Denali — a dreamy destination

Isn’t it wonderful to have places in this world that still leave us awestruck with their natural beauty? To me, one such place is Denali Park in Alaska. I’ve seen pictures, and I’ve heard accounts from those who have been there, but I’ve yet to experience its majesty myself. If you’re one of the lucky ones who has visited Denali, I hope you enjoyed your trip to this dreamy destination. If you haven’t been, perhaps this puzzle will give you something to dream about.

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A name change to recognize tradition

In 2015, then-Secretary of the Interior, Sally Jewell, announced that Mount McKinley was to be officially recognized as Denali. This decision marked the end of a long-standing dispute and was a nod to the cultural heritage of the native Athabascan people of Alaska. The Athabascans had called the mountain “Denali,” meaning “the high one” or “the great one” in their language, for centuries. The name Mount McKinley had been attributed by a gold prospector in 1896, who named it in support of then-presidential candidate William McKinley. The state of Alaska had recognized the name Denali since 1975. But it took until 2015 for the U.S. federal government to do the same.

Denali is more than just a dreamy destination

Denali is not just a mountain but a symbol of resilience and grandeur. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and caribou. Denali is located in the heart of Alaska and attracts millions of visitors each year. The park offers activities such as hiking, camping, dog-sledding, and even flightseeing tours over the mountain.

Climate change and Denali

Climate change is having significant impacts on Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. Warmer temperatures are projected to lengthen the growing season, decrease available moisture, and increase fire frequency. The wild lands of Alaska’s national parks, including Denali, are changing at an accelerated pace due to disproportionate increases in temperature at high latitudes.

One of the most visible impacts of climate change in Denali is the thawing of the permafrost. This has led to unpredictable and increasing landslide movement rates at locations like Pretty Rocks. Climate change has also curtailed access to the park. For example, the park’s sole road has had to remain closed during the summer and following year due to the effects of climate change. As I learn more about this stunning place, I wonder if I’ll ever have the chance to walk the trails, hear the crunch of gravel under my boots, and feel the chill of the Alaskan wind on my cheeks. Visit with me today—at least in spirit!

Did you miss last week’s Friday Morning Post and jigsaw puzzle about Majestic Caverns? To browse all my Friday Morning Post entries, click here. Let’s enjoy the beauty of Denali together with today’s jigsaw puzzle. It may not be the real thing, but it’s the closest we can get until this trip becomes a reality!