Misty Fjords National Monument
Today we explored Misty Fjords National Monument, and we had a “slight problem,” it wasn’t misty! We seem to have developed a recurring theme of having wonderful weather. Regularly, someone has checked the weather “forecast” and warned us for the worst, and yet we continue to disobey what is predicted and enjoy wonderful conditions. We awoke this morning to beautiful skies and warm temperatures as we continued south, and entered the narrow passages of Misty Fjords.
Misty Fjords National Monument was first set aside by President Carter in 1978 for its stunning scenery, beautiful forests, and wildlife. At 2.2 million acres, it is a massive area, with much of it designated as wilderness. For us, it is a bit of a transition as we head south. Warmer temperatures welcomed us, and the vegetation is slowly changing as many more cedar trees lined the shoreline.
After some scenic cruising in the morning we decided to diversify to explore the end of Rudyerd Bay. We put out the whole fleet of kayaks and Zodiacs and passed through the narrow Owl Passage. We were rewarded with waterfalls, streams, and spectacular scenery. Bald eagles were abundant, lining the banks of the salmon rivers that entered the bay. As the tide was rising, we were able to work our way far up amongst the salmon. A harbor seal was fishing, and passed underneath us in the clear water.
Leaving Misty Fjords was bitter sweet. This was our last day in Alaska, but tomorrow would mean new adventures in British Columbia. Dark clouds were building to the west, but knowing our group, we certainly will have another great day tomorrow, rain or shine!
