July 4, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Coeur d’Alene, ID, to Banks, ID, in air-conditioned comfort -- 341 miles
Banks to Sun Valley, ID – 154 miles
As Bob Drake’s trailer would only accommodate two bikes, Jerry graciously offered to ride from Coeur d’Alene, ID, to McCall were he would join his family. Bob and I rode in air-conditioned luxury, stopping to off-load Jerry’s motorcycle gear and visit briefly with his family who were all gathered at their beautiful McCall cabin for a 4th of July celebration.
Bob and I then proceeded south. I off-loaded my bike at Banks, ID, in 102-degree weather. I dipped my jacket and riding overpants in the Payette River and bid Bob goodbye and a special thanks for seeing me safely through nearly to home. I then headed off towards Sun Valley to meet Jacquie. There was virtually no traffic on the road, and at the time I reached Banner Summit the temperature had cooled down substantially. The ride from Banks to Sun Valley was beautiful, as usual, and unencumbered by traffic or other circumstances. I arrived in Sun Valley at 6:00 p.m., feeling relieved and thankful for a rewarding and safe trip and very happy to see Jacquie and our three wonderful dogs. I had arrived in time to climb up dollar mountain and observe the traditional 4th of July fireworks.
My incredible, 31-day excursion had come to a close.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Alaska Caper - Day 30
July 3, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Lake Louise, AB
Destination: Coeur d’Alene, ID
Miles traveled: 328
I have a reputation for being slow in the morning and keeping my cohorts waiting. I was bound and determined not to let that happen today. Bob and Jerry wanted to leave and head for Coeur d’Alene starting at 0800, and Steve was splitting off from us for Calgary and then down into Montana for his marathon trip back to the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Consequently, I was up and going at 6:00 a.m. and had my bike started and parked in front of the Drake/Evangelho room at 7:30. I believe my friends were favorably impressed, although I indicated to them that I could not assure them of a comparable performance on a regular basis in the future.
I bid my good friend, Steve, goodbye with a soft, quiet prayer for him to have a safe journey home. This trip had been an incredible experience. We had traveled safely for thousands of miles through spectacular country. I cannot imagine consistent beauty of this sort anywhere else in the world. We had met people from all over the world on this trip and found the Alaskans and Canadians with whom we interacted to be gracious and friendly. It has truly been a once-in-a-lifetime experience which I will never forget. I am grateful to Linda Larrabee for lending me Steve for one month, to Steve for tolerating my idiosyncracies, and to my dear wife Jacquie for agreeing to still be at home if I arrived alive.
We were then headed off to Coeur d’Alene with Bob Drake in the lead. Needless to say, the pace was brisk. When we arrived in Coeur d’Alene, the temperature was over 90 degrees. We were glad to get off our bikes and travel around locally in Bob’s luxurious Lincoln SUV, which he had driven from Boise to Coeur d’Alene, towing his and Jerry’s GS bikes.
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Lake Louise, AB
Destination: Coeur d’Alene, ID
Miles traveled: 328
I have a reputation for being slow in the morning and keeping my cohorts waiting. I was bound and determined not to let that happen today. Bob and Jerry wanted to leave and head for Coeur d’Alene starting at 0800, and Steve was splitting off from us for Calgary and then down into Montana for his marathon trip back to the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Consequently, I was up and going at 6:00 a.m. and had my bike started and parked in front of the Drake/Evangelho room at 7:30. I believe my friends were favorably impressed, although I indicated to them that I could not assure them of a comparable performance on a regular basis in the future.
I bid my good friend, Steve, goodbye with a soft, quiet prayer for him to have a safe journey home. This trip had been an incredible experience. We had traveled safely for thousands of miles through spectacular country. I cannot imagine consistent beauty of this sort anywhere else in the world. We had met people from all over the world on this trip and found the Alaskans and Canadians with whom we interacted to be gracious and friendly. It has truly been a once-in-a-lifetime experience which I will never forget. I am grateful to Linda Larrabee for lending me Steve for one month, to Steve for tolerating my idiosyncracies, and to my dear wife Jacquie for agreeing to still be at home if I arrived alive.
We were then headed off to Coeur d’Alene with Bob Drake in the lead. Needless to say, the pace was brisk. When we arrived in Coeur d’Alene, the temperature was over 90 degrees. We were glad to get off our bikes and travel around locally in Bob’s luxurious Lincoln SUV, which he had driven from Boise to Coeur d’Alene, towing his and Jerry’s GS bikes.
Alaska Caper - Day 29
July 2, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: McBride, BC
Destination: Lake Louise, AB
Miles traveled: 246
Destination: Lake Louise, AB
Miles traveled: 246
We loaded our bikes and headed for Jasper,AB. It was another ride with spectacular snow-capped mountains. We stopped in Jasper only long enough to gas up. Both Steve and I felt this was somewhat of a honkey-tonk tourist trap. We then headed to Icefields Highway. We had not intended to stop and take pictures, as we had both been on this road in the past but much later in the season. This time of year the mountains are still heavily snowcapped, and the overall appearance of the landscape is much different than either Steve or I recall. "Growing mini creeks" were coming off the mountain side with cascading waterfalls produced by the spring runoff. We could not resist stopping to photograph these seasonal wonders. There was a fair amount of traffic on the Icefields Highway. It came to a screeching halt just short of Lake Louise when gawking tourists blocked the highway to watch a small black bear feed and then retreat into the timber. We were greeted at the Mountaineer Lodge by Bob Drak
e and Jerry Evangelho. Bob and Jerry are part of the Boise "motor cycle gang." We have done yearly trips for several years. They had made a short loop from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, up through Western Canada and had graciously adjusted their schedule to ride home to Boise with me. We had dinner at the Railroad Restaurant, which is the old train station for the Canadian Pacific Railroad in Lake Louise. The food was excellent, although a $14.50 hamburger pushes the envelope a bit. Steve had a good opportunity to talk to Bob and Jerry about airplanes. All of them are avid pilots with incredible but varying flight experiences. I always find these discussions very interesting and informative, although my knowledge of airplanes and piloting would fit comfortably on the head of a small pin. We turned in early in anticipation of some serious riding the next day.
e and Jerry Evangelho. Bob and Jerry are part of the Boise "motor cycle gang." We have done yearly trips for several years. They had made a short loop from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, up through Western Canada and had graciously adjusted their schedule to ride home to Boise with me. We had dinner at the Railroad Restaurant, which is the old train station for the Canadian Pacific Railroad in Lake Louise. The food was excellent, although a $14.50 hamburger pushes the envelope a bit. Steve had a good opportunity to talk to Bob and Jerry about airplanes. All of them are avid pilots with incredible but varying flight experiences. I always find these discussions very interesting and informative, although my knowledge of airplanes and piloting would fit comfortably on the head of a small pin. We turned in early in anticipation of some serious riding the next day. Alaska Caper - Day 28
July 1, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Smithers, BC
Destination: McBride, BC
Miles traveled: 367
Destination: McBride, BC
Miles traveled: 367
While packing the bikes today, we met Mr. 
Frank Ritcey, who was staying at the same motel. He is a big game and fishing outfitter, along with his partner, Lloyd Bishop, who performs cowboy songs in the Northern Rockies with their group–The Birch Island String Band. He gave us a CD that they had recently produced as well as a DVD of their hunt at Christina Falls. I was tempted to sign up for a hunt on the spot, but better judgement dictated otherwise; however, I would like to consider a hunting or fishing trip with him in the near future. He talked about lakes in which the bull trout had "never seen a hook." After getting a taste of the quality of fishing at Iskut, in a lake adjacent to the "main highway," I can imagine what fishing might be like in a remote 
fly-in location. (Picture, right, Smithers, BC)
Frank Ritcey, who was staying at the same motel. He is a big game and fishing outfitter, along with his partner, Lloyd Bishop, who performs cowboy songs in the Northern Rockies with their group–The Birch Island String Band. He gave us a CD that they had recently produced as well as a DVD of their hunt at Christina Falls. I was tempted to sign up for a hunt on the spot, but better judgement dictated otherwise; however, I would like to consider a hunting or fishing trip with him in the near future. He talked about lakes in which the bull trout had "never seen a hook." After getting a taste of the quality of fishing at Iskut, in a lake adjacent to the "main highway," I can imagine what fishing might be like in a remote 
fly-in location. (Picture, right, Smithers, BC)Today, we put some serious miles behind us as we headed down the Yellow Head Highway. We stopped at Prince George and then proceeded to McBride, BC. We were still traveling in mountainous country, although there was a significant amount of flat land in which they were growing alfalfa and had livestock. McBride is a very small town, but it has a beautiful backdrop of mountains. We ate dinner at the Sun Valley Restaurant. Seeing this, I knew we must be getting closer to home.
Alaska Caper - Day 27
June 30, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Iskut, BC
Destination: Smithers, BC
Miles traveled: 332
Destination: Smithers, BC
Miles traveled: 332
As Iskut is on about the same latitude as Sitka, Alaska, it actually gets somewhat dark at night, although not pitch black. We awakened early to the sound of substantial rain beating on the roof of the Red Goat Lodge. As Steve had hauled his fishing gear 6000 miles and I had been carrying mine for half that distance, we were bound and determined that it would get used today. So, it was down the hill to Eddon-Tenajon Lake on which Red Goat Lodge is located.. Mt. Edziza on the other side was partially shrouded by the fog and low clouds. The lake water had a beautiful green hue and was extremely cold. The first three casts with a gold and orange Panther Martin yielded three nice, brightly colored rainbow trout in the 14-inch range. These fish fought with a fervor. Within 45 minutes, we had enough fish for breakfast. Mitch Cunningham, proprietor of the Red Goat Lodge, cooked up the fish, and we ate breakfast together. I had forgotten how 
delicious truly "fresh," well-cooked trout could taste. We packed our bikes, thanked Mitch and his wife, Jacquie, and headed south. We had one short patch of gravel road which was somewhat challenging in the rain, but after hitting pavement, we bid a final and happy goodbye to mud and gravel for the rest of this trip. At Meziadin Junction we took a 60-mile detour to Stewart, BC, and across the border to Hyder, Alaska. This road has spectacular scenery, not withstanding the low ceiling, and there were both glaciers and cascading streams coming out of the mountainside. Steve stopped at Meziadin Junction again in hopes of catching a salmon or 
bull trout from the Meziadin Lake but to no avail. The mosquitoes that afternoon were ferocious. We then headed south again on the very scenic Cassiar Highway. We stopped to gas up at Kitwanga and then pointed our bikes towards Smithers, BC. After continuing south from Kitwanga and onto Smithers, the road surface switched from chip seal pavement to asphalt. The transition was dramatic in terms of smoothness of ride and diminished noise level. We also noticed that the trees became much larger, indicating a less severe winter, and the road-side flowers changed from the predominance of fire weed to daisies, buttercups, and Queen Anne’s Lace. We began seeing more modern buildings, newer and less soiled RVs, agricultural land, and livestock. We turned into Smithers tired but exhilarated after a long day’s ride. If I ever need to be hidden in the Witness Protection Program, I might choose this town. It is large enough to provide basic needs and has exceptional access to multiple outdoor recreational opportunities and beautiful surrounding mountains.
delicious truly "fresh," well-cooked trout could taste. We packed our bikes, thanked Mitch and his wife, Jacquie, and headed south. We had one short patch of gravel road which was somewhat challenging in the rain, but after hitting pavement, we bid a final and happy goodbye to mud and gravel for the rest of this trip. At Meziadin Junction we took a 60-mile detour to Stewart, BC, and across the border to Hyder, Alaska. This road has spectacular scenery, not withstanding the low ceiling, and there were both glaciers and cascading streams coming out of the mountainside. Steve stopped at Meziadin Junction again in hopes of catching a salmon or 
bull trout from the Meziadin Lake but to no avail. The mosquitoes that afternoon were ferocious. We then headed south again on the very scenic Cassiar Highway. We stopped to gas up at Kitwanga and then pointed our bikes towards Smithers, BC. After continuing south from Kitwanga and onto Smithers, the road surface switched from chip seal pavement to asphalt. The transition was dramatic in terms of smoothness of ride and diminished noise level. We also noticed that the trees became much larger, indicating a less severe winter, and the road-side flowers changed from the predominance of fire weed to daisies, buttercups, and Queen Anne’s Lace. We began seeing more modern buildings, newer and less soiled RVs, agricultural land, and livestock. We turned into Smithers tired but exhilarated after a long day’s ride. If I ever need to be hidden in the Witness Protection Program, I might choose this town. It is large enough to provide basic needs and has exceptional access to multiple outdoor recreational opportunities and beautiful surrounding mountains.Saturday, July 7, 2007
Alaska Caper - Day 26
June 29, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Watson Lake, YT
Destination: Iskut, BC
Miles traveled: 220
Destination: Iskut, BC
Miles traveled: 220
Watson Lake has one claim to fame, a small park called the Sign Post Forest. Street and city signs from all over the world, mostly North America and Europe, are displayed in this 10-acre park. A Nampa, Idaho, sign was readily apparent, but I did not see one from Boise, although I cannot imagine that it was not there. It would be easy to miss even a medium-size sign, as they are jammed together from about ground level up to 20 feet in height in parallel, circumferential rows. People have obviously gone to 
substantial effort to bring these signs to this location. Some of them are quite large, perhaps 5 x 6 feet or greater. After visiting the Forest, we started down the famous Cassiar Highway. This took us through some spectacular country with beautiful lakes and rugged mountains. There was substantially less snow on these mountains than those in Alaska, but we are now many miles south. As we passed Dease Lake, we spied a semi-truck in the general store parking lot, hauling a canoe. This trucker’s motto was "no job is too small for us"–o
r at least it seemed as though that should be appropriate for him. We stopped at the Red Goat Lodge where we have a room for the night. We bought fishing licenses, anticipating a run at the trout in the Lake which apparently are quite plentiful and not difficult to catch. We parked out mud-crusted bikes for the night. We came perhaps 20 miles today on a gravel road in the rain, and mud covered the bikes from one end to the other. We will be looking for a car wash the day after tomorrow when we get back to the "civilized" portions of the British Columbia.
substantial effort to bring these signs to this location. Some of them are quite large, perhaps 5 x 6 feet or greater. After visiting the Forest, we started down the famous Cassiar Highway. This took us through some spectacular country with beautiful lakes and rugged mountains. There was substantially less snow on these mountains than those in Alaska, but we are now many miles south. As we passed Dease Lake, we spied a semi-truck in the general store parking lot, hauling a canoe. This trucker’s motto was "no job is too small for us"–o
r at least it seemed as though that should be appropriate for him. We stopped at the Red Goat Lodge where we have a room for the night. We bought fishing licenses, anticipating a run at the trout in the Lake which apparently are quite plentiful and not difficult to catch. We parked out mud-crusted bikes for the night. We came perhaps 20 miles today on a gravel road in the rain, and mud covered the bikes from one end to the other. We will be looking for a car wash the day after tomorrow when we get back to the "civilized" portions of the British Columbia. Alaska Caper - Day 25
June 28, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Whitehorse, YT
Destination: Watson Lake, YT
Miles traveled: 280
Life has its little hiccups. One of ours came today. The battery in Steve’s bike, only 1½ years old, died abruptly last night without warning. The local Harley-Davison dealer kindly took him around to various locations in hopes of finding a suitable replacement which would fit into the confined space on his bike. It turns out his battery is long and skinny, and there were no replacements which would come anywhere near fitting. We both went to bed unsure of what we were going to do, hoping to check other cycle shops in the morning. There were not many additional options in Whitehorse, which is a small town, although they do have a reasonably well- stocked Wal-Mart. This morning Steve and I concluded that great minds think alike, as during the night we had both thought of strapping an appropriate 12-volt battery to the luggage rack of his bike, running wires forward to the battery compartment to "wire him for sound." Steve put his Yankee ingenuity to work, acquiring a battery cable and tie-down straps. By noon he had a strong battery perched on the back of his bike. We concluded that all it needed now was appropriate housing. Perhaps when he returns home, he could build a bird house in which his battery could ride. It might even be a better alternative than purchasing a battery specifically designed for his bike.
We were then off to Watson Lake. Except for a little heavy dew, the ride was uneventful. We are now out of the spectacular mountain country. The road travels through predominantly evergreen forests and occasionally past lakes which are wonderfully clear with deep blue water. The rivers localized here no longer have a glacial influence, being either milky in color or somewhat muddy from the excessive spring run off. They too run through heavily forested regions. I was thinking–wouldn’t it be great to canoe down one of these rivers and fish on the way. The only challenge would be dealing with the Yukon "provincial bird," the mosquito, which seems more prevalent here than in Alaska, undoubtedly related to the standing water which is everywhere.
We checked into the Air Force Lodge. This has no military background, but the walls are covered with neat photos of WWII aircraft. This was of particular appeal to Steve who, as you know, is a retired Navy Aviator. Tomorrow we hit the Cassiar Highway and will be leaving the Yukon for British Columbia.
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Whitehorse, YT
Destination: Watson Lake, YT
Miles traveled: 280
Life has its little hiccups. One of ours came today. The battery in Steve’s bike, only 1½ years old, died abruptly last night without warning. The local Harley-Davison dealer kindly took him around to various locations in hopes of finding a suitable replacement which would fit into the confined space on his bike. It turns out his battery is long and skinny, and there were no replacements which would come anywhere near fitting. We both went to bed unsure of what we were going to do, hoping to check other cycle shops in the morning. There were not many additional options in Whitehorse, which is a small town, although they do have a reasonably well- stocked Wal-Mart. This morning Steve and I concluded that great minds think alike, as during the night we had both thought of strapping an appropriate 12-volt battery to the luggage rack of his bike, running wires forward to the battery compartment to "wire him for sound." Steve put his Yankee ingenuity to work, acquiring a battery cable and tie-down straps. By noon he had a strong battery perched on the back of his bike. We concluded that all it needed now was appropriate housing. Perhaps when he returns home, he could build a bird house in which his battery could ride. It might even be a better alternative than purchasing a battery specifically designed for his bike.
We were then off to Watson Lake. Except for a little heavy dew, the ride was uneventful. We are now out of the spectacular mountain country. The road travels through predominantly evergreen forests and occasionally past lakes which are wonderfully clear with deep blue water. The rivers localized here no longer have a glacial influence, being either milky in color or somewhat muddy from the excessive spring run off. They too run through heavily forested regions. I was thinking–wouldn’t it be great to canoe down one of these rivers and fish on the way. The only challenge would be dealing with the Yukon "provincial bird," the mosquito, which seems more prevalent here than in Alaska, undoubtedly related to the standing water which is everywhere.
We checked into the Air Force Lodge. This has no military background, but the walls are covered with neat photos of WWII aircraft. This was of particular appeal to Steve who, as you know, is a retired Navy Aviator. Tomorrow we hit the Cassiar Highway and will be leaving the Yukon for British Columbia.
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Alaska Caper - Day 24
June 27, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
We were fortunate that our day in Whitehorse coincided with the start of a yearly boat race for 450 miles down the Yukon River between Whitehorse and Dawson City. There are categories for one, two, and multiple-person water craft. These are kayaks and canoes. It was surprising to see that there were contestants from Australia, the UK, South Africa, the US, and all over Canada, including Quebec and Nova Scotia. In all, there were 78 boats. The event began with a one-quarter mile foot race to the boats and then they began paddling down the River. The winner usually makes this trip in 
about 40 hours. This necessitates fairly vigorous paddling, although the current in the Yukon River is really quite rapid, substantially faster than the Snake River although perhaps not as quick as the Salmon River in Idaho. As you can see from the picture, it is a fairly large river, even this far up stream. The water is fairly clear in Whitehorse compared to a definite muddy appearance down stream at Dawson City. The remainder of the day was spent visiting historic museums and cleaning residual mud and caked calcium chloride from the bottom of the bikes. We referred to this as removing the last traces of the Haul Road. In the evening, we went to the Frantic Follies. This was a Klondike version of vaudeville humor with a touch of the "Beverly Hillbillies" and "Hee Haw." Tomorrow we hit the road again for Watson Lake and point south.
about 40 hours. This necessitates fairly vigorous paddling, although the current in the Yukon River is really quite rapid, substantially faster than the Snake River although perhaps not as quick as the Salmon River in Idaho. As you can see from the picture, it is a fairly large river, even this far up stream. The water is fairly clear in Whitehorse compared to a definite muddy appearance down stream at Dawson City. The remainder of the day was spent visiting historic museums and cleaning residual mud and caked calcium chloride from the bottom of the bikes. We referred to this as removing the last traces of the Haul Road. In the evening, we went to the Frantic Follies. This was a Klondike version of vaudeville humor with a touch of the "Beverly Hillbillies" and "Hee Haw." Tomorrow we hit the road again for Watson Lake and point south. Alaska Caper - Day 23
Posted by Steve
Dawson City, Yukon
Monday June 26th, cloudy, drizzly and 60 degrees F.
Rather than focus on major highlights, let me recount some of the little ones that I will carry with me forever. I have good news and bad news: The good news is we have had marvelous warm and sunny weather 90% of the time. Alaska is more wondrous and beautiful than words and pictures can capture, Dick and I have ridden the roads less traveled, safely, while obtrusively gawking, and this trip has been everything I had imagined and more. The bad news is we left Alaska yesterday on the 160-mile long graveled "Top of the World Highway" from Tok (neat little junction town) to the Yukon, I have gained some weight from maintaining my strict regimen of a double scooped waffle cone of strawberry ice cream every day to ward off strange diseases in these foreign lands, and our trip is nearing its end.
There are hundreds of little treats to savor, as well as of the big highlights Dick has told you about, so let me share some of the brightest with you. It's special to be on a barren, tricky gravel road in the veritable middle of nowhere and have miles and miles of lavender, purple, yellow and blue little flowered plants lining the sides of the road--like a wedding path of sorts--welcoming you and keeping you company as you travel on. It's special to have very friendly, interesting people from all over the world come to visit you and chat wherever you stop for a break. Some vivid memories? How about humpback whales broaching and diving with their tails in the air just like the pictures; beautiful black and white porpoises playing alongside the boat and whizzing across the bow, racing back and forth ahead of our course with their dorsal fins breaking the water as if to say with a smile, "Haha, we're a lot faster than you are..."; black bears feeding on the side of a very steep mountainside; sea lions and harbor seals taking a break on seaweed covered rocks; and how about a real, live glacier with a front 1500 feet wide and 200 feet high of million-year-old ice right in front of your very little boat, floating in miniature icebergs left over from the glacier's calving every few minutes? As the ice moves (less than a foot a year) down the channel it has made from its beginning way up on the mountain, it cracks with sounds like a thunderstorm and big chunks of ice fall into the sea to become water once more in an endless cycle. Up at the start of the glacier, it snows 400 to 600 inches every year. Alaska has hundreds of glaciers, and we saw just a dozen or so. The Matanuska Glacier is just a couple of miles from the side of the road from Anchorage to Tok, and as you cruise along this (my favorite) spectacular highway, boom, there it is facing you through the green forest, surrounding it as you come around a bend. It is goose-bump time to realize that the glacier has been there for thousands of years......and here I am, close to the middle of nowhere, amazed and stunned by it.
The little town of Seward on the Kenai Peninsula is like many towns in Alaska, built on small pieces of flat land at the edge of the volcanic mountains touching the sea. Skagway is another such town. I really liked little Seward; it had a charm and warmth that beckoned you and had a really interesting, old historic downtown section that was there from the beginning of its growth as a fishing village on the Kenai. The Renown Tours' 6-hour Glacier ride out of Seward was just wonderful--first rate, 6 stars. Murphy's Motel in Seward gets many stars too, as the man who runs it was a great help and the room was terrific. Homer was picturesque and blessed with Kachemak Bay and snow-covered mountains of the Kachemak State Park 5 miles across the water. That's the southern most tip of the Kenai. On the way to Homer, on the only road from Anchorage, in the little, amazingly preserved and authentic fishing village of Ninilchik, there is a very small, very old, and very original Russian Orthodox Church with its golden spires and all white presence overlooking the sea the early settlers fished centuries ago. If you've read Michener's "Alaska"--a must read if you haven't--you know all about the early Russian settlements in Alaska and how we bought it from the Czar in 1867 for 2 cents an acre. It was neat to see some of the early Russian influence still alive and visible.
I could go on and on, about the little houses along the wild roads in the interior with a Piper Cub under a shed and a short gravel strip next to the house--for grocery runs, I'm sure, about the incredible Yukon and Alaska wild country that stretches for miles and miles and miles on either side of the rocky road to Dawson, and my excitement of actually being in Dawson City today, with a day off, to explore the history of the 1897-8 gold rush, and the Yukon and Klondike Rivers that I read about when I was a kid.
Follow your dreams, make them happen and carpe diem. Aloha from the Yukon, and I hope we have passed along a little of the magic, beauty, and indescribable wonder of this trip. No kidding, it really was "the trip of a lifetime." A special thanks and love to our wives, Linda and Jacquie, for their understanding and support of this awesome mission. And, of course, Thank You, Lord, for making it all possible............hasta pronto, Steve
Dawson City, Yukon
Monday June 26th, cloudy, drizzly and 60 degrees F.
Rather than focus on major highlights, let me recount some of the little ones that I will carry with me forever. I have good news and bad news: The good news is we have had marvelous warm and sunny weather 90% of the time. Alaska is more wondrous and beautiful than words and pictures can capture, Dick and I have ridden the roads less traveled, safely, while obtrusively gawking, and this trip has been everything I had imagined and more. The bad news is we left Alaska yesterday on the 160-mile long graveled "Top of the World Highway" from Tok (neat little junction town) to the Yukon, I have gained some weight from maintaining my strict regimen of a double scooped waffle cone of strawberry ice cream every day to ward off strange diseases in these foreign lands, and our trip is nearing its end.
There are hundreds of little treats to savor, as well as of the big highlights Dick has told you about, so let me share some of the brightest with you. It's special to be on a barren, tricky gravel road in the veritable middle of nowhere and have miles and miles of lavender, purple, yellow and blue little flowered plants lining the sides of the road--like a wedding path of sorts--welcoming you and keeping you company as you travel on. It's special to have very friendly, interesting people from all over the world come to visit you and chat wherever you stop for a break. Some vivid memories? How about humpback whales broaching and diving with their tails in the air just like the pictures; beautiful black and white porpoises playing alongside the boat and whizzing across the bow, racing back and forth ahead of our course with their dorsal fins breaking the water as if to say with a smile, "Haha, we're a lot faster than you are..."; black bears feeding on the side of a very steep mountainside; sea lions and harbor seals taking a break on seaweed covered rocks; and how about a real, live glacier with a front 1500 feet wide and 200 feet high of million-year-old ice right in front of your very little boat, floating in miniature icebergs left over from the glacier's calving every few minutes? As the ice moves (less than a foot a year) down the channel it has made from its beginning way up on the mountain, it cracks with sounds like a thunderstorm and big chunks of ice fall into the sea to become water once more in an endless cycle. Up at the start of the glacier, it snows 400 to 600 inches every year. Alaska has hundreds of glaciers, and we saw just a dozen or so. The Matanuska Glacier is just a couple of miles from the side of the road from Anchorage to Tok, and as you cruise along this (my favorite) spectacular highway, boom, there it is facing you through the green forest, surrounding it as you come around a bend. It is goose-bump time to realize that the glacier has been there for thousands of years......and here I am, close to the middle of nowhere, amazed and stunned by it.
The little town of Seward on the Kenai Peninsula is like many towns in Alaska, built on small pieces of flat land at the edge of the volcanic mountains touching the sea. Skagway is another such town. I really liked little Seward; it had a charm and warmth that beckoned you and had a really interesting, old historic downtown section that was there from the beginning of its growth as a fishing village on the Kenai. The Renown Tours' 6-hour Glacier ride out of Seward was just wonderful--first rate, 6 stars. Murphy's Motel in Seward gets many stars too, as the man who runs it was a great help and the room was terrific. Homer was picturesque and blessed with Kachemak Bay and snow-covered mountains of the Kachemak State Park 5 miles across the water. That's the southern most tip of the Kenai. On the way to Homer, on the only road from Anchorage, in the little, amazingly preserved and authentic fishing village of Ninilchik, there is a very small, very old, and very original Russian Orthodox Church with its golden spires and all white presence overlooking the sea the early settlers fished centuries ago. If you've read Michener's "Alaska"--a must read if you haven't--you know all about the early Russian settlements in Alaska and how we bought it from the Czar in 1867 for 2 cents an acre. It was neat to see some of the early Russian influence still alive and visible.
I could go on and on, about the little houses along the wild roads in the interior with a Piper Cub under a shed and a short gravel strip next to the house--for grocery runs, I'm sure, about the incredible Yukon and Alaska wild country that stretches for miles and miles and miles on either side of the rocky road to Dawson, and my excitement of actually being in Dawson City today, with a day off, to explore the history of the 1897-8 gold rush, and the Yukon and Klondike Rivers that I read about when I was a kid.
Follow your dreams, make them happen and carpe diem. Aloha from the Yukon, and I hope we have passed along a little of the magic, beauty, and indescribable wonder of this trip. No kidding, it really was "the trip of a lifetime." A special thanks and love to our wives, Linda and Jacquie, for their understanding and support of this awesome mission. And, of course, Thank You, Lord, for making it all possible............hasta pronto, Steve
Alaska Caper - Day 23
June 26, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Dawson City, YT
Destination: Whitehorse, YT
Miles traveled: ~350
Destination: Whitehorse, YT
Miles traveled: ~350
The ride from Dawson City to Whitehorse was uneventful except for several sections of chip-sealed roads which were being resurfaced, and due to the rain they were muddy and slick. There was a slight amount of slipping and sliding, but we kept the rubber side down and made it 
through without any problems. We stopped for a break at the Moose Creek Lodge. This is an old fashioned log structure with a quaint interior. They did their own baking. We ate several delicious raspberry tarts and had a cup of coffee, as the weather was somewhat cool, it had been raining a bit, and we were slightly chilled. We arrived at Whitehorse and found a Bed & Breakfast where Greg and Shannon were hosting us. They are delightful people. It is much more like being a guest in someone’s home than an individual renting a room. Tomorrow will be a day to explore Whitehorse before heading south again.
through without any problems. We stopped for a break at the Moose Creek Lodge. This is an old fashioned log structure with a quaint interior. They did their own baking. We ate several delicious raspberry tarts and had a cup of coffee, as the weather was somewhat cool, it had been raining a bit, and we were slightly chilled. We arrived at Whitehorse and found a Bed & Breakfast where Greg and Shannon were hosting us. They are delightful people. It is much more like being a guest in someone’s home than an individual renting a room. Tomorrow will be a day to explore Whitehorse before heading south again. Alaska Caper - Day 22
June 25, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
"Tourist Day" in Dawson City, YT
In 1896, just before the beginning of the gold rush, Dawson City’s population was around 1000. In the next 2½ years it grew to over 30,000. This population explosion occurred without a developed infrastructure; consequently, there were major problems with the water supply and sanitation. To make matters worse, Dawson City was built on swamp land which became extremely muddy in the springtime and froze rock solid in the winter when temperatures plummeted to -40 F. or colder. Because of the shortage of goods and services, the cost of living during the gold rush was extremely high. Millionaire gold rush miners would pay incredible prices for common articles of clothing and food. Eggs could easily cost $12.00 a dozen. Miners 
had money to spend, and the entrepreneurial sector was happy to oblige them. Many such individuals became millionaires in their own right, serving the needs of the prospectors. Today, Dawson City is primarily a tourist attraction. They have managed this task quite well, primarily by restoring the town to look as if it might have 100 years ago. The sidewalks are raised wood planks. Store fronts are ornate and brightly colored. The sides and backs of many of these buildings are corrugated metal "tin." We were told that this building material was chosen for fire prevention, as the downtown area had been nearly completely destroyed, when the 
buildings were constructed of logs, by a fire started by an angry "lady of the night" who threw a kerosene lantern at one of her "coworkers." We visited the Dawson City Museum as well as the Old Theater and the restored paddled wheeler, the Keno, which brought supplies to the gold rush president. Today was a relaxing and educational experience. Tomorrow we begin heading "home."
had money to spend, and the entrepreneurial sector was happy to oblige them. Many such individuals became millionaires in their own right, serving the needs of the prospectors. Today, Dawson City is primarily a tourist attraction. They have managed this task quite well, primarily by restoring the town to look as if it might have 100 years ago. The sidewalks are raised wood planks. Store fronts are ornate and brightly colored. The sides and backs of many of these buildings are corrugated metal "tin." We were told that this building material was chosen for fire prevention, as the downtown area had been nearly completely destroyed, when the 
buildings were constructed of logs, by a fire started by an angry "lady of the night" who threw a kerosene lantern at one of her "coworkers." We visited the Dawson City Museum as well as the Old Theater and the restored paddled wheeler, the Keno, which brought supplies to the gold rush president. Today was a relaxing and educational experience. Tomorrow we begin heading "home." Alaska Caper - Day 21
June 24, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Tok, AK
Destination: Dawson City, Yukon Territory, Canada
Miles traveled: 246
Destination: Dawson City, Yukon Territory, Canada
Miles traveled: 246
We left Tok this morning bound for Dawson City in the Yukon. We would see our last glimpse of Alaska, beginning our journey back to the USA through the Yukon and British Columbia. The road was mostly paved, and t
he scenery was gorgeous as usual. Shortly after "hitting the dirt," we arrived at Chicken, Alaska. As the story goes, this town was supposed to be named for the willow ptarmigan, but the name was long and difficult to spell and as the colloquial name for that bird was the snow chicken, this name has stuck with the town from the get go. It is a dinky little town which is an incredible tourist trap. While we were there, three tour buses arrived. In the local bar, they have a collection of ball caps which completely cover the walls and ceilings. On one, Boise, Idaho, was clearly written using a felt tip marking pen. It was then on to the Top of the World 
Highway. This took us over the border into Canada. It was gratifying to have a reasonable, friendly, unofficious Canadian customs agent. As Steve and I obviously did not fit the profile of drug smugglers or problem persons, he approved our entry with a minimum of fanfare and interrogation, while possessing an enjoyable sense of humor. The Top of the World Highway is a gravel road. It mostly is at an altitude of 4000 feet. At this latitude, we were above the tree line which is at about 3000 feet. We were having some difficulty controlling our bikes which were 
wobbling a bit unsteadily on the gravel. A young GS rider named Chris Hardy stopped to visit with us while we were stretching our legs, and he suggested we lower the air pressure in our tires from 40 psi to 25 psi. This made all the difference in the world. The bikes began tracking as if on rails. This suggestion had previously been made to me by Darrel Case, but I was not bright enough to follow his advice. We arrived at the Yukon River. Dawson City was on the other side. A ferry boat which runs 16 hours a day transported us to our destination. This is a small boat, and in the summer months, during the day, motor homes may have to wait 2-4 hours to get across the River, as they may be lined up 20 or more in number. On our crossing, there were several motor homes, but the rule here for ferry boats (and when following a pilot car through a construction zone) is "motorcycles first." We checked into the Fifth Avenue Bed & Breakfast. Our accommodations were excellent, and our hostess, Tracy, was friendly and cordial. It had been a long, somewhat arduous ride. We are looking forward to a day off tomorrow to look around this historic gold rush city.
he scenery was gorgeous as usual. Shortly after "hitting the dirt," we arrived at Chicken, Alaska. As the story goes, this town was supposed to be named for the willow ptarmigan, but the name was long and difficult to spell and as the colloquial name for that bird was the snow chicken, this name has stuck with the town from the get go. It is a dinky little town which is an incredible tourist trap. While we were there, three tour buses arrived. In the local bar, they have a collection of ball caps which completely cover the walls and ceilings. On one, Boise, Idaho, was clearly written using a felt tip marking pen. It was then on to the Top of the World 
Highway. This took us over the border into Canada. It was gratifying to have a reasonable, friendly, unofficious Canadian customs agent. As Steve and I obviously did not fit the profile of drug smugglers or problem persons, he approved our entry with a minimum of fanfare and interrogation, while possessing an enjoyable sense of humor. The Top of the World Highway is a gravel road. It mostly is at an altitude of 4000 feet. At this latitude, we were above the tree line which is at about 3000 feet. We were having some difficulty controlling our bikes which were 
wobbling a bit unsteadily on the gravel. A young GS rider named Chris Hardy stopped to visit with us while we were stretching our legs, and he suggested we lower the air pressure in our tires from 40 psi to 25 psi. This made all the difference in the world. The bikes began tracking as if on rails. This suggestion had previously been made to me by Darrel Case, but I was not bright enough to follow his advice. We arrived at the Yukon River. Dawson City was on the other side. A ferry boat which runs 16 hours a day transported us to our destination. This is a small boat, and in the summer months, during the day, motor homes may have to wait 2-4 hours to get across the River, as they may be lined up 20 or more in number. On our crossing, there were several motor homes, but the rule here for ferry boats (and when following a pilot car through a construction zone) is "motorcycles first." We checked into the Fifth Avenue Bed & Breakfast. Our accommodations were excellent, and our hostess, Tracy, was friendly and cordial. It had been a long, somewhat arduous ride. We are looking forward to a day off tomorrow to look around this historic gold rush city. Friday, June 29, 2007
Alaska Caper -- Day 20
June 23, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
It was up and going this morning in what might be considered "typical" Alaska coast weather. It was only about 50 degrees and misting lightly. When we arrived at Palmer for lunch, the weather broke. By the time we hit Eureka one hour later, the skies were at least half blue, an
d we had open visibility of the majestic vistas which have greeted us on a regular basis on this Alaska adventure. We rode on the perimeter of the Wrangell St. Elias National Forest. Mt. Sanford–a 16,231 foot peak–is the highest among several beautiful snow-capped volcanos. The magnitude of this mountain range is amplified by the fact that at the base where we were traveling the altitude was less than 2500 feet. En route we passed the Matanuska glacier. This is referred to as a valley glacier which travels down the mountainside to the valley floor. This was an incredibly impressive chunk of ice. We were told that it had receded substantially in the past 50 
years, presumably based on changes in climate. We arrived at Tok where we gassed up for tomorrow, sprayed a generous layer of bugs off the front of the bikes, and headed for Fast Eddy’s and the adjacent Young’s Motel for dinner and a good night’s sleep after a long but exhilarating ride.
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Anchorage, AK
Destination: Tok, AK
Miles traveled: 340
Destination: Tok, AK
Miles traveled: 340
It was up and going this morning in what might be considered "typical" Alaska coast weather. It was only about 50 degrees and misting lightly. When we arrived at Palmer for lunch, the weather broke. By the time we hit Eureka one hour later, the skies were at least half blue, an
d we had open visibility of the majestic vistas which have greeted us on a regular basis on this Alaska adventure. We rode on the perimeter of the Wrangell St. Elias National Forest. Mt. Sanford–a 16,231 foot peak–is the highest among several beautiful snow-capped volcanos. The magnitude of this mountain range is amplified by the fact that at the base where we were traveling the altitude was less than 2500 feet. En route we passed the Matanuska glacier. This is referred to as a valley glacier which travels down the mountainside to the valley floor. This was an incredibly impressive chunk of ice. We were told that it had receded substantially in the past 50 
years, presumably based on changes in climate. We arrived at Tok where we gassed up for tomorrow, sprayed a generous layer of bugs off the front of the bikes, and headed for Fast Eddy’s and the adjacent Young’s Motel for dinner and a good night’s sleep after a long but exhilarating ride. Alaska Caper -- Day 19
June 22, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Seward, AK, to Kenai Fjords National Park
Destination: Anchorage, AK
Miles traveled: None on two wheels
Destination: Anchorage, AK
Miles traveled: None on two wheels
Last night we stayed at Murphy’s Motel. On awakening today with the cloud ceiling 500 feet off the deck and rain, it appeared as though Murphy’s law had extended to us full force and that our blessings of sunny days were a thing of the past. Steve and I were skeptical as to whether 
the Kenai Fjords National Park boat trip planned for 11:00 o’clock would be any more than a trip through "rain city." This could not have been further from reality. Downtown Seward is actually quite charming, notwithstanding a bevy of tourists fortified by the 2500 persons on the Royal Caribbean cruise ship which had docked early in the morning. One downtown building was painted as if it were a huge aquarium. This caught my eye, and a photograph of it is attached. The boat ride was wonderful. By the time we started out, the clouds had begun to lift. We saw humpback whales, seals, sea lions, a black bear, several bald eagles, and a host of
sea birds, including the cute, stubby, little puffin. The highlight of this trip and an experience both of us will remember for a long time was the Aialik Glacier. The boat pulled in to within 300 yards of the glacier wall which towered 300-400 feet above the ocean. A bed of small icebergs surrounded us. As the boat sat motionless, we could hear ice cracking and occasionally pieces of the glacier breaking off and crashing into the ocean. This phenomenon is referred to as "calving." The process creates a strange booming noise like nothing else I have ever heard. At the completion of the tour of Kenai Fjords National Park, we gathered up our gear from the lobby of Murphy’s Motel and rode to Anchorage for the night.
the Kenai Fjords National Park boat trip planned for 11:00 o’clock would be any more than a trip through "rain city." This could not have been further from reality. Downtown Seward is actually quite charming, notwithstanding a bevy of tourists fortified by the 2500 persons on the Royal Caribbean cruise ship which had docked early in the morning. One downtown building was painted as if it were a huge aquarium. This caught my eye, and a photograph of it is attached. The boat ride was wonderful. By the time we started out, the clouds had begun to lift. We saw humpback whales, seals, sea lions, a black bear, several bald eagles, and a host of
sea birds, including the cute, stubby, little puffin. The highlight of this trip and an experience both of us will remember for a long time was the Aialik Glacier. The boat pulled in to within 300 yards of the glacier wall which towered 300-400 feet above the ocean. A bed of small icebergs surrounded us. As the boat sat motionless, we could hear ice cracking and occasionally pieces of the glacier breaking off and crashing into the ocean. This phenomenon is referred to as "calving." The process creates a strange booming noise like nothing else I have ever heard. At the completion of the tour of Kenai Fjords National Park, we gathered up our gear from the lobby of Murphy’s Motel and rode to Anchorage for the night. Saturday, June 23, 2007
Alaska Caper -- Day 18
June 21, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Homer, AK
Destination: Seward, AK
Miles traveled: 222
Destination: Seward, AK
Miles traveled: 222
We were up and going early this morning and rode around Homer. The skies remained clear, and the views of glaciers across the bay were spectacular. The Iliamna Volcano towered above adjacent mountains and made a wonderful photograph which is attached. We then headed for Seward, stopping in Soldotna for lunch. We arrived in Seward early and put our feet up for a while before treating ourselves to another excellent seafood dinner at the Chinook Restaurant. We turned in early in anticipation of our catamaran boat trip to the Kenai Fjords National Park in the morning.
Alaska Caper -- Day 17
June 20, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Anchorage, AK
Destination: Homer, AK
Miles traveled: 249
Destination: Homer, AK
Miles traveled: 249
Exhausted from an exceedingly vigorous and long day yesterday, I slept in until 8:30. We talked with a cyclist from Alabama who were staying at the motel. He was riding a 2004 Honda Goldwing with 60,000 miles on the odometer. One would wonder what else this guy did besides ride his motorcycle to have that kind of mileage in only four years. We were then off to the BMW dealer to change my oil. Steve bought some brake pads which he will install as soon as we get a breather in our traveling schedule. We then took off for Homer. The ride was pleasant, and t
he weather was delightful. Mountain views across the Kachemak Bay were again spectacular. Rugged, snow-capped mountains were easily visible as we had been dealt another day of bluebird weather. We stopped on the way to see the Portage Glacier. This drains into the Morraine Lake. Parts of the glacier break off, leaving icebergs floating in the Lake. This is an unusual fresh water occurrence. The volcanic runoff water is not clear. It has a milky appearance, like mixing one part of skimmed milk to 50 parts of water. I had been at the Portage Glacier 20 years ago. I was struck by how far the glacier has receded and the 
considerable water level drop in the Lake. This speaks to the issue of global warming but not to the total cause of this phenomenon. We checked into the Driftwood Inn. Our room was tiny with a pull-out bunk bed above a double in a room which was little more than 6' x 8'. However, it was clean and comfortable and the price was right. We then rode out to the Homer Spit, a tiny peninsula of land, sticking out into the bay where there are a host of touristy things. We had a great dinner, fresh halibut, which was a special treat for me, having been spoiled, eating truly fresh fish on several previous Alaska fishing trips. It was still light out when we turned in at 11:00 p.m, although considerably less bright than when at Coldfoot, which is more than 500 miles north of Homer.
he weather was delightful. Mountain views across the Kachemak Bay were again spectacular. Rugged, snow-capped mountains were easily visible as we had been dealt another day of bluebird weather. We stopped on the way to see the Portage Glacier. This drains into the Morraine Lake. Parts of the glacier break off, leaving icebergs floating in the Lake. This is an unusual fresh water occurrence. The volcanic runoff water is not clear. It has a milky appearance, like mixing one part of skimmed milk to 50 parts of water. I had been at the Portage Glacier 20 years ago. I was struck by how far the glacier has receded and the 
considerable water level drop in the Lake. This speaks to the issue of global warming but not to the total cause of this phenomenon. We checked into the Driftwood Inn. Our room was tiny with a pull-out bunk bed above a double in a room which was little more than 6' x 8'. However, it was clean and comfortable and the price was right. We then rode out to the Homer Spit, a tiny peninsula of land, sticking out into the bay where there are a host of touristy things. We had a great dinner, fresh halibut, which was a special treat for me, having been spoiled, eating truly fresh fish on several previous Alaska fishing trips. It was still light out when we turned in at 11:00 p.m, although considerably less bright than when at Coldfoot, which is more than 500 miles north of Homer. Alaska Caper -- Day 16
June 19, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Cantwell, AK
Destination: Anchorage, AK
Miles traveled: 246
Destination: Anchorage, AK
Miles traveled: 246
Last night I made the decision that I was going to take the bus tour through Denali NP. Steve decided not to pursue this option, but rather riding to Talkeetna was his choice for the day. I was up at 4:00 a.m. and on the road by 5:00 a.m., back 3
0 miles to Denali NP to catch my bus at 6:00 a.m. It was an eight-hour ride through the Park. Rugged mountains surround the valleys through which the tour bus travels. In the early morning, we could see the top of Mt. McKinley, but it then clouded over, obscuring the tall mountain peaks. Wild life viewing opportunities in Denali are outstanding. In our eight-hour trip, we saw two moose, three grizzly bears, and at least 40 dall sheep and caribou. These species consist of the "big four" which park visitors hope to see on their trip. We also saw gyrfalcon; th
is is the largest of the falcon family and reminded me of Zakar, the spectacular falcon owned and trained by Morley Nelson. (Picture right -- Dall sheep inhabit the rocky peaks at Denali NP.) The scenery in Denali is spectacular. The trip starts at about 2000 feet above sea level. In the altitude difference between 2000 feet and 4000 feet the habitat changed from an area with many small spruce trees to a rather barren mountainous tundra area with only small bushes. I took many pictures on this picturesque and educational trip. In the early 1920s Mt. McKinley National Park was on the list of "must sees" for adventurous tourists. In 1922, Park officials reported seven visitors, but the number grew steadily from year 
to year. Today, over 400,000 visitors come to the renamed Denali National Park and Preserve. At 3:00 p.m. I headed south from Denali to Anchorage. Miraculously, the skies had cleared. The views of Mt. McKinley and adjacent peaks were spectacular and something I will always remember. (Picture right -- Artic ground squirrel -- major food supply for predators.) When I arrived at the motel in Anchorage, Steve was comfortably settled in. I was too tired to even think about eating dinner but was pumped up on sensory overload from the incredible experiences of the day. Sleeping will not be a problem for me tonight.
0 miles to Denali NP to catch my bus at 6:00 a.m. It was an eight-hour ride through the Park. Rugged mountains surround the valleys through which the tour bus travels. In the early morning, we could see the top of Mt. McKinley, but it then clouded over, obscuring the tall mountain peaks. Wild life viewing opportunities in Denali are outstanding. In our eight-hour trip, we saw two moose, three grizzly bears, and at least 40 dall sheep and caribou. These species consist of the "big four" which park visitors hope to see on their trip. We also saw gyrfalcon; th
is is the largest of the falcon family and reminded me of Zakar, the spectacular falcon owned and trained by Morley Nelson. (Picture right -- Dall sheep inhabit the rocky peaks at Denali NP.) The scenery in Denali is spectacular. The trip starts at about 2000 feet above sea level. In the altitude difference between 2000 feet and 4000 feet the habitat changed from an area with many small spruce trees to a rather barren mountainous tundra area with only small bushes. I took many pictures on this picturesque and educational trip. In the early 1920s Mt. McKinley National Park was on the list of "must sees" for adventurous tourists. In 1922, Park officials reported seven visitors, but the number grew steadily from year 
to year. Today, over 400,000 visitors come to the renamed Denali National Park and Preserve. At 3:00 p.m. I headed south from Denali to Anchorage. Miraculously, the skies had cleared. The views of Mt. McKinley and adjacent peaks were spectacular and something I will always remember. (Picture right -- Artic ground squirrel -- major food supply for predators.) When I arrived at the motel in Anchorage, Steve was comfortably settled in. I was too tired to even think about eating dinner but was pumped up on sensory overload from the incredible experiences of the day. Sleeping will not be a problem for me tonight. Alaska Caper -- Day 15
June 18, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Fairbanks, AK
Destination: Cantwell, AK
Miles traveled: 198
Destination: Cantwell, AK
Miles traveled: 198
This morning we got better acquainted with the GS riders who arrived on their muddy bikes from the Haul Road last night. Joe Mobley is a cordial, articulate, retired Navy Admiral. His buddy, Mike Chase, probably age 60 but buff as heck and probably able to pick up his GS bike with one arm tied behind his back, is a retired Navy Seal. They are planning to catch the Alaska Marine Highway from Haines, AK, to Bellingham, WA, and then ride home to California and 
Mexico where they reside. After divesting myself of 17 lbs of excess luggage, taken to the FedEx office to be shipped home, we headed for Denali National Park. (Picture to the right -- The road
Mexico where they reside. After divesting myself of 17 lbs of excess luggage, taken to the FedEx office to be shipped home, we headed for Denali National Park. (Picture to the right -- The road to Denali). The ride was uneventful. Unfortunately, it was cloudy and a little bit rainy, so we did not see too much of the majestic mountains. We road into the Park 15 miles. Beyond that point, visitors are obliged to ride in tour buses. A small number of people, such as professional photographers, can obtain a permit to ride through the Park at will, and there is a lottery for later summer personal vehicle travel–about 400 cars per day. The outskirts of the 
Park are "tourist city personified". We got out of there as quick as we could and headed down to Cantwell. This is at the junction of the old Denali Highway. Motel accommodations there were bare bones to say the least. However, the cafe there served a decent meal at a good price. By bedtime the weather was clearing. The sun was shining on the mountains which were exquisitely beautiful. (Picture right -- District Courthouse in Nanana, AK, -- law Alaska style)
Park are "tourist city personified". We got out of there as quick as we could and headed down to Cantwell. This is at the junction of the old Denali Highway. Motel accommodations there were bare bones to say the least. However, the cafe there served a decent meal at a good price. By bedtime the weather was clearing. The sun was shining on the mountains which were exquisitely beautiful. (Picture right -- District Courthouse in Nanana, AK, -- law Alaska style)Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Alaska Caper -- Day 14
June 17, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Today was another easy day in Fairbanks. You might even say we indulged ourselves i
n slothful ease.
At about noon we rode out to the Chena Hot Springs. The scenery was beautiful as we traveled through boggy areas along the Chena River where we saw several moose (below), the first of such critters that we had laid eyes on this trip. The Hot Springs itself is somewhat of a tourist trap, and I must say by Idaho’s standards a bit too commercial and way too crowded. Steve took a plunge in the hot water while I walked around and spoke to tourists from diverse locations, including Belgium, Germany, and South Africa. They all seemed like pleasant and
adventuresome people who were very much enjoying their Alaska experience.
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Today was another easy day in Fairbanks. You might even say we indulged ourselves i
n slothful ease.At about noon we rode out to the Chena Hot Springs. The scenery was beautiful as we traveled through boggy areas along the Chena River where we saw several moose (below), the first of such critters that we had laid eyes on this trip. The Hot Springs itself is somewhat of a tourist trap, and I must say by Idaho’s standards a bit too commercial and way too crowded. Steve took a plunge in the hot water while I walked around and spoke to tourists from diverse locations, including Belgium, Germany, and South Africa. They all seemed like pleasant and
adventuresome people who were very much enjoying their Alaska experience.When we got back to the motel, two guys showed up on their filthy dirty GS bikes. They had ridden all the way from Prudhoe Bay today, over 500 miles, 300 of which is on gravel. I can’t even imagine how much effort and stamina it would take to accomplish a ride of that proportion, and they were old coots like Steve and me.
I began surveying my luggage and culling anything which was not deemed essential. I ended up with a bag of stuff weighing over 20 lbs which I will take to FedEx before we head off to Denali National Park tomorrow.
Alaska Caper -- Day 14
June 17, 2007
Posted by: Steve Larrabee
Fairbanks, Alaska: 75 degrees and sunny
Hello All: This is my first addition to the blog, and since Dick has done so well keeping it updated, I thought I'd wait for some perspective almost 1/2 way through the trip. I have run 5500 miles on the bike since leaving the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia on May 22nd -- headed for Boise. The miles traveled on the great ferry boat ride are not included. There are so many positives I'll condense it down to the two most unforgettable, in my view. Regarding more pictures, Dick tells me there is some technical problem with getting more of them on the blog, and he is trying to remedy that. The first highlight was the ferry boat ride for 3 and a half days through the thousands of tree covered islands that allow the inland passage from Washington to Haines/Skagway, Alaska. That's the same route some of the pioneers and folks hoping for gold riches in the late 1890s gold rush took. The rest came overland -- the way we are going back to the "lower 48". Dick has told you about the ferry so I will just add that it reminded me of the little packet boats that run through the islands in Casco Bay off the coast of Portland, Maine, delivering their people, goods and mail. The scale was much larger and the beauty magnified many times as we slipped through channels not much wider than the ferry and past untouched, pristine forests of green in every shade. The second highlight was the run north to Coldfoot, Alaska. There was some doubt as to the availability of gas at the Yukon River outpost, but not enough rumors to squash the spirit of the thing. We could always mooch some gas from adventurous souls doing the same senseless thing we were, right? It turns out the road was not as bad as I had heard it was; there was plenty of gas at the spectacular Yukon River, and the scenery and natural beauty was much more beautiful than I had heard it was. A net, very big positive. The only hiccup was a freshly laid down 1/2-mile section of large jagged edged stones on a downhill -- a new one for me, and quite tough. The stones' pointed edges jammed the front tire left and right, and not necessarily the way I wanted to go. Balancing this 700 pound machine was tricky and I almost dropped it in the middle after I mistakenly stopped to find a smoother path ahead. The secret is to keep it moving at a steady speed and let the rear tire do the work of pushing you through it. This concept made the next day's return up the hill much more manageable. The rest of the 175 mile road was a "pick and choose the best path" all the way. Potholes, ruts, cracks, and whatever obstacle demanded your attention. I had to remember that the roads really take a beating here with temperatures down to MINUS 50 and more in the winter. Below the roads is "permafrost" or perpetually frozen ground that sometimes thaws a little and causes huge frost heaves or waves in the road, or cracks in the road. The road crews up here have the impossible task of trying to fix what they can during the summer. We punched through the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees North latitude and stopped to treat the millions of mosquitoes to a free, tourist lunch. The 500 mile round trip to Coldfoot was through the most beautiful country of its type I've ever seen (including the Alps and the Andes). To keep me humble and grateful, it was one heck of a workout, too. The hard part is over, me thinks. Tomorrow we head south to Denali, (Mt. McKinley, at 20,000 feet, the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere) and the surrounding Denali Park. Then on to Anchorage, Homer, Seward and the Kenai Peninsula. What a fantastic opportunity we have, and I am trying hard to be patient, absorb as much as I can, take as many pictures with my brain as I can, and be safe while keeping track of Dick, too. I have had no problem sleeping since day one. Thanks for "listening" and I'll jump in with some more down the line. By the way, Fairbanks has the beautiful and modern main campus of the University of Alaska here. Dick and I went to see their "Museum of the North" yesterday and it was superb. The building is of modern architecture, trying to show the many faces of Alaska; inside, the native art, crafts, carvings, totems, uumiaks (canoes), wildlife, and history of the Native peoples is wonderfully exhibited and explained. The Museum is really a treat!! Next time you are in Fairbanks, remember the "Museum of the North" at the U of AK.
My best to you all, hasta pronto
Steve
Posted by: Steve Larrabee
Fairbanks, Alaska: 75 degrees and sunny
Hello All: This is my first addition to the blog, and since Dick has done so well keeping it updated, I thought I'd wait for some perspective almost 1/2 way through the trip. I have run 5500 miles on the bike since leaving the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia on May 22nd -- headed for Boise. The miles traveled on the great ferry boat ride are not included. There are so many positives I'll condense it down to the two most unforgettable, in my view. Regarding more pictures, Dick tells me there is some technical problem with getting more of them on the blog, and he is trying to remedy that. The first highlight was the ferry boat ride for 3 and a half days through the thousands of tree covered islands that allow the inland passage from Washington to Haines/Skagway, Alaska. That's the same route some of the pioneers and folks hoping for gold riches in the late 1890s gold rush took. The rest came overland -- the way we are going back to the "lower 48". Dick has told you about the ferry so I will just add that it reminded me of the little packet boats that run through the islands in Casco Bay off the coast of Portland, Maine, delivering their people, goods and mail. The scale was much larger and the beauty magnified many times as we slipped through channels not much wider than the ferry and past untouched, pristine forests of green in every shade. The second highlight was the run north to Coldfoot, Alaska. There was some doubt as to the availability of gas at the Yukon River outpost, but not enough rumors to squash the spirit of the thing. We could always mooch some gas from adventurous souls doing the same senseless thing we were, right? It turns out the road was not as bad as I had heard it was; there was plenty of gas at the spectacular Yukon River, and the scenery and natural beauty was much more beautiful than I had heard it was. A net, very big positive. The only hiccup was a freshly laid down 1/2-mile section of large jagged edged stones on a downhill -- a new one for me, and quite tough. The stones' pointed edges jammed the front tire left and right, and not necessarily the way I wanted to go. Balancing this 700 pound machine was tricky and I almost dropped it in the middle after I mistakenly stopped to find a smoother path ahead. The secret is to keep it moving at a steady speed and let the rear tire do the work of pushing you through it. This concept made the next day's return up the hill much more manageable. The rest of the 175 mile road was a "pick and choose the best path" all the way. Potholes, ruts, cracks, and whatever obstacle demanded your attention. I had to remember that the roads really take a beating here with temperatures down to MINUS 50 and more in the winter. Below the roads is "permafrost" or perpetually frozen ground that sometimes thaws a little and causes huge frost heaves or waves in the road, or cracks in the road. The road crews up here have the impossible task of trying to fix what they can during the summer. We punched through the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees North latitude and stopped to treat the millions of mosquitoes to a free, tourist lunch. The 500 mile round trip to Coldfoot was through the most beautiful country of its type I've ever seen (including the Alps and the Andes). To keep me humble and grateful, it was one heck of a workout, too. The hard part is over, me thinks. Tomorrow we head south to Denali, (Mt. McKinley, at 20,000 feet, the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere) and the surrounding Denali Park. Then on to Anchorage, Homer, Seward and the Kenai Peninsula. What a fantastic opportunity we have, and I am trying hard to be patient, absorb as much as I can, take as many pictures with my brain as I can, and be safe while keeping track of Dick, too. I have had no problem sleeping since day one. Thanks for "listening" and I'll jump in with some more down the line. By the way, Fairbanks has the beautiful and modern main campus of the University of Alaska here. Dick and I went to see their "Museum of the North" yesterday and it was superb. The building is of modern architecture, trying to show the many faces of Alaska; inside, the native art, crafts, carvings, totems, uumiaks (canoes), wildlife, and history of the Native peoples is wonderfully exhibited and explained. The Museum is really a treat!! Next time you are in Fairbanks, remember the "Museum of the North" at the U of AK.
My best to you all, hasta pronto
Steve
Alaska Caper -- Day 13
June 16, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
A day of rest and relaxation in Anchorage.
Today was an easy day. We slept in until 7:00 a.m. before mobilizing. It felt good not to have any specific travel obligations. We took the bikes to a local car wash to clean off the huge amount o
f mud which had accumulated from the ride to Coldfoot Camp the previous two days.
f mud which had accumulated from the ride to Coldfoot Camp the previous two days. We then went to the University of Alaska Museum of the North. This was extremely interesting with wild life, Native Indian exhibits, as well as varied art collections from the previous 100 years. This included works by settlers who had moved to Alaska as well as the Native Indians.
On our way back from dinner, we ran into a couple of riders from Northern California who were heading North in the morning. They were hoping to make it as far as Coldfoot, but they did not intend to consider riding the additional 240 miles on gravel roads to Prudhoe Bay.
The weather today in Fairbanks has been absolutely delightful. During dinner at 7:30 p.m., the temperature was 76 degrees, and there was hardly a cloud in the sky. Hopefully, this delightful summer weather will continue for a few more days.
Alaska Caper -- Day 12
June 15, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Coldfoot Camp, AK
Destination: Fairbanks, AK
Miles traveled: 246 challenging miles
Destination: Fairbanks, AK
Miles traveled: 246 challenging miles
I awakened at about 6:00 a.m. There was a strange noise outside. As I poked my head out of the door, I could clearly hear a pack of wolves howling. I would estimate they were no further than a couple of hundred yards from our room, back in the timber. We packed the bikes, ate breakfast, and then stopped at the Coldfoot Visitors Center. This is a modern building, unlike the bare bones style and condition of Coldfoot Camp where we had been staying. The displays there were quite enlightening with respect to climate and ecology above the Arctic Circle.
Packed to return to Fairbanks, we headed south on the Haul Road. We traveled approximately 60 miles south and when we arrived at the official Arctic Circle "Welcome Center," a parking lot with a large display sign, we then stopped to contemplate our accomplishment. We had a picture taken, proving to all witnesses that we had actually completed the ride as reported. We then proceeded south without incident. Overnight, the road had dried out, and travel was much easier. 
The bikes were surefooted. The BMW GS bikes, which are designed for this type of travel, handled without any problems. We stopped for gas again at the Yukon River, then it was back to Fairbanks. The only challenge was the short section of rocky road which we affectionately named "the rock garden." Returning south, it was a steep uphill climb of approximately one-half mile. This was accomplished without losing it. We were successful in keeping the "rubber side down," as they say in the motorcycle world. The remainder of the trip back to Fairbanks was relaxing and picturesque. As we hit pavement, 
there was a rain storm ahead of us with a wonderful rainbow. This was an appropriate culmination of a fantastic and challenging two-day motorcycle ride. In my 20 years of riding bikes, this was the most difficult and spectacular ride I had ever completed, bar none.
We unloaded the bikes when we reached the motel in Fairbanks and crashed without even wishing to eat dinner. We had completed our goal of riding the Haul Road north of the Arctic Circle and returning back safely.
The bikes were surefooted. The BMW GS bikes, which are designed for this type of travel, handled without any problems. We stopped for gas again at the Yukon River, then it was back to Fairbanks. The only challenge was the short section of rocky road which we affectionately named "the rock garden." Returning south, it was a steep uphill climb of approximately one-half mile. This was accomplished without losing it. We were successful in keeping the "rubber side down," as they say in the motorcycle world. The remainder of the trip back to Fairbanks was relaxing and picturesque. As we hit pavement, 
there was a rain storm ahead of us with a wonderful rainbow. This was an appropriate culmination of a fantastic and challenging two-day motorcycle ride. In my 20 years of riding bikes, this was the most difficult and spectacular ride I had ever completed, bar none.We unloaded the bikes when we reached the motel in Fairbanks and crashed without even wishing to eat dinner. We had completed our goal of riding the Haul Road north of the Arctic Circle and returning back safely.
Alaska Caper -- Day 11
June 14, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Fairbanks, AL
Destination: Coldfoot Camp, AL
Miles traveled: 260, very hard-earned miles
Destination: Coldfoot Camp, AL
Miles traveled: 260, very hard-earned miles
Today, we began the ultimate road adventure and the most successful and anticipated leg of the Alaskan Motorcycle Caper, riding the Dalton Highway. This road extends from Livengood, Alaska, to Deadhorse at Prudhoe Bay, 414 miles north. Our goal was to ride to Coldfoot, 175 miles and a total of 240 miles north of Fairbanks where we began. 
In 1969, when oil was discovered at Prudhoe Bay on Alaska’s north slope, excitement was high at the prospect of new money to fuel Alaska’s "boom and bust" economy. The nation was in the throws of an energy crises and were pushing for an 800-mile long pipeline. The Dalton Highway, named for James B. Dalton, a life-long Alaskan and expert in arctic engineering, was constructed in only eight months through the dead of winter, with temperatures at -50 degrees F. or colder, and mud, dust, and clouds of
mosquitos in the summer. It is also referred to as the "Haul Road," used to carry construction materials and provisions for the pipeline which was completed in three years (1974-1977).
Traveling north from Fairbanks, we reached Livengood, where the pavement ended, and we began a 175-mile jaunt northward on gravel roads. It had recently rained, and the road surface in parts was, what they say in Alaska, "slicker than greased pig poop." We traveled slowly and without incident. One challenging section of
the Highway, approximately one mile long, was a recently laid road bed composed of softball-sized jagged rocks which had not been adequately compressed or filled. We made it through just fine, although not without some anxiety. Apparently, the previous day that road had claimed over one dozen truck and RV tires because of the sharp rocks. Crossing the Yukon River bridge, we traveled north, gassing up for the north ride. This is spectacular country. The road parallels the Alaskan pipeline, some of which is submerged and other places elevated sufficiently high to permit 
wild life to travel underneath.
In 1969, when oil was discovered at Prudhoe Bay on Alaska’s north slope, excitement was high at the prospect of new money to fuel Alaska’s "boom and bust" economy. The nation was in the throws of an energy crises and were pushing for an 800-mile long pipeline. The Dalton Highway, named for James B. Dalton, a life-long Alaskan and expert in arctic engineering, was constructed in only eight months through the dead of winter, with temperatures at -50 degrees F. or colder, and mud, dust, and clouds of
mosquitos in the summer. It is also referred to as the "Haul Road," used to carry construction materials and provisions for the pipeline which was completed in three years (1974-1977).Traveling north from Fairbanks, we reached Livengood, where the pavement ended, and we began a 175-mile jaunt northward on gravel roads. It had recently rained, and the road surface in parts was, what they say in Alaska, "slicker than greased pig poop." We traveled slowly and without incident. One challenging section of
the Highway, approximately one mile long, was a recently laid road bed composed of softball-sized jagged rocks which had not been adequately compressed or filled. We made it through just fine, although not without some anxiety. Apparently, the previous day that road had claimed over one dozen truck and RV tires because of the sharp rocks. Crossing the Yukon River bridge, we traveled north, gassing up for the north ride. This is spectacular country. The road parallels the Alaskan pipeline, some of which is submerged and other places elevated sufficiently high to permit 
wild life to travel underneath.We arrived at Coldfoot at approximately 10:00 p.m. It was bright as day. We checked into the motel, a very "plain Jane and expensive cubicle" and ate supper. At two minutes after midnight, I photographed the mountain behind Coldfoot Camp at 12:01 a.m. As you can see, the sun is shining on it. We were definitely in the "land of the midnight sun." We unloaded the bikes and crashed after an exhausting but exciting day.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Alaska Caper -- Day 10
June 13, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Tok Junction, Alaska
Destination: Fairbanks, Alaska
Miles traveled: 220 miles
Destination: Fairbanks, Alaska
Miles traveled: 220 miles
We are far enough north that it never gets completely dark at night. It is not light enough to read, but you don’t need a flashlight to see what you are doing. I was awakened at perhaps 3:00 or 4:00 a.m. out of my sleep by what sounded to me like a rooster pheasant cackling. Obviously, this could not have been the case–right? It repeated itself four or five times before I got out of bed at 6:00 a.m. and noticed that about 20 yards from where our tent was pitched, the Sourdough Campground owners had a pheasant pen with one rooster and a handful of hens. The lesson here is to believe your ears, even if you are half deaf.
We packed up our tents and sleeping bags, and we
were off to Fairbanks. We stopped at Delta Junction. This is the end of the old AlCan Highway. It is roughly 1500 miles long and cost $115 million dollars to build in 1943. That would be a real bargain in today’s economy.
were off to Fairbanks. We stopped at Delta Junction. This is the end of the old AlCan Highway. It is roughly 1500 miles long and cost $115 million dollars to build in 1943. That would be a real bargain in today’s economy. 
The Tanana River, which we followed
from Delta Junction most of the way, was quite interesting. It would appear that at the height of spring runoff this river bed is completely filled. The accompanying picture illustrates that as the water recedes there are only a few channels running with a huge amount of dry ground. This is a pattern for many of the low-lying rivers in Alaska which drain the vast mountain ranges.
from Delta Junction most of the way, was quite interesting. It would appear that at the height of spring runoff this river bed is completely filled. The accompanying picture illustrates that as the water recedes there are only a few channels running with a huge amount of dry ground. This is a pattern for many of the low-lying rivers in Alaska which drain the vast mountain ranges. We arrived in Fairbanks, and we were lucky enough to get the last room at the Best Western. Steve sweet talked the young lady at the desk into a room rate of $110.00, down from the usual AARP rate of $154.00.
We then went to the "BMW dealer." The shop was a rundown mobile home with all manners of trash and defunct motorcycles and parts everywhere you looked. Not surprisingly, he had not ordered Steve’s speedometer, but he indicated he had a 1999 bike in the back from which he could scavenge a part. We were skeptical, and Steve will probably be looking elsewhere to replace his speedometer.
The weather for tomorrow looks encouraging for the ride to Coldfoot. The road report suggests that there is quite a bit of construction, which may be a limiting factor. It is our gaol to travel as far north as we can, confidently and safely; hopefully, to Coldfoot Camp. More on that later.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Alaska Caper -- Day 9
June 12, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Haines Junction -Yukon, Canada
Destination: Tok, Alaska
Miles traveled: 321 miles
After loading the bike this morning, we went to the city bakery. They had an unbelievable assortment of delicious, not so low-calorie pastries of all sorts. After devouring more than we needed, along with a generous caffeine infusion, we headed north. The roads in the Yukon are chip sealed. They were repairing a 40-mile stretch which gave us a taste of what we might have to deal with further down the line. We then passed from the Yukon back into Alaska. The attitude and treatment we received from the U.S. custom’s officials was night and day compared with their Canadian counterparts. It turns out that the agent who processed us has a daughter who lives in Boise. He wisped us through with no harassment and only a minimum of the "usual" custom questions. It was then a clear shot to Tok Junction, Alaska, where we pulled into the Sour Dough Camp Ground and RV Park and set up our tents for the night. The day, which started cloudy with a bit of mist, had cleared with blue sky, and the forecast was for no rain during the next 48 hours. With our sleeping bags rolled out and the tents pitched, we "hit the hay" early.
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Haines Junction -Yukon, Canada
Destination: Tok, Alaska
Miles traveled: 321 miles
After loading the bike this morning, we went to the city bakery. They had an unbelievable assortment of delicious, not so low-calorie pastries of all sorts. After devouring more than we needed, along with a generous caffeine infusion, we headed north. The roads in the Yukon are chip sealed. They were repairing a 40-mile stretch which gave us a taste of what we might have to deal with further down the line. We then passed from the Yukon back into Alaska. The attitude and treatment we received from the U.S. custom’s officials was night and day compared with their Canadian counterparts. It turns out that the agent who processed us has a daughter who lives in Boise. He wisped us through with no harassment and only a minimum of the "usual" custom questions. It was then a clear shot to Tok Junction, Alaska, where we pulled into the Sour Dough Camp Ground and RV Park and set up our tents for the night. The day, which started cloudy with a bit of mist, had cleared with blue sky, and the forecast was for no rain during the next 48 hours. With our sleeping bags rolled out and the tents pitched, we "hit the hay" early.
Alaska Caper -- Day 8
June 11, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Off ship at Haines, Alaska
Destination: Haines Junction -Yukon, Canada
Miles traveled: 154
The purser’s announcement over the intercom awakened us abruptly at 4:30 a.m. He was announcing the Columbia’s arrival at Juno. I dressed and hustled to the kiosk on shore to pick up e-mail messages. It was then back to the stateroom to pack our bags and cases. Murphy struck us again today. Steve’s bike was attached with a tie-down strap to a refrigerated truck-trailer. They drove off without undoing the strap, pulling his bike and dragging it 10 feet. Fortunately, the damage was only superficial, and the AMH employee agreed that they would pay for any necessary repairs. When we docked at Haines, it was missing a bit. We donned our rain gear and headed north. When we reached the Canadian border, there was a huge line of people waiting to get through customs. Apparently, the holdup was because of one individua
l who had a DUI conviction in the U.S., and they were not going to permit him to even enter Canada. Then, there was only one custom’s agent on duty, a surly and portly gal who was becoming bored by the time we reached the front of the line, and she wisped us through but only after we answered a series of somewhat inane questions regarding our intentions, duration of stay in Canada, and whether we were carrying any weapons or pepper spray. We continued riding north through some beautiful country in the Yukon and arrived at Haines Junction at about 8 p.m. Except for a shaky start on the vehicle deck of the Columbia, our first day of riding in Alaska was judged by all to be a definite success and enjoyable experience.
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Off ship at Haines, Alaska
Destination: Haines Junction -Yukon, Canada
Miles traveled: 154
The purser’s announcement over the intercom awakened us abruptly at 4:30 a.m. He was announcing the Columbia’s arrival at Juno. I dressed and hustled to the kiosk on shore to pick up e-mail messages. It was then back to the stateroom to pack our bags and cases. Murphy struck us again today. Steve’s bike was attached with a tie-down strap to a refrigerated truck-trailer. They drove off without undoing the strap, pulling his bike and dragging it 10 feet. Fortunately, the damage was only superficial, and the AMH employee agreed that they would pay for any necessary repairs. When we docked at Haines, it was missing a bit. We donned our rain gear and headed north. When we reached the Canadian border, there was a huge line of people waiting to get through customs. Apparently, the holdup was because of one individua
l who had a DUI conviction in the U.S., and they were not going to permit him to even enter Canada. Then, there was only one custom’s agent on duty, a surly and portly gal who was becoming bored by the time we reached the front of the line, and she wisped us through but only after we answered a series of somewhat inane questions regarding our intentions, duration of stay in Canada, and whether we were carrying any weapons or pepper spray. We continued riding north through some beautiful country in the Yukon and arrived at Haines Junction at about 8 p.m. Except for a shaky start on the vehicle deck of the Columbia, our first day of riding in Alaska was judged by all to be a definite success and enjoyable experience. Alaska Caper -- Day 7
June 10, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
On Board Columbia
It was still raining this morning when I woke up at 6 a.m. The ship was pulling into Ketchikan. There were several other large cruise ships in port there. We got off and walked on tara firma for about one hour and had a cup of coffee at a local restaurant. As we pulled out of Ketchikan, heading north towards Wrangell and Petersburg, the weather broke, and there was sunshine and at least some blue sky. Wrangell and Petersburg are much smaller towns. The Columbia stopped to drop off and pick up passengers. Throughout the day, we snaked our way through channels, some of which were quite narrow, and the ship was only a stone’s throw away from shoreline.
We ran into a young fellow named Peter Hammett who has a home in Boise (small world again), and he is riding his BMW GS 650. He is heading north, but he is not sure he will make it north of Fairbanks. He has previously ridden a KLR down the Baja to the Mexican mainland and back to Idaho. He is a pleasant, outgoing fellow. He joined us for dinner and discussions of South American politics with Steve.
I turned in early with the expectation of getting up early in the morning when we make a port call at Juno at 4:45 a.m./7:30 a.m., pick up e-mails, and download the Akaska Caper blog. The boat trip to date has been an excellent experience, relaxing, with great food, quite reasonably priced, and a reasonable assortment of interesting people to talk to.
Posted by: Dick Wilson
On Board Columbia
It was still raining this morning when I woke up at 6 a.m. The ship was pulling into Ketchikan. There were several other large cruise ships in port there. We got off and walked on tara firma for about one hour and had a cup of coffee at a local restaurant. As we pulled out of Ketchikan, heading north towards Wrangell and Petersburg, the weather broke, and there was sunshine and at least some blue sky. Wrangell and Petersburg are much smaller towns. The Columbia stopped to drop off and pick up passengers. Throughout the day, we snaked our way through channels, some of which were quite narrow, and the ship was only a stone’s throw away from shoreline.
We ran into a young fellow named Peter Hammett who has a home in Boise (small world again), and he is riding his BMW GS 650. He is heading north, but he is not sure he will make it north of Fairbanks. He has previously ridden a KLR down the Baja to the Mexican mainland and back to Idaho. He is a pleasant, outgoing fellow. He joined us for dinner and discussions of South American politics with Steve.
I turned in early with the expectation of getting up early in the morning when we make a port call at Juno at 4:45 a.m./7:30 a.m., pick up e-mails, and download the Akaska Caper blog. The boat trip to date has been an excellent experience, relaxing, with great food, quite reasonably priced, and a reasonable assortment of interesting people to talk to.
Alaska Caper -- Day 6
June 9, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
On Board Columbia
When we awakened today, it was pouring rain. The cloud bank was low, virtually obscuring the mountain ranges on either side of us. This huge boat threaded its way through the water, traveling North. At times, the land was 200 yards or less on either side of us. As we traveled past Bella Bella and Chatfield Island (Hello, John and Natalie), we then went through long 
narrows where water was cascading over the rocks in multiple places with beautiful waterfalls. It looked as if this was runoff from the snow-covered mountain peaks which were occasionally visible for a few moments through the clouds.
narrows where water was cascading over the rocks in multiple places with beautiful waterfalls. It looked as if this was runoff from the snow-covered mountain peaks which were occasionally visible for a few moments through the clouds. Each Saturday night, the Columbia has an all-you-can-eat buffet. It is $13.50 for us seniors. The food was excellent. The ship’s dining room had panoramic windows which afforded us an incredible view of the passing scenery. We again turned in early, wishing to catch up on her sleep and get our batteries fully charged for the riding days ahead.
Alaska Caper -- Day 5
June 8, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Bellingham, WA, on board Columbia
Destination: North
Destination: North
Steve and I awoke early today when it became light in the room at sunrise. We scrambled to organize our gear and pack the bikes for the short trip down to the Alaska Marine Highway (AMH) terminal. On the way, we stopped at the UPS store to pick up the radio headsets which had been shipped to us from Whitehorse Gear in New Hampshire. Shortly thereafter, Donna, the salesperson at Whitehorse Gear, called to ask whether we had received our headsets. I thanked her for her prompt attention and follow-up. At this point, we were good to go except for buying munchies for the trip, anticipating that food on board the ship would be quite expensive.
While waiting in line to board the Columbia, we became acquainted with other cyclists who were traveling to Alaska. There were two couples from Michigan and one couple from Alaska. In addition, there was one young man who is a smoke jumper and lives part-time in Boise. It was a small-world situation. We also talked with the motorcycle police who were providing security for the AMH. It turns out that one officer grew up in Lewisburg, PA, home of Bucknel University where Steve went to college. We talked motorcycles for an hour or so. He gave us his e-mail address, asking to be put on the blog list. He was envious of our adventure, and he indicated he hoped to take a similar excursion some time in the near future.
Motorcycles were the first vehicles to be boarded. They stuffed them into a small corner in the bow where we tied our bikes down. Seven of them fit into a space that would not accommodate one automobile. At $450.00 per bike, we reckoned that the AMH system would be in "fat city" if they could fill the whole ship with motorcycles. The vehicles loaded on the Columbia were diverse, to say the least. Next to us was a large stock trailer with three bulls. Apparently, a rancher near Anchorage was looking to get genetic diversity into his herd, or so the story goes. Apparently, he had not heard of artificial insemination. There were lots of small cars, pickup campers, and a few large motor homes, as well as several U-Haul trucks pulling trailers. When loading was complete, there was hardly a space to turn around on the deck which ran virtually
the entire length of the ship. The Columbia is the flagship of the AMH system. It is powered by two 6170 horsepower diesel motors which chug along at 409 rpm. This moves the 418-foot "ferry boat," weighing 13,000 tons gross, at a service speed of 17 knots. As the ship pulled out of the dock, Steve and I said, "Hey, we’re headed for Alaska." There was no turning back at this point. We were on our way. We carried gear up to our tiny stateroom with bunk beds, a small vanity, and an adjacent modular toilet and shower combo. It is small but comfortable and beats the heck out of sleeping in an inside recliner or pitching a tent outside on the rear deck. We grabbed a light supper at the snack bar and crashed for the night. I don’t think I wiggled until 7 a.m.; I probably would have slept through a typhoon.
Alaska Caper -- Day 4
June 7, 2007
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Desert Aire
Destination: Bellingham, WA
Miles traveled: 321
Murphy attacked us again this morning. A few miles out of Desert Aire, Steve’s speedometer cable broke. We went to the BMW dealer, Ride West, in Seattle. They accompanied us in fixing his cable, and we were back on the road. It was a beautiful ride down the Wenatchee River canyon. We arrived in Bellingham in time for a late supper and to organize our clothes and gear for the ferry trip on the Columbia, staring tomorrow. Enthusiasm is running high, as the excitement is just starting to begin.
Posted by: Dick Wilson
Start: Desert Aire
Destination: Bellingham, WA
Miles traveled: 321
Murphy attacked us again this morning. A few miles out of Desert Aire, Steve’s speedometer cable broke. We went to the BMW dealer, Ride West, in Seattle. They accompanied us in fixing his cable, and we were back on the road. It was a beautiful ride down the Wenatchee River canyon. We arrived in Bellingham in time for a late supper and to organize our clothes and gear for the ferry trip on the Columbia, staring tomorrow. Enthusiasm is running high, as the excitement is just starting to begin.
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