AK to CA: Day 3

Anchorage to Tok, AK

Today's drive was just over 300 miles, so we planned to spend the morning enjoying a couple of favorite spots in Anchorage before heading out. First up was Snow City Cafe for the most delicious breakfast. I'm not a hash brown eater, but theirs are divine. Especially paired with a raspberry dream mocha. 

Next up was the Saturday Market, on 3rd between C and E. We wandered the booths of Alaskan-made goods and stocked up on some last-minute favorites from Alaska Love Clothing. Even better, the dog was allowed to wander with us and greet other furry friends. 

The kids even found a place to paint. 

On the way back to the car, we happened upon this fun processional. We think it was a Samoan débutante-type thing. 

By 11:30, we were finally on our way. I drive the first shift, because we know from experience that it is better to let me poke along the steep, windy cliffs outside of Palmer than to have me riding shotgun, gripping the door and telling Mike to slow down for two hours. The scenery was amazing. 

We were making great time. And then this happened. Where we sat for 30 minutes. 

The road from Glenallen to Tok was like a roller coaster, full of frost heaves and gravel patches. But the sunny, clear day have us great views of the Wrangell Mountains. 

We made it to Tok around 5:30, with only one extra stop to use the bushes. We are the only guests at our favorite Tok lodging, the Caribou Cabins. 

After a quick dinner at Fast Eddy's, it was back to the cabin, where the kids are enjoying their beds and the adults are trying to enjoy the front porch. But in reality we are waging a losing battle with the mosquitoes. At least the dog is happy. 

Tomorrow: through Canada to get back to Haines, Alaska