Gull Rock Hike

Hiking Crew (L-R): Nick, Noah, Jules, Kiki, Amanda

Today, we set off for a 10-mile hiking adventure near Hope, Alaska, an 85-mile drive from Anchorage. Much of the drive paralleled the train route along Turnagain Arm. It's really magnificent to see jagged mountains, shiny mudflats, and churning water in all directions. The mountains have gotten significantly greener since I saw them from the train a few weeks ago. Despite temperatures lingering in the 50's, I suppose I have to admit that "summer" has arrived.

The Gull Rock Trail was supposed to be beautiful and beginner, and I think it (mostly) lived up to its reputation. Some parts of the trail were a bit wet and muddy, others right along the cliff, others densely covered in nettles, and yet others under the canopy of trees. We really appreciated that cover on the way back as rain and wind followed us throughout the entire 5-mile return trip. Even though we didn't see the beluga whales and moose that my hiking book promised, the hike was still well worth our efforts. We saw one bald eagle and had a view of the other side of Turnagain Arm during most of the hike. I hope these photos will begin to give you an idea of the grandeur of Alaska. Click to see the full-sized photo.