I had no idea what awaited me as I drove away from Whitehorse. It was one stunning mountain range after another. Is this place even real? 
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By the time I got to Haines Junction, I wondered if I’d ever make it to Alaska. I was stopping every few miles to make another photograph. It was just beyond belief. 
I saw a bunch of dall sheep along the way, but I’d already stopped so much I just made a quick shot and drove on. 
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Once I crossed the Donjek River, I knew I was getting close to Alaska. 
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I told the man at the border it was my first trip to Alaska and he walked my passport back into the office and came back with this stamp. Perfect, he even put it on the page with a bear eating a salmon. This summer in Katmai seemed more and more ordained from the beginning. 
The day grew long, I soon rolled into Tuk, and then found a place to bivvy for the night. 
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I was awakened by a semi rolling by about 1:45am and took a hopeful look out the window. I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was my first glimpse of the northern lights! I rushed out of the truck, grabbed my tripod and set it up in time to get a few shots. I was about as excited as a nine year old on Christmas morning. This was my official welcome to Alaska. 
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nomadruss in words and photos 
Reblogged this on O LADO ESCURO DA LUA.
“Is this place even real?” exactly my question. Majestic snowy mountains as far as the eyes can see, and the otherworldly northern lights! You will never forget this welcome for the rest of your life, I believe.
Yeah, I believe you’re right!
Un temps aborigène.
Celui du rêve.
C’était vraiment comme un rêve.
I don’t see how you can drive and look at that at same time. These pictures a special, Thanks
That’s why I kept stopping. It was surreal.
Beauty is all I can say, Thanks
Appreciate it.
Russ I am Melissa hills father and want to thank you for chronicaling your adventure in picture and words so well , it has moved driving the Alaska highway to the top of my bucket list may you continue to chase your dreams thank you thank you
Darrell, thanks for the note, it’s great to be a part of someone’s inspiration. And yes, may you all continue to live those dreams!
Spectacular trip, beautiful imagery to capture. What a pleasure to see this.
Thanks Blog Woman!
Simply stunning! I’m so jealous. I need to see the Northern Lights.
They need to be seen!
Gorgeous skies – what a thrill that must have been. The scale of the wilderness out there is jaw-dropping. Whew!
You could lost in it, that’s for certain!
It looks amazing- i always wanted to go to Alaska, but know i want to go even more.
Alaska is incredible. I’m glad that I finally made it!
Beautiful photos! Great job.
I love the north. thank you for sharing