Talkeetna

We were hoping to see Denali from Talkeetna, since the smoke purportedly had not gone that way.  This will have been our fourth time here, and we have never seen the mountain, and because the day was clear, we were hoping today would be the day.

Our luck, the wind shifted, and Talkeetna was hemmed in with smoke.  So we thought we would take a plane flight . . . but the top of the mountain apparently was covered by clouds.  Strike two.  We scheduled a flight for early in the morning, hoping maybe the top of the mountain would be visible . . . but we will see.

Talkeetna is a darling town with terrific eating establishments.  Last time we ate at the Wildflower, but this time we went to the Denali Brewing Company.  I had a salad with salmon, Don had reindeer meat loaf, Bart and Kara had halibut, and Katie and CJ had a pretzel dip with prime rib.  Since all plates were licked clean, I would say the evening was a success.

We are staying in the same campground we did last time - where Chris tried to befriend a fox.  The train station is right behind us, but because of the fire, people are being bused from here to Anchorage, so we won't be awakened by trains.

Helicopters that are carrying water to the fire are another story.  Not only are they picking up water near here, they also are refueling at the airport right next to the train station.  It somewhat reminds me of MASH tv shows when the helicopter comes in.  It was interesting to see them carry their water buckets to the fire - the buckets do not look very big, but I am sure they are!

 We were supposed to be here two nights, but one must be flexible . . . and we are only here one.  Too bad, as this is a great little town!