Boondock–
We boondocked just off the Richardson Highway at a view point near a lake. It was cold and raining the morning we left Valdez with a temp. of 52 degrees F. We left Robe Lake in Valdez, dumped our waste tanks at the local free dump site, got fresh water and gas after some quick shopping and headed for Worthington Glacier. Paid $4.31/gal. or regular gas.
Worthington Glacier–
It was so foggy and rainy between Valdez and Worthington Glacier we thought we would not be able to see the glacier but it was fairly clear near the glacier so we got a good look at it. It is quite a large glacier and some folks hike on it. We heard that last week they had to rescue a fellow that was hiking on the glacier and fell into a crevasse. Apparently his girth saved him from slipping down beyond saving but still rescuers thought it amazing that he lived. Don’t know if this account is true, but we were impressed. OK, so with that information, we didn’t feel a need to hike on this glacier. We don’t have the proper gear for glacier hiking and with my luck, I’d fall and break something or worse. It is very cold near any glacier, as you might imagine. So I only lasted out there looking at the glacier in the rain for a short while. I have learned to work the camera with gloves on. Alaska teaches you things. We were, however, able to see the glacier from our RV “living room” (this turned out to be the warmer choice). The Worthington Glacier has been designated as a National Natural Landmark which means it is considered a site of exceptional value. Seems an apt designation. The road is paved and the parking at the glacier is excellent, even for larger rigs.
Richardson Highway–
On the way to Valdez, coming south on the Richardson Highway, we were wowed by the beauty along the way. It was no different coming north up the highway. We stopped the RV frequently to get out and take pictures or just marvel at the incredible beauty which cannot truly be captured on camera. Stopping repeatedly to look at the many rock formations, water ways, mountains, hills, valleys, forests and canyons made it a very slow trip and a breathtaking experience. The only wildlife we saw today, other than various birds, was a small red fox that ran across the road. It rained almost all day and the fog obscured the mountains most of the day.
The Worthington Glacier was the first glacier we saw when we made our first trip to Alaska. I still remember that drive and seeing that glacier…we thought what we saw was the real meaning of awesome. It was jaw-droppingly beautiful.
So true, So true, Barbara and Jack. Be well and safe travels, Ann and Jerry