Alaska Pack Llamas Blog

  Why I like this hike:   This versatile all-season trail goes through a gorgeous glacial valley and offers various hiking options. You can elect an easy hike of several miles or a rigorous eight mile (plus) trek to the Mint Glacier cabin. Depending on conditions, the first five or six miles can usually be done winter or summer and is suitable for most skill levels. This trail is a popular winter trek for those who ski or snowshoe. Driving Directions: (1) Glenn Highway Milepost 49.5, north on Palmer-Fishhook Road to Hatcher Pass (also called Hatcher Pass Road in the Hatcher Pass Management Area) 13.7 miles on the right; or (2) George Parks Highway Milepost 36.1, north on Trunk Road to Palmer-Fishhook Road, turn left (north) to Hatcher Pass (also called Hatcher Pass Road in the Hatcher Pass Management Area) 13.7 miles on the right. Google Driving Directions GOLD MINT PARKING AREA AND TRAILHEAD SOA-DNR Hatcher's Pass Brochure The Nitty Gritty: The trail follows the west ban...

Llama antibodies show more and more promise as a cure for Corona Virus- Inspired by llamas’ unique antibodies, scientists create a potent anti-coronavirus molecule NBC News - Llamas serve surprising role in coronavirus antibody treatment Llamas hold great promise in the fight against the coronavirus and this has been getting more and more attention lately, especially in mainstream media.  Llamas have something most animals don't. "This strange property of producing these small simple antibodies," said John Aitchison of Seattle Children's Research Institute. It does not make llamas sick, but does allow them to naturally produce antibodies called nanobodies, which are collected in blood samples. The next step is to isolate specific nanobodies in the lab, find ones that work to combat COVID-19 and produce them in bacteria. The idea, eventually, is to make a treatment for coronavirus patients that may be administered deep in the lungs to keep COVID-19 from spreadin...