Talkeetna Mountains: Alaska 2019

In the summer of 2019, we embarked on an unforgettable expedition.

A group of 10 adventurers, accompanied by experienced NOLS instructors, set out on a 2-week journey into the heart of Alaska’s Talkeetna Mountains. Dropped off in the midst of the untamed wilderness by a bush plane, we forged our own path through the rugged terrain, relying on our skills, instincts, and the guidance of our knowledgeable instructors.

Bushwalking through the ever-changing landscape, we marveled at the transformative power of the mountain features. We stayed above the tree line for the most part. Navigating through scree, snow, and diverse terrain, we pushed ourselves to new limits, swimming in an ice-cold lake and bearing witness to the ethereal beauty of the sun setting for a mere hour behind a mountain’s imposing shadow.

Throughout our journey, we sought solace and guidance in our Islamic faith, engaging in daily dhikr, prayer, Qur’an recitation, and thought-provoking classes that deepened our connection with Allah and strengthened the bonds between us. The wilderness became our sacred sanctuary. Our shared experiences forged unbreakable ties of friendship and faith.

This journey challenged us and awakened our senses, revealing the awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska’s wilderness. We discovered the transformative power of nature and the resilience of our Islamic faith as we embarked on an adventure that would remain etched in our hearts long after we returned to the world below.