With my mind fully at ease about the tire issue, we drove back into Watson Lake to dump the next morning since we had some nights ahead without any dump stations around. All other systems were go! And, so off we drove deeper into the silence of north and west on the Alaska Highway.
We stopped at Rancheria Falls Recreation site to hike a boardwalk trail to a pretty little waterfall. Dottie and I got all ready, Poopy bags in pocket, leashed, etc. and headed into the trail. The snow was 2 feet deep and went on as far as we could see after we got in a 100 feet, so, we turned around and forewent the hike. I cannot tell you how pretty the falls are. 🙁
On the Far Side of the Continental Divide
Most American’s know about the east/west concept of the continental divide, but this is more of a north west thing….well in any event, it’s different.
The Drive to Atlin
Turning south from the Alaska highway, we drove 59 miles (one way) taking the side trip to Atlin. According to the Milepost, Atlin is sometimes referred to as the Shangri-la of the North. I’m really glad we did, as it is a spectacular drive and we spent two nights in the “Penthouse” site at the Norseman RV park.
Atlin
Atlin, founded in 1898, was one of the richest strikes of the Klondike gold rush of 1897-1898. The claim was made with a piece of gold the size of a half loaf of bread! In fact, they are still mining gold here although it is much more industrialized and machine intensive.
Atlin experienced two major fires that burned the town; the first fire happened in 1914, and the second in 1916, burning all that was rebuilt. It had to be devastating, but if nothing, the Atlinite’s are a tough lot as they rebuilt yet again and continue to thrive.
Originally the courthouse now the libraryWith very limited hours! Probably because there is no internet!Superman is still in business here! And, I saw a college student use it! Yes, there is a small one building college in town. He explained there was no cell service like he felt guilty for using it. For sale if you want to run your own store in Atlin.The Tarahne was built in 1917 to bring tourists to Atlin. The White Pass Company even built an Inn and added on to it in 1928 due to the demand. The entire endeavor was abandoned in 1936 likely a depression victim.The Penthouse site and my viewDottie loved Atlin! This is puppy spa day. (Nail clips and brushing.)That mountain is actually Teresa Island. It is the highest point of land (6,755 feet) on a freshwater island in the world. Atlin Lake is 85 miles long according to the Atlin Claim, or 90 miles according to the Milepost. Either way, it’s LONG!Saving the profound for last. This is on the side of the Garrett store.
Beautiful! Teresa Island is interesting, being the highest point in a fresh body of water. This looks like breathtaking area with interesting stops along the way. Enjoying your posts!
Thanks, Christie! So glad you are enjoying! I would definitely say the Atlin side trip is worth the effort. You can also get into the Provincial park and hike if you take a boat. If you are willing to backpack their are many opportunities.
🤩 wow!!! The view at Atkin is simply breathtaking!!! How awesome your penthouse view was!! The town looks interesting- how do people manage there? A ver different life than the rest of the world. Are you enjoying the silence? It looks to be very relaxing and serene ☺️
Thanks, Sue! It was fun to live in the penthouse for a while.
Disconnecting is really kind of freeing in some ways. You can focus on your inner thoughts and just breathe the clean pine scented air with no Pinesol involved! 🙂 It is definitely a different lifestyle.
These are your most spectacular photos so far. What amazing views!! Hard not to believe in a higher power while surrounded by such immense beauty.
For sure, Angela! You can hear God when you are in the silence.
Beautiful! Teresa Island is interesting, being the highest point in a fresh body of water. This looks like breathtaking area with interesting stops along the way. Enjoying your posts!
Thanks, Christie! So glad you are enjoying! I would definitely say the Atlin side trip is worth the effort. You can also get into the Provincial park and hike if you take a boat. If you are willing to backpack their are many opportunities.
🤩 wow!!! The view at Atkin is simply breathtaking!!! How awesome your penthouse view was!! The town looks interesting- how do people manage there? A ver different life than the rest of the world. Are you enjoying the silence? It looks to be very relaxing and serene ☺️
Thanks, Sue! It was fun to live in the penthouse for a while.
Disconnecting is really kind of freeing in some ways. You can focus on your inner thoughts and just breathe the clean pine scented air with no Pinesol involved! 🙂 It is definitely a different lifestyle.