North to Alaska: Day 19

Welcome! Day 19 (Aug 27) of North to Alaska

Quote. “Success is a journey not a destination.”

Today we started Phase 1 of our train trip. We arose at 5:45 AM for a departure at 6:45. Our final destination for the day was Kenai Fjords Wilderness lodge on Fox Island. We rode the train to Steward where we transferred to a boat for final leg.

On the way we saw a wonderful sunrise from the train. Later we saw several Beluga Whales from the train. No pictures since we only saw a white spot as they surfaced and then dove back into the water looking for fish. Of course most everywhere we travel in Alaska we see snowcapped mountains. They were in abundance along the train route. We did see an eagles nest with an eaglet waiting for food. I believe we saw about seven glaciers on the trip to Steward along with several waterfalls. Once we boarded the boat to Fox Island we saw a sea otter which is an amazing animal. It swims mostly on its back and travels quickly.

We reached the lodge about 1 PM. Lunch was waiting. It was good. We had three couples with our on chef and server. Service was the name of the game. We then when to our cabin. While it was as advertised, battery powered lights, no electrical outlets in the room, a bathroom and a bed, it was also very nice clean and comfortable with no wi-fi or cell service. The bed was tall and they provided a step stool for Cassie to get in and out of the bed. A very quiet, nice place.

Some activities available were to do nothing, hike along the very rocky beach, hike up a moderate unmanaged trail located behind to main lodge, or go on a kayaking trip. Cassie selected the do nothing, I believe see sat on the porch of the main lodge and read. I thought the moderate 2 hour hike would be ok. So I started out I quickly determined I did not know the definition of moderate. If you were under thirty and mountain climbing for 15 years it might be moderate. I lasted about 30 minutes before I reversed my course. It was fun but I would not have made it to the top. Give me white water any day.

I did make it back for appetizers and then a wonderful steak dinner. Cassie of course had smoked salmon. The desert was a variation of smores, it was delicious. Later we had a campfire hosted by the naturalist, Jess from San Diego. The other two couples also joined in, one couple in their 40s was from Michigan with the other couple in upper 20s from Chicago. It was a fun time as we each shared about our lives and activities. We also had some campfire smores which were very well done.

This ended the day full of sightseeing and good food. Tomorrow is another day what will it bring.