Not So Good
On their first day of riding, the group went north of Thompson Pass where the conditions weren't the best. It was foggy, the snow was drifting and visibility was poor. The group decided to head back to the lodge at Glennallen. The next morning they headed for Summit Lake. The semi was parked in the Arctic Man lot and the group rode to Paxson. It was 30 degrees F, snowy and overcast and difficult to see. On the third day they went back to Summit Lake and on this day the weather was cooperating-sunny and 38 degrees F-a perfect day for riding. They rode to the Summit Tit, (elevation 5,323 feet), the starting spot for the Arctic Man snowmachine/skiing race. The group spent the day there, playing in the endless playground of snow and taking in the beautiful scenery. Then they returned to Paxson to relax and plan their ride for the next day.
On the fourth day they rode the Denali Hwy. from Paxson to Maclaren River Lodge. The sun was shining and the temp was 22 degrees F, but it was cold and windy. They went riding to the base of the Maclaren Glacier, which is absolutely breathtaking. They all burned a lot of film there, taking some beautiful pictures. After a day of riding they returned to Maclaren River Lodge, where they were served an excellent meal, prepared by Alan and Susie, the lodge owners. Later they just enjoyed the atmosphere of the lodge bar and reminisced over the events. Each of the group's riders had much to talk about as the Alaska adventure continued to unfold.
The fifth day proved to be an excellent day for riding-25 degrees F, partly cloudy, no wind and lots of powdery snow. Alan accompanied the group on the ride and showed them some excellent riding areas. They returned to Maclaren Glacier and took more pictures, including a group shot.
After a gorgeous day of riding, they packed up and headed back to Paxson where they spent the night. The next morning after breakfast they loaded up their gear and sleds in the van. It was time to head home. The days went too fast and they never did see much wildlife.