Renaissance has returned. This is the second season at Raft Camp—yes, feels completely different. Last season was overwhelming—trying to take everything in was a challenge, and then there was the ankle. You might remember I broke it badly and ended up having surgery mid-season.
But this year, I came ready. Fully equipped, with the right attitude, determined not to let anything go wrong and to experience everything I missed out on last year. I kept a clearer head, drank less, stayed out of trouble, and focused on the prize.
Now, I’m here to take in every inch of beauty, every stretch of river and scenery, every delicate sound, and every piece of nature I possibly can.
Here’s a beautiful example of lupine, usually blooming in early June.
Moose were everywhere, and as far as Alaska wildlife goes, they are the most dangerous. I was actually charged by a moose my first season—it was one of the scariest wildlife encounters I’ve ever had. Moose are Alaska’s number one killers when it comes to wild animals.
On a lighter note, I managed to catch a picture of this amazing bush plane—look at that polished aluminum! I loved seeing these planes every day while living on the airstrip.
And of course, there was the smaller side of nature too…like this sandpiper flitting along the shore, or a mama moose cooling off on a hot June day. Every moment felt alive, every corner of Raft Camp offering something incredible to notice.
And then there was this Renaissance photo. I didn’t even really realize what made it a Renaissance picture until Marcus and Ian pointed it out. This was such a great rafting trip—a fun run with friends in small boats down the upper Nananana River. I snapped this shot while we were taking a break, and everyone loved it. It captured the moment perfectly…the calm of the river, the light, the laughter…everything about that trip just felt alive.
Here’s me on the sticks of a small cataraft. I love this little boat, and if I ever get my own raft, it’ll be something like this—light, nimble, perfect for small trips. The only problem is they’re expensive, and getting one up here is no small feat.
And then the last photo I’ll include from this trip is just a beautiful shot of Panorama Peak as we floated north on the upper Nenana. The view was breathtaking…everything about that moment felt like the perfect end to a perfect run.
We took our group photo early this season, and what a crew it was. This really was one of the best groups of staff we’ve had at Denali Raft Adventures—a team full of energy, skill, and good vibes. After so many amazing runs on the glacial Nenana River and days spent sharing laughs, stories, and stunning sunsets, that photo is a snapshot of a season I’ll remember for a long time.
A shout out to Demetrius—he’s on the bottom left—for taking all the dads out to a super nice dinner on Father’s Day. There’s me, Jimbo, Barry, and Jim, who is Demetrius’ dad and also the owner of the company. Moments like that made this season feel even more special…a mix of adventure, camaraderie, and just enjoying the people around you.
Here’s a cartoonish-looking sunset. Fires were blazing all around—which is pretty much the norm for late June in the interior of Alaska. The sky glowed like a painting, and the heat from the fires added this surreal, almost otherworldly feel to the evening. Moments like that remind you how wild and alive this place really is.
Like I said, I’m taking it all in…even the smoky moments. The haze from the fires mixed with the sunset light made everything feel alive and raw, a perfect reminder that being here is about experiencing it all, not just the easy or pretty parts.
journeyvision 