Into the Heart of Alaska’s Wilderness

The journey began with a short drive from Ketchikan to the historic Clover Pass Resort, a place that has stood the test of time as one of Alaska’s oldest fishing resorts. As I arrived, the air was thick with anticipation, the kind that only the promise of an adventure into the wild can bring. The resort, rustic and charming, was a gateway to the untamed beauty of Alaska’s wilderness.

Boarding a sturdy 29-foot vessel, I was introduced to our captain and first mate, seasoned navigators of these waters. As we set sail, the boat cut through the narrow channels, weaving between small islands that dotted the seascape. The air was crisp, and the scent of the ocean was invigorating. It was a reminder of the raw, untamed beauty that I have come to love in my travels through the polar regions.

The journey to Grant Island was a mesmerizing experience. The boat glided through the Haida Gwaii main channel, a place where the land and sea seemed to merge into one. The sight of eagles soaring above and seals lounging on the shores was a testament to the rich wildlife that calls this place home. It was a scene that could only be described as awe-inspiring, a reminder of the delicate balance of life in these harsh environments.

The Enchanted Rainforest

Upon landing at the pier, a short walk led us to the Frank Hendershot Memorial Trail, a path that wound its way through the Silverking Lodge and into the heart of the rainforest. The elevated boardwalk trail was a marvel, allowing us to venture into a world that is usually hidden from view.

The Tongass National Forest, with its towering trees and lush undergrowth, was a living testament to the power of nature. Panels along the trail provided insights into the flora, such as the Old Man’s Beard and nursery trees, each with its own story to tell. The forest floor was a tapestry of vegetation and muskeg, a spongy layer of decomposing plant matter that played a crucial role in the ecosystem.

At the end of the trail stood the largest known red cedar in the Tongass National Forest, a majestic giant with upturned ‘J’ shaped branches. This ancient tree, used by indigenous people for weaving baskets, was a symbol of resilience and continuity. It was a humbling sight, a reminder of the enduring power of nature in the face of change.

A Feast for the Senses

The adventure culminated in a seafood boil at the lodge, a feast that was as much a part of the experience as the journey itself. Fresh Dungeness crab, shrimp, mussels, clams, and more were laid out before us, a bounty from the sea that was both delicious and satisfying.

As we dined, the conversation turned to the wildlife we had encountered. The seals on Joe Island, the bald eagles swooping down from high trees, and the porpoises playing in the waves were all part of the tapestry of life in this remote corner of the world. It was a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things, a theme that runs through all my explorations of the polar regions.

The return journey to Clover Pass Resort was a time for reflection. The sights and sounds of the day lingered in my mind, a vivid reminder of the beauty and harshness of Alaska’s wilderness. It was an experience that left me with a renewed appreciation for the natural world and the delicate balance that sustains it.

For those who seek adventure and a deeper connection with nature, the Ketchikan Adventure is an experience not to be missed. It is a journey into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness, a place where the land, sea, and sky come together in a breathtaking display of nature’s power and beauty.