North to Alaska
August came and went in a heartbeat. With a dream in mind and just over a month to make it happen I set out for a road trip to Alaska. I decided to take the extra scenic route and an added adventure of traveling up Vancouver Island, taking some time exploring the North Island and traveling by ferry along the Inside Passage from Port Hardy to arrive in Prince Rupert.
From there my next destination was “The Friendliest Ghost Town in Alaska” called Hyder with a stunning glacier at the end which crosses back across the border into British Columbia. As I drove up the dirt road for the glacier and kept gaining elevation I noticed that the fog was getting thicker and thicker. All part of the adventure on a narrow road with steep dropoffs, not the ideal turnaround point, I kept on driving up to a viewpoint where I was awaited by many other humored travelers looking at a blanket of fog of what lies beyond is a breathtaking landscape. Nonetheless I was excited to be up in the alpine and on the drive down I got a peek of the glacier through the mist and wildflowers. The halibut and chips were the highlight on the way down at a very Alaskan style back street, which was surprisingly quite busy. The owner of the gift shop was very friendly and knowledgeable and was so interesting to talk to and hear her story of how she got to Hyder! I will always remember her kindness and inspiring journey to be where she is now. She is happy as can be making souvenirs and fudge and doing what she loves every single day.
The scenic drive along the Stewart-Cassier Highway was one to remember with rushing waterfalls and wildflowers lining the side of the riverbank that the road is adjacent to.
✿✿✿
On the way to Alaska I ended up staying in the Yukon for a week and spent a few days at the same campsite on the drive back as well. I loved going to the markets, sitting by the river and exploring the area. Some places to explore include Miles Canyon and many beautiful lakes to unwind at. Also, there’s a desert in the Yukon??
A must do trip, in my opinion, is to drive down to Skagway through Bennett, BC and taking the ferry across to Haines. Skagway was bustling with activity and is full of character. Across the way, Haines was full of small town charm. Walking around the town in the morning was so calming, I noticed peoples demeanour was very laid back and blissful.
✿✿✿
The Alcan Highway was rough, making for a slower pace to watch for bumps and potholes and services were limited. The mountainscape getting closer was promising and enticing. Across the border we entered into the wilds of Alaska.
Once in Alaska I made my way towards Anchorage and to the coastal cities. The highway to Seward was one of the most picturesque highways I’ve ever driven on. The views left me speechless and full of wonder. There are so many places to stop and check out along the way, I could’ve spent many more days exploring and finding places to stay. A highlight was looking for Beluga whales, which I didn’t see but definitely something to come back for.
I spent a few days relaxing by the ocean, exploring the town of Seward and hiked most of the way to a glacier (a lesson learned to wear proper footwear, pace myself and bring more than just bear spray, oops).
Without a campsite booked, I took a day trip to Homer to walk along the Homer spit, found games along the boardwalk and amazing halibut and chips.
✿✿✿
I found myself in Whittier almost by accident. I had no plan to go there whatsoever. While looking for a place to camp I saw a glacier to my left and decided to see if I could get closer, which led me to more glaciers on my left again, which led me to a train tunnel that opens up to let traffic through. I decided to drive through to see what was on the other side and I am so glad I made that spontaneous decision.
Valdez was a town which I almost missed as I had already driven well past the turnoff and had been exploring other areas of the coastline. I decided to take a 4 day trip to go explore and it ended up being one of the most spectacular and peaceful destinations of my trip. Nature always makes me excited, but waterfalls are especially a treat for my soul. I could sit for hours watching and listening to the rushing water. On the last day there I headed down to the river and enjoyed the morning by the water with a good book, a warm coffee and my pup.
✿✿✿
My stay in Hatcher Pass was brief but worthwhile. The rushing river on the way up has a stunning turquoise color and the cabins are so cute. There so much area to explore and hike, and the views of endless mountains are hard to beat.
In Denali National Park I booked a trappers cabin for a few days and had some time to slow down. The owner of the place insisted that I take a short flight to the glacier and that my animals would be safe in the cabin for a few hours. I walked down to the airport and booked a flight for the next morning to go check out the glaciers in person, walk along the glistening snow and see the crevasses and striations forming in the layers.
Sidenote: the burnt ends at the Texas style grill were sooo good!! My pup got lots of treats as well :) Another favourite stop in Denali Park was McKinley Creekside Cafe & Bakery with heavenly cinnamon rolls, options of Alaska sized or Texas sized.
✿✿✿
One of the destinations that I had in mind when semi-planning my trip was the Liard River Hotsprings, which I stopped at on my drive back. The walk into the hotsprings was quiet and beautiful along the boardwalk surrounded by the forest. The hotsprings were one of the best natural hotsprings I’ve ever been to, they were spacious and varying degrees in temperature allowing each person to find a spot that was just right.
Disclaimer: The content shared on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise, yoga, or wellness program, especially if you have any medical conditions or concerns. By participating in or following the practices shared here, you acknowledge that you are doing so at your own risk. The author and site assume no responsibility for any injury or adverse effects that may result. Listen to your body and practice with care.
