988 July 17, 2023 Today Is Our Someday
We woke to cloudless blue skies and sunshine. I do believe that these rainy days make us appreciate the sunny days so much more! I took an easy walk because I knew we were going to hike the Tangle Ridge Trail.
This was a great hike with spectacular views of the world below. The elevation gain was about 300 feet, but the climb was gradual and well worth it.
We could see the campground and the RV.
We could see the peninsula where the moose and her baby were hiding and the tangle of water.
Higher still we could see Landmark Gap where the caribou will migrate.
We reached a large open space where we just stood and tried to take it all in.
I try to notice the little things.
Ahead, we could see what looked like a manmade pile of rocks. Curious, we followed a narrow trail through high brush. The rocks were arranged in a labyrinth. The rocky path was packed and worn. I am not sure how long it has been there. We are in the Tangle Lakes Archeological District. There are hundreds of ancient sites here that are protected. Maybe this has been here for a couple of years or maybe thousands. I walked through the spiral slowly, thinking of joy, kindness, love, living in the moment, blessing, and gratitude. What a beautiful place to consider and reflect on all the goods things in my life. I also love the idea of following in the footsteps of all who have gone before me here with a similar mission. We never know what we will stumble upon.
On our way back, we scared a family of ptarmigan with babies. The adult birds were distraught and flew in short bursts further and further down the trail as they tried to keep track of their chick who had all become separated when they felt threatened by our presence.
We decided to pack for another overnight. Again, we headed west, awestruck by the difference in the scenery.
This was Landmark Gap today!
We thought we might try the Glacier Gap ORV Trail. It was very slick and muddy and then we got to a dicey looking stream crossing and we could see a muddy incline on the other side. We aborted and turned back.
We drove further on the Denali Highway. The Alaska Range was visible and in full glory!
We drove to McClaren Summit at 4,086 feet. This is the second highest highway summit in Alaska. The highest is at 4,800 feet; Atigun Pass on the Dalton Highway.
We took the southern trail toward Oscar Lake at MM37. This trail follows an esker. This is a gravel ridge left behind by glaciers long ago.
We passed several beautiful campsites but continued on. We were disappointed to see that the Alaska Range was receding from view and we could see a challenging section of road up ahead.
We decided to go back and camp closer to the highway.
We set up and Tim made a fire and we took turns walking and resting.
We had expansive views of the McClaren River Valley and we watched the Alaska Range as the sun and clouds moved across the sky.
We could see Mt. Hayes and the McClaren Glacier beneath it.
We could see the Eureka Glacier to the east.
I was initially disappointed that we settled so early in the day. I had wanted to travel further on the Denali Highway and see more. But this was a wonderful place to just sit and be. Sometimes Tim has to quell my need to see more, more, more!
Last night I realized that my books did not properly load to my iPad. I thought that I had nothing to read and then I remembered that my good friend, Vicki, had given me a book by Mary Carey; Alaska-NOT a Place for a Woman. I started it last night and read a good portion of it today. I love to read a book that is written in the setting in which we are traveling!