KLONDIKE BOUND!

Today was a very late start.  Had a few things to get done and figured I would wait for the a civilized riding temperature while I was at it.  

On my way out of Whitehorse, I stopped at the Takhini Wildlife Preserve.  It would take at least an hour and a half to go all the way around it, and being as I already had a late start, I did just over half of it.  The highlight for me was the muskox.  The rest was cool too, but you just don’t see a muskox every day!

So, I didn’t really get out of the Whitehorse area until almost 2:00 p.m.  Rode the Klondike Highway to Dawson City.  The ride was beautiful.  Even though the temperature was still a bit chilly, the sun was out most of the time.  A rain front skirted me and spit on me now and then, but nothing compared to the trip up to Whitehorse.  Didn’t see any more wildlife on the road.  I’m not sure if I should be disappointed or relieved. 

I didn’t stop to take many photos today.  The road was good, but demanded attention, being littered with potholes and frost heaves most of the way.  Still, there were some nice long stretches with little to no traffic that afforded me some time for play and to appreciate the beauty of my surroundings. 

Arrived in Dawson City around 8:30 p.m. and checked into The Bunkhouse.  It’s another dorm-style abode and is reasonably priced in comparison to some of the others here in the summer.  Not too many opportunities for food after 9:00 p.m. so I’m making do with a protein bar and some nut mix for supper.  Ah, life on the road.   

There are lots of riders staying at The Bunkhouse.  A young man from Wisconsin who came up to travel the new road to Tuktoyaktuk.  He has had to abandon the attempt twice.  He said other riders who have gone up have run into snow and trouble.  Another guy in front of him had broken his leg and was waiting to be air-lifted out.   An Italian gentleman had his bike taken apart on a platform behind the hotel, replacing a seal.  Had a chat with him – he’s been all over South America, the US and Canada with his bike.  As well as Europe of course.  A couple of his friends arrived shortly after and joined in the conversation for a bit.  Such adventures sure put my little trip in perspective.  Still, it’s a pretty big adventure for me - have to start somewhere!

For now, believe it or not, I seem to be short of words and am ready for sleep.  I have many plans for my couple of days in the Klondike, so stay tuned.  😊