A few years ago, John Gaughan of Crystal Lake, IL decided to plan a trip to Alaska with one of his friends who is also a camping enthusiast. They researched for months prior to the trip about what they should bring, what they could expect and anything else that might keep them safe. Neither wife was too happy about this trip but chalked it up to a harmless midlife crisis.

John Gaughan of Crystal Lake, IL had a business acquaintance in Anchorage who said he would meet up with them to help organize the camping trip and offer some local tips. This definitely offered some reassurance to John Gaughan of Crystal Lake, IL but he was getting nervous as the trip date drew closer.

“I almost chickened out at the last minute. I had been camping thousands of times all over the state of Illinois. Alaska just seemed so wild and scary to me. I didn’t feel prepared at all, even after reading tons of books and camping manuals. But I would not let myself get in the way of this experience,” said John Gaughan of Crystal Lake, IL. His friend was also having doubts but the two never discussed them. They proceeded to plan as much as they could until the day finally came for the trip.

With entirely too much stuff in their carry-on luggage, they boarded their plane for Anchorage. When they landed they were greeted by their acquaintance and spent the first day exploring the city and staying in a warm, safe hotel. Day two was when they would make their journey out to Denali State Park. They wanted to camp in the backcountry to get the authentic experience so they made their way out.

John Gaughan of Crystal Lake, IL knew everything possible about the different kinds of bears they could potentially come across in the park. He knew they would most likely stay away from him, as most bears do, but was really nervous about it at the same time. They set up their camp in a proper spot, made sure they disposed of their food properly and proceeded to enjoy an amazing camping trip.