2019 Alaska Vacation Journal (47)
06/27/2019 / No Travel Day - The Hike that Wasn’t
Start Location:
Start Time: N/A
Mileage: 54,282.3
Cost Per Night: $45.26 USD
Weather: 48 - 69 F Sunny (Smoky from the Swan Lake Fire)
We started the day going back to the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. It was our intention to take the two-mile nature hike there. Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center Hiking Trails consists of several loops, some laid with wood chips, and is under three miles for the largest loop. We started with the short loop which goes around the buildings. We stopped at the Elwell Cabin (an old fishing lodge) and the Andrew Bergs Homestead (used in the 1930’s).
Then we headed down the longer loop, through the Keen-Eye Nature Trail to the Centennial Trail. We did not get more than a couple hundred feet before mosquitoes chased us out. We had lathered in insect repellent, but it did not deter them. What a swarm! It was a shame because the trail was stunning. I suffered a bite on the forehead again.
Since the hiking did not work out; we decided to find
Marathon Road. This road leads to industrial sites in what became Alaska’s first modern oil field. The
Kenai Airport borders the site to the west. The area is touted to be a great place to view both Caribou and Moose. However, they were not out. We did see a Momma Grouse with her babies. I did not get a good photo, because we scared the birds, and I did not want to perpetuate that fear.
We went to the
Bucket Sports Grill for a late lunch. Of course, Paul ordered a Grill Cheese Sandwich. I enjoyed their ‘Iron Dog’ which is Reindeer Sausage smothered in Chili, Cheese, Onions and Jalapeños. They forgot the Jalapeños, but the sandwich was still delightful. I also really appreciated their clam chowder – very thick and meaty.
After stocking up on some groceries at the Fred Myer; I went back to the RV to cook. I made three tins of Organic Quinoa Mac and Cheese; one for dinner and two to freeze. It is always nice to have a quick and easy homemade meal thanks to the leftovers in your freezer.
Wildlife Spotted: Momma Grouse with her young’uns; Momma Duck with her babies; a ton of Seagulls (they are everywhere); two Bald Eagles.
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| Paul in Front of the Andrew Bergs Homestead |
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| Dandelion – There Are So Many Flowers on The Trail |
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| Start of the Keen-Eye Nature Trail |
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| Momma Grouse is well Hidden in this Tree |
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| Iron Dog from the Bucket Sports Grill |
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| Organic Mac and Cheese |
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| Spot 35 Klondike RV Park |
2019 Alaska Vacation Journal
