Wednesday, July 15, 2009 – Denali National Park
Wednesday was a pretty low-key day. We took a short hike from the Riley Creek Campground to the Visitor Center complex where we toured the Visitor Center and the Murie Science and Learning Center. It was a very nice walk, crossing a creek and with the Alaskan wilderness all around. However, the only wildlife we saw was a bunny rabbit. We learned a lot about Denali in the two centers, then walked back to the campground on a different trail.
Wednesday’s excitement came in the evening. We went about 10 miles north of Riley Creek to Black Diamond for a covered wagon ride and cookout. Two strong workhorses took is on a ride through the woods to a pavilion where we enjoyed a family-style feast (which worked out well since we are all family). It was cool and drizzly, but we still enjoyed the scenery and had a great time.
After dinner the ladies went back to the campground and the guys stayed behind to play golf. Yes, golf AFTER dinner. None of us are avid golfers, but we all enjoy the game and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to play golf at midnight. Our tee time was 10:45, 10:45 PM that is. At the stroke of midnight the ranger rode out from the clubhouse to give us certificates for Midnight Golf. It got dim but never completely dark and we were able to finish our nine holes just before 1:00 am. A late end to another great Alaskan day.
Where Are We Going Now? 
Good decision to play golf at midnight. That may have been a once in a lifetime opportunity.
It will always be a good memory.
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