The morning’s wake-up call was “Welcome to Glacier Bay National Park. Honestly, it’s somewhere out there in the fog.” We woke to thick fog and zero visibility that quickly turned into a perfect day in the park. A national park ranger and Tlingit cultural interpreter joined us in Bartlett Cove, and we traveled together to Margerie Glacier. Along the way, we encountered some of the usual characters—sea otters, sea lions, humpback whales, mountain goats, and a grizzly bear along the way. The weather was beautiful and the Fairweather Range—including Mt. Fairweather herself—was clear. On our way south, we were treated to the very rare experience of watching a pod of four transient killer whales kill two sea lions in front of the ship. Later we disembarked in Bartlett Cove and the photo team set up a light-painting tutorial on a humpback whale skeleton. In the evening, the aurora borealis lit up the skies as our shutters clicked. You could not script a better day in Glacier Bay.
9/18/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Queen Charlotte City, Haida Gwaii
Yesterday was a delightful day spent exploring the rich culture and natural beauty of Haida Gwaii! We began our adventure at the Heritage Center in Queen Charlotte City, where we immersed ourselves in the fascinating history and artistry of the Haida people. The vibrant exhibits and stories brought the local culture to life, setting a perfect tone for our day. Afterward, we hiked the stunning Spirit Lake Trail with our knowledgeable guide, Linda. Her enthusiasm was infectious as she shared captivating tales about the local flora and fauna. We learned how the Haida utilize various plants for traditional medicine, including the licorice root for soothing sore throats. The lush temperate rainforest enveloped us, with towering red cedars and vibrant ferns creating a serene backdrop for our hike. As we reached Spirit Lake, the tranquility of the water mirrored the peacefulness of the surroundings, making it a perfect spot for reflection. The day concluded with laughter and camaraderie as we enjoyed a hearty meal together. With Linda's stories echoing in our minds, we left feeling enriched by both knowledge and experience, eager for our next adventure!