We had a great time at Denali National Park for 3 days. We didn't have Internet access, so have a lot a catching up to do. Yesterday we did the 8 hour bus trip into the park to see Mt. McKinley. We could see most of the mountain (the top was covered by clouds), but we are counting it. They say only 30% of the people that come to see McKinley actually get to see it due to weather conditions. Along the way we saw our first grizzly bears (4), some moose, golden and bald eagles, and so many caribou we got tired of seeing them. Our bus driver was very good at spotting wildlife and always stopped. We also took advantage of other park sponsored events. During the ranger led hike to Horseshoe Lake, I learned the names of the wildflowers and trees and what moose and bear poop looks like. There are 2 things our tax dollars do well - libraries and national parks! I don't think I've mentioned weather. We have been in shorts & t-shirts many days. Friday it was warmer in Denali than it was in Michigan! The people are nice, the life style is laid back, and the scenery is beautiful - I can see why people move here. One guy I chatted with in the grocery told me 20 below is t-shirt weather - they seem proud to live here. In Denali, we met up again with a couple from Colorado Springs we had met in Jasper. It was almost like seeing old friends. Anyway, it was fun to catch up on our travels. Also saw another couple there we had visited with in Fairbanks. We are now in Talkeetna for 2 nights. A cute little town with views of Mt. McKinley.

Comments from Eldon: Denali is an exceptional wild life preserve. We saw everything but wolves. I actually got tired of seeing caribou. The animals act like they own the place - they ignore vehicles and humans. I was glad to see Mt. McKinley - what I could of it and I'm told we were lucky. I met a retired Texas ranger - this was his 2nd trip to Denali and he still hasn't seen McKinley. I think he just wants an excuse to come back again.

Comments from Larry: I got busted in Denali. I was wandering around the campsites, minding my own business, chasing a few red squirrels, when a wild life ranger spotted me. He tried to catch me but I wasn't born yesterday and ran under the truck. I guess the ranger didn't get much training in cat catching. But Cindy and Eldon got threatened with a ticket if I didn't stay in the camper; since I don't have any money of my own, they made me stay in the camper the rest of the time. I hate being grounded.