I started to write this epilogue with the concept of “lessons learned” – you know, what went right, what went wrong, what could improve, and maybe I still will. It sounds kind of painful, to be honest.
What I decided to do instead is capture a few “moments of magic”, and for us on this trip, and there were many. Your moments will vary, but I can assure you that you will have your own when you visit Alaska. The photos below (in no particular order) capture only a fraction of our moments.
For those of you who may visit Alaska, I have divined a way to identify Alaskan residents that is easy, quick and accurate: their windshield is cracked. If they are hiking, they are packing heat. And if there is water nearby, they are wearing knee boots and there is a rod and net within reach.
We literally met the nicest people in Alaska! Almost to a one, they would find out we were from Georgia and say, “Welcome to Alaska!” When was the last time you met someone from another state and said to him or her, “Welcome to [fill in your home state]”? Amazing.
We arrived in Alaska (Poker Creek) on June 11th, departed the state about 60 days later, and drove approximately 4,500 miles – just in Alaska (and not including the trek to Hyder!)!
Even with all these miles, most of the state, including a number of cities like Juneau and Nome, are unreachable by car. We saw small airplanes everywhere; if you are outside of the Anchorage metropolitan area this mode of transportation is common.
Make no mistake – we had the trip of a lifetime, and I would encourage anyone who hasn’t been to make every effort within your means to make any kind of trip to Alaska, and for those who have been, revisit this marvelous place.
We have departed Alaska, but have not ended our trip. For sure, we will be back to Alaska. I can see why people visit – and then stay!
But what, you say, was your favorite part? It was enjoying these experiences and these travels with my bride. xoxo
Safe travels to you, and enjoy your own journey – wherever it may take you!