Brewing up a glacier storm

Thunderstorms are relatively rare in Alaska; generally we might see only one or two each summer near our home. And when we do experience thunderstorms, they're pretty mild in comparison with those that strike in more southern states.

This one rolled passed us while we were camped at Matanuska Glacier this past weekend. Matanuska Glacier is about 100 miles northeast of Anchorage on the Glenn Highway. You can drive even big rigs right down to old glacier moraine and dry camp as we did here. From there, the face of the actual glacier is just short walk away.

Glacier Park, as it's called, is private land and there is a charge for camping here. This year it is $15 per person, $12.50 for seniors and $10 for military personnel. There are no hookups; only outhouses and a few picnic tables.