Day 5 pt. 2 - Rafting the Nenana

Our last big adventure in Denali was definitely the wettest and coldest: rafting the Nenana River. Since Holden was quite old enough for the bigger water, we split up. He and Papa rode the first half of the river (the mild) while Nate, Everett and I tackled the second half (the wild).

The river was great, but surviving getting our dry suits might have been the biggest challenge. They called getting into those latex necks "the rebirthing process" and it's apt.

Papa and Holden had a great ride down the first half of the river. And, according to Papa, the entire boat learned ALL about the Denali Sled Dogs from Holden, who was still on his puppy love high.

When the rafting guide asked if anyone wanted to take the front position, Everett immediately shot his hand up and climbed up front. He was in prime position as we barreled through some great rapids, never shying away from the big water. Our guide, who was also from Chatt, told Everett the tips for rivers to learn how to guide on, because he seems like a natural.

We ended the long day with frozen dinners & some local brews back at the B&B. Just before we went to bed, a mama moose walked into the backyard with her baby. A great ending to our Denali stay.

Tomorrow: travel day to Seward.Read more