Hiking every day gives you the opportunity to see many of the microclimates and biotopes in this Alaskan town. On Sunday afternoon, Kris, dad and I went out to a trailhead on Douglas Island, across the channel from downtown Juneau, and hiked around the beach front, tidal pools, and up into the rainforest trails near a bluff.
Coming in a low tide, we were able to walk right out into a rocky beach and find several treasures in the tidal pools…
The blue mussel shells on the bach grind down over the years and make a lovely purple gravel. Standing on this outer point, I looked up at the eagles flying in overhead. With dozens of eagles in sight everyday, it becomes easy to take them for granted… but this one was just so photogenic, landing on the top of the Sitka Spruce tree:
…and just up from the beach, the landscape changes to a temperate rainforest… just like that.
…and wild blueberries! Since us humans were enjoying this blueberry patch so much, we figured bears might be keen on it as well… so, as we grabbed a few handfuls, we were clapping and talking loud! No bear sightings yet. It would be great to see one (or more!), but I don’t want to happen upon one right on the trail…
Gorgeous pics… so jealous!
That is an amazing place!
Beautiful pictures! And the eagle, wow!
Lolly, I can almost feel the cool dampness so beautifully portrayed in your pictures.
I love that you’re highlighting the diversity of what you’re seeing. It looks like a very interesting place to discover.
Beautiful images! I love the shot of the blueberries. It reminded me of gathering wild blueberries when I was young with my Grandma, we too would talk or whistle while we picked, and she used to always say “if we see a bear stand up tall and say ‘get out of here bear’.” It’s a piece of advice I’ve carried with me to this day.
Fabulous photos, but I particularly like the Bald Eagle. There is something so majestic about them.
WOW what beautiful pictures..You must be having a ball. My boss just got back yesterday from Alaska and was their as well in Juneau Can’t wait to see her pictures. Have fun!!
So stunningly beautiful. I must be sure to plan a trip there very soon.
Your photos are so beautiful, the light is just gorgeous. It’s 80F in my office today, and you’ve cooled me down (well, you and an iced coffee…)
Gorgeous shots. I especially like the fourth one down — stunning.
Love all the pics! Did you get a chance to try the blueberries? Alaskan blueberries and low-bush cranberries are delicious, though a bit tarter than ones from the states. They make great muffins, pancakes, etc! There’s a lady up here who sells homemade jams at the Farmer’s Market, and one of her flavors is McKinley Medley (blueberry/cranberry). =)
Enjoy our beautiful state!
Oh my goodness how DREAMY!! What stunning landscapes, delicious forest and those berries!! mmm! I can just imagine the tingle of taste!
Lolly,
Your pictures are so beautiful! What an amazing travel opportunity…can’t wait to read more!
Jenny
Those chitons look just like trilobites. I thought you were showing us a fossil you had found!
What a beautiful place—and so beautifully captured!