“It won’t be so funny if he starts courting you,†said the intern. Meagan and I were laughing because a puffin had just hopped on her leg. We were taking part in the Puffin Encounter Tour, one of the programs offered by the Alaska Sea Life Center in Seward, Alaska. This particular hour long tour involved learning about the sea birds on display and then getting a chance to interact and feed the birds. Apparently, feeding the puffins is serious business as the seemingly harmless birds can bite extremely hard; although there are two expert interns there to protect you.
Category Archives: Countries
View from Above
Sometimes, sensations created by certain experiences simply cannot be put into words. Flying in a tiny propeller plane that has glacier-landing and take-off capabilities over one of the world’s last vast wilderness areas untouched by man in one of this nation’s most mind-blowing national parks is undoubtedly one of those experiences. Thanks to the staff at Talkeetna Air Taxi, we were able to have the opportunity to enjoy this amazing ride.
Nels’ Notes: Nomadic Wandering Shenanigans June 19-26, 2009
We’ve really enjoyed ourselves in Alaska, and all feel very fortunate for all that we’ve been able to see, experience, and the people we’ve been able to meet, so it was nice that we got to give back a little this week, as well. This week has been another great week in the northern most state. It began with a great lake and river kayaking trip/fly fishing trip with Denali Southside River Guides. We got the opportunity to go out with Craig Jorgensen and two of his crew members on Byers Lake to thoroughly enjoy a day on the water. “I wouldn’t give this day of kayaking and fishing up for anything,†said the fisherman of the crew, Craig Johnson.
Into The Alaskan Wilderness
Off in the distance were rapids. The Teklanika River raged. The volume and force of the water was powerful. There was nothing that could be done. We were 16 miles out on the Stampede Trail, now called the Stampede Road, 8 miles from the “Into The Wild†bus, and there was nothing we could do. Craig, with a rope tied around his waist, attempted to wade across, but to no avail. It could not be done.
Photo of the Week: Denali from the Sky
On one of our scenic flights with Talkeetna Air Taxi, the summit of Denali (or Mt. Mckinley) made a rare appearance.
Catching up in Fairbanks
Don’t get me wrong, I cherish these unique experiences and it’s one of the main reasons that I’m on the expedition. However, after the mad dash to the Arctic Ocean and back I think I speak for all of us on the crew when saying we were happy to have a host for a couple of nights at Pike’s Waterfront Lodge upon our return to Fairbanks.
New Photos – Banff National Park
Banff is the home to the Canadian Rockies. The sights are amazing. There are hundreds of trails to hike, mountains to climb, rivers to fish and recreation to be had. This little section of the planet is an outdoor lovers dream, and it was a highlight of the expedition for all of us. We spent about five days in Banff and Jasper, and even though I have already been there 4 times, I would go back again in a heartbeat. Enjoy!
The final newbies
After over 30 different people riding along, joining the crew or being our guides, many souls have made up the journey we call The World by Road. Everyone has a different perspective, everyone has a different attitude. The two most recent crew members come with a unique story of how they ended up here. They […]
Nels’ Notes: Nomadic Wandering Shenanigans June 12-19, 2009
Sometimes I have to take a step back, look around, and maybe even pinch myself to realize that this is real. We are beyond fortunate, and this last week has been like no other. When one is able to mix incredible people with amazing adventure its result is almost surreal. Alaska and its people are one of those places, hands down.
For those who missed it
We were on Whole Wheat Radio a few days ago. It was an amazing time. Jim is one of the coolest characters on the planet, and if you are ever in Talkeetna, I certainly recommend paying Whole Wheat a visit. Also if you like independent music, he has 24 hour streaming music online.