Smoke started to appear in Delta Junction, and thus we left a day earlier than planned for a series of boondocking adventures. First up was the opportunity to head back to a smoke-free Isabel Pass, where we spent the first boondocking night overlooking the spectacular Gulkana glacier.
Smoke Sends us South
I was hoping to ride my bike out the dirt road to the glacier next morning, but unfortunately, we were back in the smoke come morning, and so the bike stayed on the rack. Instead we headed further south on the Richardson to get out of the smoke finding a beautiful overlook spot just a mile north on the Tok Cutoff with the iOverlander app.
Glenn Highway
The Glenn Highway connects the Richardson highway to Anchorage. Since 3/4 of the entire Alaska population lives in Anchorage, I was under the impression it would be very busy and probably not as scenic. Blessedly, I was so very wrong. The Glenn is a gorgeous drive with minor traffic (on a weekday) and we had a glorious night at one of the overlooks.
Westward on the Glenn
Fireweed
These plants are all along the highways and are very beautiful. Similar to the Groundhog legend, the fireweed has an Alaskan legend. The flowers bloom from the bottom first and work their way up over the summer. It is believed that when the very top of the flower is blooming, there is six weeks until winter. Fortunately, looks like we still have some summer/fall weather ahead!
Hi, Karen. I just caught up on your blogs. What an amazing journey! You are such a good virtual tour guide. God go with you as you journey!
Thanks, Carol! I appreciate your kind words. I wanted to document the trip for myself, as well as, share the journey. It’s been amazing! I’m glad you are enjoying it.
Hope all is well!
Looks like your wearing tea shirts. Is it warm enough to wear shorts?
Hi Gilann – I have worn shorts a handful of times. I’ve worn tee shirts a little more often, but usually with a jacket nearby. It was warm in Delta Junction, but otherwise, it’s been pretty cool.
Karen – I can see why you wanted to travel to Alaska. I am entranced by your pictures of the mountains. They are simply stunning! Enjoy your travels!
Thanks, Sue! I have to confess, my parents always wanted to go to Alaska and my Uncle had been stationed there and loved it. It wasn’t really on my list, until a couple years ago when I watched Van Trekking Lifestyle’s trip to Alaska in a van. I am so glad, that I did watch it and change my mind, as it’s been an amazing journey. Here is a link to the videos if you are interested. I love this channel. They are also the reason I took the Natchez Trace Parkway south. I had not heard of it, until I saw them take it.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLH7kGXU1bBInjhhwKQ0S_3bsNdNMgDfe7