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September 8, 2024We Slept On A Glacier In Alaska The Ultimate Adventure
We slept on a glacier in Alaska! Welcome to Alaska! After what felt like an endless drive, we finally made it to this breathtaking state. The beauty of Alaska is beyond words, and we’re here to give you a front-row seat to our journey, culminating in camping right beside Salmon Glacier.
Driving to Salmon Glacier
The drive to Salmon Glacier is an experience like no other. The road is unpaved and full of potholes, requiring you to take it slow and steady. Be warned, though, this road may not be accessible for long due to the receding path. We saw numerous construction sites, a crucial reminder that nature and infrastructure are in a constant battle here.
On our way, we passed at least 17 waterfalls, each one more spectacular than the last. The isolation of this route adds to its charm, making it a serene escape from the busier parts of the world.
Wildlife and Nature
Being in Alaska means being in Bear Country, Avalanche Country, and yes, even Mosquito Country. The mosquitoes here are enormous! We tried to get out and explore but were driven back by the swarms. Bear sightings and avalanche warnings are part and parcel of this wild landscape.
To add a twist to our adventure, we found a rat in the van this morning. If you know me, you know I have zero tolerance for rodents. Faustino dealt with it since he was the one who invited the furry intruder, literally and metaphorically.
Observations at the Glacier
The glacier itself is awe-inspiring. We could see the ice melting as the day warmed up, revealing blue water beneath. This incredible natural process was visible right from our van, making us appreciate the power and beauty of this frozen wonder.
Riviera Maya Resort was…
Snowball Championships
What better way to spend time on a glacier than to have a snowball fight? Yes, we had our very own Snowball Championships. Gypsy, our beloved pet, was over the moon, running around and adding to the chaos and fun.
Olive Lake
Navigating the Glacier
Walking with Gypsy on the glacier took us into a real-world wonderland. The snow in June felt surreal. Despite the snow, it was surprisingly warm, making this a comfortable adventure. We even came across bear claw marks and some blood, adding a tinge of danger to our exploration.
Camping Experience
Faustino suggested we sleep by the glacier, although the presence of bears made me wary. As the sun set, we could see people picnicking in the distance, dropping food, and likely contributing to the local wildlife’s appearance.
Meeting New People
We met some friendly Texans who were also visiting the glacier. They planned to sleep near the lake, which made me reconsider our initial plan of staying right on the glacier. Their stories of bear sightings added a layer of excitement and caution to our stay.
Safety Concerns
The sight of a black bear in the vicinity was a clear reminder of our place in this wilderness. We didn’t just have to be cautious but also prepared. Faustino took this challenge head-on, fashioning sticks for our s’mores as if gearing up for a wilderness survival show.
Preparation for Evening Activities
Preparing for the evening included gathering sticks for s’mores and setting up our campfire. Faustino’s “Holtzman Survival Knife” came in handy, adding a rugged charm to our outdoor preparation.
Wildlife Spotting
Faustino has a talent for spotting wildlife. From bears to elk, and even a fox, he was our wildlife scout. This skill added significant value to our experience, making every sighting an event to remember.
Dinner Time
Dinner on a glacier is an experience in itself. We enjoyed a meal of Pork Lo Mein, proving that good food isn’t limited to conventional dining settings. Eating a hearty meal surrounded by pristine ice and snow is something I will never forget.
Evening by the Campfire
Thanks to our friends at Ignite, we had a fire can that made setting up our campfire a breeze. This hassle-free, smoke-free setup allowed us to enjoy roasting s’mores without any fuss.
Making S’mores
Making s’mores using the fire can was a delightful experience. Watching the marshmallows turn golden and tasting that perfect blend of chocolate, graham crackers, and gooey marshmallows, created an idyllic end to our day.
Nighttime Activities
A tip for fellow travelers: always download movies on Netflix when you’re going off the grid. The cozy warmth of our van, coupled with a good movie and a glass of wine, was the perfect way to wind down after our eventful day.
Reflections on the Day
Walking Gypsy on a glacier, meeting new friends, spotting wildlife, and surviving the mosquito onslaught made this day unforgettable. The panoramic views and the quietude of nature left an indelible mark on our souls and a craving for more Alaskan adventures.
We Slept On A Glacier In Alaska: Conclusion
As the sun set, we relished our time spent on a glacier in Alaska. Our new Texan friends were a delightful addition to our evening, and the fire can made our campfire experience seamless. This trip reminded us of the beauty and unpredictability of nature, making us fall in love with Alaska even more.