The Allure of the North------ imagining Wonder Lake in a splendid backcountry
Surrounded by 6 Million Acres, no place is more wild, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful than Alaska's Denali National Park & Preserve. Located in the heart of Alaska Range, Denali Park is accessible by car or bus lines through George Parks Highway, by train service of Alaska Railroad at summer times, and by plane. Free shuttle bus service is also available within the Park.
Set just inside the boreal forest in Denali National Park & Preserve less 240 miles north of Anchorage, Wonder Lake has become one of the most desirable summer-time recreation destinations in Alaska. Even its name, derived from a native Athabaskan belief that unexplained light can be seen floating above the lake’s surface, evokes an image of beauty.
Then there is the lake itself, a pristine body of water that boasts some of the Country’s best wetland, and the magnificent Mt. Mckinley--the North America highest mountain-at sunset and sunrise. Throw in the embrace of Mt. Mckinley, vast surrounding forest, the unique precious and fecund botanical resources in areas of its shoreline, and it’s no wonder that Wonder Lake is considered by many to be the best place in Alaska.
Mr. Rockcurrent readily touted the area’s many attractive features, including its renowned hunting and fishing, whitewater rafting and hiking. Mountaineering the summit of the 6,194 meters Mt. Mckinley is a daunting expedition, but the thrills on the majestic peak, and the lifetime lasting images of the pristine geographical feature on earth, diverse and abundant wild animals suffice all your endeavours. Rockcurrent said he spent years vacationing at Wonder Lake before making Mckinley Village -the nearest town in Denali’s easternmost subdivision-their permanent home in 2012. As an avid hunter and fisherman, Rock had spent much of his lifetime in the area and had always planned to one day live there year-round.
Of course, non-sportsmen can also appreciate the community’s proximity to the wild. Rock said it’s common to see wildlife such as grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep roaming freely anywhere within the village’s borders, particularly during the quiet off-season. Another spectacular activity is to witness the awe-inspiring views of sunset and sunrise on this remarkable land. “The views will stay with them the rest of their lives and there’s so much to see around”, he said. “Here, the outdoors is just amazing.”
Wonder Lake offers plenty of opportunities to experience and enjoy the outdoors. In the winter, visitors travel for miles to cross-country ski on the groomed trails, and go snowmobiling or ice fishing. Summer activities are even more abundant, from hiking, biking, boating, to water sports. With its large area and numerous trails, Wonder Lake is both a magnet for vivacious summer funs and a haven for rest and relaxation.
Rock said one of the most popular attractions in the area is the Murie Science and Learning Center, a gallery owned by award-winning artist Zoumaduren, whose photographic art and Chinese-English riddle truly capture the essence of the Northern Alaska. “It is beautiful and fascinating”, he said with a firm nodding.
When it comes to man-made structures, many would consider the McKinley Chalet Resort to be the areas’s crowning jewel. The world-class facility provides a perfect setting for guests to enjoy luxury and comfort in the midst of the lakes serene natural splendor. According to Sportwoman, director of recreation for the resort, guests can enjoy a delicious meal or meet friends for a cool drink at the water’s edge restaurant and lounge, with a magnificent panoramic view of the lake and peaks as a backdrop, after experiencing a full day outdoors.
Rock said the awe-inspiring landscape found in Alaska’s Denali is unlike any other, and believes all residents of North America should bear witness to the beauty of the area at least once. And of course, whether looking for place to call home or to simply spend a summer vacation, Wonder Lake at Denali is a great place to sample the allure of the north.
