Blog | Wizard of AWG: Alaska Wild Guides

Book Ahead for Our Jet Ski Tours in Alaska!

We get it—the summer seems awfully far off right now, especially here in Alaska while the days are still short and the mercury is bottoming out. But if you’re looking to come to Alaska this summer, it’s a good idea to start planning out your excursions as early as possible, as they can book up quite quickly during the tourist-heavy summer season.

One of our favorite tours we offer to our summer visitors is our jet ski tour in Alaska. On this tour you’ll depart directly from Whittier Harbor and cruise along nearly 70 miles of gorgeous Alaskan coastline, up into the Blackstone Bay. Along the way you’ll have the opportunity to get up-close looks at 10 glaciers, including a pair of tidewater glaciers that produce icebergs that are perfect homes for harbor seals. Many of our visitors have never seen seals in the wild before, so this is a great treat for them!

Blackstone Bay also features one of the largest kittiwake rookeries you’ll find in the world. Kittiwakes are birds that love to nest along steep cliffs and fish in the crisp Alaskan waters. They often come out in large numbers and are very impressive to watch as they dive to the water to scoop up fish.

About the jet skis

Some people who come on our jet ski tour in Alaska have never jet skied before, while others are major jet ski aficionados. We have top-of-the-line, high-performance jet skis that are capable of very nimble, easy maneuvering. Their high-tech braking systems allow for the ultimate in control while idling in front of glaciers so you can enjoy the view without having to worry about losing your balance.

There are plenty of other safety features, too, to ensure your comfort throughout the entire ride. There are upgraded stability features, as well as an extra-large cargo area. Even inexperienced riders will be able to easily control their jet ski and feel completely comfortable and safe along the entire journey. We also provide all jet ski riders with dry gear to keep them warm and safe.

We also offer two-passenger Sea-Doo GTI SEs, which have 30 percent better fuel efficiency than any other similar jet ski on the market. This is because we care greatly about protecting the Alaskan wilderness and the Prince William Sound while you’re out having a memorable adventure.

Our jet ski tour guides are looking forward to meeting you and giving you an adventure you’ll never forget. The cost for these tours starts at $340 per person, with a minimum of two clients per tour. The tour departs daily at 1 p.m. Again, be sure to call ahead and book your tour as soon as you know when you’ll be here this summer—we get a lot of visitors in the summer months and this is a very popular jet ski tour in Alaska, so it’s important to book your excursion well in advance to ensure you get a spot! All of us at Alaska Wild Guides look forward to seeing you!

Book your day tour!

Our Breathtaking Glacier Day Tours in Alaska

Want to experience Alaska’s wilderness in its full winter glory? Then you have to try out one of our Alaskan Glacier Day Tours, which give you an opportunity to get out and see the glaciers up close and personal.

During your trip on one of our glacier snowmobile day tours, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see not just the glaciers themselves (and walk and snowmobile on them), but you’ll also have the opportunity to see some of the famous Alaskan wildlife, including moose, lynx, ptarmigan and wolves. While seeing wildlife is never a guarantee, there’s always a chance you’ll see something interesting and memorable when you’re out in the Alaskan wilderness!

An Unforgettable Alaskan Getaway to Spencer Glacier

Be sure to bring your camera along with you to document the adventure—this is an experience not many people will be able to get in their lifetimes! While you might not be new to winter weather, you almost certainly haven’t experienced an area as truly wild and rugged as the Alaskan wilderness. For those who come from around the world or from the lower 48 states, it can almost feel like you’re entering an entirely different country.

This five-hour tour starts at either 9 a.m. or 1 p.m., and costs $275 per person, though you can also add passengers to your snowmobile for $150. Our guides will take you up the Spencer Glacier via the Placer River. If, however, the glaciers are closed by order of the forest service, we’ll take you through Turnagain Pass, which still offers some breathtaking views and incredible experiences.

More Winter Day Tours in Alaska

Our glacier snowmobile day tours aren’t the only tours we offer to our winter visitors. There are other opportunities to go on backcountry adventures. The Iditarod All-Day Tour gives you a more thorough wilderness experience and keeps you out for the entire day. This is a perfect option for beginning snowmobilers and anyone who wants to follow the Iditarod Trail and learn a little bit about Alaskan history. We’re capable of customizing any tour you take to fit your skill level and interests.

But no matter what tour you take, they all start the same way: you’ll meet your tour guides, get into all the snow gear (including boots and snowsuits), take transportation up to the trailhead and then get some instruction on how to ride your snowmobile. Make sure you’re bundled up, ready to go and are willing to embrace the adventure and the experience of a lifetime on your day tour!

Multi-day Guided Snowmobile Tours

Finally, if you have an explorer’s spirit and are looking for something a bit more advanced, we do offer multi-day snowmobile adventures, including the four-day Iditarod Adventure tour, the three-day Alaska Explorer trip that takes you from Lake Louise Lodge to McLaren River Lodge, and the Alaska Explorer II trip, which takes you through forests, open fields and historic trails.

There are plenty of options to get you out and enjoying the Alaskan wilderness this winter. Contact Alaska Wild Guides today for more information about our glacier day tours in Alaska!

Book your day tour!

Visiting Rivers of Ice: A Few Things to Know About Glacier Tours in Alaska

“Rivers of ice,” as Alaskans call glaciers, are some of the most incredible places in the country. Typically only accessible via snowmobile ride or jet ski, these massive ice formations are a must-see for anyone looking to experience the best of Alaska. Don’t just take our word for it, though—keep reading to learn everything there is to know about our glacier tours in Alaska.

What are you in for?

Simply checking out a “river of ice” might sound a bit ambiguous, and frankly, not all that exciting. But that couldn’t be any further from the truth! Here are just a few of the things you’ll experience when you’re on a glacier tour:

Incredible sights: A frozen river is a pretty cool thing to see. The good news, though, is that’s not the only extraordinary sight you’ll get during your tour. On your day trip, you’ll see towering mountains, wildlife and much more. Be sure to bring your camera, because you’ll never see anything quite like this again.
White-knuckle adventures: The final destination is just a small part of your glacier tour package. Our tours include either a snowmobile ride, jet ski ride or water taxi trip to actually reach the glacier. This is when you’ll fly through the forest, cross frozen rivers and see a variety of wildlife along the way.
A time you’ll never forget: The memories you’ll make during your glacier tour won’t soon be forgotten. Though you certainly won’t want to leave your camera at home, we suspect you won’t even need to take photos to remember your adventure to the glaciers!
When is the best time to visit?

There’s never a wrong time to visit Alaska, as outdoor adventures abound all year long. But if you want to see the glaciers, the best time to head north is coming up soon! Due to global warming, the winter seems to come later and later each year. We used to be able to take visitors on snowmobiling adventures out to the glaciers at the beginning of December, but now we typically have to wait until the middle of January. If you want to be one of the first to see the glaciers in 2019, book your trip today!

How much will it cost?

At Alaska Wild Guides, our glacier tours begin at $275 per day. This snowmobile tour starts at 1:00 p.m. and lasts five and a half hours. Included in the cost are your boots, suits and a memorable ride through the forest that almost guarantees that you’ll see moose, lynx and maybe even wolves. We also offer five- to seven-day tours on the water that cost $350 per day, plus the cost of the water taxi. These tours take you to Harriman Fjord, where you’ll see stunning glaciers, otters playing in the water and much more.

As mentioned above, now is the best time to book glacier tours in Alaska. The weather conditions are nearly perfect for day trips to some of the most incredible glaciers in the world. If you’re not into taking a glacier tour for any reason, that’s okay, too! We offer a variety of backcountry tours that are sure to pique your interest. Check out the tour packages on our website to learn more.

What You Need to Know About Earthquake Tourism in Alaska

On November 30, 2018, the Anchorage area was rattled by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake. The quake brought down power lines and collapsed roads, but thankfully took zero lives. One worry was that the earthquake could deter tourism for years to come, as travelers may think it’s too dangerous to visit due to the threat of aftershocks.

Where some people may see a problem, though, we see an opportunity: now might be the best time to visit Alaska, especially if you’re interested in geology and want to experience an earthquake for yourself! Continue reading to learn a little bit more about earthquake tourism in Alaska.

What is earthquake tourism?

Earthquake tourism is a relatively new idea, and something that can vary from traveler to traveler depending on their interests. We imagine that it’s a combination of a standard Alaskan tour (i.e., visiting glaciers, hanging out in Anchorage, seeing wildlife) along with checking out some of the damaged caused by the earthquake and learning more about the quake itself.

The most exciting part of the tour, though, will be the prospect of feeling an earthquake for yourself. Unless you live near a fault line, the chances that you get to experience an earthquake are rather slim… until you hop on an airplane and come to visit Alaska!

Is earthquake tourism right for you?

Do you have the urge to visit Alaska? Do you have any interest in geology? Do you like to live on the wild side? Would you like to tell your friends incredible stories about your journey? If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions, it’s time to book your earthquake tourism adventure!

Along with exploring one of our country’s most beautiful states, you may get the opportunity to be one of a select few visitors to experience the aftershocks firsthand! While you show your friends photos of glaciers and wildlife, you can tell them how you felt the ground move beneath your feet. We promise you’ll never have an adventure like this again.

Who should you contact to schedule a tour?

There is no shortage of companies in Alaska offering tours of glaciers, national forests and other outdoor adventures. But we promise that Alaska Wild Guides is the only tour company that’s willing to take you right to the epicenter and show you the effects of the recent earthquake up close and personal. There’s no telling how long aftershocks might last, and they will get weaker and weaker as time goes on. So, if you’re interested in experiencing an earthquake firsthand, we recommend calling us today to set up a tour. You’d hate to miss out on all the fun!
We understand that earthquake tourism in Alaska might not be right for everyone, but if it sounds like it’s up your alley, get in touch with us! We’ll show you the best of the “Last Frontier” at some of the most competitive rates you’ll find. We offer daily and weekly tours that appeal to all sorts of interests and hobbies. Reach out today to learn more!

What to Pack for Your Alaskan Winter Vacation

Are you planning on visiting Alaska this winter? Great! You’re in for an incredible time—there’s something incredibly peaceful about taking in the sights and sounds of the Alaskan wilderness during the dead of winter. Of course, if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outside, it’s important that you prepare yourself by packing all the items you’re going to need to keep safe and warm.Here is some info about what you should pack for your Alaskan winter vacation:Parka: Temperatures in Alaska can get extremely low in the winter, especially as you head farther inland. Fairbanks, for example, can easily get down below -20 degrees Fahrenheit and colder. The expected temperatures will vary based on where you’re going and how the ocean currents are flowing. A lightweight parka can still hold up to extreme cold, and is also easily packable.

Hiking boots: Get yourself a good pair of strong, versatile hiking boots that are made with a water-resistant material to keep your socks dry when you’re trekking over snow and ice.
Long underwear: Long underwear provides a much-needed extra layer around your entire body that can make a big difference in your comfort when you’re outside for long stretches of the day during the winter. Silk long underwear is easy to quickly wash and dry overnight, and it’s light enough that you’ll be able to wear it without having to wear extremely baggy clothes on top.
Socks: The type of socks you bring with you can make a huge difference. Get some warm socks that are going to keep moisture away from your feet. Avoid cotton, because cotton absorbs sweat and moisture, which in cold weather will actually chill your feet. Instead, opt for synthetic materials, blends or wool—you’re going to stay much warmer using these types of socks,and be much happier for your decision.
Snow pants: When we say “snow pants,” we don’t mean the kinds of huge puffy pants you dressed in as a kid to go sledding. There are plenty of options for adults that include coveralls that can protect you while you’re snowmobiling, or pants that are insulated and made out of water-resistant fabrics, making them great for snowshoeing, hiking and skiing. You’ll be able to find these at most sporting goods and outdoor stores, as well as ski shops.
Gloves and mittens: Go for comfort over style with your gloves—you’re going to need to keep your hands warm. Bring a pair of heavyweight mittens as well, even if you’re not typically into wearing mittens. This will help you keep your hands much warmer when the temperature gets especially cold.
Sunscreen: You might not associate sunscreen with the winter, but you’re going to want it if you’re spending a lot of time outside. In fact, the light that bounces off the snow can make the sunlight even more intense than it is in the summer. This is why you’ll want sunglasses with you as well.

For more information about what to pack for your Alaskan winter vacation, contact the experts at Alaska Wild Guides today.

What to Do in Alaska During the Winter

The busiest season of the year for tourism in Alaska is the summer. This shouldn’t be surprising—the summer is the biggest time of year for tourism just about everywhere. Plus, the weather is milder, and the days are brighter, making it more conducive to a lot of outdoor activities.

However, there is still a lot to see and experience here in Alaska even during the cold and dark of winter. The state doesn’t shut down when the weather gets cold. In fact, some of the greatest Alaskan experiences happen during the coldest and darkest months.Here are just a few examples of some of the things you might do if winter tourism in Alaska is on your calendar:

Northern Lights tours: You’re never going to have the opportunity to seethe Northern Lights here in Alaska during the summer, because it never really gets dark enough. During the winter, however, you can see some spectacular displays of the lights, especially if you take tours out to some of the ideal areas for gazing up at the sky. Even if you’ve seen the Northern Lights before, there’s something truly special about seeing them during an Alaskan winter.
Dog mushing tours and events: Alaska is famous for the Iditarod dog race, which takes place during the winter and is a fantastic spectator event. But even at other times in the winter, you can take tours and excursions to meet Iditarod racers and their dogs to hear what the race is like. You may even have the opportunity to get out on a dog sled ride yourself!
Snowmobile tours: Want an up-close look at the Alaskan wilderness that also gives you a bit of exhilaration and excitement? Snowmobile tours are extremely popular during the winter, and are a fantastic way to explore some of the state’s most gorgeous landscapes, including glaciers, rivers, lakes and so much more.
Skiing: There is a near-limitless number of skiing opportunities in Alaska, whether you’re looking for cross-country or downhill skiing. Bring your skis and snowboards and hit the slopes or trails!
Snowshoeing: Want a little more peaceful way to get out into the wilderness? You can go snowshoeing either by yourself or in a group, allowing you an opportunity to get off the beaten path a bit and see the Alaskan wilds.
Ice fishing: Alaska is famous for its fishing all year round, including its ice fishing. This is a classic winter experience here in Alaska, when the ice is especially thick. If you’re new to ice skating, or even if you’re a seasoned vet, you can always go out on a guided ice fishing excursion. The benefit of this is that it’ll often come with a portable shelter you can sit in while waiting for bites!

There are so many opportunities to have a great Alaskan experience during the winter. For more information about winter tourismin Alaska, contact the experts at Alaska Wild Guidestoday. We look forward to helping you plan your trip!

What Are the Benefits of Traveling with an Escorted Group?

If you’re planning your first-ever trip to the great wilds of Alaska, you may be wondering whether or not you should go it alone or work with a trusted company offering experienced Alaskan tour guides as you explore the Last Frontier State.

While there are a number of benefits that you may experience traveling alone, they likely don’t outweigh the cons, especially if this is going to be your first time in Alaska. While you may be able to travel at your own pace and take a few additional detours when traveling alone, Alaska is a vast, shockingly large state with lots of hidden treasures that you may not be able to see without the assistance of a knowledgeable local guide.

If you’re concerned about the costs of a guided tour versus traveling alone, there are a number of things to consider when calculating your total costs; while it may seem like a larger sum initially, under certain circumstances traveling alone may actually be the more costly option.

Here are just some of the benefits you’ll experience when traveling with Alaskan tour guides:

Insider knowledge: When you travel with Alaskan tour guides, you’re traveling with a resident who’s exceptionally knowledgeable about the history of the local area, hidden gems that you simply have to see and the most relevant safety tips. You’ll learn a lot more about your destinations when traveling with a guide.

Social experiences: There’s nothing better than enjoying the stunning beauty of Alaska—other than enjoying it with a slew of like-minded people and new friends. When you travel with a guided, escorted tour group in Alaska, you can enjoy some of the world’s most amazing scenery with a small group of interesting people that may become lifelong friends.

All the planning is taken care of: Planning a trip, especially to a locale as remote and difficult to access as Alaska, can be a real challenge. When you travel with an escorted group, however, you don’t have to worry about booking hotels, procuring transportation or even finding a good spot to eat! All the planning is taken care of by your knowledgeable tour guides.

More cost-effective: While it may seem like the cost of booking a prearranged escorted tour is more than the cost of traveling independently, you almost always get more bang for your buck when traveling with a group. Because tour groups have prearranged relationships with restaurants, museums, hotels and coach companies, they can often secure better rates.

Since 2011, Alaska Wild Guides has been a premier source of Alaska tour guides. We’re proud to offer exciting adventure trips through the great Alaskan wilderness. Our highly qualified, exceptionally knowledgeable team members will provide you with a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience unlike anything you’ve ever known before. We offer year-round tours for people of all ages and physical fitness levels. To learn more about our upcoming tour schedule or to find an adventure tour that’s right for you, reach out to one of our friendly representatives today.

When and Where Can I See the Northern Lights?

The aurora borealis, or northern lights, is an astronomical phenomenon caused by magnetic winds falling toward Earth after solar storms on the surface of the sun. When these magnetic winds interact with the Earth’s magnetic field, the opposing magnetic fields result in dazzling displays of color and light that dance across the sky. Viewing the northern lights, whether it’s for the first time or the hundredth time, can be an amazing and transformative experience.

These exciting, awe-inspiring events have dazzled people in the northern reaches of the globe for centuries. Stories of dancing lights in the sky populate the mythologies of many indigenous peoples throughout Alaska, Northern Canada and beyond.

If you’re planning a trip to the Last Frontier State in the near future, you may be wondering how you can optimize your chances of seeing the northern lights in Alaska. While the event really depends on unpredictable solar flares, there are a number of steps that you can take that will increase your chances of seeing the lights, including:

Plan for the right time of year: If you’re hoping to see the northern lights in Alaska, don’t visit in the summertime! The near constant daylight makes it impossible to see space weather activity, regardless of how strong it may be. The northern lights are most visible during the equinox months of March and September, thanks to the tilt of the Earth’s axis.

Go north: The further north you are, the more likely it is that you’ll experience the northern lights. It’s advisable to start in Fairbanks, and travel north from there if you hope to see the northern lights. While it is possible to see them in the more southerly areas around Anchorage or on the Alaska Panhandle, it’s a substantially lower chance.

Check the predictions: Check up on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Space Weather Prediction Center for up-to-date predictions on solar activity. Additionally, checking the regular weather forecast can help you determine if the sky will be clear enough to see any space weather activity.

Get out of town: Don’t expect to see the northern lights in Alaska in the center of Fairbanks, or any other mid-size town, for that matter. Your best chance of receiving an immersive northern lights experience is to get far out of town, away from the bright lights of the city.

If you’re hoping to truly optimize your chances of seeing the aurora borealis while traveling in Alaska, your best bet is to book a spot with a special northern lights tour.

Alaska Wild Guides is a wilderness adventure tour company in Girdwood, AK offering extensive tours of the Last Frontier State, including tours designed to help guests see the northern lights in Alaska. To learn more about our comprehensive range of wilderness adventure tours, or to join in our next Northern Lights tour, reach out to one of our friendly, knowledgeable representatives today. We strive to provide each and every one of our guests with an awe-inspiring, once-in-a-lifetime experience that they’re sure to remember.

Tips for Preparing for Your Glacier Tour in Alaska

One of the most popular excursions people take while they’re on an Alaskan vacation is a trip out to see the glaciers up close. While most people only ever see these massive ice formations from afar on cruise ships, trains or helicopters, others choose to go on hikes that allow them to get on top of the glaciers themselves.

So how should you go about preparing for your glacier tour in Alaska? Here’s some information to keep in mind as you pack your suitcase.

How to dress

No matter what time of year you visit Alaska, you’re going to want to dress in layers. In the summer the weather can be in the 70s with plenty of sun, or it can be in the 40s with rain. In the fall and spring the weather is almost unpredictable, and in the winter the extra layers will keep you warm during the long, cold, dark hours.

Here’s a list of clothing items we recommend you pack for your glacier tour excursion. There will be some variance for each person depending on their comfort level and the type of glacier tour you expect to go on, but this should give you at least something you can work off of:

Wool socks: Wool socks provide extra warmth, absorbency and cushion, which makes them comfortable for long walking excursions and less likely to result in you having wet feet all day if you’re trudging through rain or snow.
Long underwear: Cotton long underwear can help you stay warm on long hikes and sightseeing excursions.
Pants: Jeans are just fine for your hike, but synthetic pants will also work.
Shirts: Bring a few long-sleeve shirts, as well as short-sleeve or t-shirts, giving you some layer options.
Jacket: We recommend a sweater or a fleece jacket to act as your insulation layer. If you know you get cold easily, you might want to bring a couple.
Shoes: While normal tennis shoes are flexible and always welcome on any type of trip, we strongly recommend waterproof hiking boots for a glacier excursion, or for any type of long hike, really.
Rain gear: Lightweight rain gear is helpful if rain is in the forecast. It should be easily compactable so you can fit it in with your other gear.
Hat: Bring a wool or synthetic hat that covers your ears.
Gloves: Light cotton gloves are ideal for hiking.

Equipment

Beyond the clothes you bring, you’re going to want to have some equipment with you. Again, the equipment you need depends mostly on the type of excursion you’re taking, so keep that in mind.

Day pack: This pack will allow you to carry everything you need on your excursion, and should be capable of keeping these items dry.
Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses are ideal.
Binoculars: The Alaskan wilderness is vast and expansive, and a pair of binoculars will help you take in all the sights.
Toiletries: Any personal toiletries you may want to bring for particularly long hikes or overnights are a good idea.
Medications: Any medications you need or depend on should be in your pack.
Snacks: Trail snacks are helpful to keep you going as the day drags on.
Other: Phone, camera, batteries, journals, pens, etc.

For more information about preparing for your glacier tour in Alaska, contact Alaska Wild Guides today.

Why You Should Consider Taking Guided Tours in Alaska in the Fall

The majority of people who come to Alaska as tourists do so in the summer, when the weather is milder and when the sun stays up in the sky for most hours of the day. However, summer certainly isn’t your only option as a tourist—there are plenty of reasons to visit at other times of the year, including the fall. So if you’re looking to make a last-minute getaway, book a trip up to Alaska and you certainly won’t regret it!

Here are just a few reasons why many people book guided tours in Alaska in the autumn months.

Cheaper Rates

Because most of the tourists are gone by the time the calendar passes Labor Day, there’s significantly less demand for tourism activities in the state, which means a higher supply and lower prices as a result. This is true all across the state, from major cities like Anchorage to more remote spots like McCarthy and Nome. You’ll find cheaper hotel rates in particular, some of which can be up to $100 less per night in October than they were just a couple months earlier (especially for fancier places to stay, like Anchorage’s Hotel Captain Cook).

Interact With More Locals

A lot of the locals go into hiding during some of the more tourist-heavy months, so they’re more likely to go on road trips of their own during the fall after the crowds disappear and the prices go down. In addition, the seasonal workers who are still there for a few weeks after their summer tourism jobs end will do some traveling of their own before they head back to their permanent homes in the lower 48. Therefore, you’re much more likely to encounter locals on your excursions, which provides a really unique vibe that feels like more of an authentic Alaskan experience.

You Can See The Northern Lights

There’s no chance of seeing the northern lights during the summer, because of how much sunlight there is. But as the fall stretches on and darkness becomes more omnipresent, you have a much better chance of seeing the northern lights, as well as some beautiful starry skies that are not affected by nearly as much light pollution as you’d get in the lower 48. The absolute best displays of the northern lights usually occur in midwinter, but you can still get a peek at them in the fall.

Beautiful Weather and Scenery

Fall provides some unique weather and scenery opportunities for visitors to Alaska. While it doesn’t usually snow at lower elevations, it does snow overnight on mountains and larger hills, which makes for some beautiful scenery. And in Alaska, the changing colors of fall aren’t just limited to trees, either—the open tundra of mosses, berry patches and foliage can flash vivid autumn colors that will take your breath away.

Want more reasons why you should book your guided tour in Alaska during the fall? Contact Alaska Wild Guides for more information and to learn about the tours we offer!

Advice From a Sea Gull

Have you seen those “Advice from a …” poems? Well it would appear that Mother Nature is full of witty lessons and reminders, which many creative people have captured and shared by means of poetry. So when the opportunity presented itself I couldn’t help but partake in the fun and come up with a little advice from a seagull that I observed one day on Prince William Sound.

Advice from a Sea Gull

Play no matter the weather

Know no bounds

Have fun wherever you go

Reach far and wide

However,

Pace yourself

Remember your limits

Don’t bite off more than you can chew

Advice From a Sea Gull

Now here’s the back-story on this particular advice.

It was early May in Prince William Sound just outside of Whittier. The weather was in the low forties with a 10-knot wind and rain that was coming in sheets. Born and raised in Alaska and knowing that you can’t wait for perfect weather to enjoy an adventure, we found ourselves cruising along on our personal watercraft headed to Harriman Fjord about 45 miles outside of Whittier. The day’s conditions were perfect for seeking the limits on our new SEADOO GTI SE 130s.

We were only about a mile out of the harbor when the lead boat came to a slow stop. There in the water was a gull, which isn’t uncommon to see on the ocean but what was strange about this was that it was face down and not moving. In other words, it was dead. This is not a common scene! So, we moved in closer to investigate and upon further inspection we saw that there was something protruding from the bird’s mouth. Derek, being brave, picked up the gull for a closer look only to see that it was a fish tail hanging out of the bird’s mouth. We all circled around and were somewhat flabbergasted to see such a thing. It would appear that the gull picked up a fish from the waters and proceeded to swallow it only to find out that this particular dinner was more than the bird could handle, causing it to suffocate and fall to its death. One of the first things that went through my mind was the good old expression “don’t bite off more than you can chew”.

Over the next several weeks, I found myself thinking about this poor bird and what lesson Mother Nature presented to us on that blustery spring day. It’s easy to let life get out of control whether it be work, family, school, volunteering or any number of obligations that can keep us so busy in today’s demanding world.

I can go on and on about how so many of us find ourselves overwhelmed with all the demands in life but I’m no good at that self help stuff. Instead I’m going to tell you to make sure to get out and have a little adventure now and again because building memories is always fun!