West Rib Pub & Denali View SouthTalkeetna - Alaska

 Meet "Seward's Folly" an epic Man vs. Food-worthy burger served up to willing tummies at the West Rib Pub in Talkeetna, Alaska.  This was our second trip to Talkeetna, the first being earlier in the year when my mom and step-dad were up for a visit.  It was on the first trip that we learned about this epic 5 pound burger and made the commitment to come back at some point to attempt it.

 My father-in-law and husband willingly subjected their poor tummies to this monstrous cow-and-pork tanker, sadly eating only about one-third to one-half of the beast.  It made for great entertainment for the three of us who wouldn't dare, as well as most everyone else sitting outside that afternoon.

 Meanwhile, back on the more realistic portion side of things, I enjoyed my crispy halibut nuggets with delicious parmesan garlic fries and a slaw that I actually enjoyed eating (not a cole slaw fan here folks but I always try it).  Zion attempted the vegetable spring rolls with thai peanut dipping sauce but lets be real, at three she may have tried a multitude of foods, but if its not the typical kid-finger-food its probably going to be a struggle.

 After lunch we were desperate to to find Mt. McKinley which was hidden in a cloud cover from the usually great vantage point in Talkeetna.  We drove about 30 minutes north to Denali View South, which ended up being a brilliant idea.  The mountains were simply too epic to capture with a camera.  They just tower over the horizon like giants.  Its amazing to be standing their looking at the highest point in North America.  Beautiful.

I think I've finally caught you up on the adventures of the last month in Alaska!  We've been enjoying endless sunshine here, midnight sunsets which are just starting to fade and just being together as a family.  Its crazy to think that August will mark six months on this crazy adventure, and that it will also be our last month here. 

       

Girdwood Area & Bird Point - Alaska

 On our way back from Alyeska Resort & Tramway, we made a brief stop at the Alaska Candle Factory.  We had a fun little conversation with the owner who has decided to sell the shop and retire.  We left with a couple of really unique handmade candles and this great picture of my mother-in-law in front of the shop with the totem.  A little while later we made a last stop at Bird Point, to catch the incoming Tidal Bore, which was insanely overhyped.

 When we first arrived there were quite a few people, but over the hour or so that we awaited to see this "historic" event, the place was pretty packed.  We honestly expected a lot more due to all the hype but had a good laugh at this "epic" wave that rushed in to bring in the tide.  Behold the magical Tidal Bore:

 At least Zion seemed to find plenty of entertainment in picking dandelions and blowing their seeds all over the place.  :)

       

Alyeska Tramway, Girdwood - Alaska

 Our trip to Alyeska Resort was made memorable by our ride up the Alyeska Tramway to the top of the Ski Resort.  At the top, there is a cafe, fine dining restaurant and small museum/gift shop.  There are also numerous hiking trails during the warmer months in Alaska.  The views from the top were breathtaking, not only of mountains and glaciers, but of the Girdwood harbor.  We spent hours on top of the mountain, but it didn't seem like it, it was a magical sort of slowing of time - peaceful and serene.

 My mother-in-law had us snap a group shot for the Columbus newspaper's travel section.  :) Who knows, my photo might get featured!  After lunch and some looking around, I decided to solo climb about halfway up Mighty Mite, one of the steep trails up to the next highest summit.  I felt so invigorated hiking up in the snow and taking in the majestic scenery.

If you head to Alyeska Resort, I'd highly recommend taking the Alyeska Tramway.  I've heard it is complimentary if you book a reservation at the fine dining establishment.  It offers some of the most breathtaking views of the mountains and waterways of Girdwood, Alaska.