First Denali Backpack

Yes, it's true. I've been living in one of the most popular backpacking destinations in the world for over two years, and I've just now managed to get out on my first Denali backpacking trip. Better late than never, I suppose. I went out for 3 days with a great trio of other Denali employees, Elizabeth, Mary, and Matt. We hiked in to the East Fork of the Toklat River over a grassy pass in a cold wind and spitting rain. Had to sidestep a grizzly bear that was in our path, and set up camp next to the river.

It rained for most of the night, so we barricaded ourselves in the tent and played euchre and hearts for the evening. The next day we left our camp and day-hiked up onto the East Fork Glacier, which feeds the river. Here we poked around and tried not to slip and fall too much on the gravel covered ice. I led the group with 3 falls in 3 days, so I guess I win. The weather was nice while we were on the glacier, and we found and explored a cool water-carved ice cave. The weather turned about the time we departed the glacier and it again rained on us all evening and night. More card games were played.

Thankfully we woke up to sunny skies and were able to dry our gear out before hiking back to the road, and then catch the bus back home. It was a fun trip and I'm already scheming on what the next one will be.

Hope everyone is having a good summer!

Crossing the creek.

Our tent site

The biggest drop of water I've ever seen. Probably 1" across.

At the toe of the glacier.

Matt discovering that ice is slippery.

All of us on the glacier.