Denali

Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior Official newspaper Au tu m n 2 016 to S p r i n g 2 017 Alpenglow PHOTO COURTESY MENNO BOERMANS The "Edge of the World" near the 14,200-foot camp on Denali's popular West Buttress route has a dramatic 5,000-foot drop to the Northeast Fork of the Kahiltna Glacier. Superintendent Greeting The year 2016 was special as the National Park Service marked its 100th birthday. Special events were held in Denali and other parks across the Denali Celebrates its Next Century Park staff and community groups are working together to host events to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the park's establishment on Feb. 26, 1917. country to mark the milestone. The year 2017 will be just as exciting as Denali celebrates its own centennial in February. The park offers year-round activities for people of all ages. I encourage visitors, neighbors and partners to take advantage of the incredibly diverse, wild and amazing landscape that is Denali. As we move into a new century of stewardship, the staff — in conjunction with a host of partners — is planning many events to highlight the park, which is an integral part of the Denali community and the landscape of Alaska. At a Solstice Luminary Stroll, you can ski, snowshoe, or stroll down a trail lit by luminaria (candles) on a snowy winter's night. This family-friendly event begins in the early evening of Wed Dec 21 at the Winter Visitor Center (Murie Science and Learning Center) at Mile 1.4 of the Denali Park Road. Trails are appropriate for all levels of skiing or snowshoeing ability. Hot drinks will be provided afterward. Denali Winterfest 2017 is set for Sat Feb 25 and Sun Feb 26. This community-wide event offers something for all ages, interests, and abilities. Events at the park typically include guided skiing and snowshoe walks, activities for kids, exhibits, guest speakers, dog sled rides, hot drinks and light refreshments. A special relationship exists between Several special events are being planned for that Sunday to commemorate the specific date of the park's 100th birthday. Among the honored guests in attendance is expected to be Charlie Sheldon, a descendant of Charles Sheldon, who was among the leading advocates lobbying Congress to create the park in 1917. More at http://go.nps.gov/Winterfest å February in Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali Park, and Fairbanks. Please watch for emerging Mark your calendars now for Denali Summerfest on Sat June 10, 2017. The day will feature free events including musical performances, food, children's activities, and more. Learn more about all of Denali's Centennial events and initiatives at http:// go.nps.gov/ Denali100 − stakeholders; remain relevant in camping in the Bear Loop of Riley Creek Park Headquarters (Mile 3.4) in February. our communities; engage and Campground is free on a first-come basis. Weather permitting, access opens to encourage youth; and support our Fees may apply in Spring Mountain Vista (Mile 12) by mid-February, We're Open Year Round Throughout the off-season, partners as we fulfill our mission to preserve and protect. Enjoy your visit. Don Striker Superintendent details on the park website and social media feeds about event locations and times. Narrated by Shelton Johnson, the acclaimed 2015 film sheds light on a complex relationship that "minority majority"populations have with wild places. The documentary features nine AfricanAmerican climbers on a grueling expedition led by the National Outdoor Leadership with future conservationists and we will continue to make connections outreach this winter, the park will host screenings of An American Ascent in the park and its visitors, volunteers and neighbors. As we look to the future, As a highlight of its Centennial % How Far May I Drive? Road crews begin plowing beyond the Savage River (Mile 15) as early as i Winter Visitor Center the first weekend in April, and the Running water, restrooms, a warm Teklanika River (Mile 30) a week or two fireplace, and permits for overnight stays thereafter. May 19 is the last day of off-season in the backcountry are available daily road adventures beyond Mile 15. That's the 9 am to 4:30 pm at the Murie Science day before regular schedules of shuttles and and Learning Center at Mile 1.4 tours begin venturing farther into the park. of the Denali Park Road. School (NOLS) on America's biggest and baddest mountain. Learn more at w w w.anamericanascent.com QUICK CONTENTS Local Services, Tours, Flightseeing ............. 2 Park Rules and Safety Advisories .............. 3 Winter Recreation Opportunities ............. 4 Trails for Skis and Snowshoes .................. 5 Artist-in-Residence Program ..................... 7 Trails for Hiking the Entrance Area ........... 8 Winter Visitor Centers National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior Denali National Park and Preserve P.O. Box 9 Denali Park, AK 99755 Murie Science and Learning Center Mile 1.4 Park Road Open 9 am to 4:30 pm daily. Offers general information, exhibits, presentations, backcountry permits, Alaska Geographic Bookstore. Learn more at w w w. n p s. g o v / r l c / m u r i e 907 683-2294 E-mail Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station DENA_Info@nps.gov B Street in Talkeetna Historic Sled Dog Kennels Open Daily to Winter Visitors In autumn, visitors are welcome to watch the park sled dogs train for winter by pulling a cart on roads and loops of the Riley Creek Campground near the park entrance. Please check with staff at the Winter Visitor Center to learn the kennels training schedule for the day. Open 9 am to 4:30 pm daily. Website The historic Sled Dog Kennels are open daily 9 am to 4:30 pm, with parking at headquarters at Mile 3.4. As you arrive, be sure to check in with kennels staff and read all posted safety information. • For the safety of your pets, please leave them in your vehicle while you visit the sled dogs. Offers mountaineering information for the www.nps.gov/dena Phone 907 683-9532, information line Alaska Range, general information, exhibits, • Keep children at your side at all times. Alaska Geographic Bookstore. 907 733-2231 • If any dog acts excited (jumping, barking, pacing) or nervous, please visit another dog. Entrance Fees 907 683-2294, park business Seven-day Pass: for age 16 and older, $10 907 683-9649, TTY • Help train the park dogs to have good manners. They should not jump on you, chew on fingers, or eat any human food. Denali Annual Pass: $40 Summer bus, campsite reservations America the Beautiful Interagency Passes: Annual, $80 800 622-7275 Nationwide NPS PHOTO / JENNIFER RAFFAELI Senior, $10 907 272-7275 International Autumn training with a cart. Access, Free www.reservedenali.com Annual Military Pass, Free Emergency Your Fees at Work A portion of entrance fee dollars collected in Denali helps to pay for projects such as informational signs, campground improvements, trail erosion mitigation, and operational costs for the Artist-in-Residence program. Dial 911 Corrections or suggestions? Jay_Elhard@nps.gov Stay connected @ Please stop your vehicle if you see a team approaching. Ensure that pets are safely inside vehicles if you see or hear dog teams. For your safety, kennel staff discourages walking pets in the campground while dog teams are training. In winter, visitors to the kennels may see teams harnessing up and preparing to leave on a run, returning from a run, or loading and unloading a dog truck that is used to drive to distant trailheads. This busy time of year, it's wise to ask at the Winter Visitor Center about team whereabouts before you set out. tw itt e r. c o m / D e n a l i N P S w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / D en a liNP S w w w. f l i c k r. c o m / p h o t o s/De n a liNP S w w w. y o u t u b e . c o m / u s er /De n a liNP S The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage. NPS PHOTO / DANIEL LEIFHEIT Complete a Junior Ranger Activity Book while you're visiting the park. Then show your work to a park ranger, take an oath, and receive a badge. Learn more at ht t p: //g o.u s a .g o v / D L j Local Services Planning a Group Visit Accessibility Gas and Propane For current and complete lists of businesses that Welcome to Denali Reception – Most restrooms are wheelchair Available at gas stations are authorized to offer guided activities in the Alaska Geographic staff can provide an accessible. Park films are open- 13 miles north in Healy, and park, please visit http://www.nps .gov /dena/ exclusive welcome and orientation to captioned. Please advise staff of 29 miles south in Cantwell. pl any ourv i s i t/bus i nes s -wi th-park.htm Denali for visiting groups at the needs when making a reservation. Find more information at Medical h t t p : / / go.usa.gov/g g 54 The closest physicians and hospitals are in Fairbanks. Alaska Railroad Healy: Interior Community You can travel to Denali by rail from Health Center, located in the Fairbanks, Anchorage, or Talkeetna. Tri-Valley Community Center, Call 800 544-0552, or 907 683- 13 miles north of the park on 2233 in Denali, or 907 265-2683 Healy Spur Road. Clinic hours are in Anchorage. 9 am to 5 pm weekdays. 907 683-2211. Banks The closest bank is in Healy, 13 miles north of the park on Healy Spur Road. Winter hours: 10 am to 3 pm Monday through Thursday, and until 5:30 pm Friday. 907 683-7750 Talkeetna: Sunshine Murie Science and Learning Center. Dog Sledding Staff will provide a short presentation One concessioner offers overnight dog sled passenger of your group. For availability and pricing, service and overnight dog sled-supported ski trips. based on the interests and time schedule please call 907 683-6432. Denali Dog Sled Expeditions (Healy, AK) 907 683-2863 Guided Winter Explorations – www.earthsonglodge.com Alaska Geographic staff can facilitate fun and educational Denali experiences for visiting winter groups through Glacier Landing Scenic Air Services hiking, snowshoeing and skiing (skis not provided). The route and distance can Community Health Center, Four businesses provide glacier landing scenic air tour Mile 4 of the Talkeetna Spur services and glacier landing air taxi services in the Road. Open 9 am to 5 pm, park. Several also provide air taxi services to non- Monday through Saturday, with glaciated areas of the park, including Kantishna. For 24-hour answering service at a full list of air taxi companies call 907-683-2294 Winter Ecology, Winter Tracking, and the 907 733-2273. or visit www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/fightseeing Science of Snow. Hot chocolate and tea vary based upon a group's abilities and schedule. The experience is tailored to your group’s interest in such themes as can be provided around a fireplace at Child Care Located on Sulfide Drive in Healy, the Denali Preschool and Learning Center is the only licensed day care in the Denali Borough. Dropin childcare is offered year-round, 7 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday for ages 1 month to 12 years. Documentation of current immunizations is required, or sign an exemption. Contact 907 683-7789. Park Bookstore Fly Denali (Healy, AK) the Murie Science and Learning Center. A small selection of books and 907 683-2359 Minimum group size is eight. Availability interpretive products is available at www.flydenali.com is from January through April, with the the Winter Visitor Center (Murie Science and Learning Center). Post Office Sheldon Air Service (Talkeetna, AK) 907 733-2321 www.sheldonairservice.com Located next to Riley Creek K2 Aviation (Talkeetna, AK) Campground near the park 800 764-2291 entrance. Open 10 am to 12:30 www.flyk2.com Mountain Vista location usually opening by mid-February. For availability and pricing, please call 907 683-6432. pm, Monday through Saturday. 907 683-2291 Talkeetna Air Taxi (Talkeetna, AK) 800 533-2219 www.talkeetnaair.com Scan this code with a free app on your smartphone to link to trip-planning resources on the park website http://go.usa.gov/WScT 2 Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska PHOTO COUR TESY OF IAN SHIVE Park Regulations and Safety Advisories Top Things to Know M Do not feed any wild animals, including birds. It is unhealthy for them, and encourages aggressive behavior that may require management action. All pet food, trash, coolers, and cooking tools must be kept secure unless in immediate use. We all have a shared responsibility to keep wildlife healthy and wild. î Do not approach wildlife. You must stay at least 25 yards (23 m) away from moose, sheep, wolves, and other animals. A distance of at least 300 yards (275 m) is required from bears. Regardless of distance, if any wild animal changes its behavior due to your presence, you are too close. Moose are faster and much less docile than they appear. A cow moose with calves can be especially unpredictable and hazardous. If a moose charges you, run away. Dodge quickly behind large trees, cars, or structures. If you are chased while caught out in the open, zigzag or change direction often. As you explore park trails and wilderness areas, be bear aware. You are safer hiking in groups. In areas of low visibility, make noise to avoid surprise encounters. Do not run from a bear. If you are going to spend significant time in the outdoors in PHOTO COUR TESY OF MOLLY McKINLEY Skiers trek from Kantishna to the park entrance in March 2013. Be Prepared to Experience Extreme Weather Conditions Alaska, carry bear spray, and know how to use and dispose of it safely. _ In developed areas, stay on established trails and paths. If you are hiking with a group in areas where there are no established trails, spread out to reduce your impact on the landscape. Leave what you find. If you find an historic object, artifact, archeological feature or natural curiosity, do not collect it. Federal regulations require that such discoveries remain in context. To help researchers and contribute to science, snap photos and carefully While the park remains open year round, changing weather conditions limit vehicle access westward each fall. The Park Road generally remains open to the Teklanika and Savage rivers until the first snow, and hikers may set out from anywhere except designated wildlife closures. Overnight stays in the backcountry require a free permit available at the Winter Visitor Center (Murie Science and Learning Center). Several special winter camping rules apply only from October 1 through April 14 – lead that is six feet or shorter. Do not leave a tethered pet unattended. Owners must collect While there are no groomed winter trails in Denali, there are numerous unmarked routes suitable for snowshoeing, skiing, skijoring, and mushing. Lack of snow is no indication of temperature. Be prepared for winter’s arrival anytime, and for extreme cold after mid-October. Proximity to the Alaska Range creates unpredictable and highly variable weather conditions. Be prepared to set your own course and be self-sufficient. • Use of a bear-resistant food container (BRFC) is not required but strongly encouraged since bears can still be active. * % There are no telephones west of Park Headquarters and cell phone service is unreliable. Rangers do not initiate searches without a specific request. Notify someone of your planned itinerary and expected time of return. note the location, preferably with GPS reference coordinates. Pets may be walked along the Park Road, in parking lots, on campground roads, along the Bike Path from the park entrance to the visitor center campus, and the Roadside Trail between the visitor center campus and Park Headquarters. Pets must be leashed with a and dispose of pet feces. Cyclists may ride on park roads, parking areas, campground loops, and a designated Bike Trail between the Nenana River and the Denali Visitor Center. Share the road. Pass no closer than three feet (1.0 m) to bicycles and pedestrians, • Beyond the park entrance, fires are allowed in all areas, including wilderness. Visitors must use dead and down wood, and they are encouraged to destroy the fire ring and disperse the ashes. especially if your vehicle has large side mirrors. On gravel roads, travel at “no dust” speeds that do not kick up a plume that will wash over cyclists and pedestrians. If you see wildlife while driving, do not stop or impede the safe and free flow of traffic along any portion of the road. Instead, park in an established pullout, and watch from a safe distance. Launching, landing or operating unmanned or remote controlled aircraft • Dogs used for transport are allowed in the backcountry. Some type of physical restraint, such as a leash, harness, or stake-out line, is required. Straw is prohibited, even if it is certified weedfree. Keep a clean camp. Bury or disperse dog waste away from the Park Road, trails, or other areas used by visitors. is prohibited everywhere within Denali's park and preserve areas. Drones disrupt visitor experience, harass wildlife, and can represent a safety hazard when flown near aircraft. It is the responsibility of visitors to understand all applicable firearms laws before entering the park. Federal law prohibits firearms in certain facilities in the park. Those places are marked with signs at all public entrances. The park concessioner does not allow firearms on tour buses. Passengers may carry a firearm on shuttle buses but it must be unloaded and stored in a locked container. Except as part of authorized hunting activities, discharging weapons is strictly prohibited throughout the park. Learn more online at h t t p : / / g o . u sa . g o v / Bcc h Winter Safety Strategies • Overconfidence can be the biggest • Hypothermia, the critical lowering danger. Be aware of the exertion of the body’s core temperature, is required to travel in snow. Do not count signaled by these early symptoms: on accomplishing more than a few miles shivering, numbness, slurred speech, each day. loss of coordination, drowsiness, and exhaustion. Avoid hypothermia by • Traveling alone increases your risk eating plenty of high-calorie foods, dramatically. Any incident that drinking plenty of water, and staying immobilizes a solo traveler could easily dry. Layer clothing for your level of become fatal. Traveling in groups is activity to minimize sweating. 25 yards 23 m 300 yards 275 m Bear Moose, caribou, Dall sheep, wolf, active raptor nest, or occupied den site Watch Wildlife Safely highly recommended. • Avalanches result from a combination of • Moose may fiercely guard winter trails, snowpack, weather, and terrain factors particularly in deep snow years. Make which are frequently present in the every effort to yield the right-of-way. Denali backcountry. Be aware of the dangers and avoid suspect slopes and • Frostbite occurs quickly at temperatures drainages. below freezing. Drink plenty of water and protect skin from exposure to cold. • Overflow, thin ice, and weak snow Please observe these rules for minimum distance from wild animals to ensure their safety and yours. Any distance that alters the behavior of a wild animal is too close. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens to observe an animal’s natural behavior. Do not engage in photography if an animal moves closer than the minimum distance allowed. Remind others of their ethical responsibility when photographing animals. Avoid stressing wildlife. Animals living here are engaged in a daily struggle to find food, shelter, and water necessary for survival. Avoid wildlife during sensitive times, such as when they are nesting, mating, or raising young. bridges along streams and rivers can cause an unexpected icy plunge. Carry dry socks, clothes, and emergency firestarter in a waterproof container. i To report a violation or crime, call the tip line at For emergencies, dial 800 478-2724 911 Alpenglow, Autumn 2016 to Spring 2017 3 Winter Recreation Opportunities Winter Mushing Trails 0 10 Miles 0 North 20 Kilometers Bo u Ranger Patrol Cabins i i st F Ea i i na River ek C re i Sable Pass KA AS L A a te rF arw Cle i Thorofare Pass r ey Ril Nena inley Riv e . M cK er 70.2 Wonder Lake oad R iv i rk R Pa 3.4 Spring Trail ge R er Some type of physical restraint for dogs, such as a leash, harness, or stake-out line, is required. Highway Pass i 86.5 y tuar Riv Moose C reek i i Sava at i are put in and maintained by dog team only. They are narrow and have potentially soft, deep snow. 12.8 Sanc t River Tokla ork ork l Tok 53.5 Park Headquarters 22.7 i 42.9 Mushing Trails within the wilderness boundary of the park Healy i 34.0 NPS PHOTO / JACOB W FRANK Trails are not marked. Be prepared and able to put in your own trail and safely navigate the terrain without a trail to guide you. You may encounter willow and alder thickets. Trail clearing or cutting is NOT allowed within the park. Teklanika Rive r i with Park Road mile markers 3 tampede ry / S nda E NG A R i W in d r. yC i Cantwell 3 Ranger patrol cabins are not staffed, or available for public use. This map is offered for reference only. Please do not use for route finding or navigation. Spring Trail: Difficult to Moderate Wonder Lake/Kantishna Area: Easy to Difficult Straw is prohibited, even if it is certified weed-free. Keep a clean camp. Bury or disperse dog waste away from the Park Road, trails, or other areas used by visitors. Steep and narrow. Winding through large trees with several stream crossings. Snow cover may not be adequate for travel until spring. For more information on rivers, overflow ice, aufeis, glaciers, and avalanches, please visit http://www.nps.gov/dena/ Park Road: Easy to Moderate Windy Creek: Easy Wide, open travel. Prepare for aufeis, side hilling, and windswept bare areas. West of Savage River the trail is mainly OFF the Park Road. Heavy equipment can be on the road from Miles 3-7. Cantwell entry trails are frequented by snowmachine and dog team. Beyond the Denali wilderness boundary the trail may be less traveled or nonexistent. planyourvisit/mushing.htm 2 Cross-country skiing is a peaceful, rewarding Trail opportunities are highly varied. Please speak with a kennels staff member for details. way to explore Denali, whether on an afternoon trip on sled Riley Creek: Moderate from Park Headquarters dog trails along the Park Road or on an extended trip into the to Riley; Expert over the pass to Windy backcountry. Telemark skiing and snowboarding involve long climbs on foot, but are becoming increasingly popular in Denali. Riley Creek/Park Headquarters area trails are frequented by skiers and snowshoers. Prepare for shelf ice, jumble ice, holes, and open water in the narrow Riley Canyon. Avalanche terrain. Different lengths of Snowshoes serve different Ä purposes. A longer, flatter shoe is ideal for traveling in very deep snow, while a shorter shoe with an up-turned toe is better for traveling over an existing trail, across rougher terrain, or through brushy areas. K E E P W I L D L I F E W I L D Never feed or approach wildlife Snowmachine Use Prohibited in "Old Park" Areas Å North Boundary/Stampede Road: Easy Traveled, packed trail used by snowmachines and dog teams. Several side trails cross the main trail. Trapline trails exist with traps in the trail. Clearwater/Awesome Pass: Difficult Accessible by snowmachine outside wilderness boundary. Prepare for overflow and glare ice on Clearwater and Moose creeks. Routefinding will be necessary over Awesome Pass. Federal regulations require that riders do not: • Intentionally disturb or frighten wildlife All motorized vehicles are prohibited in Each winter the superintendent may open limited • Operate a snowmachine which is excessively noisy "Old Park" portions from the former areas to snowmachine access once it has been • Operate a snowmachine without a headlamp and red Mount McKinley National Park. Snowmachining is determined there is adequate snow cover to limit tail lamp one-half hour before and after sunrise/sunset allowed only for traditional activities, including access damage to vegetation and soil beneath the snowpack. or when weather reduces visibility to less than 500 feet to subsistence hunting and harvesting areas, as well A combination of factors is considered, such as snow • Operate a snowmachine in excess of 45 miles per hour as to inholdings and villages in new park and preserve depth, snow structure, and characteristics • Race with other riders. additions created by the Alaska National Interest Lands of the vegetation. Conservation Act (ANILCA) in 1980. More at www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit/snowmobiling Human Hundred Centennial Challenge Denali is challenging its visitors and staff to log 100 miles of human-powered travel to commemorate its centennial birthday. You can walk, bike, run, ski or snowshoe. Watch for ranger-led events you can choose to attend to help you reach your Human Hundred. Once you've succeeded, you can claim a prize at a park visitor center. Learn more at ht t p://go.nps .gov /D en ali100 NPS PHOTO / KENT MILLER 4 Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska Winter Trails for Skis and Snowshoes − m ^ Bear Loop open for primitive camping Restrooms Parking To Healy, Fairbanks Horseshoe Lake Trail Nenana Canyon Mount Healy Overlook Trail Winter Visitor Center m^ North 0 0.3 Kilometers Park Road 0 0.3 Miles ^ Bike Path Jonesville Trail Easiest More difficult Most difficult (snowshoes only advised) Backcountry route Taiga Trail −m ^ Trails are not groomed. Be prepared to use skis or snowshoes. Post Office Park Entrance McKinley Station Trail Meadow View Trail Riley Creek George Parks Highway Roadside Trail Rock Creek Trail Park Road Alaska Railroad Triple Lakes Trail To Mountain Vista Hines Creek m^ Headquarters Kennels To Cantwell, Anchorage Winter Trails (Hiking/Snowshoeing) Easy to moderate wooded terrain with some hills. Packed snow with occasional drifts. Roadside, Meadow View, Rock Creek, Taiga, Horseshoe Lake, and McKinley Station trails. Mount Healy (Hiking/Snowshoeing) Moderate on packed snow to a set of trailside benches. At higher elevations, expect deep snow drifts, exposed loose rock, ice accumulation, and high winds. Riley Creek and Hines Creek (Backcountry Cross Country Skiing) Non-maintained wilderness trails. May encounter shelf ice and open water that require route finding. Park Road (Mushing/Snowshoeing/Hiking/ Skate and Backcountry Cross Country Skiing/Skijoring/Fat Tire Bicycling) One lane cleared to Mile 7, suitable for skate skiing. Expect to encounter dog teams. May encounter overflow ice. Riley Creek Campground Open, level ground and loop roads well-suited to family activities and beginner skiing. Triple Lakes (Backcountry Cross Country Skiing/Snowshoeing) Moderate to strenuous. From the trailhead at McKinley Village, travel north across the three lakes, then over the low divide to Riley Creek. Advanced skills required. Trails have multiple uses. But if you encounter ski tracks Upper section not advised in snow. Mile 14.75 while you are walking or snowshoeing, please avoid Park Road Lower Savage Alpine Trail stepping on them. Ä 2 Ski and Mushing Route If you encounter Savage Cabin Trail dog teams or skijorers while you're on skis, snowshoes, or a bicycle please grant them Savage River the right of way. Mile 12.5 Mountain Vista Trail Access to this area begins in mid-February based on conditions Areas of transition between forest and tundra can be wind-swept. Your best skiing may be near trees. Mountain Vista Trail 0.6 miles/1 km, 30 minutes 50 feet elevation change 5% maximum grade Savage Cabin Trail 0.8 miles/1.3 km, 30 minutes No change in elevation 5% maximum grade NP S P HO T O / K E NT M I L L E R Displays of the aurora borealis are produced as electrons and protons from the sun are pulled into the atmosphere by the earth's magnetic field and collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms. Lower Savage Alpine Trail 4 miles, 6.4 km 2-3 hours one way 1,500 feet elevation change Up to 25% grade 2 feet wide Upper section not advised for travel in snow Ski and Mushing Route Moderate rough unmarked route through willows to Savage River Alpenglow, Autumn 2016 to Spring 2017 5 Perspectives of Your Park Triptych Depicts Long Term Landscape Change at Reflection Pond Have you ever wondered while hiking what it might be like to visit the very same remote spot in the distant past, or distant future? “Mount Denali's Reflection Pond: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow,” a painted canvas triptych (24 x 48 inches), depicts past, present, and future views across Reflection Pond, 85 miles into the park, of North America's highest peak and the Alaska Range. The works were created by Robert Winfree, an artist and senior science advisor (emeritus) to the national parks of Alaska. His work is informed by Robert Winfree findings of recent scientific research, climate modeling, five years of collaborative scenario analyses focused on future effects of climate change on this and other national parks in Alaska, and 15 years of personal experience with this park and similar environments. He provides descriptions for the panels: Left panel (northwest): As the last Great Ice Age is winding down, two caribou pause to take in the view from an ice ridge. Denali's Muldrow Glacier is retreating, but many enormous ice blocks remain trapped in a mixture of glacial silt, sand, rock and ice. In the water is an edge of an ice block that will create Reflection Pond as it thaws. The remains of an unfortunate steppe bison rest in the foreground. In the distance, there is another large ice block that will create Wonder Lake as it thaws. "Mount Denali's Reflection Pond: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow," a painted canvas triptych produced for the park by Robert Winfree, an artist and senior science advisor (emeritus) to the national parks of Alaska. Share Your Pictures @ http://go.nps.gov/DenaliShare Arctic ground squirrel Visitor photo courtesy Suzanne Okubu Caribou graze among autumn colors. Alaska Range at the water's edge to contemplate and photograph Denali, North America's tallest mountain, while a bull moose wades along the far bank. Other photographers converse while waiting for the sun to reemerge from clouds. If you have a minute to spare, and a telephone, you can record an audio story about your experience in Denali that may appear on the park website and social media. To record "Your Denali Story," please call 907 6 Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska 683-6400 Learn more at http://go.nps.gov/DenaliStory Right panel (northeast): The right panel Learn more about climate change research in Denali at http://go.nps.gov/DenaliClimate Visitor photo courtesy Neil Palosaari Share Your Story Middle panel (north): The artist stands looks a couple hundred years into the future, after permafrost thaws and the pond drains. A thick stand of conifers grows up along the banks of the former kettle pond, but many of the trees are already dead or dying from insect damage, drought, or both. In the background, the glow of a fire burns just over the ridge. A brown bear climbs the bank of the now-dry kettle pond, departing the area to avoid the fire. A small herd of wood bison, descendants of the now-extinct steppe bison, also hurriedly depart after grazing on grasses and forbs growing in the dry lake bed. Visitor photo courtesy Lance King Glacial Toe Visitor photo courtesy Luke Marson Stay Connected • http://twitter.com/DenaliNPS • www.facebook.com/DenaliNPS • www.flickr.com/photos/DenaliNPS • www.youtube.com/user/DenaliNPS • www.instagram.com/Denal