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The 2021 Denali Science Adventure Camp took us to Denali for four days and three nights.
We camped at Riley Creek, right on the river.
Because of COVID restrictions we couldn't use a van to get around. Instead, we walked everywhere....
On the first day we set up up camp and went on a hike to a nearby suspension bridge. We learned that all the material had been brought out there in winter by sled dogs! We played games to get to know each other, led by Ranger Filardi from the National Park Service. We also did a lot of botanizing and found some gorgeous flowers.
On the second day we met Law Enforcement Ranger Shelby. She showed us some very cool equipment (and let us set off the siren on her truck!). She also demonstrated how she deals with difficult people. Don't mess with Shelby!
Then we hiked to see the rescue control center where we checked out the ambulance. Then on to the Denali Dog Kennels, where manager David treated us like VIPs. The dogs were gorgeous and very friendly. We learned how they breed dogs with the traits they want. We got to hang out with the dogs in a large run, and we even got to feed the dogs! They sure get excited about their food!
On Day 3 we met Ranger Kaija. She taught us all about how to find sign of animals, and showed us how to locate a animals using radiotelemetry with help of a wolf collar. We took turns hiding and finding the collar. We also set out camera traps and had to think about (and demonstrate!) where and how different animals move through the woods. Learning how to track animals is harder than you think!
On the last day we hiked up Mount Healy. The views from up there are incredible! When we got back, Ranger Dawn and Ranger Filardi swore in the new Junior Rangers and gave us guidebooks.
Then it was time to pack up and go home. We had a wonderful time and were sad to go. But, there's always next year!
Many thanks to the folks at the National Park Service (Sierra McLane, Ranger Dawn, and Ranger Filardi) and the folks at the Denali Education center (Justine Schmidt and the wonderful Emily) for making this experience possible! Additional adult leads on this trip were Christa Mulder, Steve Decina, and Jamie Hollingsworth.
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