What a wild and exhilarating day we had in Haines, or “Deishú” as the Tlingit named this place, which means “end of the trail.” Our adventure began with a challenging hike as we attempted to summit Mount Riley, however the deep winter snowpack stopped us short of the summit. The crisp mountain air filled our lungs as we soaked in the splendor of the forest and its streams. Energized by our adventure, we wandered through the charming town to visit its colonial houses, quaint shops, and local microbrewery. We also enjoyed a cool float down the glistening Chilkat River. As we gently glided along the serene waters, we marveled at the sight of majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, their wings outstretched in a magnificent display of power. It was an extraordinary day that encapsulated the true spirit of Southeast Alaska.
6/15/2025
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Endicott Arm
Today, we embarked on a voyage through the breathtaking Endicott Arm, a 30-mile fjord carved by ancient glaciers. As our vessel glided through the jade-green waters, towering granite cliffs rose on either side, with cascading waterfalls fed by melting snowfields. The fjord's serene beauty was punctuated by the occasional splash of harbor seals diving from ice bergs and the distant sight of mountain goats navigating the rugged terrain. Approaching the terminus of the fjord, the awe-inspiring Dawes Glacier came into view. Standing over 500 feet tall and half a mile wide, its icy facade shimmered in hues of blue and white. We boarded Zodiacs to get a closer look, maneuvering through a maze of icebergs, each uniquely sculpted by nature. Suddenly, a thunderous crack echoed as a massive chunk of ice calved from the glacier, crashing into the water below and sending ripples across the fjord—a humbling reminder of nature's power. The journey through Endicott Arm was more than a scenic cruise, it was an intimate encounter with the raw, dynamic forces that shape Alaska's wilderness. The memories of shimmering glaciers, playful seals, and towering cliffs will linger, a testament to the allure of this pristine frontier.