Haines
Alaska 
Airstreaming  2006

Arrive:  August 15
Depart:  August 18
Road Conditions:  Good
Weather: Partly Sunny
Miles:  217

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Haines would be a three day stay and a little more restful. Describing the road to Haines as scenic seems redundant, almost all the roads are scenic. Soon after leaving Destruction Bay we noticed a grizzly just sauntering across a field and a parking area on our right side not paying any attention to the nearby campers and, I think, making it clear who rules the land. Other than a small amount of construction at the south end of Kluane Lake the road was a pleasant drive. A small group a women bikers flagged us down and asked if we could shield them, that is to stay between them and a grizzly just down the road. So we proceeded up the road with the bikers next to our trailers and the bear on the other side of the road. Most probably the bear would have ignored the ladies but I sure don't blame them for being cautious.

Bald eagles and bears are the biggest attractions. The locals describe evenings on the Chilkoot River as their outdoor theater. Every evening when the salmon are running the road along the river is jammed with hopeful observers waiting for the bears to feed and the eagles to scavenge. Every night is different, we went twice seeing only one bear the first night and at least six the second. There are a couple of rangers with the necessary weapons watching and trying to warn people about getting too close, it seems to work out. Eagles were there feeding or perched in the trees all the time. There could be no better symbol for our great country than the majestic bald eagle with wings spread, gliding across the sky - a beautiful sight.

We enjoyed the Tsirku Canning Factory tour which was surprisingly interesting. One of the cutting machines mentioned in Michener's Alaska was on display, a real turn of the century marvel. The Sheldon Museum was nice and Ted and Mike found the Haines Brewing Company worth a close look and taste. They produce several robust beers which are bottled to order and are located in the middle of  the gold rush movie set from the movie White Fang. Ununfortunately the Hammer Museum was closed during our stay - bummer.

Joe and Sarah planned to leave by ferry on Thursday for Prince Rupert. A friend they visited at Big Lake recommended the beautiful ride down the coast and they jumped at the idea. The final caravan banquet was held in Haines at the Fort Seward Lodge. A big sign advertised "Last Day for All You Can Eat Dungeness Crab" at a good price too. Good meal, good friends what more can one ask for? How about a poem from Lois, a birthday celebration, a complimentary meal from the group, big thank yous from all for leading our trip, and the most beautiful wooden bowl secretly purchased from Dubie. Oh yes -  how about a Chief Lead the Pack headdress on my head. I certainly looked silly but I felt honored, many many thanks, what a pleasure to lead such a happy crew.