denali adventure

[lisa29]

Hello, I would just like to know if anyone out there has done the Denali adventure? I was thinking of doing it in 2009 and would just like some further info. Thanks:)

[JayH]

What would that be?

I've seen mtbs on the long park road to Wonder Lake.. dusty though when the buses pass.

Jay

[cyclesafe]

I am familiar with the route.

Good roads with decent shoulders throughout except for around Anchorage and except for the Denali Highway itself which (from the East) starts off paved but then turns into a hundred miles of reasonable gravel.

Some wildlife around the roads, especially moose, but plan to bike into the park itself (after the conclusion of the tour) where you will see every animal imaginable.  Good luck with the grizzlies and the wolves, but I don't think anyone on a bike has been attacked.  You can be the first!

No special gear other than 35mm+ tires is required.  Be prepared for lots of rain.  

[JayH]

Ohh, so this is an event? I thought this was some vague reference to Denali Nat Park and 'adventure'.

I'd be aware of the time of year too, summer is very much construction time for Alaska so during the summer month, not at all uncommon to find the parks highway busy with construction.  I did an event once from Fairbanks to Anchorage via a roundabout route that went towards Glenallen and then west to Anchorage. Parts of it was pretty full of construction. I had a road bike with 28c tires but still you had to go slow and I don't think a wider tire would of been worth it overall.

It was a beautiful ride, no need to preach to the choir but Alaska is best seen by bike, for sure.

Jay

[jnorth]

please come fully prepared for sub-freezing temperatures. the weather is very unpredictable there, esp with the altitude(i suggest a down vest or jacket for the evenings). skin, hands and feet need special coverage & care, it is very dry and dusty.
the park highway road is several long and acute ups and downs as you cross the river beds. it is a unique and unspoiled vista 24 hours a day(no darkness in summer).
regards-janet

[lisa29]

Thanks Janet,

 Thanks for your response, so I take it I would need a really warm sleeping bag for the night time. Also what's it like trying to fall alseep in day light??

[lisa29]

ok, Thanks for the reply:)

[lisa29]

ok, I will watch out for the bears! Thanks for the reply:)

[janetanorth]

warm sleeping bag-yes! i prefer down.
sleeping while light out-eyeshades and ear plugs.
don't hesitate to contact me off site if i can provide additional help.
bon voyage-janet

[lisa29]

ok, Thankyou Janet