Backcountry & The Grim Reaper

The start park we went to was only accessible by boat.  Which by the way, did not drop us off at this dock. Instead it dropped us off in 2 feet of water, where we had to walk through the water in our socks so we wouldn't cut our feet on clams.

Since our new school would be starting much later, we were able to take a vacation to Katchemak Bay for a 5 day back country hike.

It was Aaron, raph and myself and it was great to be with the two funnest people I know. The trip was incredible! Including tons of sun, glaciers, lakes, lush valleys, bears, more berries than we could ever eat, alpine glow, northern lights, full moons, river crossings, insane bushwhacking through devil clubs and lots of laughs. But with that said there was something weighing on us. Our new job, our new reality was breathing down my neck and following me around the trail like the grim reaper. I didn't want to leave this blissful state. And, perhaps that is why we love our Alaskan summers so much- they always end before you want them to.

But it was time to go. To this unknown world to start all over AGAIN. I wasn't look forward to it, the plane ride, the predictable small talk, being the "newbie" and just figuring out a whole new culture, but it didn't matter if we were ready or not because we already signed the contract. So off we were.

Before we go there, here are some shots from the trip...

Our first camp spot, where we had the longest and best sunset followed by alpine glow and a huge moon rise.

Raph in the tundra

no caption necessary

Tram to cross the river

Camping night two, with nice view of the glacier

The state park cabin we poached- because despite the good weather and the fact that it was mid August, the place was a complete ghost town. We practically saw no one and only heard the constant call of the loons in the calm bay.

What you wear (or don't wear) to cross a glacial river when there is no tram.

Watermelon Berries

Fireweed

Raspberries

High Bush Blue Berries

berry-man