Learning Alaska

Most people pull into the Glacier View turnout around Mile 108 on the Glenn Highway and immediately look straight ahead.

And honestly, who can blame them?

The views of the valley and surrounding mountains are incredible.

What many visitors don’t realize is that one of Alaska’s most iconic animals is often sitting directly behind them.

Dall sheep are regulars on these rocky cliffs. In fact, I can’t remember a single time of year that I’ve passed through this area without spotting at least one white dot perched high on the mountainside. Whether that’s perfect timing or proof they’re almost always here, I’m still not sure.

I spent three days recently photographing this location and noticed something interesting. The sheep seemed most active lower on the slopes during the early morning hours before gradually moving higher as the day went on. Cooler temperatures, fresh vegetation, or simply their daily routine may all play a role.

If you’re hoping to see them, bring binoculars.

I watched plenty of travelers pull over, zoom in with their phones, snap a quick picture, and leave. While you’ll definitely be able to spot the sheep, photos like the ones here require much more reach than a cell phone can provide. Aside from the drone image showing the landscape, every sheep photograph was taken with a super telephoto wildlife lens.

The good news?

You don’t need expensive camera gear to enjoy them.

Sometimes the best part is simply watching a wild Dall sheep stand effortlessly on cliffs that most of us wouldn’t dare climb.

So the next time you stop at around Mile 108, don’t just look at the glacier.

Turn around.

You might discover the real locals have been watching you the entire time.

- Glenn Highway around Mile 108, Glacier View, Alaska