How long to stay at Denali?

I think we've finally decided how long is the optimal time to stay at Denali National Park.
It's a big place: 6 million acres and over 9,419 square miles in size.
So, of course, it depends on what you are planning on doing.

Check it out at:
http://www.nps.gov/dena/index.htm

If you are a little sedentary, stay at the Riley campsite. We think 3 days is just about right.
That'll give you a chance to get there one day, check out the visitor center, make reservations for your bus trip into the park (if you haven't made it on-line), and see the 7 PM education ranger show.
Next day you can take your 8 or more hours trip. We suggest you take an early (pre 9 AM departure) so you can get off the bus at the far end, hike a little and take a later bus back.
Next day, enjoy the solitude of a 2 mile or so round trip  from the RV park to the mushing dog center, and leave at the end of that day.

If you like a little more solitude, make reservations to camp at Savage River, 13 miles into the camp.You'll really be away form civilization: No campground in Denali has electrical or water hookups for RVs. Savage does have potable water, but no shower or laundry facilities, no stores, and very limited use of generators. You'll be just below "tree-line" at 3,000 foot elevation. You'll be able to drive in for your scheduled reservation and then out 4 days later. No other driving allowed; in the meantime, you'll have to take a bus, ride your bike, or walk everywhere. It's $ 40 per night, if I remember right.

If you are ready to give up the comfort of your RV, there are several tent campsites you reach by bus/hiking.

On the other hand, there are a lot of programs you can enjoy:
http://www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit/loader.cfm?csModule=security/getfile&pageid=516359
so you might want to stay longer. Lots of ranger programs!

But, what I wish I had made is arrangements for are the Alaska Geographic seminars and summer camps. Sure, they'll cost; I think it was $ 4-500 for about 4 days. They only take 10 people, and every week is a different topic. I think they run in June and part of July only. Make reservations very early. Personally, I think it might be worth driving up in a few more summers to do these things!
http://www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit/field-seminars.htm

Bring your insect repellent, head nets and even net pants if you have some, 'cause it was hot an the mosquito's are here just like about everywhere in Alaska during our early-mid June visit.

You could see the flowers wilt between 9 and 11 AM,

with temps climbing to 85 degrees during this day in June!

(PS The first 2 pictures of people in today's blog are not ours. They are off the Denali Nat Park  website.)