Page 30 - Volume 15 Number 12

east of Denali Park so we launched for Talkeetna.The forecast was basically accurate with the exception of being more broken than overcast. As we approached the pass, the sky brightened and straight ahead was a big open hole in the clouds, several miles across. The -550’s on the little Baron shine at times like this; in moments we were on top of the layer looking at the Mountain. Another experience.Talkeetna airport is walking distance from downtown and we drug our bags to the hotel. The Baron has reasonable useful load for four people and bags, but baggage is a burden, and packing lighter means a more pleasurable trip. There’s not really anywhere in Northern Canada or Alaska where attire is an issue. Travel light!A 50 Foot aluminum Jet Boat with 3 Big Block Chevy V-8s, skimming across water too shallow to stop in, is another experience. The purpose is not the ride in the boat, but to see the wildlife and landscape. We saw a bear, eagles and otters, all narrated by an enthusiastic boat driver and a knowledgeable naturalist.Next morning’s breakfast was at “The Roadhouse.” This is the last place the climbers eat before climbing Denali, and the first place they eat after they return. Eating is an important part of any excursion, and eating in Alaska is exceptional!Our next meal was in Anchorage’s “F-Street Station”. Halibut fish and chips, accompanied by a pint of Alaska Amber, is one of the finest culinary pleasures on the planet, and a mandatory stop on a visit to Anchorage.Another mandatory experience is lunch on the deck at the Millenium Hotel, located at the end of Lake Hood, a water airport right beside Ted Stevens International airport. From the deck, we watched Cessnas, Beavers, Otters, Maules and Cubs, all arriving and departing in aKING AIR LANDING GEAR• Complete Sets• Individual Components• Removal and Installation601.936.3599www.traceaviation.comFAA CRS R39R997XYour Source for King Air Landing Gear28 • TWIN & TURBINEDECEMBER 2011