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

Day #14: Alaska Highway Part 3

Traveled Yukon Territory and ALASKA!!

High temp: 55         Low temp: 39        rain and clouds

We are so excited to report that we have made it to Alaska!!  Our day today was much better than yesterday.  Everyone was in good spirits and we were on the road with baked goods in hand (mmm, whole-wheat cranberry coconut scone!) by 7:45.  There was a bit of construction along the way and way more than just a bit of road that really needs construction.  We felt like we were on an old-fashined rollercoaster at times, with the occasional "Wheee!" coming from the third row seat.

We intended to get a family photo by the "Welcome to Alaska" sign, but both kids were asleep when we got to it, and it was raining.  Of course the kids both woke up at the Customs station 10 minutes down the road.  It feels great to be back in the US.  Our cell phones are usable again, and we even get 3G internet service on them tonight.  We are in Tok at the Caribou Cabins.  There is a whirlpool tub and a loft for the kids to sleep in.  The dog and kids have been enjoying the grounds, which are well off the main road.

Tomorrow we are off to Anchorage to pick up the CR-V (yay for an extra car- that means some shopping before heading to Homer!) and eat at the Glacier Brewhouse before heading home on Saturday.  The end is in sight!