We awoke this morning with views of floating icebergs as we approached Sawyer and South Sawyer glaciers. The beauty of this area was first described in 1880 by John Muir. National Geographic Sea Bird and all aboard had the privilege to experience the vastness and grandeur of the towering cliffs more than 2,000 feet tall and the teal waters that go to the stunning depth of up to 1,000 feet. A valley glacially carved and gorgeous to behold! It is truly an area unique to photograph and observe the calving events at the glacial face and harbor seals and mountain goats.
The afternoon was complete with interpretation and photo hikes as well as a relaxed paddle during the kayaking outing. It was an amazing opportunity to experience Southeast Alaska’s coastal wilderness. The low hanging clouds blanketed the Sitka spruce trees and western hemlocks that were peeking through in a jagged and uneven line represented by nature. The hiking groups learned more photography tips and about the temperate rain forest, while the more aggressive kayakers found a breathtaking waterfall.
This day left us with the reflective thoughts embodied in the words of John Muir… “When one tugs on a single thing in nature he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” This was certainly the case for all individuals experiencing the beauty of Alaska today.
