inside the park. The campground is about 26 miles from the base of Mt Denali (or McKinley) but, at a height of 20320 feet, "The High One" towers over the area.
After a couple of weeks in Denali National Park I will follow my GPS cookie crumbs back to Fairbanks where I will catch a flight out to Bethel to visit with my daughter. Bethel is located on the Kuskokwim River about 440 miles west of Anchorage and is only 40 miles from the Bering Sea. It also is in the center of the Yukon Delta Wildlife Refuge. I hope to add a few new birds to my life list while out there.
On my return trip through Canada my goal is to visit some of Canada's incredible national parks. Jasper, Banff and Kluane to name a few. The chance to pass through areas where I could see Big Horn and Dall Sheep, White-tailed and Mule Deer, Caribou, Elk, Moose and Bison will keep me alert for photo opportunities along the way.
I hope you check back here now and then to see how things are going. And It is my hope that I will be able to find WIFI Hotspots along the way so I can share this Odyssey with you. Come travel with me and keep me company. And if you are inclined, leave me a comment or note below!
Gary O'Boyle