Killing Time While waiting for our new Transmission….OUR LAST HIKE IN ALASKA!
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Introduction
The excitement surrounding the arrival of the calendars marked a special moment for us, as photography is not just a passion; it's an integral part of our lives. Being able to print our work and share it with supporters is an incredible experience, and we appreciate everyone's encouragement throughout this journey.
We decided to take a break and explore the breathtaking fall colors of Alaska. As we traveled along the Glenn Allen highway, we marveled at the vibrant reds and yellows transforming the landscape. The fiery hues, contributed by fireweed and blueberry bushes, showed us just how fleeting the beauty of fall can be in this region. Despite recent heavy rains causing many leaves to drop, the scenery remained stunning, with snow-capped mountains in the background adding to the picturesque view.
However, with the rain and our van's transmission problems, we knew we needed to conserve energy and find a nearby gas station soon. After five days of enjoying the beauty of nature, we decided to head back to Palmer to be closer to our scheduled transmission appointment.
As we left our secluded spot, a beautiful drive through the fall foliage awaited us. We cherished this moment, capturing photos and flying the drone to document the picturesque views. Our journey back was slower than expected due to frequent stops for photography.
Once settled near Palmer, we noticed just how much the landscape had changed since our last visit. The vibrant colors had intensified, and with fresh snow on the mountain peaks, a stark contrast emerged as we prepared for our hike. Weather conditions were less than ideal, but our perseverance led us to hike the Reed Lakes Trail. Armed with bear spray and a sense of adventure, we set off.
The trail was not easy, especially with the wet and slippery conditions. Elevation increased steadily, leading us to a boulder field. Although my pace quickened without the dog, the challenging climb tested my endurance and capability. There were breathtaking views along the ascent, but the physical strain was evident as I considered turning back before reaching the lake.
As I climbed, I appreciated the stunning sights around me, but I knew I needed to respect my limits. While Carrie stayed behind with our canine companion, I pushed myself further, ultimately only capturing aerial views of the lake rather than reaching it in person. After crossing back through the rugged terrain and reuniting with Carrie, I acknowledged the physical toll the hike had taken on me.
Post-hike, we returned to Anchorage, ready for our transmission check-up. The 100-mile drive yielded no dashboard warnings, but we remained committed to ensuring our van’s optimal performance.
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Keywords
photography, Alaska, fall colors, Glenn Allen highway, transmission problems, Reed Lakes Trail, hiking, bear spray, adventure, Anchorage
FAQ
Q: What inspired the decision to go for a hike in Alaska?
A: The vibrant fall colors and the stunning landscapes of Alaska motivated us to spend time outdoors while waiting for the van’s transmission appointment.
Q: How challenging was the Reed Lakes Trail?
A: The Reed Lakes Trail presented challenges with wet and slippery conditions, elevation gain, and boulder fields which required significant effort to navigate.
Q: What precautions did you take while hiking?
A: We carried bear spray and were cautious about the trail conditions, especially considering the possibility of encountering wildlife.
Q: How did you manage your van’s energy while in remote locations?
A: We relied on both solar charging and engine idling to keep our batteries charged, though recent transmission issues limited our driving.
Q: What were some highlights of the fall scenery in Alaska?
A: The red and yellow hues of fireweed and blueberry bushes, combined with the snow-capped mountains, created a breathtaking backdrop for our adventures.
