2MoreMiles...

Underwater Exploration

Posted on September 11, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

**These next two posts are a little late, and the final installations of our Alaskan adventure, so bear with me. Its not easy to keep up sometimes. Going on, and experiencing two adventures, then writing about them, selecting the pictures to upload and then posting them at the same time you are preparing for another adventure (I’ll have that up in another week or so) becomes difficult with so-so WiFi and especially when other aspects of life get in the way.

Anywhoo…

We spent our day in Skagway wandering around looking at things we don’t need. We did however purchase two Chilkoot trail specific t-shirts, and Chilkoot Trail Pale IPA pint glasses from the Skagway Brewing Co. (If you are ever there you have to also try their Spruce Tip Ale…it’s amazing). The other place to spend time at in Skagway is the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park Interpretive Center. Be sure to catch the movie, and the Ranger talks. Other than that we did a lot of people watching and hit every bar in Skagway, the final stop being the Red Onion Saloon (once an apparently well visited brothel), but according to the bathroom graffiti may still be in operation. This place was packed. They offer tours of the upstairs historic “cribs” for $10. The bartenders and servers of which were predominately women dressed in 1897 “barmaid” bustier attire. While saddled up to the bar, I had a spirited debate with the bartender about which came first, the Red Onion in town, or the “Red Onion” in Canyon City. I surmised that either one may have been the first “franchise”, on record, of which she became indignant, telling me there were “No such things as franchises back then!”. She obviously did not get my humor. Unfortunately our ferry back to Juneau was extremely late leaving, so getting into Juneau at midnight, turned into 2 am, and our “buzz” which we intended to enable us to sleep on the ferry had completely worn off. Our ferry that next morning to Angoon, for the second half of our Alaskan adventure (which included A LOT of fishing) was set to leave at 7am, which now left little time for any quality shut-eye.

Six hours of sleep in our tent on the ferry terminal lawn was now reduced to 4 hours. We did our best to sleep on the ferry, but it was not as restful as we had hoped. The weather was still superb, and a rarity in Southeast Alaska, so we basked in its sunshiny glory and extremely calm seas.

After a short stop at Tenakee, we shoved off toward Angoon. As my father was in the midst of an active bite, fishing with his best friend’s son Clifford , Major John Quinn of the Salvation Army, met us at the dock (which we completely understand). John and his wife Cathy operate the Eagle’s Wing Inn, where we would be staying at for the week with my father. They operate the Inn as a means to serve the people of Angoon as “soldiers” (actually Majors) in the Salvation Army. My father has been fishing in Angoon for several decades and stays for at least a month each summer. For the past decade or so, he has been staying at the Eagle’s Wing Inn, so John and Cathy, who by the way are the kindest people you will ever meet, are practically family by now. Their hospitality is splendid. John made sure we had fresh popcorn (movie style…very addictive) every evening and Cathy kept the cookie jar full of freshly baked cookies. We even took a run with John into Mitchell Bay to check his shrimping hole.

He even shared his “spoils” with us. A word of warning…Once you have had absolutely fresh shrimp, there is NO going back. Sadly now, I will only eat shrimp in Alaska, having been exposed to what shrimp is actually supposed to taste like…without sauce. As the unusually nice weather continued to hold, we joined Joann George for a guided sea kayak trip.

We paddled to the shore where an ancient bear trail lay, where nearly six inch deep depressions marked the comings and goings for generations of bears. Further up the trail was a “scratching post” wherein the claw marks of a bear at least two feet taller than Paul “stretched” leaving a lasting mark, and the innards of a tree completely shredded. This was a little unnerving, but Joann assured us that we would be safe as most of the bears were gorging themselves in the streams right now. Just in case, after having announced our presence and intentions to any bears still remaining in the area, she carried her kayak paddle. She shared her knowledge of the flora and fauna and her love for Alaska and specifically Angoon.

She told us of a Tlingit saying, “When the tide is low, the table is set”. How true it was we came to find out. As we paddled back, we navigated the tidal change which in Angoon is significant and creates some amazing eddies. We had a splendid time. We learned a lot and got a great workout to boot! It wasn’t until we returned and spoke with my father, that we learned she was a famous Alaskan artist.

That evening we motored over and dined with my father and Clifford at the Whaler’s Cove Lodge which is located on Killisnoo Island. Inside the Lodge is this photo below showing what the area looked like in the 1800’s. Of course it looks nothing like that now, but all the same Whaler’s Cove Lodge is a splendid place.

Their food, service and accommodations are certainly 5 star worthy. Upon our return to the “main” island (Admiralty Island) we were treated to an amazing “sunset” of sorts, considering it would not really get much darker for most of the night.

The weather and fishing was amazing our first day on the water, and to my father’s chagrin we would have been more successful had we not been so “rusty” getting the Salmon actually in the fish coffin. Eventually we smoothed the kinks out and worked out a system that maximized putting fish in the box. Paul and my dad baited the lines. No matter who hooked them, I generally reeled them in and Paul netted them. My father of course put us on the fish, and “supervised”…”KEEP YOUR TIP UP!”

Where we were fishing at Danger Point, the Humpback Whales were particularly active, and as such we were graced with being able to watch Humpback Whales bubble netting.

We also saw a pod of Orca, which was a little disconcerting whilst reeling in a large halibut. Even though the weather did not hold, and we were soggy wet by the time we returned to the dock each time we were able to safely go out an fish, we caught our fair share of Coho Salmon (aka. Silver Salmon), a few rock cod, and over 350lbs of North Pacific Halibut (which trims out to about 180 lbs of fillets). As luck (I prefer to call it skill) would have it, I caught the lion’s share of halibut, and the largest, I might add. Paul couldn’t figure out how if our lines technically were only 8 feet apart, how I was the one always with the halibut hookup. “Ya just got to have the right touch, and know how to talk them onto your line”, I told him. To be fair, Paul was the one reeling in most of the Salmon. I dubbed myself the “Halibut Queen” and Paul the “Silver Prince”. My father chuckled and shook his head. Okay back to halibut. When halibut fishing you really don’t want the monster size “barn door” halibut. The reason being that halibut over 100 lbs are generally considered “breeders” and in order to continue to successfully fish these waters we want them to keep breeding. In the event you catch one, you measure it (alongside the boat) and then set it free. Because they don’t have swim bladders, horsing them to the surface generally will not kill them like other deep water fish, especially Cod (which I like anyways). Additionally, halibut that size are also really hard to reel in and even harder to get them into a boat. Anywhere from a 30-60 pound halibut (which are usually the males, as they generally don’t get over 60 lbs) are the best eating anyways, and we call them “Chickens”. We did however keep what I call a “Turkey” as it was a little over 55 inches long (4.5 ft tall) which translates to about 80+ lbs . In order to get it into the boat, my dad took over, I filmed, and Paul wrestled it into the boat.

In no way would it fit in the fish coffin, so it had to be hog-tied along with two others.

That day was an epic halibut day as evidenced by the pictures below.

Just prior to leaving, our friends Larry and Vicky of Winthrop Washington who trail angeled us during our 2014 thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), joined us in Angoon at the Eagle’s Wing Inn . They spent the next two days after we left, fishing with my father. Successful as well, they went home with a 50lb box of Coho Salmon. We boarded the ferry with two boxes in tow, 50lb of Coho and 50lbs of halibut, as that was as much as our freezer at home could hold at the time (we have since cleared room for another 50lb box of Coho that is soon to arrive via air freight). As the weather was damp and cold, we spent the bulk of the uneventful ride back to Juneau inside, dining on the rest of our freeze-dried meals and snacks from our Chilkoot adventure. Once we arrived in Juneau, we were picked up via shuttle by the Driftwood Hotel where we were staying for the night before we were to catch our flight home the next morning. We have added the Driftwood Hotel as our “go-to” lodging while in Juneau for three reasons:(1) Can’t beat the price, (2) The Sandpiper Café has probably the best breakfast food in Juneau, (3) They have freezers (for no extra charge) in which to keep your fish nicely frozen until you go home.

Time to head home and prepare for our next adventure.

Posted in Alaska, Angoon, Chilkoot Trail, Juneau, Skagway, Uncategorized | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, bubble netting, Coho Salmon, Driftwood Hotel, Eagle's Wing Inn, grey whales, North Pacific Halibut, The Great Outdoors, Whaler's Cove Lodge | 1 Comment

Bonanza! We made it!

Posted on August 30, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

We lollygagged the morning away, and in fact most of the early afternoon, which when we first looked at our itinerary we thought would be an unbearable feat. Nope. Easy-peasy. We woke up leisurely, and drank the remainder of our freeze dried coffee with all the other Chilkoot “survivors”. We compared “notes”, spoke of home, shared email and blog info, and promised in earnest to stay in touch. We systematically went through the groups and persons that we had seen along the way. Several groups had failed to show up that evening, and we hoped they would arrive in time Saturday to catch the train back to Skagway. We had heard that several people had been medevaced (helicopter airlifted) from the Chilkoot Pass due to of all things, heat stroke! Soon we hear screams of JOY! And who should appear, the remaining two of the Canadian Triad, Dianne and Danielle!

It was a raucous reunion. They dropped their packs and basked in their accomplishment. There were two trains scheduled for Saturday. The first was headed further into Canada leaving at 1130, but not before a whistle stop at Bennett Lake for the “tourists”. The train pulled in and soon our tranquil beach is invaded by gawking, fresh scented, clean clothed, sweat free, “hikers” out to get a look at the shores of Bennett Lake, the exterior of the old church, a cemetery, and us. They took pictures of who knows what, as in all actuality there is nothing really left of the Gold Rush, save some buried “midden sites”, broken glass and rusty nails. I’m sure at one point there were artifacts a plenty, but not so much now. We joked amoungst each other that we felt like gorillas in the zoo, and wondered at what point we should start throwing poo. Soon the train whistle blew and it was time for them to reboard for their trip to Carcross. With nothing much else to do till our 3:30pm train, I decided to wander the shoreline in hopes of finally seeing the rapids from Lindeman to Bennett.

I discovered a few “treasures” along the way. I don’t think I have ever seen so much broken glass and rusted tin cans in one area, Nearby, there were several structures under construction. It appears that Glamping (camping without the true grime and dehydrated food) is coming to Bennett Lake, to what we heard would be $1600/double occupancy for a four day “adventure”. I’ll bring my own tent and food thank you. Paul and I wandered as far as we dare, to the edge of where the rapids flowed into Bennett Lake.

Considering what we found on shore, we figured what lay underneath the end of the rapids and at this portion of the lake must be enough goods and materials to fill a museum. We wondered what would happen if next we visited, dive gear in tow. We imagined getting on the train in Skagway with air tanks, our dive bags and dry suits, and the looks we would get. I can’t imagine after all these years that Parks Canada would not have done some underwater exploration. When we were on the California State Parks Dive Team, we dove in Emerald Bay Lake Tahoe (California), it was like going back in time to solve a mystery with the artifacts we mapped and catalogued. I recall us finding piles of broken plates and cups (fine China) and wondering why, for the most part, they had accumulated in one area. Then we recalled that decades ago, before Vikingsholm was built there used to be a “resort” of sorts. We surmised that the kitchen must have been perpendicular to the pile of debris, and the reason why all we found were broken, chipped dishes (not a single one intact) was because this is where they chucked (out the window) any and all chipped and broken dishes as they washed them. Ones imagination tends to run even wilder from there, as you picture the people who once worked there, and the patrons. The sounds, sights and smells. What were their stories, as everyone has a story. The same thoughts ensue as we peer at the tail end of the rapids, unable to venture any further up due to the terrain, and frankly it looked rather “Beary”.

We examine an abandoned washing machine, a tired coffee pot and the debris piles that practically coat the shoreline, scattered well into the water. I can’t imagine people of that period would just toss their empty bottles/tin cans willy-nilly, and/or purposely smash everyone to pieces. With 120 years passing, we are sure that we are only viewing the last remaining surface artifacts, that either have been broken by vandals (for fun), or with the pressure and friction of the snow and ice during winter.

(Later in the week when we are dining at a wonderful fishing lodge with my father, we spy an intact bottle in a display case labeled “Chilcoot Trail 1970”. Proof, many an intact souvenir of the Chilkoot Trail exists.). When we return from our exploration, it is time to pack up and head over to the train station. Everyone talks of how hungry they are, how they are looking forward to their “turkey sandwich” box lunch, most (including us) have purchased for our ride back to Skagway.

We wander over to the currently boarded up train station. We are amazed at how many hikers have now appeared, and have timed their arrival at Bennett Lake with the train. A replica boat used to ferry goods from Bennett Lake down the Yukon River is dry-docked across from the train station, giving us something to examine whilst we wait. In the near distance movement on the tracks marks the impending arrival of the White Pass & Yukon Route train returning from a visit to historic Carcross. It slows to a stop, and the conductor leans out a stairwell of a train car and announces to us, “Bring your packs up to the front”. We are told that we have our choice of two cars, and are NOT to board or inhabit the “non-hiker” cars (lest we stink them up). With that, the train station comes “alive”. The doors to a “hidden” interpretive center open, complete with a fully appointed bathroom. Droves of camera laden people, clad in pristine “hikerwear” filter off the railroad cars behind us, wandering into the interpretive center and up the “road” to explore the cemetery, church and shores of Bennett Lake. Thinking the train was to leave at 3:30, we are more than slightly annoyed, namely because we are all hungry and most have no food or snacks left in which to nibble before the dispersal of our box lunches. Resigned to the fact that we aren’t gong anywhere soon, we wander into the interpretive center. The displays are quite good.

The 3D topo map provides a great overview visual to the terrain we have traversed. They are running a movie loop of the history of the Chilkoot Trail and the Klondike Gold Rush on a big screen TV. Paul is seated at the edge of the seating. A woman in a wheelchair has parked 2 seats away from Paul. I take the vacant seat next to Paul and begin to watch the film. Next thing I know, the woman in the wheelchair turns toward me, wrinkles her nose (giving me a look of disgust) and wheels to the other end of the seats. Aw come on! Really?! I am pretty sure that I don’t smell any worse than Paul. I am tempted to walk up to her, take a really big sniff, and see if I can identify her laundry detergent. But I don’t, because the film is actually quite interesting. Soon the train whistle blows and it is time to board the White Pass and Yukon Route train back to Skagway.

We clamor aboard one of the cars, to begin our scenic journey. A woman narrates as we go. We spy still visible traces of the White Pass route, often referred to as “Dead Horse Pass“, wherein 3000 horses/mules perished attempting to haul goods over this route to Bennett Lake.

We are fascinated at the engineering feat, and the obstacles and terrain that had to be overcome to make this route. Thousands of men worked to have this completed as quickly as possible. It took them 2 years, 2 months and 2 days to complete it and have it running. 2 years after that it was practically obsolete as no one was “racing” to the Yukon for gold anymore. Today, it’s primary use is for tourists off the cruise ships from May till October. Eventually our box lunches are dispersed. Not much for $20, but we are hungry and soon the car becomes quiet, as we inhale the meager contents. The pictures and video we take, do not do this “ride” or the scenery justice. If one is ever in Skagway, this is a worthwhile “touristy” thing to do…even for the cost. On the way to Skagway we pick up some National Park Service private contract, archeologists. They are surveying, inventorying, and exploring the remnants of the White Pass Route, to see what the feasibility of actually opening and restoring this route for hiking and back-packing to Bennett Lake.

From what they told me, it’s a long way off, as it will take a lot of trail maintenance, but they hope it happens as it would add another fantastic dimension to the story of the Klondike Gold Rush. Eventually we glide into Skagway. We remove our hats and sunglasses, and hold our open passports, and hold them in our left hands (not that we have two) for the CBP Officer (US Customs and Border Patrol) to examine. We are given the “Okay”, and step off the train to a bustling “metropolis”, compared to where we have been for the last 4 days. We grab our packs, say our “goodbyes” and head for a shower and to be reunited with Schluffle (the rest of our stuff for next week’s fishing). We set up our camp, for another night at the Pullen Creek RV park, and then head to the Bonanza Bar and Grill to meet up with Russ, Trudy and Heidi, Beverly and Mike who is the bartender (currently working at Bonanza)who hiked the trail with us.

We eat, drink, laugh and play several rounds of highly spirited BINGO for alcohol related paraphernalia. I win a Bud Light hat and plastic pitcher, both of which I return to Mike, as do not want to carry this, nor would I EVER drink this beer.

Full and happy we literally wander back to our tent, the streets void of all activity. Tomorrow we will play tourists till it is time for our ferry back to Juneau, and on to the next adventure.

Posted in Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Mini Adventures, Parks Canada, Uncategorized | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, Bonanza Bar and Grill, British Columbia, Canada, misadventures, Pullen Creek RV park, The Great Outdoors, thru-hiking, White Pass and Yukon Route Railway | 5 Comments

Final Leg

Posted on August 26, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

We awake to another beautiful morning. The lake is shimmering like a mirror. Paul has had a pain free night’s sleep, which is a good thing because I awake to back spasms. Perfect! (I frick’n hate getting older!) We are in no particular hurry to get up or get moving. We have two days to travel the remaining 7 miles to Bennett Lake. Breakfast is leisurely. We all discuss whether we will all be hiking directly to Bennett Lake or make a stop, and camp a night at Bare Loon Lake 1.4 miles away. We hear it is a great place to swim. Russ asks how Paul’s ankle is feeling. He tells Russ it is much better, but not 100%. Russ announces that we should all camp at Bare Loon, and offers to come back and carry Paul’s stuff. Paul declines, telling him that we will meet them there. A new Parks Canada Ranger wanders into camp to say “Hello”. He also offers to give Paul a ride to Bennett Lake (or within 2 miles…we can’t escape it), via his power boat if he would like. I, of course will have to walk. Curious, we ask why not all the way to Bennett Lake. The Ranger tells us that at the end of Lindeman Lake there is a mile long narrow stretch of treacherous rapids that flows into Bennett Lake, hence the required 2 mile walk into Bennett Lake. He further explains that while many of the Stampeders used and/or built boats here at Lindeman City (decimating the surrounding forest’s timber), once they got to the rapids, they portaged their gear and boats around the rapids, lest they literally lose their shit.

More than a few chanced it and made it, but most who tried, failed, and lost everything. (Be sure to read the upper right portion of the above interpretive panel) The Ranger excuses himself as he has trail maintenance to do. Most everyone sets off, and we lag behind as the Upper Lindeman City campground has an “interpretive center”, housed in a period, canvas clapboard, tent that is flanked by interpretive panels.

Notice how they specifically talk about the 2 miles from Deep Lake to Lake Lindeman

Not only does the tent house books and pictures chronicling the history of this “city”, the Chilkoot Trail and the Klondike Gold Rush, but there are cards and board games to equally pass the time. This place alone, would be a great destination from Bennett Lake. It is beautiful and engaging. It is mid morning when we hit the trail. We climb (yes all trails begin with an uphill) up out of Lindeman City and stop at an interpretive panel whose embedded picture was taken from this exact vantage point during the height of the Chilkoot Trail.

What a difference 120 years makes! Nature has certainly reclaimed this once scoured land. Paul’s ankle is feeling better, but we tread slowly and deliberately, which is fine with me as my lower back is spasming like a game of Russian roulette. We make the 1.4 miles to Bare Loon lake with remarkable “ease”.

Russ and company are no where to be found. We talk with a couple hanging out at the open air cooking structure and shelter. They tell us that our “friends”, waited a bit for us, and then moved on to Bennett Lake. So much for the plan, Russ!

These two have been holed up here for two days now, as one of their group members is sick with what might be giardia, but most likely the effects from a bad case of heat exhaustion. We give them the rest of our electrolytes, and they share some anti-inflammatories and the water they have been actively gravity filtering with their platypus filter system. Ironically there has been no expectation or request for help (by us or them), but help is offered once a need is observed, and equally, with no expectation of reciprocation. This is the hiking community at its best. Too bad the rest of the world can’t be this way. We talk with the young couple for a good length of time. We consider staying the night here, and ask about the swimming. They say they have done it, and the water was great, but one needs to be careful not to stir up the silt that lies peacefully beneath the still clear water. Once the silt is disturbed, the benefits of swimming and “cleaning up” are foiled. Paul asks me what I want to do. Considering that my back could fail at any moment, I do not want to take the risk of waking up the next morning, moving “wrong”, and becoming “paralyzed” with pain. Remember, NO Vicodin. If that happened camped at Bennett Lake, I would have a better chance of making the 3:30 train to Skagway. We thank the couple for their drugs and water. They thank us for the electrolytes and our extra Via (Starbucks) coffee. We amble on our way. The trail is fairly easy tread, and often marshy. It is lined with nearly ripe blueberries, and I sample a handful at a time as we go.

Moose droppings (or someone has dropped a whole pile of Cadbury chocolate eggs) lie either in or just off to the side of the trail.

We look in earnest for moose in the marshes we pass, highly aware that these guys are unpredictable and that more people are injured or killed by moose in this country, and the U.S., than bears. We pass the dock, at the end of Lindeman Lake, and hope the trail winds close to the rapids so we can peer over, but it does not.

Our last 2 miles to Bennett Lake is spent walking slightly uphill in soft sand, sans shade, and in the noonday sun.

We pass a trappers cabin, and cemetery. As Bennett Lake comes into view, we pass the still standing Russian Orthodox Church (built in the 1900’s) that is now used for a storage area.

We drop down to the lake, and again are greeted by cheers of “You Made It’. We hoot and holler along with them. Glad to be done, and to see so many now familiar faces. Russ, Trudy and Heidi greet us, telling us they “saved” us a spot on the beach next to them. Paul, being the funny man that he is, asks Russ, “Dude what happened? We’d have been here sooner, but we were waiting for you to come back and carry my gear”. Russ initially looks shocked, and Paul lets him off the hook, with a slap on the back…”I’m just kidding”. Into the cook house we filter, as it is time for lunch and to eat mostly what’s left of our food (save dinner and breakfast). Stories and laughter fill the shelter. Russ shares a particular story about one woman’s use of bear spray/repellant during the Valdez oil spill clean up. The story goes something like this, ‘People from everywhere and all walks of life flooded into Valdez to help with the clean up as Exxon was hiring anyone and everyone to sop up the oil as fast as they could. Each individual was issued a can of bear repellant, or bear spray as its more commonly referred to as. As the people work, there is an overseer/safety guy that is on the lookout for bears. The workers are told that if they hear the air horn, it indicates that a bear has walked onto the beach and is too close. They are to immediately stop what they are doing and return to the rally point, bear repellent (spray) in hand. The woman (who Russ makes sure to point out that she is blonde…”no offense meant, as it is true”, he tells us) hears the air horn, pulls out her spray and begins to lavishly douse herself, from head to toe, with it. Of course she is overcome by the potent effects of the industrial strength pepper spray, leaving her incapacitated, crying, blind, and dripping in snot. When they get her back to the rally point and clean her up, they ask her why she did what she did. There having been no orientation/instruction on how to use said spray (thinking it was “obvious”, and that with their safety protocols there would be no need to ever deploy the spray to ward off a bear), she assumed that because the canister read, “Bear Repellent “, and not being from around these parts, that bear repellent was the mammal’s version of mosquito repellent, thus once she heard the horn, applied it accordingly.’

More stories and laughter continue as more people roll into camp. We are worried as our Canadian Triad has yet to appear, and no one in camp has seen them since Sheep Camp. We hear rumors of an emergency airlift from the summit. As luck would have it, Brent (of the Canadian Triad) walks into the cookhouse! Where the hell have you been? Where are the girls?…we ask. “Have I got a story for you”, he replies. They got going early enough (0730), and like us were dogged by menacing hoards of mosquitoes. The biggest problem was that they ran out of water 3/4 of the way up to the first false summit, and it was getting warmer. Brent was able to find a spring in-between the rocks, but by then the effects and signs of Heat Exhaustion had already set in. By the time they got to the summit and the Warden’s cabin, the combination of the sun and the rocks, it was now 120F/52C. (Holy steaming shit, Batman! That’s even too hot for us!) Brent was red hot, and his heart rate was racing. The Ranger got them drinking water, and would not let them leave till Brent’s heartrate and skin temperature returned to a “normal” level. By the time this occurred, it was too late in the day to make it to Happy Camp at a reasonable time. In the meantime, several other hikers, who were in worse shape than them, were airlifted off the summit. (That’s gotta be expensive) The next morning, they headed down the summit, determined, having made it over the hair-raising climb, to make the train at Bennett Lake by Saturday. They had heard about Paul’s injury (news travels quickly, and in both directions on the trail), and wondered how far we had gotten and if we were still on the trail. Brent got as far as Lindeman Lake, but was still feeling the effects of Heat Exhaustion. The Parks Canada Ranger offered to give him a ride in his power boat to the end of Lindeman Lake. He would walk the final 2 miles into Bennett Lake. When Brent accepted, the girls ingeniously unloaded the bulk of their heavy and unnecessary items, and added them to Brent’s pack. The girls would spend their final night at Bare Loon Lake, and walk into Bennett Lake Saturday morning. Brent found the final 2 miles of soft sand tortuous (as did most of us) as his pack was heavier than he would prefer, but was happy to have finished the trail without having to have been airlifted out.

We also talk with Amanda and her cousin Stacy (who owns Doggy Decadents ) Both are quite adventurous. They hunt, fish, ski, snowmobile (extreme), and are homesteaders doing their best to live off the land and provide for themselves and their families. They talk about the challenges of co-existing with bears, wolves, moose, sub-zero temperatures, and raising (of all things) chickens, in said environment. Amanda, in fact, writes a blog mainly about homesteading, and all things Alaska, called IdlewildAlaska.com . You should check it out. She is way more adept at blogging than I, and has a wonderful, and informative writing style. Via our “smartphones” we all share pictures and corresponding stories of our adventures.

We filter some water and Paul takes a dip into the lake to cleanup, with careful attention to not step on the broken glass and rusty nails that remain from another once bustling town, and the last of our, home prepared and packaged, freeze dried dinners are consumed. We retreat to the confines of our tents, and for me, the last of 3 more nights I will have to endure my lopsided air mattress. Night one on the trail, one of the baffles became dislodged. Could it have been one of the ones on either edge of the mattress? Of course NOT. It was the one right smack dab in the middle! My nights were spent either rolled up into Paul or pressed against the tent door. Good thing I’m a side sleeper. We all wonder what we will do in the morning to pass the time before our train comes to carry us back to “civilization”.

Posted in Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Mini Adventures, Uncategorized | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, Bennet Lake, British Columbia, Canada, Chilkoot Trail, Great Outdoors, Klondike Gold Rush National Park, misadventures, National Parks, Parks Canada, The Great Outdoors, thru-hiking, Upper Lindeman City | 7 Comments

“Easy”…a four letter word

Posted on August 22, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

Nothing spells easy like, H-A-R-D! What was supposed to be an easy 5.5 mile hike that would normally take us 2-3 hours with breaks, took us 6.5 hours. Paul had been nursing his right foot all the way down from Chilkoot Pass (hyper extended his foot stepping on one of the many thousands of mis-shapen granite rocks littered along the trail). His body decided overnight to compensate by making it nearly impossible for him to walk . What was weird is that the ball of his foot no longer hurt. He woke up at 1:30 in the morning with searing pain in his right ankle. WTF? Pain factor 10, when you least expect it. Now normally it’s me with these goofy injuries, of which Paul chides me for. But this time it is he who cannot exactly explain how it happened, but can only say that it hurts like hell, and he must push through the pain, cursing each misstep. Sadly the last of our small bottle of vitamin I (ibuprofen) had been used up last night by Paul (why we brought so little, we can’t even figure out why), so this morning I had to “Yogi” some off a family for him to be able to walk. Each step looked as if he were stepping on glass, and there was nothing I could do to help. I would have given him one of my pain killers that I keep and usually bring along for occasions such as this, but wait someone (of whom I will not name) threw them out because the bottles said they were “expired”. I’m pretty sure that stuff doesn’t expire. At least I’d like to think so.

The first part of the hike, not long after leaving camp was laborious (mostly because of Paul’s injury), for it was mostly talus, scree, and impolite chunks of granite on a narrow path along side a steep cliff. I wondered if this was going to be the trip we hit the SOS button on our Delorme, as Paul would teeter nearly over the edge of the trail barely catching his balance when a shot of stabbing pain would blast through his ankle. How the Stampeders survived carrying their crap over this route I’ll never know. (No wonder they mostly did this in the snow, when the rivers had frozen over). I will say though, that for me the views were breathtaking. I’m sure it was “breathtaking” for Paul, but in an entirely different way. About halfway to Deep Lake, we made use of the icy water running across the trail and stopped so Paul could “ice” his ankle, somewhat reducing the inflammation and pain.

After that, the terrain and pain got a little more manageable, but still no fun…even at a pace slower than my normal “OneSpeed”. Needless to say, Paul was a little grumpy. If only I would have been able to bring that Vicodin, we’d already be Vico-done! By the time we (Paul) hobbled into Deep Lake, a mere 2 miles from Happy Camp, Paul was “done” and seriously considering camping here for the night, which wouldn’t have been a bad thing as this place was gorgeous.

I so wanted to swim here, but the water was way too cold, and you’re not allowed to light fires. Here Paul soaked his foot for nearly two hours to get the swelling down. The same family that gave me some Advil in the morning, showed up as Paul was “icing” his foot, and gave us the rest of their Advil and an ace bandage to maybe help give better support for his ankle. While Paul was soaking his foot, we played with the idea of blowing up my air mattress and having him paddle himself at least part of the way. We reconsidered when we learned that the lake feeds a river that runs through a steep and narrow gorge via an equally steep plunging waterfall (from said lake). Hobble along it is.

Of worthwhile to note, this specific 3.5 mile section from Deep Lake to Lindeman City, was highlighted by the Parks Canada Ranger in our orientation when we picked up our permit on day one. It seems that this specific section has a problem with bears acting “aggressively “. No one has been attacked, nor has anyone had to deploy and use their bear spray, just that the bears in that area REALLY like to use this section of trail and are not too intimidated by humans. Last year (I find this out now. A bear was killed, and the section of trail we are on now, was closed temporarily. The restrictions, previously set were and are not currently in effect. During the orientation, it was highly (note, highly is underlined and in bold) recommended that one hike this section in groups of 4 or MORE. They figured if you were a smaller group, that by then you will have made friends, and would hike in a larger group…at least through this section. When the Ranger was discussing this, we took note, but were not really concerned. Flash forward 2 days and here we are, a slow moving “Happy Meal” for 3.5 miles. Not sure if bear spray would even be useful, if we had it. We figure no one is coming behind us, so even if we stayed the night, there was no guarantee that his foot would get better, or other people would show up. I considered walking the 3.5 miles to Lindeman City, dropping my pack and then coming back to carry Paul’s pack and walk with him, but being solo on the trail (twice) would be even dumber.

So, after 2 hours, Paul is ready to go. His ankle/foot it sufficiently numb, and the ace bandage is giving him better support, in addition to the minimal KT tape I had applied before we left Happy Camp. Once back on the trail, we are happy that the tread and slope are “gentle”. The trail initially hugs the edges of the lake, and then weaves through a narrow corridor of tall, dense, vegetation. We are mindful to be talkative, and keep our eyes peeled for movement in the bushes that flank us, and for the distinctive smell of a bear. As we trod along, soon we are passed by two sets of people, both are running (on purpose), but not for the reason one would think. The first was a couple that were obviously “fast-packing” this trail. He was wearing a cuben fiber Hyperlite Mountaingear backpack, and she a 20L Camelback pack. As they trotted by, I saw their permit “dancing” on his pack. Not sure why they were in such a hurry, as the train doesn’t leave till Saturday. I would imagine they have made other arrangements to return to Skagway, or elsewhere. The second, was a pair of girls in running attire and water bottles. [Who does that? I mean really! What do you even see when you traverse a path strewn with such history and beauty, trotting along at that speed? With all the planning and coordination it takes to do this trail, what do you get out of it? An awesome workout? A record maybe? Bragging rights? Not our cup of tea, but then hey, whatever floats their boat. Or in this case…plane, as we heard later on that they were racing to get to their chartered float plane out of Bennett Lake.] They smile as they pass, the kind of smile that reads, ‘Poor bastards, they’re gonna get eaten’. At one point while we’re hobbling along, Paul tells me that if a bear does indeed attack us, that I should save myself, because at the pace he’s going, he’s a “goner” anyways (Black or Brown bear), no need for both of us to be eaten. I look at the icy cool lake water the trail is hugging. There will be NO running, fighting, or playing dead. We will swim our way out of it. Waterfall be damned! Not sure how fast bears can swim, but what I do know is that adrenaline is a wonderful thing. We get to the end of the lake, and hear the roar of a waterfall.

We spy a skeleton of a boat, left for “dead”. The trail rises and parallels the gorge.

It is here we see why the bears like this trail. It is the only “flat” tread up from the edges of the unstable cliffs, and it’s lined with hordes of blueberry bushes. We are walking through their “food court”, duh! It is here that we feel most on edge. We are glad it is mid-day and very much on the warm side. Better probability for safe passage. As we walk, I notice evidence of recent trail work. Much of the vegetation has been cut back from the trail, allowing for a clearer view of what’s ahead and behind. The lion’s share of the vegetation removal appears to be concentrated on the blueberry bushes. Brilliant! Exactly what I would have done, remove their natural food source. But then the snarky side of me thinks, ‘Now they (the bears) just have mobile piñatas to swipe at. With the vegetation trimmed back, we notice an increased frequency of rusty artifacts. Weathered sled skids, wagon remains, tin cans and soles of shoes pepper the trailside. We must be getting closer to Lindeman City we think.

Soon a weathered sign appears tacked up on a tree, “Lindeman City” it reads. The outline of water appears on the horizon, and then like a cruel joke, the trail narrows into a green tunnel, complete with blind curves, lined with blueberry bushes loaded with ripening fruit, as it descends to the shores of Lindeman Lake and the remains of the once crowded, white canvas clad, metropolis of Lindeman City. Here there are two places to camp. Upper Lindeman, or Lower Lindeman. We choose Upper Lindeman, namely because it continues on the path toward Bennett Lake. We pull into camp, amid cheers of “You Made It!” Paul drops his pack on the deck of the cooking cabin, relieved to be done. Equally relieved, I find us a campsite, while Paul and the rest of the crew trade stories. Evening food preparation has begun. It is only 3pm. We have a snack, and watch as a power boat races up the lake and pulls up to a dock not far from us. It is the Ranger. He wanders over to the group gathered at the picnic tables adjacent the cooking cabin to say “Hello”. He asks how everyone is doing and if we have any questions or need anything. I ask if he has any ibuprofen. Russ says we could probably use some athletic tape. No ibuprofen, and no “athletic tape”, but he does have “hockey tape”. I laugh , as they are one in the same, but of course we are in Canada where athletics IS hockey. I properly tape Paul’s ankle, as I used to be athletic trainer in college, and we finish setting up our camp. More discussion, laughter and trail stories follow. The Ranger confirms that they purposely were cutting back the blueberry bushes in hopes of dissuading the bears from frequenting that portion of the trail. We ask him if he was around when Parker (from History Channel’s, “Gold Rush”) filmed his “Wintery” hike of the Chilkoot Trail, “Gold Rush: Parker’s Trail”. “No, but I heard there was a lot of wine. The liquid form”, he replies. We get to talking about the trail, and how Parker actually had “Sherpas” and a full support crew while filming. So much for “reality TV”. I knew that most of the “reality” on reality TV is contrived, but Sherpas carrying your wine, that’s just not right! I will say though, that they made an ascent of the Golden Staircase in less than stellar conditions, which was super treacherous, with or without a fully loaded backpack. The discussions turned to more Alaskan reality shows, bears, homesteading and their (Alaskan’s) differences with the “Lower 48”. For the most part, the Alaskans we talked to, hate the Alaska reality shows, and are genuinely embarrassed by them. They are completely taken aback, however, by the fact we are from California, especially Southern California. They can’t get over (especially Russ) how we in no-way fit the well established “stereotype”s they have become accustomed to.

We finish setting up our camp, and it is time for our evening vittles. Our “dessert” is a muscle relaxant for both of us, and soon we were easily asleep.

Posted in Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Mini Adventures, Uncategorized | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, British Columbia, Canada, Canadian Parks, Chilkoot Trail, Deep Lake, Happy Camp, Lindeman City, misadventures, National Parks, Parker's Trail, Sonoran Desert, The Great Outdoors, thru-hiking, Upper Lindeman City | 8 Comments

ROcky ROad…continued

Posted on August 21, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

Before we continue, we check into the interpretive cabin, that also doubles as an Emergency Shelter. Inside you will find a box of blank heavy unbleached recycled card stock, “post cards”. They are doing a “post card project”. You address a postcard to yourself, and write a note on it to memorialize this hike. You also check a box, allowing the Park Service (US and Canadian) to use what you write on the card, as they are making a movie/video from the post card project. In a year, they will mail the self addressed card to you. It serves as a reminder of your accomplishment and hopefully it will conjure up fond memories. Will you feel the same about the trail in a year, as you do now?

Our note to ourselves was somewhat reflective. It went something like this, ‘I don’t know who’s crazier. The Stampeders, who did it for gold and the hope of prosperity, or us who did this for “fun” and the challenge.’

If you look closely you can see the trail and where it will lead us

We look across the bowl that awaits us. Just like ascending required us to stow our trekking poles and to crawl on all fours, descending required the same. For the most part, we scramble down practically on all fours to the still remaining patches of snow.

If you are smart, you unpack your poles, so as to not slip and descend any faster than you’d like. That is, If you ARE smart! At one point I chose to glissade (on purpose), as walking was too stressful. I actually got to do it twice, as the first time my pee rag became dislodged from my pack…at the start of my glissade, of course.

I considered leaving it up there, however it would have been cruel to do so. I pictured someone strolling into camp wearing said bandana, excited about their find…only to thank them for picking up my pee rag. Down, down, down we clamored to Crater Lake. Finally on “flat” ground, it is so hot, we consider taking a swim. In some ways I wish we had, but it looked, “ice cream headache” cold.

We met the Canadian Ranger on her way up to the Warden’s cabin. She got a kick outta me sliding down the snow bank, twice. “Gotta act young, to stay young”, she said. ‘You got that right!’, we agreed. We have now descended into a giant bowl, and look back from whence we came. The terrain ahead of us is wide open.

We weave our way across what feels like the surface of the moon. Pristine, azure blue, bodies of water lie before us.

Several more can be seen in the distance, making for colorful “puddles”.

Water flows under our feet, in sheets and ribbons, originating from cascading water falls and streams off the towering mountain ranges in the near distance.

Early on, we give up trying to keep our feet dry and walk unabashedly through the often icy cold water, preferring to “walk them dry”. In hopes it provides some relief to his agitated right foot, we take the time to stop and “ice” Paul’s foot.

Thick and stubborn stacks of compressed snow (ice), defy the blazing sun, refusing to give way to the inevitable “ice cups”.

Evidence of vast snow fields, recently evaporated drifts, as well as “stubborn” snow, flank us on either side as we traverse this remarkable land. We imagine the Stampeders doing this in winter, and dragging or mushing their goods across snow covered ground and frozen lakes. We imagine the treasures we would find if we were to dive in these standing bodies of water…an underwater archeologist’s paradise.

What’s left of what once was probably a robust saw mill lies rotting in the trail. It’s the only artifacts we will see today.

As we walk along, Paul is limping and trying to stay off the ball of his foot. Every sharp rock and uphill is near torture for Paul. I, on the other hand, am happy as clam, namely because the seriously rocky part is OVER, it is currently bug FREE and most definitely BEAUTIFUL!

My celebration, of course, is entirely too soon. While it is still beautiful, the rocks and bugs return, if only to annoy us.

We wind up and down and over rounded granite, through flattened scree and lingering snow fields. I play our path from Sheep Camp in my head, and think, ‘If we could speed this up, it would be an awesome roller coaster ride!’.

When the rounded rocks and scree turn to decomposed granite, and vegetation starts to appear with regularity, we can’t help but assume that we must be getting closer to Happy Camp. Wilderness “chickens” (aka. grouse) scurry between the sharp boulders. We hear them call out to each other, like a rousing game of “Marco- Polo”.

Some stand like sentries over their broods and watch us pass. Little do they know, that if we were starving, we would have bopped them on the head and be feasting on a “chicken” dinner. Alas, we came sufficiently prepared. They will live to “cluck” another day. The grouse serve as a nice distraction for Paul and the painfulness of walking. His slow pace however allows me to linger behind and take as many photos as I’d like without annoying him. Soon he calls out to me. “Dee, you gotta see this!”. I scurry up to him and he points down to a sign. We both start to laugh.

“Happy Camp 2 miles”. Gotta love it! As always, when you’re more than ready to done, it’s always 2 more miles!

From here we practically skip down the trail to the raised platforms of Happy Camp, and the cool shallow river that flows alongside it.

Once we choose our site, we filter water, bathe and actually soak for nearly an hour in the river’s refreshing waters. It is at Happy Camp that we bask in the company and conversation of several other hikers we have been “hopscotching” with since the beginning . We have a rousing conversation with Russ, Trudy and Heidi. Lots of laughter ensues. Russ is another one of Paul’s “brothers from another mother”. We learn that we will all to be on the Saturday train back to Skagway, and that Lindeman City is our next stop, a short 5.5 miles away. We head to bed, amazed at how tired we are after only 10 miles. Not that they weren’t hard miles, but really? 6- 10 miles, daily, is nothing for us at home. We finally must be getting old or something. Our kids would agree that we already are OLD! Darnit!

Posted in Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Mini Adventures, Uncategorized | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, British Columbia, Canada, Canadian Parks, Chilkoot Trail, Happy Camp, misadventures, The Great Outdoors | 3 Comments

Rocky Road

Posted on August 19, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

Today was our ascent up and over Chilkoot Pass from Sheep Camp. We were advised by the NPS Ranger Kai that we should have an early start, as it has been known to take up to 12 hours to make it up the pass, and as far as Happy Camp…of which after today’s jaunt, is aptly named. The distance is actually 7.7 miles from Sheep Camp to Happy Camp, 3.5 miles of it is an ascent of 2800 feet. The first mile (the “long mile”) is a gradual ascent, where there is rarely a portion that is NOT going uphill.

Here you climb a narrow trail through vegetation patrolled by hoards of mosquitoes, and a “teenage” black bear with a penchant for mischief. The entire way, we were continually dogged by biting flies and even more mosquitoes, like that would be even possible, but it was. Coating oneself with bug juice was almost entirely futile, as with the day’s conditions you’re just as likely to sweat it off before it can be of any relief.

With that said, we actually were extremely lucky. Not often is it clear blue skies over head, let alone NOT raining or fogged in at the top. We had about as perfect conditions as anyone would want to do this trek… in the summer. The usual threat of hypothermia was replaced with the high probability of heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke if one failed to hydrate properly and carry sufficient fluids.

More so than any other part of the trail this far, we came across artifacts littered by the wayside.

It seemed that at every point we stopped to take a breather (and allow the mosquitoes to catch up to us) we encountered a relic or two. As we neared the “Scales”, more artifacts appeared.

The terrain “flattened” for a brief moment, and the trail looked like low tide at one of the many beaches we’ve been to.

The trail, or rather route soon becomes a 4wd operation, requiring one to stow their trekking poles and don gloves for better hand holds as you literally crawl over jagged granite boulders to the top of not one, but THREE false summits (Ranger Kai lied, or at least only told us about the American side).

As we continued to crawl/climb, what we did not know was what it was going to be like on the “other side” of the Pass. While the Ranger gave us a briefing, he, and all of the blogs and videos we perused, never truly prepared us for what we would find on the “other side”. Everyone writes about how “happy” they are and how “beautiful” the scenery and campsites are. It’s akin to when everyone (who has more than one child) encourages you to have that second child, telling you that it’s easier than the first…LIES! Or, at the very least, they omit specific details…on purpose! They do so, in hopes you will join them in the shared plight of parenting. (Been there. Done that. Got the t-shirt.) So I guess not truly revealing what it’s really going to be like, once you get to the top of the Pass and begin your LONG descent into Canada, is a sneaky way to lure you into charging up the Pass and sharing in the “joy” of hiking the Chilkoot Trail… in its entirety. Once you’re up and over, there is no way you’d really want to retrace your steps…if you really didn’t need to, at least during summer conditions.

Now, what I didn’t know crawling up the large sharp and shifty granite boulders to the top of the pass, was that Paul had hyper extended his right instep stepping onto one of many angular boulders. Each step for him was unavoidably painful.

When reach the first false summit, we are relieved to have a break (however slight) from climbing and take time to admire the view. I go to switch out the SD card in my GoPro and discover the additional card never made it into my pack (in fact I still can’t find the damn thing) Eager to get this over with, we continue to climb, expecting to see the Warden’s cabin and be in Canada by now, only to crest the next summit and discover it is false as well.

Up and over another false summit and more than a few permanent snow patches, finally we have made it to Canada. However, by the time we reached the Warden’s cabin, Paul’s foot was really bothering him. Now this is significant, because I’m usually the one who injures themselves during one of our adventures.

A dose of Advil for Paul and dose of electrolytes for me, a meager lunch, and another two liters of filtered water from a snowmelt pond by the Warden’s cabin…and a potty break, we heft our packs and begin our descent.

A (bath)”room” with a view

To be continued…

Posted in Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Mini Adventures, Uncategorized | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, crawling on rocks, Great Outdoors, Klondike Gold Rush National Park, misadventures, National Parks, Optoutside, thru-hiking, walking on snow | 4 Comments

Sheep Camp

Posted on August 17, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

Once we were done with Canyon City, it was time to head toward Sheep Camp, a mere 4.8 miles away. We knew we had some climbing to do and that we would pass another camp, called Pleasant Camp. We were curious to see why and/or how each place got their names.

Out of Canyon City, the trail led to an immediate uphill climb. This seemed strangely familiar.

Up and down, and over and around rocks and roots in the often dark, damp forest we hiked. Thick spongy moss covered everything not moving.

Mushrooms grew out of rocks engulfed in roots. The trail beneath our feet sometimes felt like we were walking on a trampoline (I even tried to jump…didn’t work, otherwise I would have spent the rest of the day bouncing around the forest).

Lots of green growey stuff and the above mini forests within a forest, made us think of ‘Horton Hears A Who’. If these ups and downs were laborious during “dry” conditions, of which this week we are told is an anomaly, we could only imagine what it would be like in rainy wet conditions. I imagine it would have been a muddy slippery slog, that without trekking poles would be no fun at all. During this “short” 4.8 miles, my left knee began to “talk” to me, “quietly”, and I was glad that I had decided to tape my knee with my trusty KT tape…just in case. As long as things stay dry, this tape job should last me the entire trek. We’ll see.

Occasionally bright sunlight would filter through the trees like a Hollywood spot light. And although it was warm (in the 70’s) we kept with long pants and sleeves to ensure we didn’t “bleed out” by the time we arrived at Sheep Camp.

I am glad, and absolutely sold on my Exoffico “bug” treated shirt. And even though they’re pricey, I think they’re worth it. Shoot, this is the same hiking shirt I wore when for the Sierras to Ashland section when we did the PCT in 2014. They say these shirts are effective for up to 70 washings, and Lord knows this shirt didn’t, and hasn’t, to this day, been washed much. Back then, the only reason I traded it out was because I had such horrible pack rash due to the build up of salty sweat in the shirt, and my ULA pack, that after 1700 miles… literally rubbed me the wrong way. Anyhoo…this shirt is stained and worn, but still works, and I am very happy to frustrate these flying blood sacks, who land on my shirt bewildered and then fly off.

Eventually the terrain “leveled off”, and we stroll through Pleasant Camp, which after these past few miles made complete sense.

We pass discarded artifacts lying next to the trail, rotting in place, and marvel at the things that were left on/by the trail. From here we crossed another rickety suspension bridge.

We walk along the river, and the path turns away a bit leading us into Sheep Camp.

By the time we arrive at Sheep Camp, the biting flies (evil cousins of mosquitoes) are swarming, and thusly we have renamed it, Sheep Shit Camp. It’s fairly early in the day, but it is hot and actually humid which makes for snarley attitudes. The flies are SO BAD that when we select our platform upon which to erect our tent, we actually just lay on the platform with our head nets on and take a nap, before we decide to do anything. Seeing as I have already dosed the tops of my hands with bug spray and Paul hasn’t, he puts a pair of socks on his hands to dissuade the winged carnivores. After our nap, and the fact that we are no longer sweaty messes, our attitudes have improved, and it appears that the flies have found new prey to annoy and attack, as more and more hikers continue to stroll in. We store our food and look around for familiar faces. We see a few and nod in recognition. We need to filter some water, but the creek near camp is cloudy with glacial silt, that will stress our water filter unnecessarily. We hear there is another creek crossing about 10 minutes up the trail from camp. We also had heard from two gals that when they had gone to filter clear water, they had seen a bear. They told us they yelled, “Hey Bear!”, and he stood on his hind legs. They yelled, “Hey Bear!”, again, and off the bear trotted. So did they…in opposite directions of course. Figuring the bear would probably be long gone by now (having had encounters with bears before), we scampered up the trail for clear water. I know what you’re thinking ,’What are you? Idiots?’ Close, but not certifiable. As we walked up the trail, I clanked our empty 1 liter water bottles together making for annoying loud noises and we talked loudly up to the clear water that ran under a short wooden bridge.

Paul quickly filtered 7 liters of water as I talked loudly about anything and nothing. By the time we finished, and had dunked our heads in the icy stream, two of the guys that had set off earlier in the day (armed with bear spray) to see what tomorrow morning’s climb would be like were surprised to see us at the bridge. “You know the girls saw a bear here, right?”. ‘It was here? They said it was 10 minutes up the trail, this is only 5’, we replied. Go figure. We have the darndest “luck”. Fully loaded with water, we walk back to camp without incident.

We talk with a few people before we retreat to the cover of the cooking shelters to “cook” and eat our dinner before the 7pm Ranger talk in the new pavilion.

While in one of the cooking shelters, our new Canadian friends have arrived and we dine together sharing the day’s hike. Two other “local” guys (one of which is a bartender at the Bonanza Saloon in Skagway) join us as well.

Soon it’s time, at the pavilion, for the Ranger talk, which is a “briefing about tomorrow’s climb, and some history about the trail we been hiking so far. First on everyone’s mind is the bear sighting, seeing as another hiker reported seeing a bear 10yards from his tent platform not more than 15 minutes ago. “Oh shoot”, was the Ranger’s reply. “I’ll be right back. If you hear a shot, don’t worry, it’s just me.” 15 minutes later, he’s back. “It looks like he (the bear) is gone for now”, he says. “For NOW?”, a woman asks in a panicked voice. “This bear is a juvenile black bear, about 3 or 4 years old. He’s been hanging around this area recently, and doesn’t seem to be responding to our bear avoidance or intimidation techniques.”. ‘Typical teenager’, I chuckle out loud. The woman glares at me clutching her canister of bear repellant.

The Ranger continues saying that the bear isn’t really a “problem”, as long as we make sure all our food items and “scenty” stuff is stored in the bear lockers. Someone asks, “What do we do if he comes sniffing around our tent?”. “I wouldn’t worry”, says the Ranger, “Bears don’t like to go through barriers. If you see him outside your tent, stay inside and yell or blast your air horn. I’ll come running. In fact I’ll be on patrol tonight, so if you hear something, it most likely me walking around.” We chuckled at the thought of a bear thinking of a thin piece of ballooned taunt nylon as a “barrier”. We reckon if a bear really wants you, he’ll take you, especially in your tent when you’re “slow food”, wrapped up like perfect little “burritos”. For a bear, our tent is just the “plastic packaging wrap” you tear off to get to the delectable treats inside. Realizing that the Ranger is trying to assuage everyone’s fear, we keep our sarcasm to ourselves. He then changes the subject and talks about what we are to expect tomorrow morning. He advises that we should get going early as possible as sometimes it can take up to 12 hours to ascend and make it to Happy Camp, 7.5 miles away. He warned of the very real dangers of heat stroke and heat exhaustion, due to the unseasonably warm weather. “Normally”, he tells us, “I’m treating for hypothermia”, but lately it’s been heat related issues. He tells us that the granite rocks will get really hot by midday, upwards of 108° , so the earlier we get up and over the Pass, the better. He then talks about the history and the challenges the Stampeders faced. He passed around black and white period pictures, and a list of “recommended” items a Stampeder should bring to be able to sustain themselves for a year. We are amazed at the items on the list, as pictured below.

We are infinitely glad we don’t have to carry a tenth of what is on that list. The Ranger tells us the trail was really only used for about a year or two, because once the White Pass railroad was built, the remaining Stampeders opted for the $7 fare ($200 now) for you and your ton of goods, Considering the challenges of the route, it’s a deal, unless of course you have no more cash, and then it’s the Chilkoot for you. After the Klondike Gold Rush, the trail essentially lay fallow until the 60’s when an Alaskan prison trail crew was “commissioned” to rebuild the trail for recreational use. It wasn’t until 1976 that the trail became part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park.

When the Ranger had finished, we milled around a bit, while everyone discussed when they were going to head out in the morning. The consensus was no later than 7am. Our Canadian friends vowed they would be up and on the trail by 6am. This later would prove to be false, and become a linch pin in their adventure. Paul set up our makeshift “bear barrier” and we went to bed.

Posted in Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Uncategorized | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Exoffico, Great Outdoors, Klondike Gold Rush National Park, misadventures, National Parks, Optoutside, Pleasant Camp Chilkoot Trail, Sheep Camp Chilkoot Trail, The Great Outdoors, White Pass and Yukon Route Railway | 9 Comments

Exploration

Posted on August 15, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

As promised, no alarm or hurry to get going. Last night’s sleep came so quickly neither of us remember falling asleep. It’s like we blinked and it was the next day, the reason being that there was the same amount of light as when we went to bed as when we arose. In Alaska, this time of year, it stays light till late in the evening, and even then, it doesn’t become completely dark. Wilderness darkness here in the summer isn’t like “normal” wilderness darkness, wherein it’s so dark you often can’t see your hand in front of your face, until of course, nature’s “nightlights”, the stars, begin to emerge from the inky darkness overhead. This night sky is not typical wilderness night sky, or even “indoor” night sky. It is what I would call “City” night sky, void of “City” sounds. While it often serves to prolong the day’s activities, it is an annoying glow of light that keeps you on the edge of slumber. Even with our rain fly on, to mute the twilight sky, it’s not enough darkness to cue my mind to shut off and go to sleep. Luckily I travel with eye shades and earplugs, so slumber comes easier. Paul of course (most assuredly because he’s a guy) can fall asleep anywhere and anytime, in any conditions. So not fair!

Normally when we have such beautiful weather, with no threat of rain, we cowboy camp or sleep without our rain fly on. But we’re in Alaska, and therefore purposely erect our tent (complete with the fly) for three reasons. The first,being to at least, create some type of “barrier” from the bears, who because of our salt stained skin might be enticed into using us as their personal salt lick. Second, a barrier from the incessant mosquitoes, who here, certainly have voracious appetites. And third, to actually get some sleep. As evidenced by the fact we awoke this morning, bear slobber free, without additional welts, and well rested, I’d say day one was a success. Now for day two of our four day Chilkoot Trail adventure. By the time we were up, breakfasted and packed, 90% of the campsites had been vacated. Again we thought, ‘did they know something we didn’t’? Seeing as today was an extremely low mileage day (5.3), exploration was in order.

A half mile up the trail, and across a rickety suspension bridge was the now vacated and vegetatively overgrown site of Canyon City.

Klondike Gold Rush era pictures show this place sans vegetation and crowded with wooden and canvas topped structures. The Red Onion Hotel and Saloon, possibly a “franchise” of the original Red Onion Saloon of Skagway fame, and a steam broiler powered tramway that would shuttle goods (for a price) to Sheep Camp, where goods from there would be shuttled up to the scales of the Chilkoot Pass. In its hey day, 1500 people lived here, with tens of thousands, during the Klondike Gold Rush, passing through. A fire, overgrowth of vegetation, and flooding of the Taiya River over the last 100+ years have removed a majority of evidence that a town ever existed here. Yet, some relics remain, and we aim to discover what’s left.

We amble over a narrow rickety suspension bridge to the ghost town that is Canyon City and this is what we found.

Besides a rotting stove, a steam broiler and saw blade, there were no structures, foundations, or crumbling chimneys leading one to believe or imagine that this place once was a city with several hotels, a post office and other amenities. There is however a well built and maintained foot path that loops you to “the other side of town” and back.

As you walk the foot path, you pan left and right, straining to see remaining artifacts or relics of a bygone era and imagine this place crowded with people and stripped of the now thriving vegetation. You listen in your minds eye for voices and sounds of everyday business. You picture yourself in the middle of this town and wonder if you had the grit and the drive to make it in such an environment.

Posted in Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Mini Adventures, Uncategorized | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, Canyon City, Chilkoot Trail, Great Outdoors, Klondike Gold Rush, Klondike Gold Rush National Park, misadventures, Optoutside, Red Onion Hotel and Saloon, The Great Outdoors | 2 Comments

Into the Woods… continued

Posted on August 14, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

The first mile, for a clutz like me, was challenging. The tangled web of roots and rocks, insisted one pay attention to each step. It was exhausting both physically and mentally. We couldn’t help but think out loud, how the hell did one guide a mule or pull a hand cart over/through this terrain, let alone carry a hundred pounds on your back…awkwardly, 20 times! Truly we are not worthy…especially only carrying packs weighing 30 pounds…max! The obstacle course evolved into a soft and almost spongy path as it paralleled the Taiya River as we made our way to Finnegan’s Point a little over 3 miles away.

The Finnegan’s offered a bridge (at a price) in which to cross the Taiya River. This also was one of the first opportunities to part with more of your dwindling money or goods, either by choice (at a make shift saloon), or through vulturous con men.

Eventually we crossed the river and entered swampy areas, wonderfully lined by the Park Service with narrow but raised wooden walkways to make traversing these brackish beaver ponds and swamps manageable, otherwise you’d be in muck up to your hips and progress would be slogishly slow.

We were in luck, as the Park Service was replacing the narrow and seriously worn out wooden plank walkway with a sturdier and wider walkway. We were careful to walk in the middle of the boards as not all the planks had been nailed in place. Soon swamp returned to sponge foot fall flanked by brilliant green vegetation. Prior to reaching Finnegan’s Point we cross a stream with salmon cued for spawning.

When we reached Finnegan’s Point, we found our favorite hiking couch, a picnic table, and had lunch. As did the mosquitoes and biting flies, until of course I broke out our bug spray. Shortly we were joined by a triad of Canadians, who were just as delighted by the salmon and amazed at the terrain of our first mile. We thought maybe it was a test to see if you really want to hike this route. Our destination for the day, as it was for the Canadians, was Canyon City, which of course is no longer a city, but a campground just before the once thriving and obviously short lived Gold Rush city along the Taiya River. We parted ways with the Canadians, and took a quick peak across the “Point” and were treated to a glacially fed waterfall.

From here the terrain returned to a green tunneled rock and root strewn undulating obstacle course, that seemed never ending.

Another rock-hop stream crossing, and like that, we were at the Canyon City campground. The campground was already teaming with other Chilkoot Trail hikers. Not a one had we seen at this morning’s briefing. We felt like we were crashing a party already in full swing. We also wondered what the bear activity was like, as just about everyone either had a mortar size can strapped to their side like a gun slinger or was carrying a similar can “at the ready” in their free hand. Did we miss something? Are we going to soon regret our choice not to carry bear spray? Well, nothing we can do about it now.

We quickly chose a campsite, concerned that if we dallied too long, we would be forced to camp an ungodly distance from our food, and the unique composting toilets. We were surprised when we discovered that a river side campsite adjacent the amenities was still vacant. Once we made camp we took an opportunity to admire our view.

Eventually we collected our food and “scenty” things (toothpaste, Chapstick, bug spray, etc.) and crammed them into one of the remaining bear proof cubbies of the food lockers provided by the Park Service. During our orientation, they were adamant about ensuring all food and “scenty” stuff was stored there, and that all food preparation and consumption occurred at the picnic table(s), or in inclement weather, either a canvas tent cabin or log cabin erected and maintained at each designated campground along the Chilkoot Trail by the Park Service, namely to reduce the probability of bear interactions, as well as a place to get out of the “normal” Southeastern Alaskan weather. Before long, familiar faces trickled into camp. The Canadian triad we met at Finnegan’s Point, and a family of 10 who we saw at orientation.

The youngest appeared to be 5 or 6. They were only stopped for a snack and a breather before they headed to Sheep Camp. They would be doing this trail in 3 days so that they could make the Saturday train.

Tomorrow we head to Sheep Camp, a mere 5.3 miles away. I know we only did 10 miles today, as compared to the 17 we were mentally prepared for, but we are beat! The trail was much more “technical” sooner than we imagined with all the rocky, rooty, uneven surfaces, with steep ups and downs. And as always, the first day with a fully loaded pack makes for sore hips and shoulders. A hearty freeze dried meal and a soft air mattress are calling. Oh ya, and some vitamin I (aka. Ibuprofen)

Posted in Alaska, Chilkoot Trail, Mini Adventures, Uncategorized | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Great Outdoors, Klondike Gold Rush National Park, misadventures, National Parks, Optoutside, The Great Outdoors, thru-hiking | 3 Comments

Into the woods

Posted on August 12, 2017 by 2 More Miles...

If you’ve come to Skagway in hopes of sleeping in, forget about it…unless of course you are deaf. At precisely 5 AM the train whistle sounds not once, but at least a half a dozen times! We roll over, pull our eye shades back over our sleep caked eyes and do our best to get back to sleep, as the permit office does not open till 8am. At 6am, one of the now 3 cruise ships docked in Skagway sounds its horn, alerting it’s passengers that ‘we’re at another port, time to get a move on if you’re gonna fit in all your sightseeing for the day’. Mind you, Skagway is relatively small, but chock full of history if you care to take the time to seek it out. Downtown is essentially a National Park. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park, to be exact. Interpretive signs, and historic buildings with colorful stories abound. Numerous tours with a Ranger are available, as well as private tour companies, and a ride on the White Pass &Yukon Route railroad, a float plane or even a helicopter. Today we skip all the touristy stuff, and after a JetBoil-ed cup of coffee, and a smushed Hostess apple pie, we pack our packs for the Chilkoot, drop Schluffle off in the RV park’s shed and march off to the permit office. We wade through throngs of hiker clad “boat people” wandering the wooden slatted sidewalks, as storefronts do their best to entice them into their shops for trinkets and memorabilia that could just as easily have “Florida” stamped on it. Annoyed by the muddled masses moving like the walking dead along the sidewalks, wearing billboard t-shirt, hats or jackets passively announcing from whence they came (as ironically did we), we weave and step around them, like salmon swimming upstream to spawn.

(We…and several other hikers we came to know…would later call these two young men the “Peanut butter Boys” as they carried a LARGE jar of Skippy peanut butter to make PB&J sandwiches)

When we reach the permit office, we set our packs outside and get in line. It is obvious, we are not the only ones starting today. We present our reservation to the Ranger, and after a trail orientation, we are issued our permits.

We are told that one section of the trail (Deep Lake to Lindeman City) there is a “bear problem” and are encouraged to walk in groups of 4 or more. Do we need bear spray, we ask. “It’s recommended”, we are told. But do we REALLY need it? “It’s recommended”, was the reply again. So we don’t have to have it? “It’s recommended”, smiled the Ranger, who by now was annoyed, as were we, when we were asked the same question repeatedly. We elect to go without it, figuring if a bear gets close enough for us to deploy the spray, we’re gonners anyways.

The trail does not start in Skagway, but in Dyea, almost 10 miles away. Many have hired a “taxi” service of sorts (to the tune of $20/person) to shuttle them to the trailhead. We are cheap and able-bodied (mostly cheap) so we elect to walk there. The Ranger shows us a “short-cut” to the road to Dyea that will shave off “2miles”…go figure. This “short-cut” is perfect, as it’s on our way to pick up our train tickets for our return trip to Skagway from Bennett Lake. Of course had we known we had to pick up our tickets beforehand, we would have done so on our way to pick up our Chilkoot Trail permit. Thank goodness the Ranger at the permit office asked how we were returning, otherwise, with our luck, we would have had to walk back. Once we picked up our train and box lunch vouchers, we tucked them safely into the folds of our passports…to get back into the USA… legally. We considered taking the “longer route” as opposed to the “short-cut” recommended by the Ranger, seeing as “short-cuts” are not always “short-er” for us. However, as you probably already guessed, being the eternal optimists, the “short-cut” option prevailed.

Once we cross the Skagway River, the trail heads to the left and of course, uphill all the way to the dirt road that now winds 7-ish more miles to the Chilkoot trail head. We begin our walk toward Dyea, several vans loaded with people pass us and wave. We continue walking, it’s nearly 10am and at our pace we reckon we’ll get to the trailhead around 1pm. After about 45 minutes we hear another vehicle approaching from behind. I raise my sunglasses, smile brightly and put out my thumb. SUCCESS! A well used truck with a solo occupant pulls over. He says he can’t take us all the way, but at least he’ll save us a hill to climb. He is a transplant from Atlanta Georgia, and has fully embraced the Alaskan way of life. We reach his turn off, where he is building a house. We thank him for the ride. I forget to get his name, but with his permission, I get a photo of our first trail magic, and Trail Angel.

We begin, again, our dusty walk toward Dyea. Per Paul’s GPS app on his phone, we’ve now cut off approximately 4 of the 10 miles to the trail head. It’s actually a pleasant walk. The sun is shining and it is far from cold and wet, which is the norm for rainforests of Southeast Alaska. Several other cars pass us and wave, they’re full of gear and bodies (live of course). Another large truck nears us. Let’s see if we (namely I) can Yogi a ride. Yup! A nice Canadian (got his name, but can’t remember it…darn my shortening short term memory) who was on his way to fish the Taiya River for “pinks”, pulled over and offered a ride. “You headed to the Chilkoot Trail?”, he asks. As a matter of fact we are. “One of you is gonna have to squeeze in between the car seats”, he tells us. ‘No problem…it beats walking any further than we have to…today’, we reply. We toss our packs into the back of his truck. In no time we are at the Dyea end of the Chilkoot Trail, where most Stampeders started from in 1897 in their crazed quest for Klondike gold in Dawson. As we unload, he asks if we have bear spray. Of course not, ya think we need it?, we politely ask, knowing full well, that even if he said we were blooming idiots for not carrying it, there was no way in hell we were going into town for a can of bear repellant (as it’s called)…we’ll take our chances being eaten. He says he doesn’t fish without it, as he’s had some close encounters. We tell him that luckily we aren’t going to be anywhere near running salmon so we feel pretty confident that we will be fine without it.

We thank him for the ride (our second dose of “trail magic”) and dub him a “Chilkoot Trail Angel”. “Good luck”, he bids, shaking his head a bit, like “you’re gonna need some luck walking around the woods in bear country without a firearm and/or bear spray…carrying snacks”. We take the obligatory picture at the fancy sign marking the trail. We still have not perfected the art of selfies.

We are quite proud of ourselves at this point, for in a matter of a little over an hour and a half we covered nearly 10miles. Of that 10 miles we only had to walk just over 3 of what we thought would be 10miles. So what could have proven to be a 17 mile first day on the trail, would now only be 10 total miles (3 from town, 7 actual trail miles) This would prove to be a God send as our first steps, and in fact miles on the trail, would prove to be helacious. It of course started with this uphill.

Now how the hell did the Stampeders get their 2000 lbs of “essentials” up this? Oh ya, they mostly did this during winter…or did they?

…to be continued.

Posted in Alaska, Chilkoot Trail, Skagway | Tagged Alaska, Backpacking, Chilkoot Trail, Dirt roads, Klondike Gold Rush, Klondike Gold Rush National Park, misadventures, National Parks, Skagway, The Great Outdoors | 6 Comments

	Lee Graham on Sunshine Coast Trail. (the…
	debra57scott on Sunshine Coast Trail
	Lee Graham on Sunshine Coast Trail
	debra57scott on Sunshine Coast Trail
	debra57scott on Sunshine Coast Trail

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