We've been in Denali for two days now and yesterday took an 8 1/2 hour bus tour, which is the only way you can get into the park. Even though it is rainy and cold here (max about 52 degrees), it was a great day to watch for wildlife because they love the cold. I'm attaching a picture of a grizzly sow and her two spring cubs; they are called spring cubs if they were born this year. These three actually walked ahead of us on the road which our guide said happens rarely in the park. We also have a grizzly in the RV Park where we are staying and I'll attach a copy of him. Even though he is smaller, my theory is that he is looking for furry 4-legged species around 17 pounds in the form of domesticated dogs. Whenever we go for a walk, I keep Molly close and away from bushes and trees, as we don't want her to appear as an appetizer!
We also got a great picture of a caribou; although we can't tell if this one is male or female, as they both grow antlers. We did learn that they try to be very still, as they attract less bugs and mosquitos that way.
One last picture I actually took last week. I'm intrigued by the fauna and flora of the region and wanted to show you a typical pinecone. Because the growing season for spruce trees is so short, the root system is shallow because of the permafrost. As a result, the pinecones are tiny and very delicate. I've collected a whole bag full for my granddaughters, as they might want to use them in holiday decorations this winter.
Today, many folks in our group are going whitewater rafting but we passed on that! They were complaining about the rain so I had to remind them that it is a "water sport" - much like we had to remind ourselves about sailing during those great summers on Lake Michigan. We are going back to the Denali Visitors Center and to take pictures of the beautiful scenery - yes, even though it is raining!!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Now in Fairbanks
Yesterday we drove from Delta Junction to Fairbanks where about 25 miles were under construction. The right side of the two-lane highway was all torn up so we traveled in the left lane until we would see an oncoming vehicle, then we would move over. It was pretty uneventful until we got almost to Fairbanks and the highway was passing through Eilson Air Force Base and I saw a moose with two calves on the shoulder of the road. As we have so many times, we stopped quickly, pulled over and I jumped out to get an "up close" picture. Before we knew it, other vehicles had stopped behind us and oncoming vehicles came speeding up to us; lights were flashing and machine guns were drawn! You guessed it: they don't want you stopping on a military base for ANY reason! But I showed them - I got the picture anyway, which is attached. We also stopped at the North Pole which is a must-see tourist spot. Santa was most accomodating when we issued a special request, which you will notice in the picture.
For dinner last night we went to an all-you-can-eat Salmon Bake that also served prime rib, halibut and cod - all of which were wonderful. Afterward, there was a show at the Palace Theatre which was a great historical and funny recap of Fairbanks' history. Today, we arose bright and early to get to a stern-wheeler riverboat called Discovery II. It sits on the Chena River. On the way, you get to go ashore to view a replica of a Chena Athabascan Indian Village of the early 1900's. It was very interesting and was hosted by some girls from that tribe. We then went to lunch at the Pump Grill, which was another all-you-can-eat senior's event. Our bus driver was quite the Fairbanks hostess and took us to a farmers market and to the Aleyeska Pipeline viewing spot, where the pipeline runs above ground. By the time we got back to the RV park, we were exhausted and needed naps. Tomorrow is a "free" day which means clothes washing, grocery shopping, rig maintenance and preparing to go to Denali for the next three days. Our biggest wish is that the rain will let up. Ever since we met up with the tour group, there has only been one day without rain and the temperature stays in the mid-50's. Oh well, we are having fun in spite of it all!
For dinner last night we went to an all-you-can-eat Salmon Bake that also served prime rib, halibut and cod - all of which were wonderful. Afterward, there was a show at the Palace Theatre which was a great historical and funny recap of Fairbanks' history. Today, we arose bright and early to get to a stern-wheeler riverboat called Discovery II. It sits on the Chena River. On the way, you get to go ashore to view a replica of a Chena Athabascan Indian Village of the early 1900's. It was very interesting and was hosted by some girls from that tribe. We then went to lunch at the Pump Grill, which was another all-you-can-eat senior's event. Our bus driver was quite the Fairbanks hostess and took us to a farmers market and to the Aleyeska Pipeline viewing spot, where the pipeline runs above ground. By the time we got back to the RV park, we were exhausted and needed naps. Tomorrow is a "free" day which means clothes washing, grocery shopping, rig maintenance and preparing to go to Denali for the next three days. Our biggest wish is that the rain will let up. Ever since we met up with the tour group, there has only been one day without rain and the temperature stays in the mid-50's. Oh well, we are having fun in spite of it all!
Monday, July 21, 2008
We are finally in Alaska!
I'd love to tell you that our arrival in Alaska has been exceptional, but you'll only hear me recount our entry in terms of disbelief. We travelled 111 miles yesterday driving from Dawson City, Yukon to Chicken, Alaska. The road on the Canadian side wasn't half bad; alternating between paved roads and black gravel. When we arrived on the Alaska side, the road deteriorated to red mud which covered our vehicles. About the time we all got settled, the clouds parted and the sun came out - of course! Today, we traveled from Chicken to Delta Junction and were absolutely relieved when we picked up the Alaskan Highway again. It was delightful!!!
So four pictures for you today. You have to see the Top of the World Highway on the American side - Second, you have to see the shape of our vehicles as a result of the drive. Third, a trip of the convoy all lined up in Chicken. Finally, a wonderful shot of a moose and her two calves, hanging out near where we were camped. You have to look at the bright side of every event!
So four pictures for you today. You have to see the Top of the World Highway on the American side - Second, you have to see the shape of our vehicles as a result of the drive. Third, a trip of the convoy all lined up in Chicken. Finally, a wonderful shot of a moose and her two calves, hanging out near where we were camped. You have to look at the bright side of every event!
Friday, July 18, 2008
The crisis is over!
We are now in Dawson City, Yukon and we have an excellent wifi connection, so I will attach many pictures to make up for lost time over the next couple of days. On Sunday, we leave the Yukon (finally) for the town of Chicken, Alaska (population - 21). Meanwhile it is rainy and dismal in Dawson City and the streets are like they were during the gold rush. Muddy, with wood walkways - which I will show you in photos. Stay tuned!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Having trouble sending pictures
During our 2-day stay in Whitehorse, Yukon, I have tried repeatedly to update the photo section of this blog, to no avail. I'm not sure how I actually got the one with bluebonnets attached, but at least you have one. Today, we head for even more sparse signals in Minto, and then on to Dawson City and Chicken, Alaska where only 37 people live. Needless to say, it may be awhile before we get access again. Please continue to check the blog and we promise to send pics as soon as we can!
Meanwhile, we leave you with a little ditty that must have been written when the road was much worse (but still describes the path it takes!).
"The Alaska Highway winding in and winding out
leaves a lot of serious doubt
if the lout who built this route
was going to hell or coming out . . ."
Author Unknown
Meanwhile, we leave you with a little ditty that must have been written when the road was much worse (but still describes the path it takes!).
"The Alaska Highway winding in and winding out
leaves a lot of serious doubt
if the lout who built this route
was going to hell or coming out . . ."
Author Unknown
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
We are now in the Yukon Territory
Howdy! It is Tuesday, July 15th and we left on Saturday; travelling through the Northern Rockies in British Columbia and now arriving in the Yukon. Our cell phones are turned off as they can't even find the right time zone but we can get WIFI. Go figure!
So far, we have travelled about 900 miles on the Alaskan Highway. We will leave the highway on Thursday to travel up the Klondike Highway to Dawson City, YT and Chicken, Alaska before going to Delta Junction where the highway ends. We'll circle back here during the final days of the trip, so we will be able to actually travel the entire highway. So the challenge is to figure out what to share with you because we have taken a ton of photos and every curve in the road offers a new adventure. First, I should tell you that the Alaskan Highway is a very good road. In most places it is two lanes with wide, paved shoulders and the traffic is not heavy so those who need to pass us have no problem doing so. You do have to plan where to get fuel, as you could go for as long as 250 miles without any services.
So far, we have seen buffalo, black bear, caribou, fallow deer and moose. On Monday, we even had to wait for the caribou to move off the highway but then today, we didn't see one animal but we have seen beautiful scenery. We have really enjoyed getting to know the other "trackers" and have had a lot of fun as there is a lot of kidding and joking that takes place.
The biggest adjustment is that we have on average, about 19 hours of daylight every day. I would argue that it doesn't get dark at all; thank goodness for blackout shades. We somehow manage to stay up until 11 or 12 every night and usually get up about 6 or 6:30 to get moving by 8. Molly is really confused, but has started to understand "Too early! Go back to bed" and climbs back in without much fuss.
Speaking of late, it is about 10:20 pm here and I need to close for now. I'll attach a couple of fun photos to give you an idea what we are seeing. Stay tuned!
So far, we have travelled about 900 miles on the Alaskan Highway. We will leave the highway on Thursday to travel up the Klondike Highway to Dawson City, YT and Chicken, Alaska before going to Delta Junction where the highway ends. We'll circle back here during the final days of the trip, so we will be able to actually travel the entire highway. So the challenge is to figure out what to share with you because we have taken a ton of photos and every curve in the road offers a new adventure. First, I should tell you that the Alaskan Highway is a very good road. In most places it is two lanes with wide, paved shoulders and the traffic is not heavy so those who need to pass us have no problem doing so. You do have to plan where to get fuel, as you could go for as long as 250 miles without any services.
So far, we have seen buffalo, black bear, caribou, fallow deer and moose. On Monday, we even had to wait for the caribou to move off the highway but then today, we didn't see one animal but we have seen beautiful scenery. We have really enjoyed getting to know the other "trackers" and have had a lot of fun as there is a lot of kidding and joking that takes place.
The biggest adjustment is that we have on average, about 19 hours of daylight every day. I would argue that it doesn't get dark at all; thank goodness for blackout shades. We somehow manage to stay up until 11 or 12 every night and usually get up about 6 or 6:30 to get moving by 8. Molly is really confused, but has started to understand "Too early! Go back to bed" and climbs back in without much fuss.
Speaking of late, it is about 10:20 pm here and I need to close for now. I'll attach a couple of fun photos to give you an idea what we are seeing. Stay tuned!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Now starting the second phase of our trip
Welcome to the end of our first of three phases of this Alaskan trip! We have spent about a month traveling from Lake of the Ozarks to Dawson Creek, British Columbia where we are beginning to meet our TRACKS tour group. The tour group is comprised of 19 rigs (motorhomes and fifth-wheels), mostly occupied by couples (and one very brave lady traveling alone) and nine furry children. The dogs range from chihauhas to one very large bull mastiff so Molly will have lots of company. That part of the trip will last for 40 days and will travel north on the Alaskan Highway, make a huge loop in Alaska and finally disband on August 19 in Stewart, British Columbia.
The third phase will take us down the Rocky Mountains, spending another couple of weeks in Canada then going through Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Wyoming (again), Colorado, Kansas and ultimately back to Missouri. We don't have any deadlines for that part of the trip, and we are planning it so that we can meet up with some friends in Colorado when timing is best for them. That part of the trip could take 4-6 weeks, but we will keep you posted.
So, just a quick history lesson. Dawson Creek is where the Alaskan Highway starts at "Mile Zero" and goes for 1,528 miles. It was built in 1942 in only 8 months right after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. It cost $140MM to build and took a total of 27,000 Canadians and Americans (mostly military) to get it built. Just imagine how this could be accomplished in this day?!?!
I'm attaching two pictures; the first of which was taken at the Mile 0 marker and the second is of the Kiskatiwan River. The current highway now bypasses an old curved wooden bridge, around 600 ft long, which is now on the "Old Alaskan Highway". On second thought, I'll also attach pictures of the bridge although you may just have to imagine how magnificient a structure it really is.
We leave on this part of the trip on Saturday, July 12 and we promise to update the blog as often as possible. We know that some of this trip is very remote and that even our cell phones won't work while we are in the Yukon Territory. As soon as we can get reliable WIFI access, we'll provide a post. We will also send out an invitation to view the log when we finish the 40 days as it takes a couple of days to get all the invitations out. Yahoo thinks I'm spamming you so I have to send it in small mailings. Meanwhile, keep this link as a bookmark and check in regularly if you want to follow along. Wish us well and keep your fingers crossed that the motorhome holds no surprises for us!
The third phase will take us down the Rocky Mountains, spending another couple of weeks in Canada then going through Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Wyoming (again), Colorado, Kansas and ultimately back to Missouri. We don't have any deadlines for that part of the trip, and we are planning it so that we can meet up with some friends in Colorado when timing is best for them. That part of the trip could take 4-6 weeks, but we will keep you posted.
So, just a quick history lesson. Dawson Creek is where the Alaskan Highway starts at "Mile Zero" and goes for 1,528 miles. It was built in 1942 in only 8 months right after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. It cost $140MM to build and took a total of 27,000 Canadians and Americans (mostly military) to get it built. Just imagine how this could be accomplished in this day?!?!
I'm attaching two pictures; the first of which was taken at the Mile 0 marker and the second is of the Kiskatiwan River. The current highway now bypasses an old curved wooden bridge, around 600 ft long, which is now on the "Old Alaskan Highway". On second thought, I'll also attach pictures of the bridge although you may just have to imagine how magnificient a structure it really is.
We leave on this part of the trip on Saturday, July 12 and we promise to update the blog as often as possible. We know that some of this trip is very remote and that even our cell phones won't work while we are in the Yukon Territory. As soon as we can get reliable WIFI access, we'll provide a post. We will also send out an invitation to view the log when we finish the 40 days as it takes a couple of days to get all the invitations out. Yahoo thinks I'm spamming you so I have to send it in small mailings. Meanwhile, keep this link as a bookmark and check in regularly if you want to follow along. Wish us well and keep your fingers crossed that the motorhome holds no surprises for us!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Now in Edmonton, Alberta
Well, it has been a little more than a week since our last post, and we have to apologize. Getting reliable WIFI access is problematic, and as we chat, I am sitting in a scrungy used-to-be-a-cafe place at the worst RV park we have encountered since last winter in New Mexico. But that's okay; it just means we have been spending our time in all the fun places.
During the past week, we have traveled across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and now Alberta and will meet up with our Alaskan tour group next week. We have made it a point to check out some touristy places, but have also taken a couple of detours worth writing about. One of our favorite drives is the Qu'Appelle Valley, just south of Yorkton, SK. We had parked the motorhome so were driving a 3-hour detour to this wonderful little valley on a two-lane road. Dean remembered crossing through it on his way to see his grandparents when he was young, but had never had the chance to drive the length of it which we did. We've also enjoyed these bright yellow fields which have covered all the provinces we have been through so far. Turns out, it is Canola. That's right - Canada + oil is where the name comes from. They've had a lot of rain up here and things are either bright green or bright yellow. I'll try to attach a picture that aptly represents what we are seeing.
Other stops have included lovely provincial parks and a couple of musuems that were very interesting. We have tons of pictures but they would require way too much explanation. The one stop here in Edmonton that you HAVE to see is the "West Ed" or the West Edmonton Mall. It is the largest mall in the world and it has the largest waterpark in the world located inside of it. It has tons of kid-friendly play areas and attractions, let alone hundreds of stores. We walked for about 4 hours; only spent a fistful of bucks and had lunch there but seems like we probably missed a lot. It would be a destination for a week if you have kids. Even if you don't have kids; ya gotta go. It is just amazing.
We will close for now and hope you guys had a great 4th of July. We celebrated Canada Day with our friends up here, but it is just not quite the same. Talk to you next week!
During the past week, we have traveled across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and now Alberta and will meet up with our Alaskan tour group next week. We have made it a point to check out some touristy places, but have also taken a couple of detours worth writing about. One of our favorite drives is the Qu'Appelle Valley, just south of Yorkton, SK. We had parked the motorhome so were driving a 3-hour detour to this wonderful little valley on a two-lane road. Dean remembered crossing through it on his way to see his grandparents when he was young, but had never had the chance to drive the length of it which we did. We've also enjoyed these bright yellow fields which have covered all the provinces we have been through so far. Turns out, it is Canola. That's right - Canada + oil is where the name comes from. They've had a lot of rain up here and things are either bright green or bright yellow. I'll try to attach a picture that aptly represents what we are seeing.
Other stops have included lovely provincial parks and a couple of musuems that were very interesting. We have tons of pictures but they would require way too much explanation. The one stop here in Edmonton that you HAVE to see is the "West Ed" or the West Edmonton Mall. It is the largest mall in the world and it has the largest waterpark in the world located inside of it. It has tons of kid-friendly play areas and attractions, let alone hundreds of stores. We walked for about 4 hours; only spent a fistful of bucks and had lunch there but seems like we probably missed a lot. It would be a destination for a week if you have kids. Even if you don't have kids; ya gotta go. It is just amazing.
We will close for now and hope you guys had a great 4th of July. We celebrated Canada Day with our friends up here, but it is just not quite the same. Talk to you next week!
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