Author Topic: Alaska or Bust (Read 14783 times)

Barb · « **on:** June 23, 2006, 09:55:25 PM »

Well, all systems have been inspected and are a go. With a new Datastorm D3, 7000 installed, we left home Monday June 19th on our way to Alaska. We took our bikes. I hope that's not gonna be a mistake. First stop was a suprise visit to Ron and Sam at Traverse Bay RV Resort. Very nice park. $45.00 a nite prime season w/ WIFI. We had dinner at Mabels, and stoped at Don's for one of their famous Shakes. Tuesday we went to Dinner at Boones. We had a very lovely time with them. (send Sam a hug, she's stressed out with her mom)

We left early morn'g, and stop at Rivers Bend CG in Iron Mountain, MI. One mile off US 2. Nice CG. Last nite (June 22st) we spent the nite at the American Legion CG in Warba, MN. Public welcome. $15.00 W/E. Just east of Grand Rapids, home of Judy Garland. We spotted a Bear playing in a Meadow.

Tonite we are at Oakwood Inn & CG in Rugby ND. FHU, 30A, and WIFI right on US 2. $22. In 2 days we'll be crossing into Canada. I'm so excited, I still can believe it.

We've paid between $2.75 and $3.05 for diesel.

Barb
Dreams do really do come true.

Tom · « **Reply #1 on:** June 23, 2006, 10:06:51 PM »

Hi Barb,

Looking forward to reading about your journey. Don't forget to post spme photos along the way.

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #2 on:** June 23, 2006, 10:10:26 PM »

Quote from: Barb on June 23, 2006, 09:55:25 PM

Well, all systems have been inspected and are a go. With a new Datastorm D3, 7000 installed, we left home Monday June 19th on our way to Alaska. We've paid between $2.75 and $3.05 for diesel.Barb Dreams do really do come true.

Hi Barb!
We found diesel in Canada to be more $ than here in Alaska. I understand your excitement! Please refer to our daily trip log to see if there are any places we visited that you might also like to visit. I used several of the articles in our RV Forum library to "see where others had gone." You will be like us and want places clear of trees. Do you have any idea of your route or schedule? We have a general direction for the circle of Alaska but no specific time line. It has been great to stay longer if we liked a place. It is so exciting to travel in this lifestyle! We are in Fairbanks and I think Denali is our next stop. We found many of the parks we chose have wifi. Keep us posted on your fun!

Betty

Ron · « **Reply #3 on:** June 24, 2006, 07:23:10 AM »

Was great that you stopped guys stopped by. Was a fun minirally and visiting with you. Looking forward to your tip reports. Have included the photo taken at Boon's.
Have a great trip.

Barb · « **Reply #4 on:** June 24, 2006, 08:52:15 PM »

It's a small world........The people camped across from us last nite, are from Grayling, Mi. They left Grayling the same time we left Traverse City. On their way to Alaska. We here tonite at Cottonwood Inn and Rv Park, and the people camped next to us are from NC, and are on their way to Alaska. This park is in Glasgow, MT. $23.00 FHU's and pull-thru's. Casino, resturant, and swimming pool. With a CVSS (Clear View Southern Sky).

Tomorrow nite Lewis and Clark Rv Park. Which will be our last planned stop. Than off to Baniff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. Looking for a CG for a Base Came to visit them all. Any Help...

Betty,
I have read every word in your trip report. We will probably be following pretty much the same route. So keep them comning. I'm getting great ideas. I have also read ones in the Library. Thanks for the tip. We have all the time in the world. When we have time, we'll register on the datatorm web site. I'll send you our #, than you can track us.

Tom & Ron Thanks

325 miles today
diesel $2.99

Barb
Liv'n Her Dream

Ned · « **Reply #5 on:** June 24, 2006, 09:06:56 PM »

If you stay at the Provincial campground in Lake Louise, you can drive to Banff in an hour or less, and also to Glacier and Yoho parks. It's still a ways to Jasper, so you may want to stay there awhile as well. There are some sites in the Lake Louise Campground that will work with HughesNet, at least it did for us on Horizons 1 (127W).

Enjoy your trip, we are enjoying ours.

Diesel in Fairbanks is $2.89/.gal

Get ready for sticker shock in Canada.

Barb · « **Reply #6 on:** June 25, 2006, 07:33:09 PM »

Well here we are in Lewis & Clark Rv Park, not sure i like it, but it's just overnite. Never parked like this before. The steps face the road.

Thankis Ned. I hope the campground in on Fairview Dr. We're on sat. IA8.

Kissing Priaire Dog Sighted
Diesel $2.97

May the Road Be Smoothe Before Ye
Barb

Barb · « **Reply #7 on:** June 26, 2006, 09:54:10 PM »

Congrats, and Happy Annaverisary to all the June Bride and Grooms. You can add Frank and I to the list. Today is our 35th. We had Dinner at a Husky
diner, and had a toast when we got back to the 5'er. We're in the Green Acres RV Park, somewhere on 1. We'll be In Lake Louise tomorrow.

Barb

Ned · « **Reply #8 on:** June 26, 2006, 10:03:23 PM »

Congratulations to you on your 35th. You'll enjoy Lake Louise and be sure to drive over to Yoho and Glacier while you're there.

I hope IA8 holds up for you as you get farther north.

Ron · « **Reply #9 on:** June 26, 2006, 10:11:50 PM »

Barb & Frank,

Sam & I wish you a VERY HAPPY ANNIVERSARY.

Tom · « **Reply #10 on:** June 26, 2006, 10:13:08 PM »

Congratulations Barb and Frank!

Barb · « **Reply #11 on:** June 27, 2006, 09:27:35 AM »

Thank you all. We put Yoho and Glacier on the to do list. It's been still warm enough in the ev'n to run the air. But morn'gs have been cool enough to put on the electric heater. Fuel is .93 a liter here, we paid $1.04 our last couple of fill ups.

Barb
DS# 3623

Terry A. Brewer · « **Reply #12 on:** June 27, 2006, 12:23:43 PM »

Barb

>> Fuel is .93 a liter here, we paid $1.04 our last couple of fill ups. <<

We had to pay $1.41 on the Dempster Hwy.

Barb · « **Reply #13 on:** June 28, 2006, 09:37:16 AM »

$1.41........ouch, Ned tried to prepare us. Thanks guys

We here in Lake Louise. Stopped in Wild Bill for a burger and a beer last nite. It's just down from the visitor center. $40 bucks Can. including tip for a burger harder than a hockey puck. Oh well...We ate with deliight peering our of the window, watching the rv's for rent go by. Spotted a couple of elk grazing by the side of the road. And stopped on our way home for an ice creaam at sweet treats. $7.50 for 2 baby cones. We've got hughes net, but not direct way. There's pleanty of stuff on the recorder if we have time to watch tv.

The two couples we met from grayling are about 10 sites down from us. We we're able is secure 3 nites. They are on a day to day basis.

We packed a lunch, and we're off to make like a tourisis.

Barb

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #14 on:** June 28, 2006, 12:30:49 PM »

Quote from: Barb on June 28, 2006, 09:37:16 AM

$1.41........ouch, . Stopped in Wild Bill for a burger and a beer last nite. It's just down from the visitor center. $40 bucks Can. including tip for a burger harder than a hockey puck. And stopped on our way home for an ice cream at sweet treats. $7.50 for 2 baby cones. Barb

Barb,
We found prices in every area to be high in Canada , near tourist spots or in small towns. It does get better here in Alaska. Alaska has no sales tax. But if we'd wanted bargains we would have stayed home. The trip is priceless! Keep up your news.

Betty

Barb · « **Reply #15 on:** June 29, 2006, 11:49:36 AM »

>The trip is priceless!<

Betty you so very right. I'm still so excited, i havn't had a decent nite sleep in a week. I'll sleep later. Keep me posted on shops that sell t-shirst with pockets.

We did about 400 miles yesterday. Went to YOHO, Glacier, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. When we kinda of organize the pics Frank has taken, i'll post the pc of the sunset glistening off the snow pack on the mountain, which overlooks the lake. It is an awesome site.

Heading up the Icefieids Parkway today, for Jasper Nat. Pk. Tomorrow Friday June 30 we hit the road. On our way to Dawson Creek. And Mile 0. I

t's so beautiful here, and each of the small towns has a uniqueness of it's own. It's hard to decribe in words the beauty and tranquility of this whole area. Each body of water is a different color. And each mountain has a different kind of pine tree. But it's ths sounds and smells that are the most mysterious. It's amazing the destruction that an avalanche can cause, and the totally awesome beauty that it creates.

Barb

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #16 on:** June 29, 2006, 01:27:43 PM »

Quote from: Barb on June 29, 2006, 11:49:36 AM

t's so beautiful here, and each of the small towns has a uniqueness of it's own. It's hard to describe in words the beauty and tranquility of this whole area. Each body of water is a different color. And each mountain has a different kind of pine tree. But it's ths sounds and smells that are the most mysterious. It's amazing the destruction that an avalanche can cause, and the totally awesome beauty that it creates.

Barb,
I couldn't agree more about the sounds and smells. A fire was burning here several miles away when we first arrived and my pictures will never capture the "camp fire smell" of that local forest fire. I had the same thoughts as you on the avalanche areas. On the Dempster Highway there were big signs that said NO STOPPING TO TAKE PHOTOS in the avalanche area!

Betty

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #17 on:** June 29, 2006, 06:10:23 PM »

Quote from: Barb on June 29, 2006, 11:49:36 AM

Keep me posted on shops that sell t-shirts with pockets.

Barb,
We found pocketed T-shirts in Fairbanks at Big Ray's, 207 2nd street right across from the Ice Museum. Russ bought 2 identical blue t-shirts because they were only $4 each. I've reminded him to not carry a cell phone in that pocket

Terry bought coveralls for use when he is under the motorhome. All of the locals shop at this outdoor clothing store.
Good luck
Betty

Barb · « **Reply #18 on:** June 29, 2006, 10:07:55 PM »

Thanks Betty for the T-Shirt info. I'll keep a better eye out for the signs.

Thanks Again
Just Try'n to Aborb It All
Barb

Barb · « **Reply #19 on:** July 03, 2006, 01:12:47 PM »

We left Lake Louise and headed up the Icefield Parkway. What a ride. There's some 8% grades on that road. Spotted a BobCat tool'n thru a field. Had a Caribou look both ways before he decided not to cross the road. And stirred a Bald Eagle who flew right over the top of the pick up. Too fast to ready the camera. And several deer. Overnited in Hinton, and we are now in Mile 0 campground, site 69. As I'm still recoverring from Pneumonia, we're gonna hang around here a few days, and rest. Vacuum and do laundry. (very restful)

We had dinner at Mr. Mikes the other day, (steak joint, very good) and ate in last nite. Roast Beef and mashed potatoes. We have hughes net, but not direct tv.

Today is Monday July 3rd, and the cg emptied out this mor'n. Also, they still must be celebrating the holiday, cause everything in town is still closed.

We'll be leaving tomorrow heading for Fort Nelson, and on to Dawson City.

Here's a few pics... Bow Falls, Lake Moraine.

Barb
Catch'n up on Sleep

Barb · « **Reply #20 on:** July 06, 2006, 08:34:02 AM »

We overnited at Westend Rv Park in Fort Nelson, BC. There was an outside RV wash in the CG, so we were able to wash some of the bugs of the front of the 5'er. Dragonflies, horseflies, and bees are bad.

We're in Downtown RV Park in Watson Lake, YT. SKP'er Park with FHU, wifi, and cable. We have no Direct Tv, But have Hughes Net. The drive from Dawson Creek is total awesome. It has a little bit of everything. Snow-covered mountains, and patches of snow on the ground. Trickling streams, glass smooth lakes, and rushing rivers. Sheep and buffalo were on the road, like the road signs stated. And there are some 8,9, and 10% grades.

Something hit the 5'er tire on the way here, and we limped into town. We were able to buy a tire, and get it changed before they closed. We feel very fortunate that we didn't end up on the no shoulder, shoulder of the road.

We went searching the sign forest for the forum sign, but we gave up because the horse flies were biting, and the bugs were really bad. IThe sign forest is very cool. The road here is lined with American banners and flags, and well as Canadian. And the fire in Teslin was started by fireworks.

It was raining on June 21nd when we left TC, and it rained about an hour the other mor'n. Other than that we have had beautiful weather. Temps as low as 38 at night, and 90 during the day. Just wonderful sunny days.

Very Grateful for all that we have had to enjoy.
Heading for Whitehorse, YT

Let the Adventure Continue
Barb

Barb · « **Reply #21 on:** July 08, 2006, 11:57:43 PM »

We spend a couple of days in Whitehorse. A very friendly RV town. They have an RV route thru town, signs for RV parking. And RV parking at the visitor center. We stayed at MacKenzie's RV Park, which had cable and an rv wash. 5 minutes for a toonie. And a good sams discount. We had to buy a fuel filter for the PU. Dealership said we're the 4th ones this week with fuel problems. They suspect bad diesel. We've been buying all our fuel with our credit card, so we have receipts.

They have been working on the road putting down cold patch. (hwy 2) And there's no shoulder. Many lakes with great views. We spotted a wolf and bald eagle.

The weather had cooled down 30d, and we've had rain off and on. We are in Dawson City Rv Park tonite. $1.00 off esso fuel, free wifi, and a well stocked store. They keep the bread in the freezer. Sites are very small. They are backin, side to side sites. Large rigs w/slides take up 4 sites.

We have no cell service, (cingular), direct tv, tv, or hughes net. We're heading to the Valdez Glacier Campground tomorrow, after we ride the ferry. This should be interesting.

Barb

Barb · « **Reply #22 on:** July 12, 2006, 02:34:20 PM »

The ferry was a piece of cake. Hwy 9 (top of the world), sr-5 (taylor hwy), sr-1 (glenn hwy tok cutoff) and sr-2 (Alaska hwy) were all under con strution, and very rough. Wee overnited in a parking area for cross-country skiing. The last 50 miles on the Richardson hwy was paved and smooth. The drive thru Keystone Canyon is awesome. There are large viewing areas off the road for Bridal and Horseshoe falls.

Arrive at Eagle's Nest Cg & Cabins. They had a potluck with fresh caught salmon for $7.95. We're in what they call a supersite. 30A, back-in, wide enough for the slides and to park the Pu along side. They have a fuel discount, but i don't know what it is. Free wifi and cable. And rv washing is ok. $35 , and it's a GS park.

Tuesday July 11, we took the Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruise in the Prince William Sound. (tour saver coupon - don't tear out). The campground made the arrangements, they tore out the coupon. The shuttle bus picked us up at the cg, and if was a short ride to the pier. The 6.5 hr tour was $85, and a 9 hr hour is also available. They served lunch of Clam chowder, with a bagel, cream cheese, Oreo cookies, lemonaide or water. We sawSteller Sea Lion, Sea Otter, Humpback Whale, Horned Puffin Birds, and 3 Bald Eagles. We stopped to watch Pink Salmon fisherman bring in their catch. And a Bald Eagle show off his fishing skills by snatching a fish out of the water. The Captain did and excellent job, piloting the boat, as well as narrating while we cruised out to Columbia Glacier. We learned how glaciers were formed, saw floating glacier ice and dirty ice. He talked about the Exxon Valdez oil spill, and some history of the area, earthquakes, the pipeline, as well as Valdez.

It Was A Totally Excellent Day

There's one grocery store, and it takes your safeway card. (it's where the eagles hang out at night, so says the captain) It's pretty good. Diesel is $3.31. We're off to see some Indian Carvings, and tour the museum today, July12th.

Everything is a very Lush Green. It's a pretty cool place. Heading for Palmer Ak, tomorrow.

Barb

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #23 on:** July 12, 2006, 09:07:59 PM »

Quote from: Barb on July 12, 2006, 02:34:20 PM

Tuesday July 11, we took the Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruise in the Prince William Sound. (tour saver coupon - don't tear out). The campground made the arrangements, they tore out the coupon. The shuttle bus picked us up at the cg, and if was a short ride to the pier. The 6.5 hr tour was $85, and a 9 hr hour is also available.
It Was A Totally Excellent Day

Barb,
Can't wait. We also learned not to tear out coupons but have had no problems! Excellent report. It seems you are covering lots of ground in a short time. How was weather?
Betty

Lorna · « **Reply #24 on:** July 12, 2006, 10:16:39 PM »

Barb

We will be in the Kenai for the next three weeks or so. Keep us posted as to where you are and hopefully we can get together. Great report on Valdez.

Barb · « **Reply #25 on:** July 13, 2006, 11:01:28 PM »

Some Corrections..........

First CG discount we had was .03 a gal. not a $!.00 off. Eagle's Nest in Valdez does not offer a fuel discount anymore. And don't use their car wash...it's a waste of $6.00. Also it's Bridal Veil Falls, and Horsetail Falls in the Canyon.

Since Palmer is only 40 miles from Anchorage, we just kept on go'n. Stopped a Golden Nugget, but they didn't have a site we could fit on. We're at Crestwood Inn, for 3 days.
They have wifi, free for the moment,and cable. The hwy was ok, 2 constructions waits, of 20 each. And we had a partly sunny day, about 75d. Saw 2 bald eagles playing in the sky,and a wolf.

We had cell service in Tok, Valdez, and Anchorage. (cingular) NO Direct TV, or Hughes Net.

We're gonna fool around in Anchorage for a few days, than head for Kenai.

Barb

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #26 on:** July 13, 2006, 11:15:22 PM »

Quote from: Barb on July 13, 2006, 11:01:28 PM

We're gonna fool around in Anchorage for a few days, than head for Kenai.

Barb,
Do the Trolley Car ride for $10 and allow lots of time at the Native Cultural Center . The Museum in town is another good one. Have fun.

Betty

Barb · « **Reply #27 on:** July 13, 2006, 11:30:00 PM »

Thanks Betty........Will Do

Barb

Barb · « **Reply #28 on:** July 18, 2006, 09:43:05 PM »

It was cold, damp, and raining in Anchorage. We moved down to Homer on Sun July 16Th. We checked out some of the parks, and they all looked like packed sardines. There is dry camping for a fee on the spit, but Frank likes electric, so we splurged and we are at Heritage RV Park. GS, w/ tax $62.50 a nite. For 50A backin FHU, w /wifi & cable. We have a fantastic view on 3 sides. Kachemack Bay, volcanoes, float planes, ships, and best of all eagles landing right in the park. The tide comes and out daily, so everything is built on a boardwalk on stilts. It's a pretty neat town. The museum (rv parking is available but very tight with toad), is next to the visitor center, and across the street from the safeway. Diesel is $3.03, and the Petro is rv friendly.

We did the 3 driving tours, and i think the east end road, was the only one worth while. Several exceptional views. And one got some offroad practice when the road turn gravel. It was like Pucker Pass. It's a dead end, but it just as much fun coming back.

We took the Homer Ocean Charter wildlife cruise. (tour saver 2/4). About 3 hrs, including lunch. We left the boat for the restaurant, and had a really really great lunch of a very lg burger, or beer batter halibut. Soup or salad, and dessert included. Drinks and tip extra. We were out in Kachemack Bay, and the captain got a report of killer whales, but they were gone by the time we arrived. We stopped at gull island, and watched the ocean birds for a few minutes. There is a halibut fishing derby going on in Homer, so we watched the fishermen for a while too. Very interesting. All in all is was a nice cruise and a great day.

Heading for Seward tomorrow July 19Th.
Barb

Ned · « **Reply #29 on:** July 18, 2006, 11:14:30 PM »

For $62.50/night, I'll think we'll go to the Elk's club for $5/night for boondocking.

Barb · « **Reply #30 on:** July 21, 2006, 11:11:04 AM »

We left Homer, and we are now a the Seward City Park with the Brewer's and Russ. Very nice park. E/W, 50A, back in for $25. 360d of beautiful view. We enjoyed the SeaLife Center very much. Great hands on place for the kids. The movie we saw on Sperm Whale was educational, and well as enjoyable. It's cool, damp and rainy, but there was a beautiful sunset the other nite. And there is something mystic and romantic when the mountains are cloud covered like they were last night. Our tour was canceled yesterday due to 11 foot seas. So we're gonna try to do that today. And take a ride up to exit glacier tomorrow.

Here's a few pic from our travels.

Barb
Sperm Whale 1...Fisherman 0
the whales are learning to steal the fish off of the lines

Lorna · « **Reply #31 on:** July 21, 2006, 11:49:33 AM »

Great pictures. Glad you enjoyed the Sea Life Center. You are right it is great for kids. Glad they cancelled the boat trip because eleven footers aren't fun at all for most people. Hopefully when you go they will be able to take you out to Aialik Glacier because of all the glaciers we have seen that is my favorite. Look forward to seeing all of you at Kenai.

Barb · « **Reply #32 on:** July 27, 2006, 01:45:40 PM »

We were able to take the tour. Really Really Great!!!!!!!. It was still raining, but the seas were calmer. We saw humpback whales, sea lions, and otters. And an eaglet in a nest. Pretty Cool. But best of all was the caving. Fantastic..........The captain was pretty sure a section of the glacier was gonna fall, and we waited around till it did. Just beautiful. It rained the whole time we were in Seward, but we still had some great view of the mountains and water. Very nice rv park. City of Seward Waterfront Park.

We are in Kenai with Terry & Betty, Ned & Lorna, and Russ, at Beluga Lookout Lodge. It has stopped raining. And the sun is a shinning. Lorna and I went to the visitor center, and watch another version of the earthquake movie, and walked thru the museum, and art gallery. I broke my vacuum, so we were off to Fred Meyers for a new one, and spotted a young moose grazing by the side of the road.

Betty and Terry told us how great the Burger Bus Burgers were, so we had them for dinner. And pretty good they were too.

We had a ice cream social last niter. Down by the water. I think a very good time was had by all. There was 2 eagles sitting in the grass enjoying the view, and the salmon were jumping about 10 feet from shore.

Ned, Lorna, Russ, Frank, and I went to Breakfast. It was very good. Gonna work on getting some more of the gunk of the rig, from that horrible road. And maybe take a scenic drive today. Frank and I are heading towards Denai tomorrow.

Gonna Miss Being With Framily

Barb

Barb · « **Reply #33 on:** July 29, 2006, 02:06:50 PM »

We left Bluga Lookout Fri, the 28th with Ned & Lorna. After a minor problem with their toad, and us fixing brakes and replacing a tire, had a beautiful drive to Palmer. Lorna spotted some sheep on the hillside, and a mamma moose and calf by the side of road. I was checking my lids for leaks.

We are at the Elks Lodge with a 30A site. Very nice lodge. After happy hour we had dinner on the patio of the lodge. Prime rib, and halibut was the specials, and the food was excellent. It was a little cool, but what a view. We sat overlooking the lake. We watched the ducks swimming, fish jummping, and an eagle flying over. We had a wonderful eveing, after a beaufilul shinny day.

We woke up to another rainy day. BoHoooo!...But i can see a swift flowing creek out my back window as i type this. We have 5 tv stations, and thanks to Ned, internet. Life is Good

Barb

Lorna · « **Reply #34 on:** July 29, 2006, 11:44:22 PM »

Yes Barb life is good.

Barb · « **Reply #35 on:** July 30, 2006, 10:49:15 AM »

We went to the Alaska Native Heritage Center yesterday July 29th. Which is in Anchorage. A must do. There's the Gathering Place, which the have dance performances, and storytelling. Theatre, which the movie start every 1/2 hr. and cover a variety of subjects. In which the name of the movie and the showing time is posted. There is a very well laid out small museum. The village sites, a self guided tour, or guided which has very well written signage and knowable students to answer questions at most sites. And restroom along the path, which is a very easy walk. There is an outside coffee shop, and a cafe. Native Americans selling there wares. And inside has a small snack stand and typical gift shop. There is a large parking lot around the back for buses and rv's. It had stopped raining, so we did the village sites first. Than watch the dancers for a while. Walked the museum, than the movie about whales. Had a snack. Spent money at the gift shop, and left. It was a great experience, and a wonderful day.

We had happy hour at Ned & Lorna's. In which we saw a slide show of some of their travels. Before we knew it, it was 8:00 and we hadn't eaten dinner yet. To coin a phrase from Betty, we had the must-gos from the refrigerator

Currently at the Elks Club in Palmer,Ak
Barb.

Barb · « **Reply #36 on:** August 07, 2006, 11:36:39 AM »

Talkeentna, cute tourists town. We were at the Talkeetna RV Park. Small park, but the sites are wide enough for 3 slide rv's, 30A w/e and a place to park the pu. The Talkeetna depot of the Alaskan Railroad is behind the cg. Very entertaining, and train noise is not a problem. We took the evening boat tour. With the sun still shinning, the clouds gave way, and guess what was behind them standing very tall and very majestic........Mt McKinley........Amazing, what a site.

Next stop Riverside RV Park, a SKP'er park, Denali. 30A w/e. 0 TV, and RADIO stations. We were on the river. We watcher rafter's every day. We took the 53 mile afternoon trip into the park. The mam ma grizzly and cub was the highlight of the trip. The next day, we flew to the mountain. I've only been on one very short plane ride, so this was quite an experience for me. Indescribable!!!!!!!! The beauty of the mountain is spectacular. We was not impressed with the world famous Salmon Bake, and I would give Rosie's Diner in Healy one *.

We are currently in Chena Marina RV Park, in Fairbanks. FHU, w/30A. and cable. Now that i have cable, i have realized i really didn't miss tv. Just off the float plane pond. Wonderful view. We grubbed up, hit walmart, and did some laundry yesterday.

Today is Aug, 7, and it's Frank's birthday. Gonna start the day making him a Cherry Pie, and more laundry. Than we are off on a hunt for pocket t-shirts, and to the North Pole to be tourists again.

Barb

Tom · « **Reply #37 on:** August 07, 2006, 11:37:38 AM »

Happy birthday Frank!

Lorna · « **Reply #38 on:** August 07, 2006, 12:33:27 PM »

Happy Birthday Frank. Glad you guys got to see the mountain and sounds like you are having a wonderful time.

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #39 on:** August 07, 2006, 03:19:04 PM »

Quote from: Barb on August 07, 2006, 11:36:39 AM

. We took the evening boat tour. With the sun still shinning, the clouds gave way, and guess what was behind them standing very tall and very majestic........Mt McKinley........Amazing, what a site.

Barb,
You lucky devils! So glad you got to see McKinley. Wish old bad boy Frank a very Happy Birthday from us We are in Ninilchik with sunny skies and blue seas. Life is good.
Betty

Barb · « **Reply #40 on:** August 07, 2006, 09:00:49 PM »

Thanks all for the birthday wishes. Life is good.

Frank

Ron · « **Reply #41 on:** August 07, 2006, 10:33:49 PM »

Happy Birthday Frank.

Barb · « **Reply #42 on:** August 07, 2006, 10:56:58 PM »

Thanks Ron. Went to the North Pole today.

Frank

Ron · « **Reply #43 on:** August 07, 2006, 11:06:44 PM »

Quote from: Barb on August 07, 2006, 10:56:58 PM

Thanks Ron. Went to the North Pole today.

Frank

To Visit Santa Clause?

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #44 on:** August 07, 2006, 11:11:12 PM »

Quote from: Barb on August 07, 2006, 10:56:58 PM

Went to the North Pole today.

Frank,
Did you get a "We B Tourin T shirt? We need the Alaska crew to make a showing at Quartzsite or anywhere else we gather together!

Betty

Barb · « **Reply #45 on:** August 09, 2006, 12:37:30 PM »

We didn't get to see Santa, but we did buy some we be tour'n shirts And we've decided to come to qs for a couple of days. We went to Arctic Circle yesterday (the 8th). Stopped at the Arctic Circle General Store and got our official you've crossed the Arctic Circle Certificates, in Joy, AK, on the way back. The AC is on the Dalton Hwy, at MM 115, and the road is in bad condition, with construction. There's a visitor center by the Yukon River. Lg pk lot and potties. Observation deck and information plaques. At MM 56. At MM 115 is the Arctic Circle sign at the BLM wayside park. With picnic facilities and dry camping. Currently closed due to a wolf who bit a hiker. So we had our picnic in the truck. The no see ums were bad anyway. Lots of interesting info on the plaques. It was worth the 4 hr drive from Fairbanks. Beautiful 58d sun shinny day.

Barb

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #46 on:** August 09, 2006, 11:12:43 PM »

Quote from: Barb on August 09, 2006, 12:37:30 PM

We didn't get to see Santa, but we did buy some we be tour'n shirts And we've decided to come to qs for a couple of days. We went to Arctic Circle yesterday (the 8th). Stopped at the Arctic Circle General Store and got our official you've crossed the Arctic Circle Certificates, in Joy, AK, on the way back.

Oh Barb,
I'm so glad you got "the" shirts and that you will come to Quartzsite. I'm also glad you stayed in truck for your picnic. Recall when Terry and I crossed Arctic Circle in Canada we had to sleep in the car. But that trip remains a highlight of our travels. Keep those stories coming! I love adventures of those near and dear!

Betty

Barb · « **Reply #47 on:** August 15, 2006, 01:24:59 AM »

Thursday Aug. 10Th..
We left China Marina Rv Park, and Connected up with Ned and Lorna in Delta Junction. Took Pics of the end of the highway sign. And got official certificates at the Visitor Center. The 4 of us toured the VC, and than hit the road. Stopped at Gateway RV Park in Tok for a couple of nights. . All of us went to Visitor Center. And I hit the jackpot on T-Shirts. I got my free fudge w/coupon. That evening we had dinner at the Salmon Bake. And later that night we have a mini datastorm rally with Bill and Diane Joyce at Ned & Lorna's MH.

Saturday Aug. 12Th...
We stopped at Destruction Bay RV Park for overnight

Sunday Aug.13 ...
We got sites next to one another at Gateway Rv Park. And we got on line with our own equipment. Our direct tv works also. We went on a wildlife drive. We were successful with a mamma and cub, and a sub-adult. Also several sightings of eagles. Lorna was driving. I will be better prepared for sudden stops, so soon as I get my neck fixed. (Just Kidding)

Monday Aug. 14Th...
The 4 of us went to breakfast, and than off to do the town. We did a driving tour of Fort Seward. With Ned providing a description of the buildings. Next off to the Sheldon Museum. Very nice museum, about his life, and native American culture. Bill and Diane arrive today, and the sun was out, and warm, so we had happy hour outside. We took a drive in the opposite direction of last night, on the hunt for pics of glaciers, and mountains. Frank, Ned, and Lorna got some great pics, and of course the eagles were the main attraction.
Wifi is $5.00 a day here at Hitch-UP Rv Park, Haines, AK.

Betty,
We miss you guys

Barb

Barb · « **Reply #48 on:** August 15, 2006, 01:28:50 AM »

Another Pic

Barb

Tom · « **Reply #49 on:** August 15, 2006, 01:31:41 AM »

Thanks for the photos Barb. You're sure up late.

Alaskansnowbirds · « **Reply #50 on:** August 15, 2006, 09:14:11 PM »

Quote from: Tom on August 15, 2006, 01:31:41 AM

Thanks for the photos Barb. You're sure up late.

Tom,

What time is posted on the messages. The time where the poster is or the time where the reader is?

Tom · « **Reply #51 on:** August 15, 2006, 09:34:43 PM »

Don,

I believe it's the reader's local time (Your profile has a setting to offset from the sever time; The servers are in Dallas). But now you're making me doubt myself and I'll have to go check

Alaskansnowbirds · « **Reply #52 on:** August 15, 2006, 09:51:38 PM »

Quote from: Tom on August 15, 2006, 09:34:43 PM

Don,

I believe it's the reader's local time (Your profile has a setting to offset from the sever time; The servers are in Dallas). But now you're making me doubt myself and I'll have to go check

I noticed that my post time and yours are one hour faster than my local time but this time of year we're on the same time.

It would help if I had my profile up to date. I forgot to change the offset when everyone else went to DST. I fixed that, now I'm not one hour fast anymore.

Betty Brewer · « **Reply #53 on:** August 15, 2006, 10:58:57 PM »

Quote from: Barb on August 15, 2006, 01:24:59 AM

Lorna was driving. I will be better prepared for sudden stops, so soon as I get my neck fixed. (Just Kidding)Betty,
We miss you guys.

Hi Barb,
When you keep up your reports, it is just like being with you. However I would not wish this weather on anyone! We have sudden stops too, for potholes!
Betty

Barb · « **Reply #54 on:** August 16, 2006, 12:25:37 AM »

Thanks Tom...Tho we are in Alaska, the puter is on Mich. time. I think.

Betty, I'm wishing you warm, sunny days. And may the road be smooth before ye.

Barb

Barb · « **Reply #55 on:** August 16, 2006, 12:54:28 AM »

Tuesday Aug 15Th.

We woke up to some dreary skies this morning. Ned, Lorna, Frank and I went to breakfast and the sky cleared up. It was a beautiful sunny day. Were off to take more pics of the glaciers and eagles. We went to the Eagle Preserve, and walked the boardwalk. Lorna is the only who spotted an eagle. No happy hour today. We decided to have an early dinner, and head out to get more pics of the bears. Well, Bill and Diane stopped by. Than Ned and Lorna came over, and we got to chatting...........And then came the after dinner drinks and snacks. Before we knew it, it was getting dark out. Oh well, so much for a plan. We had a great night.

Tomorrow we are heading for Skagway, with a overnight at Whitehorse. Or maybe 2 nights........

Great Food, Great Weather, and Great Friends, Makes for Great Times.
Who could ask for anything more.

Barb

p.s. Frank is the great photographer

Lorna · « **Reply #56 on:** August 16, 2006, 01:18:23 AM »

Barb

Good report of our day. As Betty said "Life is good".

Tom · « **Reply #57 on:** August 16, 2006, 10:49:41 AM »

Don,

Follow-up ..... confirmed by observation, times posted are the reader's local time.

Barb · « **Reply #58 on:** August 30, 2006, 12:38:44 AM »

While in Skagway Lorna and I took the Fjord Express to Juneau. It was a great trip. We saw Stellar sea lions, whales, harbor seals, and many, many eagles. Lorna took the tour thru the state capitol, while i got to know her family. We took a golf cart tour thru the Glacier gardens. Very interesting, and a great tour. We went to the Mendenhall glacier. There is a very nice visitor center, and the 11 minute movie is a must see. The glacier is spectacular. Than back to the boat. Thanks to Lorna's family we had a very excellent day.

On to Stewart and Hyder. We stayed in Stewart, and drove to Hyder to the Salmon Glacier. And the wildlife viewing area. There was a beaver building his winter lodge. A couple of blue herons, tons of eagles, and bears. The road continues on forever after the glacier. And there is a lot more glaciers and waterfalls to see.

I would grub up before going to steward/hyder, as there are small markets and they are very expensive.

Leaving Stewart, we are now in traveling mode. Today is Aug 29, and we have had three, 3 hundred mile days. It's our last nite in Canada. And we honored it by treating ourselves to a FHU site on a lake in Osoyoos, BC, and a wonderful happy hour.

Breakfast in the morning, and than off to Moses Lake for a visit with Gary and Nancy.

We made it through Canada, and Alaska and didn't bust. What a RIDE!!!!!!!!!!!

Barb

Lorna · « **Reply #59 on:** August 30, 2006, 01:43:41 AM »

Barb

You are right it was a great ride with lots of memories.

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Author Topic: Alaska or Bust (Read 14783 times)