Fairbanks, Alaska
Saturday, June 4th 2016
Fairbanks, AK
Left Beaver Creek camp early since a long day was
ahead. We had decided to drive through
to Fairbanks, AK. Reached the US Border
at 7:30 Pacific time. Since Alaska has
its own time zone, we were now an hour earlier than Pacific Time.
Thankfully, the rain from yesterday is now gone. The views continue to be spectacular! How
could they not be? We drove in and
around the Alaska Mountain Range, the entire day.
Although the roads in the U.S. appear to be better
maintained, there is still no escaping the dips and areas of permafrost.
We got a treat early on when we saw a moose running parallel
to us for a few feet and then ran into the trees. What a huge animal! Later on, we saw a moose by a lake and she
was busy eating a bush. Also saw a Lynx in full hunting mode. We later discovered, that the Lynx is the
only member of the cat family native to Alaska.
Tough to photograph animals while in a moving vehicle.
About 30 miles from border, we stopped for a construction
zone, and needed to wait for the “pilot car”.
We were first in the row of vehicles.
While waiting, decided to inspect the kayaks and make sure ropes were
sufficiently secured. It was immediately
noticed that pole was leaning further than usual. Notice the base of the “L” shaped vertical
pole. It is the welding at this juncture
that failed.
Had to move the kayaks and finish the ride as seen above (right). They will now be moved inside the RV for the rest of the trip; once they get the road grime removed.
After performing repairs and missing 3 cycles of the "pilot car", we finally went through this construction site. Driving so close to these huge equipment and bogging down in soft sand/dirt was a bit unnerving.
Reached Delta Junction, AK the “Official end of the Alaska Highway” by noon today. From this point forward, the road continues but it is known as Richardson Hwy.
Passed by Eielson Air Force Base and this brought back lots
of long ago memories in Grand Forks AFB.
Arrived at our latest campground by 2:45pm local, in time for “wine-o’clock”. We will remain here for 3 days before moving
on.
Yeaaaaa, you made it!!!! Bobbi and I send our well wishes, and hugs. You and Wendy are great at making friends, so I know you will discover some other RVers that will continue the trip with you.
ReplyDeleteMark and I have been enjoying your entries and all the photos! Thanks for sharing as you go.
ReplyDeletelove you guys,
hal
Amazing guys! I have enjoyed reading the blog and catching up with you. Can't wait to you return home neighbors
ReplyDelete