February, 2011 - Alaska Coast Magazine

Transcription

Tailgate Alaska
Valdez hosts winter's hottest party
Fur Rondy
Anchorage's coolest carnival
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February 2011
www.coast-magazine.com
See Alaska through the eyes of award winning photographer Michael Melford and writer Dave
Atcheson. This is Alaska like you’ve rarely seen. Available in bookstores February 15, or get a
copy as special gift when you donate to www.RenewableResourcesFoundation.org
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www.coast-magazine.com • February 2011 • COAST • 3
61° NORTH
Nature’s waste not want not ways
By Craig Medred
T
he forested slopes of the Chugach Mountains above
Anchorage are full of bodies. Anyone with a dog with a
decent nose will have discovered this by now. Anywhere dogs
are allowed to run off leash even within feet of you off the
trail, they seem destined to stumble into pieces of what once
were snowshoe hares.
Hares are near a cyclic peak in this corner of Alaska. Lynx
are feasting. So too the owls and few other birds of prey that
hang on here through the
long winter. A lone bald eagle
— most of them have migrated south for the winter —
was even hunting low over
the alders just above treeline
the other day. Bald eagles
aren’t the best of hare
hunters. Compared to great
horned owls or goshawks,
Craig Medred
the national bird is a rank
amateur. But when the hunting is good, the odds of success
increase for all.
Judging from the frequency of feet, legs, ears, heads and
miscellaneous body parts are found in the woods now, a lot of
predators have been finding success. They are not very neat
about it. Then again, neatness is a human construct no matter
how we might want to impose it on the natural order. You
know. You’ve heard the claim:
The lynx, the foxes, the wolves, the coyotes, the grizzly
bears (pick one) only kill what they need, and they eat what
they kill. Only they don’t. They kill what they can kill, and they
DIRECTOR
PUBLISHER
MANAGING
EDITOR
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MARKETING
&
ADVERTISING
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[email protected]
EDITOR
continued on page 6
Pete Armstrong
John Woodbury
(907) 344-2937
Roy Neese
OF
eat what they want. If the killing is easy, they are happy to kill
more than they can eat and grow fat living the high life.
They remind me of a certain neighbor kid happy to throw
the uneaten half of a pizza in the garbage. He has never in his
life faced hunger. As someone who has, I could never throw
away the uneaten half of a pizza. I find his behavior chillingly
wasteful even while recognizing that this whole issue of waste
is highly subjective.
Yes, we are a wasteful species, but so are most given the
chances. Bears will actually go at the waste in the reverse of
humans. They will kill salmon; eat only the fat-rich brains and
eggs; and leave most of the carcass, whereas anglers will often
fillet the fish, take the flesh of the fillets home, and throw away
the brains and eggs. Some of these anglers, strangely enough,
will even hack off the salmon belly, the fat richest and tastiest
part of the salmon, and toss that.
I consider that more offensive than ditching the uneaten
half of a pizza which, back when I was in college, was simply
called “breakfast.’’ But, of course, tossing salmon bellies is not
considered waste. It does not violate the social morals. On the
other hand, if you were to go all mama grizzly, or papa grizzly
for that matter, and hack the brains and eggs out of a salmon
and leave the carcass, your fellow anglers would be appalled,
and you would likely end up getting cited under the state’s socalled “wanton waste’’ requiring salvage of fish and wildlife.
If you throw the nutrient-richest part of the salmon away
and take the flesh, all is OK. If you take the nutrient-richest
part of the salmon and throw away the rest, it is wrong.
Someone somewhere at some point decided these were the
FIELD
EDITOR
Craig Medred
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& DESIGN
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4 • February 2011 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com
BY
Alaska Adventure Media
6921 Brayton Drive, Suite 207
Anchorage, Alaska 99507
Phone: (907) 677-2900
Fax: (907) 677-2901
The opinions expressed in the articles are those
of the writers and do not necessarily reflect
those of the magazine’s management or owners. Many of the activities covered in Coast
magazine are sports that carry significant risk of
personal injury or death. Coast, including its
owners, managers, writers, photographers, and
other staff, does not recommend that anyone
participate in these activities unless they are
experts, seek qualified personal instruction, are
knowledgeable about the risks, and are willing
to personally assume all responsibility associated
with those risks.
COAST
CONTENTS
Vol. 10, No. 10 • February 2011
Cover photo:
Musher Marvin Kokrine competes
in the 2010 Fur Rendezvous World
Sled Dog Championship Sprint
Race in Anchorage.
Photo by:
Daniel Bailey
14
10
Features
10
12
29
RONDY TIME!
Anchorage hosts another
wonderful winter carnival
IDITAROD PREVIEW
March goes to the dogs
WEAK SNOWPACK?
Regulars
4
7
14
20
20
24
61 NORTH
Waste not, want not
TRAILMIX
Ski stampede • Ice art is cool
• Ice Climbing Fest
THE WHITE PAGES
Tailgate Alaska • Skiing
the Russian
ALASKA ANGLER
Relative comfort
KAYAK ALASKA
Learning to kayak
24
27
3o
AK ON THE GO
Winter Trails Day
COAST CALENDAR
61° NORTH
MEDRED continued from page 4
Nature wastes like crazy, and yet it wastes
nothing. There is a circle that eventually
brings everything around. The lynx kills the
hare and eats what it prefers. Your dog comes
along and eats some of what’s left, no matter how
hard you try to stop him. The magpies pick at the
tatters after that, not to mention what passes
through the dog undigested.
your dog eating the parts of an animal prone to a disease
called tularemia. The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reported two
people were diagnosed with tularemia in that city in 2009. It’s
a nasty infectious disease, tough to treat. Alaska Department of
Fish and Game veterinarian Kimberlee Beckmen blamed one
Fairbanks case on saliva from an infected dog which got into a
cut on a man’s hand and the other case on removal of a dead
hare from a dog’s mouth.
Beckmen calls Fairbanks, which gets even bigger cyclic hare
booms than Anchorage, the tularemia capital of America. But
hey, you can just consider that bacteria another part of that
big, messy circle of life. Pathogens are only another life form
trying to keep that circle spinning by killing ... us.
w
.v
ald
co
ww
m
rules, and we’ve been living with them ever since.
Putting the carcasses of dead salmon back in the river, some
fisheries biologists argue, is good conservation. The carcasses
fertilize the river. OK? Given this, wouldn’t it be even better if
you just killed some fish and kicked them back into the river
without bothering to fillet? Wouldn’t those carcasses provide
even more fertilizer? The actions would certainly be natural
enough.
Nature wastes like crazy, and yet it wastes nothing. There is
a circle that eventually brings everything around. The lynx kills
the hare and eats what it prefers. Your dog comes along and
eats some of what’s left, no matter how hard you try to stop
him. The magpies pick at the tatters after that, not to mention
what passes through the dog undigested. Their gastric juices
further break down what were parts of the hare until there’s
little left for the birds to secrete but the chemical building
blocks of life — sulfur, phosphorous, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon,
and hydrogen. If there are still any body parts of the hares left
in the mountains come spring and summer, insects and worms
will take care of the rest of this demolition work.
The parts of the hares disappear into the ground as chemicals. Shrubs and trees use those chemicals to grow. New snowshoe hares feast on the vegetation. And nature goes around
again.
From a distance, it does sort of look neat and clean, but up
close, if you’re living in it, it’s messy, especially if you don’t like
e z h e li ca m p
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TRAILMIX
It’s a ski stampede
2011 Tour of Anchorage set March 6
Elmore
Elmor
eR
Rd
d
W
AX THOSE SKIS, CHOOSE A RACE ROUTE AND
REGISTER – THE 24TH ANNUAL TOUR OF
ANCHORAGE IS COMING UP QUICK ON MARCH 6.
Affiliated with North America’s longest-running cross-country touring and race series, the American Ski Marathon Series,
the Tour of Anchorage provides open corridors through the
community of Anchorage at 50-K, 40-K and 25-K lengths.
Participants can ski competitively or simply for fun, but no matter what, this tour provides citizens with views of the wild and
wonderful snowy side of Anchorage.
The three routes support eight races: 25-K classic and
freestyle, 40-K and 50-K classic and freestyle, and elite freestyle
for the 40-K and 50-K routes. The longer 40-K and 50-K races
pass completely through Anchorage from east to west and start
at Service High School. The 25-K races begin in the middle of
town. All will finish at Kincaid Park, where buses will shuttle
racers back to the starting points.
New for 2011, the 25-K race starts will be held at the Alaska
Pacific University campus. A map and directions to the exact
APU
UAA
UAA
PProvidence
rovidence
Dowling
D
owling
Hilltop
Hilltop
Skii A
Area
Sk
rea
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
location can be found online. Following the completion of all
the races, top finishers in each will be recognized during an
awards ceremony at noon in Kincaid Park. The following day, at
7:30 p.m., Monday, March 7, a banquet will be held at Bear
Tooth Theatre Pub.
As a Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage hosted event, NSAA
members can register online at a discounted rate of $60. All
other online registrations are $70. Registration deadline is 8
continued on next page
Alaska Railroad
Winter Escape
Rail, hotel, flight back – only $319 per guest
Board the Alaska Railroad’s Aurora Train
this winter and head to Fairbanks for
some serious adventure in the snow.
Call or click for all the details on this
exciting vacation package.
ALASKARAILROAD.COM
1-800-544-0552 t (907) 265-2494 t TDD (907) 265-2620
Winter Escape – two-day fly/rail adventure, weekends through May 15th,
2011. $319 ppdo, includes one-way rail Anchorage to Fairbanks, overnight
at the Fairbanks Springhill Suites, and return to Anchorage on Era Aviation.
TRAILMIX
2011 Tour of Anchorage schedule
RACE
50-K Elite Freestyle
(top 100 seeded racers)
40-K Elite Freestyle
(top 100 seeded racers)
40-K & 50-K Classic
40-K Freestyle
50-K Freestyle
25-K Classical
Note new start location!
25-K Freestyle
Note new start location!
START LOCATION
TIME
Service High School
8:30 a.m.
Service High School
Service High School
Service High School
Service High School
8:36 a.m.
9 a.m.
10 a.m.
10:20 a.m.
Alaska Pacific University
9:30 a.m.
Alaska Pacific University
10 a.m.
Finish
Kincaid Park
a.m., Feb. 25. Bib pickups will take place from 3-7 p.m.,
Wednesday, March 2 at the Moseley Sports Center on the APU
campus.
Complete race information can be found online at
www.tourofanchorage.com.
—Justin Matley
World Ice Art Championships 2011
When did ice become so cool?
For Fairbanks, it all happened 22 years ago at the initiation
of its first World Ice Art Championships. Having once been a
traditional spectacle during their Winter Carnival in the 1930s,
it was in 1988 that the Championships revived ice carving and
began hosting the internationally recognized event that draws
more than 70 teams of competitors from some 35 different
countries, and an estimated 45,000 spectators. Event host Ice
Alaska, a nonprofit company formed specifically to support the
competitions, has gone to great lengths with the help of more
than 500 volunteers and regular sponsor British Petroleum to
bring about its biggest ice bash to date.
It all starts on Feb. 23 when artists and carving teams begin
sculpting their chilling masterpieces that range from 6 to 30
feet tall and up to 40,000 pounds. Spectators will find anything
from leaping dolphins to entire sled dog teams and abstract
designs constructed of crystal-clear ice. Ice sculptures are created in one of four categories: Single Block Classic, Multi-block
Classic, a non-judged Amateur Artist Exhibition, and High
School Student Competition. The artists are provided multiple
days to complete their creations, and the resulting 100 sculptures can be viewed through March 27 for a month-long event.
In addition to the already enlightening exhibits (sculptures
are glowing with colored lights at night), one of the biggest
draws has been the Kid’s Park, which seems to be just as popular with adults. In past years the Kid’s Park has incorporated
life-sized animal sculptures, ice tunnels, large balls or baskets
made of ice to climb into and be spun around, an enormous
ice slide and more. There are warming stations with wood fires,
hot drinks and the park is open at night when all the play8 • February 2011 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com
ground ice features are lit with bright, colorful lights.
The operations and competitions are supported with funds
generated by ticket sales. Enjoy unlimited access to the Ice Park
during the event for $25 for adults, $10 for children ages 6-12,
or $65 for a family to include two adults and all dependent children under 17. A day pass can be purchased for $10 for adults
and $5 for kids ages 6-12. Kids under 6 get in for free. There are
discounted rates for groups of 10 or more, bus and group tour
members, and handicap companions.
Learn more about what to expect from The BP World Ice Art
Championships by visiting www.icealaska.com.
—Justin Matley
p.m. until the gates close on March 27.
Alaska Ice Climbing Festival, 2011
Multi-Block Classic Competition
Back by popular demand, the Alaska Ice Climbing Festival is
scheduled to take place March 4-6. Now seeing a third year of
competitions and clinics, this event brings together those who
won’t let a little winter get in the way of their climbing. It
enhances it.
The festival is a celebration of ice climbing skill and technique and a chance for beginners, as well as seasoned climbers,
to share the wealth of knowledge and inspiration that has
helped the sport of ice climbing gain in popularity among outdoor recreationists.
Registrations for the event began Jan. 1 allowing individuals
to sign up for various activities such as the kick-off party with
Multi-block Awards Ceremony at 8 p.m.
World Ice Art event schedule
FEBRUARY 22 - MARCH 27
The Flint Hills Resources Kids Ice Park is open 10 a.m. to 10
FEBRUARY 22 - 24
Single Block Classic Competition
FEBRUARY 25
Single Block Awards Ceremony at 8 p.m.
MARCH 5
Amateur Open Exhibition
MARCH 19
Amateur Recognitions at 8 p.m.
MARCH 15 - 18
Junior World Ice Art Championships
MARCH 19
Junior Awards at 8 p.m.
View the finished sculptures through Sunday, March 27.
continued on page 32
S k i & S t a y Pa c k a g e
From
$159
escape
to our playground
* pndo
Includes one-night lodging and one-day adult lift for two
*Based on double occupancy. Includes taxes and fees, subject to availability.
©Yves Garneau
February Events
3-5........Live at the Sitz: Flowmotion
4-6........Winterfest
5...........Fireworks & Bonfire outside Sitzmark
6...........Superbowl Sunday 2-for-1 Lift Tickets
7...........Military Monday
9...........Snow Film Series: MSP’s The Way I See It
11-13....Frostbite Festival
15-16....Town Downhill
17-19....Live at the Sitz: Shannon McNally & Hot Sauce
23.........Snow Film Series: TeleVision & Freeheel Life 2
25.........North Face Vertical Challenge
25-26....Live at the Sitz: Hell’s Belles
25-27....Telepalooza
27.........Bare Knuckles Big Mountain Comp
-1111 H alyeskaresort.com
JUSTIN MATLEY
A musher heads out of the starting chute during last year's Rondy in downtown Anchorage.
W
By Justin Matley
ho would have ever suspected that we’d have so much to
show for the ambitions of bygone fur trappers, gold miners and settlers?
Much has changed, but their annual end-of-winter bash lives
on for all to enjoy. In its 76th year, Fur Rendezvous, or Rondy
for short, still pulls people out of the woodwork to join together for frivolous activities, trades and barters, friendly competitions and entertainment, and a chance to send those winter
blues packing.
The 2011 Fur Rendezvous will take place for 10 days from
Friday, February 25 to Sunday, March 6. And as this event has
grown in size and popularity, with almost as many events as
there are past years of Rondy, it’s imperative to do a little preplanning, and possibly some preregistering, to make the most
of the festivities.
For starters, Fur Rendezvous executive director Susan Duck
A pumpkin rounds the
bases during a chilly
game of snowshoe
softball.
JUSTIN MATLEY
The everlasting good times of Fur Rondy
events,
r e.
o
m
d
n
a
g
n
i
n
i
shopping, d
s.
d
n
ie
r
f
d
n
a
y
il
m
a
f
h
it
times w
it doesn't get any better.
For information on hot
happenings explore
Anchorage.net/coast
2011 Iditarod preview
Man’s best friend challenges the Alaska
backcountry for the 2011 Iditarod
By Justin Matley
H
undreds of excited dogs trained to run as a pack through
the Alaska wilderness will be adored by fans once more.
They’ll happily and heartily pull their sleds and mushers a distance from Anchorage to Nome, a 1,150-mile journey that has
gained the attention of the world and historically defined one
of the more unique aspects of our northern culture.
With two starts, an initial sending-off in Anchorage on March
5 and a restart the next day in Willow, the historic starting point
for Iditarod, there’s more than ample opportunity to witness
this historic race. Trailside parties, too, afford an up-close experience as teams and mushers begin their momentous journey. It’s
a romanticized one, but truthfully a hard and grueling one.
Dangerous, yet affording finishers, especially the lead dogs and
their musher, true fame. Only they can fully comprehend the
harshness of the trail, but all can partake in one fashion or
An Iditarod team immerges
from the wood line near
Deshka Landing in 2009.
another. Iditarod has become a world-class race with television
and online media supporting a wide range of viewing opportunities.
Dog mushing is strongly tied to the history and perseverance of the northern people. No event commemorates that fact
more than Iditarod, a race to symbolize our bond with man’s
best friend and the dedication of dog teams and their mushers
to conquer the winter landscape in order to transport goods
and supplies to remote communities. To this day, the race follows the Iditarod Trail, now a National Historic Trail, which connects coastal communities such as Seward and Knik all the way
to the interior’s Ophir and Ruby, then farther to west coast
communities of Unalakleet, Elim, White Mountain and Nome.
Although the Iditarod race commemorates all activities and history associated with the trail and those who made the long distance runs to transport goods, many associate the race with an
JUSTIN MATLEY
For the love
of dogs
2011 Iditarod
WHEN: 10 a.m., Saturday, March 5
WHEN: 2 p.m., Sunday, March 6 (Race restart in Willow)
WHERE: Race start in Anchorage, race restart in Willow the following day and race finish in Nome.
COST: The Iditarod is a worldwide televised event for all to
enjoy. Spend a fun and free day in downtown Anchorage on
Saturday with the family or in Willow on Sunday for the historic race start.
CONTACT: For complete race details, history, results, media coverage and learning tools, visit www.iditarod.com.
2010 IDITAROD SLED DOG RACE TIME TO BEAT
Lance Mackey achieved a fourth consecutive win at 8 days, 23
Hours, 59 Minutes, 9 Seconds
event that occurred in 1925 when diphtheria threatened
Nome’s population. A lifesaving serum was transported to the
community via the trail by mushers and dog teams who beat
the winter odds to become the heroes of the day.
In 2010 race hero, Lance Mackey, with a dog team lead by
Golden Harness winner Maple, took a fourth consecutive win,
an Iditarod first, with a time of 8 days, 23 hours, 59 minutes and
9 seconds. It was the second-fastest finish in race history. Still,
Mackey seems to feel a little luck is responsible.
“I don’t feel that I’m one of the best,” says Mackey.“I think
I’m working on it. I still have a long ways to go with the goals
that I’m trying to achieve. There are a lot of mushers that I feel
are better than me, or were.”
Mackey attributes his racing interest to having grown up in
the sport, and jokes that he’d have to get a “real” job if he didn’t
race. But his focus is fixed on the experience of it all.
“I like to get in backcountry, enjoy the state that we live in,
being my own boss,” says Mackey.“Answering to a boss every
day is not appealing me. I’m living what a lot of people feel is
the ultimate lifestyle, and I honestly think I was put on earth to
drive dogs. I love the dogs.” Mackey said.
That said, his plans for the 2011 race are simple.
“My goal is to get the dogs to the finish line and take care of
the team,” Mackey said.“I’m not going to Iditarod to win again.
If that happens it’s great, but my ultimate goal is to have fun.
There’s just too much work involved with mushing not to
enjoy it.”
And enjoy Iditarod he will, perhaps more this year than any
other.
“I’ve got my stepson, Cain Carter, running the race this year
for the first time,” says Mackey.“He’ll be the youngest racer. I
still have the Jamaican team and three teams total out of my
kennel this year, but watching Cain compete and seeing him
cross the finish line will be an emotional moment.”
Mackey will be racing with bib number 26, Carter with 48.
They and all other racers, whether intent on setting a record
time or not, will be chasing after Martin Buser’s record race finish at 8 days, 22 hours, 46 minutes and 2 seconds set in 2002.
Buser has also taken four wins and continues to race. Other big
winners have included Susan Butcher and Doug Swingley who
both had three consecutive wins. Butcher enjoyed an additional
BARRY SEVIG
THE WHITE PAGES
Tailgate Alaska
World’s largest snowboard park
can’t be missed
S
INCE 2008 A PREMIER EVENT HAS BEEN GAINING
THE ADMIRATION OF SNOWBOARD RIDERS AND
SKIERS THE WORLD OVER.
Tailgate Alaska, the World Freeride Festival, was created in an
effort to revitalize big mountain riding and open up the world
of backcountry snowboarding to anyone who can appreciate
the powder and slopes of Thompson Pass and 1.6 million acres
of the Chugach Mountain Range. Combined with two elite competitions, the World Extreme Skiing Championships (March 25April 3) and King of the Hill (April 1-10), Tailgate provides what
veteran extreme skiing and snowboarding professionals have
said to be a life-altering event. Tailgate is access, adventure,
entertainment and competitions in the thrilling setting of the
Chugach. It’s a 500 maximum party.
The event will kick off on March 25 when hundreds of
snowboarders and skiers flock into Valdez or Tailgate’s seasonal
village in Thompson Pass complete with camper parking, bunk
houses and private tent space. Food and drink, a beer garden,
warming stations – even music and entertainment – are all
there, and in greater quantity than previously.
“A lot is new for 2011,” says Mark Sullivan, event creator and
director.“Basically we’re expanding our base area dramatically.
We’re gonna have a snowcat on location there to help build the
basecamp, so the basecamp will be much more sophisticated.
We’re expanding in terms of the number of people that are
coming and the event village as well.”
Sullivan and event hosts are allotting space and amenities to
support 500 guests. The first year of Tailgate saw 15 participants. That number had grown to roughly 200 last year. With
the potential for 500, backcountry access operators are also
stepping up their game.
“There will be a minimum of three cat operators up there
this year,” says Sullivan.“In terms of heli, I think there’s going to
be more helicopters on location from the same operators. Also,
Big Mountain Taxi, the snowmobile access company, is ramping
up their operations.”
The potential for snowmachine rentals exits for 2011 as
well.
“We’re hoping to get a snowmobile rental place up there,”
says Sullivan.“We’re working with someone in Anchorage who
may come up and help out with that.”
Either way, buying a heli, snowcat or snowmachine trip, or
simply hiking and skiing, will afford people from all over the
world a life-changing experience according to Sullivan. Last
year there were 13 countries represented at the event, and this
year he feels there may be up to 20. Tailgate has also attracted
high-profile visitors, who despite being involved in winter
sports for a lifetime, have expressed to Sullivan that Tailgate was
an unbeatable good time.
Another nice
day in the
Chugach.
“I mean, Graham Watanabe, who was like a two-time
Olympian, it’s like he hands-down had… like every day he was
out there was the best day of his life snowboarding,” says
Sullivan.“I just saw the coach of the U.S. Halfpipe Olympic
Team, Ricky Bower, who came up to Tailgate Alaska last year,
who had the best days of his life in the mountains after skiing
for twenty-odd years of his life.”
Sullivan cites being hugged in public, facebook chatter,
friendships and reactions, and experiences and emotions
shared by those who have experienced the Chugach Mountains
and snow conditions as all the reasons why Tailgate is unique
to winter sports.
And heightening the thrills are elite competitions that showcase the best talent in big mountain skiing and snowboarding,
the World Extreme Skiing Competition and the resurrected
King of the Hill. Together they make up the World Freeride
Championships and captivate Tailgate participants.
To attend these not-to-be-missed events and join in on the
Tailgate camaraderie, a bit of planning is in order to include
making online registrations (500 person limit), choosing accommodations, packing up the proper gear for overnights in
extreme cold (for those who are camping), and making travel
plans.
The place to start is online at www.tailgatealaka.com.
—Justin Matley
Event facts & figures
WHEN: March 25 – April 10, 2011
LOCATION: Thompson Pass, Valdez, Alaska
ANDREW MUTTY, FLOW SNOWBOARDS
SCHEDULE BRIEF:
Enjoy a 16-day festival combined with a two-day ski and two-day
snowboard contest. Partake in snow science education, side events,
live concerts, daily barbecues, an onsite beer garden accompanied by
regular parties.
Most of all, grab your board or skis and ride a heli, snowcat or
snowmachine into the mountains for the thrill of a lifetime.
RIDERS/SKIERS: The festival is open to the public but limited to
500 participants. All participants are expected to know how to use a
beacon, shovel, probe - and have basic backcountry knowledge.
EVENT REGISTRATION AND INFORMATION:
Tickets to Tailgate cost $195 and may be purchased online at
www.tailgatealaska.com. There are only 500 tickets available.
Camping spaces cost $15 per night.
How to get there
Options for getting to Alaska include flying, driving, or using the
ferry.
DRIVING: From Anchorage, follow Glenn Highway all the way to
Glennallen. Head south on the Richardson Highway from there until
reaching Thompson Pass. The Tailgate village can’t be missed. If you
find yourself in Valdez, you’ve gone too far, unless you’re planning
Heliskiing is just one
way to access the
untracked powder of
the Chugach
Mountains.
Tailgate has also attracted high profile
visitors, who despite being involved in winter
sports for a lifetime, have expressed to Sullivan
that Tailgate was an unbeatable good time.
to shack up there. The trip is roughly 260 miles and 5 hours.
From Fairbanks follow Richardson Highway south past Glenallen
and on to Thompson Pass. The trip is roughly 350 miles and 6.5
hours.
FROM CANADA AND THE LOWER 48:
Make your way for the Alaska Highway which runs through
provinces of Canada. Follow AK1 all the way to Tok, Alaska where
you’ll then turn south on the Tok Highway. Tok Highway eventually
connects with Richardson Highway. Follow Richardson past Glenallen
and toward Thompson Pass and Valdez.
Keep in mind that fuel could cost thousands for those driving
from distant locations during the course of the entire round trip.
The Tailgate Alaska website has estimated fuel consumption and
costs for various trip distances and vehicle fuel economy.
BORDER CROSSING: When crossing borders, be sure to have proper identification such as birth certificates and passports. Also, some
items may or may not be legal to transport across borders. For more
details on crossing Canada’s borders, visit www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca. For
U.S. border crossing information visit www.cbp.gov.
FLYING: A world map displaying flight rates from various locations
and countries to Alaska can be viewed on the Tailgate Alaska website. Flights can also be taken from Anchorage or Fairbanks to
Valdez. Expect round trips to cost $300 or more.
In-state flights to Valdez can be searched on www.alaskaair.com
and www.flyera.com.
FERRY: Via the Alaska Marine Highway, visitors can arrive in
Valdez on a ferry boat. One of the best aspects of the ferry is that
your vehicle can also be transported, allowing you to drive off the
boat, through Valdez and on to Thompson Pass. Ferries run along
the Alaska Peninsula and southeast Alaska with ports in a majority
of towns along the way. Overnight cabins and various facilities are
optional.
To schedule a ferry trip visit www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs/.
Accommodations
VALDEZ HOTEL: The Mountain Sky has been the home of Tailgate
Alaska for the past three seasons because it has a free breakfast and
wifi, not to mention the Mountain Sky is the only hotel that has an
indoor pool and Jacuzzi. Special, heavily discounted rates are available for Tailgaters - to make your trip to Valdez not only comfortable, but affordable as well. Call (907) 835-4445 to make reservations.
The Best Western also offers many of the same amenities as the
Mountain Sky, with a harbor side location. The Best Western also
offers discounted rates for event attendees. Call (888) 222-3440 and
ask for JD to make arrangements.
RV: You’re more than welcome to rent or bring your own camper
or RV, and parking spaces are available for $15 a day.
Tailgate Alaska has partnered with Clippership RV in Anchorage
Mark Kelly teaches a
glacier travel clinic.
for a special deal for Tailgate Alaska. Once you sign up for Tailgate
you will receive a coupon code to any of their RVs for under $100 a
day - based on availability.
Another excellent option for RV rentals is ABC Motorhome. Visit
them at www.abcmotorhome.com.
BUNK HOUSE: Tailgate will have bunk houses on site providing
shared sleeping arrangements for around $20 per night. These
accommodations are suited for the environment as long as you have
exceptionally warm sleeping gear. Sleeping pads are recommended
to help provide more insulation between your body and the cold
beneath.
TENTS: Camping out at Tailgate is acceptable and encouraged,
given the tent is suitable for the conditions. Probably the best setup
for Alaska this time of year is a wall tent or outfitter tent. These
tents feature woodstoves for heat that can keep a tent at a balmy
70 degrees all night long.
Tailgate recommends placing plywood beneath the tent and
sleeping on a foam or air mattress to further insulate you from the
cold ground. In a tent without a stove, use a minimum -20 degree
sleeping bag.
Backcountry access options
PROFESSIONAL GUIDES will be onsite to provide backcountry
access via helicopters, snowcats, and snowmachines. Check the website in advance and have cash on hand to purchase an individual
heli, snowcat or snowmachine ride or day trip. You’ll find some of
the best deals at Tailgate Alaska. Trips could cost $20 and into the
hundreds. Heli skiing can get expensive, but worth every vertical
foot.
Using your own snowmachine is an option, or hike and ski to
your destination. Be sure to have skins for your skis, perhaps bring
some snowshoes along, and stick with those who know where
they’re going and what they’re doing if you are new to the area or
activity.
Travel in groups, exercise safe backcountry travel, and be aware
of snow conditions and avalanches potential. Safety and snow science information will be presented at the event.
MARK SULLIVAN
THE WHITE PAGES
JUSTIN MATLEY
THE WHITE PAGES
Ski the Russian
New Nordic trails make popular
summer campground
a new winter destination
I
T’S NOT EVERY WINTER THAT A NEW SKI AREA
OPENS FOR PUBLIC USE. THAT’S JUST THE CASE THIS
SEASON IN THE SOMEWHAT SURPRISING LOCATION
OF COOPER LANDING.
Though this small community located on Kenai Lake and the
Kenai River is known for its hiking trails, world-class fishing,
and river floats, a dedicated trails committee has initiated a new
Nordic ski site with views of both the Kenai and Russian rivers.
Pay a visit to the newly groomed Russian River Campground.
“We started out thinking we would do the Bean Creek trails,
which is borough and DNR property, but getting those permits
is a very lengthy process,” said Sandra Holsten, Cooper Landing
Trails Committee chair and Cooper Landing Community Club
chair who was instrumental in gaining funding for grooming
equipment and operations.
“Meanwhile, we saw the Trail Lake Campground in Moose
Pass being groomed so we then switched emphasis from Bean
Creek to Russian River Campground. The Forest Service permit
was done in two weeks and in our hands.”
Holsten and others feel that Russian River Campground has
a number of benefits that make it more suitable for Nordic
trails at this time such as easy public access, a parking lot, restrooms, and that it is such a well-known location. Russian River
Campground also is easier on the local volunteer effort.
“For us as a club, there are fewer management issues than
Bean Creek,” says Holsten.“The potential for resource damage is
so much less because we’re on a paved road. The campground
isn’t open to snowmobiles, four-wheelers and off-road use.”
The Trails Committee and Community Club, however, are
still pursuing Bean Creek trails which have been in use for
many years and in need of widening and grooming to sustain
enjoyable and safe public skiing.
Now, at Russian River Campground, regularly groomed trails
follow the campground’s main entrance road from a parking lot
just off the Sterling Highway at Mile 53. From there, skiers head
into the campground along broad curves and gradual hills. They
won’t get far before finding one of the best views of the Kenai
River. An elevated vantage point overlooks a sharp bend in the
river with a bridge and mountains in the distance. The frosted
trees along the flowing river and rising steam make for a perfect photo opportunity before heading on for the remainder of
the ski.
Wide enough for two directions of vehicle traffic, the campground road, which in previous winters was kept closed, now
supports two directions of skate skiing and one set of tracks for
classic ski. Five campground loops provide side routes to see
Cooper Landing residents, Theo Lexmond and Janette
Cadieux, and guest, Dee Athnos, enjoy a Christmas ski
at the newly groomed Russian River Campground.
the surrounding Kenai Mountains from all angles as they catch
the low sunlight. Choose the correct loop, and skiers will find
overlooks of the entire valley, the Russian River or Kenai River.
Nordic skiers who prefer more challenging terrain may find
the Russian River Campground a bit on the soft side. This ski
site is all about the simple bliss of easy skiing and pleasant
views to share with family and friends. However, with a combined total of roughly 10 kilometers of groomed trail, those
who desire a workout can certainly pick up the pace and wear
themselves out.
These groomed trails are open to the public and were made
possible with the help of John Eavis and the Seward Ranger
District-Forest Service staff; Alaska State Parks, who awarded the
grant funding via federal highway money and gas tax dollars;
Bill Holt of Tsalteshi Ski Club in Soldotna; Dave and Molly Brann
of Kachemak Bay Ski Club in Homer; the Seward Ski Club; and
Cooper Landing club members including the roughly 15 individuals who volunteered to groom the Russian River
Campground Trails. Many others already help keep the Bean
Creek trails clear.
According to Holsten, nearly the whole community of
Cooper Landing was instrumental in the Nordic trails project at
the campground through support and voting. Russian River
Campground is now open for business and worth a special trip.
At the very least, be sure to pack skis and poles the next time
Cooper Landing and the Sterling Highway happen to be on the
travel log. And for a really impressive trip, incorporate in a tour
of all the cross-country trails around the Kenai Peninsula –
affording an unforgettable weekend.
—Justin Matley
Nordic skiing on the Kenai
Cooper Landing/Russian River Campground trails updates:
Follow the Cooper Landing grooming report at
http://grooming.cooperlandingnordicskiclub.org.
For accommodations and services in Cooper Landing visit the
SKI TRAILS DONATIONS:
To help support the ski trail projects in Cooper Landing, interested donors can send checks to the Cooper Landing Community Club
with a note that the money is to be used for the ski trails. Send mail
to Cooper Landing Community Club, P.O.Box 738, Cooper Landing,
AK 99572.
NOTEWORTHY KENAI PENINSULA NORDIC TRAILS INCLUDE:
• THE DIVIDE SKI AREA (aka Mile 12) located at Seward with parking at Mile 12 of the Seward Highway.
Maintained by the Seward Nordic Ski Club with meadow and forest trails for beginners to expert skiers.
Find a map online at sewardnordicskiclub.org/page26/index.html.
• SECTIONS OF THE IDITAROD TRAIL, the Trail Lakes Campground
and other sites on Seward Highway, north and south of Kenai Lake
can be found on maps provided by the Seward Nordic Ski Club at
www.sewardnordicskiclub.org.
• TSALTESHI SKI TRAILS can be found in Soldotna with south trail
access from the Skyview High School parking lot, just off the Sterling
Highway, or north trail access from Kalifornsky Beach Road near
Peninsula Sports Center. Find trails of varying degrees of difficulty,
both lighted and unlighted, equaling nearly 13 kilometers in all. A
map and Tsalteshi Ski Club information can be found at
www.tsalteshi.org
• FIND THE KENAI CITY TRAILS at the Kenai Golf Course with a
total of 5 kilometers of trail, some hills, and views of the inlet,
Alaska Range and Mount Redoubt.
• THE KENAI NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE offers Nordic ski trails for
The Russian River Campground
includes 10 kilometers of groomed
trail with views of both the Kenai
and Russian River.
beginners to advanced skiers totaling roughly 20 miles. Trails loops
are color coded and provide one direction of traffic. Enjoy open
lake, ridge and wilderness skiing right from the refuge visitor center.
Find a map and trail descriptions at
http://kenai.fws.gov/VisitorsEducators/visiting/winter/skiing.htm.
• HOMER AREA SKI TRAILS total nearly 100 kilometers with meadow, canyon, and mountain skiing that will impress even the most
experienced Nordic skiers. Take in elevated views of Kachemak Bay,
Cook Inlet and the Alaska Range in a way only quiet Nordic skiing
can provide. The overseeing club is the Kachemak Nordic Ski Club
who provides detailed descriptions of their eight general ski locations with maps. Visit them online at
www.kachemaknordicskiclub.org.
JUSTIN MATLEY
Chamber of Commerce website at www.cooperlandingchamber.com.
THE ALASKA ANGLER
ALYESKA RESORT
Relative
comfort
Family fishing guide takes
patience, planning
By Christopher Batin
A
s Alaskans, we all do it … you know, the deed. We are either
volunteered by our spouses or are appointed by friends or
relatives to be a tour/fish guide for the upcoming summer.This
usually includes a visit from a relative like Aunt Lulu, who is about
as cuckoo as they come.
While I greatly enjoy helping others catch fish, if you’re like me,
how I fish alone is different than if I am taking someone fishing.
Once I start flycasting on a clearwater
stream for silver salmon, I’ll zone out for
the rest of the day.You could drown and I
wouldn’t know until I read about it in the
obits.
In contrast, if I was responsible for you
fishing, I’d not pick up a fishing rod, and
would cater to your every fishing need. I
don’t mind this for a day, but weeks at a
time?
What’s an angler to do?
ChristopherBatin
Well, first off, don’t expect relatives to
tag after you in your extreme angling pursuits, because they’ll turn
on you faster than stinky eggs in a Ziploc bag. So, instead of subjecting them to gut-retching puke-a-thons in 10-foot seas to catch
chicken halibut, you’ll earn their favor if you plan a selection of
tours and trips that are sure to please, in lieu of or to complement
the fishing.
Unless you know the “inside scoop” on these things, you’ll
probably embrace the “herd mentality” and just pick out some
tours from the paper via the “eenie, meenie, miney mo” procedure.
When it works, it’s great, but don’t be home if it doesn’t and Aunt
Lulu comes sprinting after you with her flailing cane.
To help solve this social dilemma, I have assembled a handful of
trips and recommendations that will handle all but the most stickin-the-mud curmudgeon or relative. Many of these dovetail nicely
with fishing or include it. Other tours allow guests to go on their
way while you head to the office or go fishing in your “zone.”
The best part about this is, if you follow my lead, you might just
get a Christmas card next year from Aunt Lulu expressing how
lovely her time was in Alaska, rather than receiving an anonymous
scarf knitted in the shape of a hangman’s noose.
Rust’s Flying Service
Rust’s Flying Service has long provided sportsmen with some
great fly-out trips for northern pike, trout and salmon. But if you
need to ship the relatives out of town for a few days for some real
Alaskana interaction that require the wilds of Denali, reconsider
Alyeska will open new
hiking opportunities
for 2011.
putting them on an 11-hour school bus ride into the park.
Jazz it up a little.
Rust’s marketing manager, Deb Hansen, has the answer with
one of their new interactive fly-in trips.
She says their newest is a fly-in backpacking trip to Glacier
Rock Lake, which is between Backside Glacier and Ruth Glacier in
Denali National Park.
“It’s a fly-in day trip that includes tundra hiking and some rock
scrambling, and the views are spectacular,” says Hansen.“Rust’s
handles the flying while Alaska Alpine Adventures handles the onground tour portion of the trip.”
Here is how the trip goes: Depart from Fish Lake near
Talkeetna, and fly to Glacier Rock Lake, where the guide will meet
the group for a two-hour hike. Clients will eat lunch, and reboard
the float plane for the return flight to Talkeetna.
“This is a very exclusive area, away from the roadside crowds,”
Hansen says.“We are offering it seven days a week, two departures
a day, six people a day maximum.
“We also have a base camp trip at Backside Lake, where clients
spend three nights, four days, tent camping with a guide. Once
there, they can choose from a variety of day explorations.
“When we first announced it, we sold three departures from it
just being on the website, so there is a demand on it,” she said.“We
had a Jesuit priest who is a biologist, spent two months of his
income to go on this trip, and thought it was wonderful.
Why the popularity for a fly-out hike?
“Our research has shown that baby boomers want to flightsee
and then land and hike inside Denali National Park,” Hansen
explained.“Our guides know more than most people want to
know about the area wildlife, geology, weather, rivers, and flora.
Clients only need to bring clothes, sleeping bag and pack, which
they can also buy or rent from local outfitters such as REI.”
If this isn’t enough to keep them busy, Rust’s also offers a new
backpacking/whitewater rafting excursion into Lake Clark
National Park that originates from Anchorage. If your guests want
to get up close and personal with brown bears chasing salmon,
ask about Rust’s three different bear viewing trips.
www.flyrusts.com
The closest thing Alaska has to a theme park for adults is
Alyeska Resort. It’s Alaska Disney on outdoor-enhanced steroids.
While the resort is known not only for its great slopes, snowfall,
nine lifts, 60-passenger aerial tram, slopeside access and an indoor
heated pool and whirlpool, it is also second to none as a summer
destination.The reason is obvious for anglers.
I found Alyeska is a great central staging area for fishing the
Kenai. It has all the amenities and attractions to keep the first
group of visiting relatives happy, while you accompany others on a
few fishing charters down to Seward or trolling off Deep Creek.
Marketing Director Sandy Chio says Alyeska is expanding its
year-round offerings this year to include new nature trails and
summer festival offerings. Biking and hiking trails near the summit
are scheduled to open in the summer of 2011. Hiking trails around
the resort in the Chugach National Forest are well maintained and
marked.
Alyeska hosts regularly scheduled fairs such as the Fungus Fair
that was a big hit last year.Who doesn’t want to trip a bit in learning which mushrooms are good to eat? And best of all, the
Ascending Path guides offer rock climbing and glacier trekking day
trips, all without needing a vehicle. Drop off the relatives and
come back to get them four days later.
The resort’s Seven Glaciers Restaurant is introducing eight bimonthly specialty menus designed around the freshest ingredients
available.The chefs actually come out and talk to you here, and
prepare some of the finest food imaginable. I think being so high
in the clouds, they are really angels disguised as chefs, and if so,
I’m changing my ways and making a play for the pearly gates. In
the interim, just don’t get to likin’ the food there too much, or
you’ll forget why you’re going fishing.
www.alyeskaresort.com
The Kenai Peninsula
Once you’ve taken the first group down to the Peninsila, where
do you go? If you haven’t fished it for a while, it’s a different place
compared to the ’90s.A once seasonally crowded area of Alaska
that had weekend crowds akin to parks in the Lower 48, the Kenai
was a tad lower key this past year thanks to the economic recession. There were not as many motorhomes in 2010, and while it
still receives its local influx of Anchoragites on the weekend, the
nonresident numbers didn’t materialize.
Officially, Kenai Peninsula Convention and Visitors Bureau travel
manager Teresa Nichol confirms that visitors to the Kenai were
down 30 percent in some areas, primarily from smaller and newer
charter operators closing their doors because they didn’t have an
established client base when the recession hit. But there is value in
downturn.
“We don’t have a lot of new things happening, with a lot of
doors shutting down, but this means lots of good opportunities for
travelers who are making the trip,” she emphasized.
The Kenai Fjords, bear viewing, and fishing are the three main
attractions for the Kenai, which is home to the largest trophy king
salmon fishery in the world.
She said catching one of the legendary Kenai River’s 50- to 70pound king salmon isn’t as easy as it once was.
“It takes a lot more time on the water to catch a large fish,” she
said.“While it’s possible to catch a big king from May through end
CHRIS BATIN
Alyeska Resort
Fishing during the Valdez
Silver Salmon Derby is only
one of the highlights available at this time of year for
visiting relatives.
of July, the best chances of success are usually the last two weeks
of July on the Kenai River, and in early to mid July in saltwater off
Deep Creek.”
She said the halibut fishing has seen bigger fish in 2010 than
the last four years. Big fish were caught throughout 2010, compared to the year before when she said anglers caught mostly
small fish.The expectation is for continued larger fish in 2011.
Kenai flightseeing charter operators such as High Adventure Air,
Natron Air, and Homer Air are still offering a variety of flyouts, with
bear viewing the most popular. Out of Homer the
flightseeing/bear viewing trips target the Katmai National Park
area. Flying out of Soldotna, the bear viewing destination is often
Wolverine Creek, located on the western shore of Cook Inlet.
There, clients can indulge in bear viewing or indulge in salmon
fishing opportunities on small streams.
I booked a salmon fly-out to Wolverine Creek one year with
Alaska West Air, and had superb salmon fishing in small creeks that
we accessed via canoe.
www.kenaipeninsula.org
Epic Quest
Kings and Corn sounds like a vegetable and salmon dish to me,
but Chris Owens described it as late June king salmon fishing via
helicopter fly-out combined with downhill skiing on corn snow,
which are large crystals of snow that skiers say allows you to go as
fast as you want to go.
Owens says the company’s summer skiing and fishing program,
“Kings and Corn,” still carries the same level of popularity 15 years
running.
“We offer a lot of helifishing, covering about 15 miles of creek
per day, or raft 10 to 13 miles with a return helicopter flight at the
end of the float.We switch it out with optional downhill skiing
opportunities during our long Alaska days at the higher elevations.
“Ours is a multi-sport family destination, where groups come
out and we have some go skiing while others go fishing, and
everyone is happy,” he says.
www.epicquest.com
CIRI
While it’s hard to break away from catching silvers during the
Seward Silver Salmon Derby,August offers a great time to give relatives a break from threading hootchie skirts or tying herring rigs.
Rather than have them sit around watching Andy Griffith reruns
on TV Land, send them out on a two-day tour to Fox Island.
The Fox Island Day Tour out of Seward offers a lodge visit with
an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. Some clients prefer to get dropped
off for several days at adjacent Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge and
kayak or hike around the island at their own leisure.
“Fox Island is a great place to go,” says CIRI marketing manager
Dee Buchanon.“We recommend two nights to experience it. From
Fox Island, clients can enjoy the fast 4.5-hour Resurrection Bay
Tour, or the longer nine-hour Northwest Fjord Tour or the half-day
Aialik Glacier tour.
“Our captains each have over 12 years experience,” she said.
“They conduct the onboard narration, and know all the good stuff
visitors want to know, like how many hairs are on a sea otter, to
what makes glacier ice blue.”
Generational travel is very popular, and CIRI is addressing those
interests.
If you have nephews or nieces who are too young or disinterested in fishing, or 86-year old Aunt Lulu who can’t stand too well
on a bouncing boat, Prince William Sound Glacier Cruises offers a
hands-on marine science experience tour, where kids of all ages
can put plankton under a microscope, examine starfish or hold
glacier ice.This tour offers a smoother ride compared to the Kenai
Fjords trip, and is good for intergenerational travel or those who
are prone to seasickness.
www.alaskaheritagetours.com
Alaska Marine Ferry
The Alaska Marine Highway System ferry is the state’s best-kept
secret when it comes to affordably accessing remote areas of
coastline, for fishing or taking the family on a statewide sightseeing
tour.
AMF is now offering ferry service to Gustavus, which according
to marketing manager Danielle Adkins has shown how the visitor
industry has grown there as a jumping off point to Glacier Bay
National Park. It’s also a great saltwater fishing destination that if
you haven’t fished, you should.
Also in 2011, a new route for the Kennicott ferry will start in
Bellingham,Wash., with the route taking passengers to Ketchikan,
Juneau,Yakutat,Whittier and on to Kodiak.The route from
Bellingham to Whittier will take about four days, which is the
express route to reaching southcentral Alaska with a vehicle.
“This is a new route we haven’t offered before now,”Adkins
says,“and its a good way to connect with the Aleutian Island route,
as well as a stopover in Yakutat, a sleeper of a sport fishery and an
up-and-coming wind surfing destination.”
Look for a story in Coast next month on how to best enjoy the
ferry in your outdoor travels.
www.ferryalaska.com
Saltery Lodge
If you just inherited a few million from Uncle Buz, who invested in some wannabe company called Apple in the early ’80s, consider a splurge on a full-service lodge. It will spoil forever how you
view do-it-yourself fishing trips.
Saltery Lodge is to the lodge industry what the Four Seasons is
to the resort industry; a full-service, luxury lodge that takes only
eight clients per week.
According to manager Joe Paul, Saltery operates several boats,
including a 42-foot catamaran.A very popular feature is an ROV
camera onboard, so clients can see schools of crab and fish on the
boat’s video monitor.
“The lodge offers pure fishing for as much and as long as
clients want to fish,” Paul says.“Once a client arrives, everything is
included from waders to raingear to fishing tackle. One can go
fishing, and take the chef along to cook up the catch onboard.
There is untapped fishing for ling cod which is some of the best in
the area.The cost is about $6,000, or roughly $1,000 a night for six
nights and five days fishing.
“Ours is an affluent demographic market,” he says.“One party
came in for seven days and left on their 140-foot yacht.”
www.salterylodge.com
A glacier mud facial at Alyeska
Resort is as outdoors as some
family members want to get
on their Alaska vacation.
On a more affordable scale, Riversong Lodge, located on
Alaska’s historic Iditarod trail, is known for gourmet cuisine, lush
gardens and abundant wildlife, and some great freshwater fishing
for salmon and trout.
According to owner Robin Dewar, guests normally need about
40 minutes to reach the lodge via float plane.And therein is the
clincher.A fly-out lodge is a far different experience than a roadaccessible lodge.
In 2011, however, the lodge is offering a new access option.
Guests board the Alaska Railroad in Anchorage and stopover in
Talkeetna, overnight, and fly out to the lodge the next morning.
Also new is a river excursion to remote homestead properties.
Guests will travel upriver via jetboat to visit a backcountry post
office and then stop by a wilderness homestead for refreshments.
Riversong offers daily arrival and departure times to and from
the lodge, weather permitting . Length of stay is flexible, from one
CHRIS BATIN
Riversong Lodge
to 10 days.
Riversong has historically been a popular destination for many
Anchorage anglers who want to get away from it all for a few days.
Price is all-inclusive, which covers transportation to and from the
lodge, use of all equipment and guides, meals and accommodations. Fishing license, alcohol and gratuity are not included.
www.riversonglodge.com
That’s the rundown. Do try to take family and relatives fishing,
enjoy the time together, and perhaps indulge them in a tour or
two. It’s a can’t-miss combination that keeps on giving in memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
KAYAK ALASKA
How do you learn how to kayak
safely in Alaska?
By Tom Pogson
I
get a ton of phone calls from people
eager to enjoy the benefits of kayaking in Alaska. This short article will
touch on important concepts you can
take into account to kayak here safely.
Dress for Immersion and always
wear a PFD (personal flotation device):
All of Alaska’s paddling is on cold
water, normally mid-50 degees or cold- TomPogson
www.alaskakayakschool.com
er. These water temperatures, among
the lowest average water temperatures
nationwide for paddling, are cold enough to cause “instant’ or
“shock” drowning. You can avoid shock drowning by dressing
for immersion in a quality wet suit or dry suit (and the right
layers). For more information about cold water clothing and
ALASKA KAYAK SCHOOL.COM
Learn to kayak
— boiled down
Dry suits are just the
ticket for spring surf
training at the Alaska
Kayak School in Homer.
shock drowning, visit the Atlantic Kayak Tours Expert Center
(see Kayaking Resources), or check out the YouTube videos
such as “Cold Water Boot Camp.” Sea Kayaker magazine’s online
articles and the American Canoe Association’s website “Cold
Water Safety” content are both relevant. The cold water thing as
a risk factor trumps all. If you end up out of your kayak and in
the water in Alaska, and you’re not dressed for immersion, and
don’t have a quick plan, you could be in for a bad time, a very
bad time. Be informed and boat responsibly. A classic must-read
reference for any Alaska paddler is the book “Deep Trouble,” a
compendium of sea kayaking accidents, many in Alaska and the
Northwest, published in Sea Kayaker magazine through 1997.
Remember,“practice skills in the conditions you expect to use
them.”
Kayaking Resources
ALASKA KAYAK SCHOOL: www.alaskakayakschool.com
AMERICAN CANOE ASSOCIATION: www.americancanoe.org
ATLANTIC KAYAK SCHOOL EXPERT CENTER:
atlantickayaktours.com/pages/expertcenter/main-expert-center.shtml
YOUTUBE.COM: “Cold Water Boot Camp”
SEA KAYAKER MAGAZINE COLD WATER SAFETY: www.seakayakermag.com/2008/Feb08/cold-shock.htm
G. GRONSETH & M. BROZE, C. CUNNINGHAM, ed. 1997. Deep
Trouble. Ragged Mountain Press, Maine. Available from Sea
Kayaker magazine, www.seakayakermag.com
KNIK CANOERS AND KAYAKERS: www.kck.org
FAIRBANKS PADDLERS: groups.yahoo.com/group/fairbankspaddlers/
ALASKA OFFICE OF BOATING SAFETY: dnr.alaska.gov/parks/boating/
If you are not wearing protective clothing such as a wet suit
or dry suit when your head is forced under during an
unplanned capsize, you can expect to experience involuntary
gasping and hyperventilation. If you swallow enough water in
the process, you can stop breathing! Not good. At the Alaska
Kayak School, we teach our students how to capsize in all
kinds of conditions; they learn to be in the water and get back
into their boats in comfort and with grace. Not only does this
take the mystery out of capsizing, the students learn to rescue
and be rescued in a variety of conditions; yes, they do become
rescue monsters. Our strategy is to wear dry suits (and the
right layers), nimble neoprene gloves, warm footwear, helmets
and helmet liners during any paddling drills. Capsize-immersion-rescue drills provide a window into the consequences of
capsizing if you are not dressed for immersion. Each student is
allowed to develop a personal relationship to cold water
immersion in safety. For a catalog of our courses in 2011, see
alaskakayakschool.com/courses.
Take lessons from professional instructors – Developing a
pool of certified professional kayak instructors involves a
weeding out process to promote individuals with safety as an
attitude, a deep knowledge of kayaking, and the ability to transfer skills to their students effectively. In the beginning, all paddlers rely on instinct and strength to kayak successfully – massive fun! But you need to stop and recognize something many
developing paddlers seem to want to skip over: the skills that
give us the freedom to gracefully roam wilderness waterways
safely are largely counter-intuitive; strength and instinct can
only get us so far. Professional instructors, especially those that
have been teaching consistently for years, have studied a wide
variety of techniques that ensure your success. Take advantage
of the professional instructors in your area!! Contact
www.americancanoe.org for more information.
Take advantage of pool training opportunities – Cold water
impairs our ability to learn any “wet skills” such as wet exits,
effective rescues, bracing skills, and the Holy Grail of kayaking,
the Eskimo roll. The wet exit, which is the safe exit from the
kayak after you are upside down, underwater, still seated in the
Winter Trails Day
celebrates public land
ERIN KIRKLAND
www.AKontheGO.com
By Erin Kirkland
W
hether untouched wilderness maintained for future
generations or areas specifically designed to appease
outdoor recreation enthusiasts, public lands are a valuable
and occasionally underestimated resource. While every state
in the union possesses land managed
by state or federal agencies, Alaska
trumps them all with nearly 300 million acres of terra firma designated for
public use and/or preservation.
Such real estate all but demands
responsible use, from backpacking in
the summer to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, and public land managers know an educated land user is
more likely to be a thoughtful one,
ErinKirkland
especially in high-density areas such
as Anchorage.
The Bureau of Land Management, a federal agency responsible for 75 million surface acres of Alaska public property, is
hosting its annual Winter Trails Day celebration Feb. 12 at
Campbell Creek Science Center in Anchorage with a goal of
Winter Trails Day provides education mixed
with a little outdoor
adventure for all ages.
promoting responsible winter land use. During the day-long
event, CCSC, in partnership with a myriad of winter recreation user groups will provide experiential learning for every
age bracket and skill level. From snow shelters to winter
YOU WON’T SEE THIS
DOG IN THE RACE!
VISIT OUR FAMOUS ALASKAN WILDLIFE!
Come see Alaska’s wildlife up close! At AWCC, you can see
bears, moose, caribou, muskoxen, and more! Be sure to see
our herd of 100 wood bison before they are released back
into the wild as part of an amazing conservation effort!
OPEN YEAR-ROUND!
Just 45 minutes south of An
Anchorage
nc horage on the scenic Seward
Seward Highway!
Highway!
A
WCC is a non-profit
non-profit wildlife
wildlife refuge
refuge located
located on a scen
nic 200 acre
AWCC
scenic
preser
ve dedicated
dedicated to wild
dlife conser
vation and education.
educa
ation.
preserve
wildlife
conservation
Mile
Seward
M 79 Se
ward Highway
Highway
Portage,
Portage, AK 99587
907.783.2025
907.783.2025
alaskawildlife.org
alaskawildlife.org
AK ON THE GO continued from page 27
mountain biking and geocaching, the center all but trembles
with excitement as people satisfy curiosity for a new activity
or simply gain additional knowledge of an old one.
With 730 acres at their disposal, CCSC manager Jeff Brune
and his cadre of staff will oversee operations for the day-long
event that routinely draws up to 1,000 visitors. Especially
attractive for families, Winter Trails Day at the center provides
enough wild adventures to satisfy children who perhaps have
not been exposed to such activities with the safety and security of experienced leaders and the benefit of a warm and
cozy building in which to rejuvenate. The Friends of
Campbell Creek Science Center, a group organized to promote and help fund ongoing educational opportunities at
CCSC, always provides sustenance to visitors, and members
are on hand to discuss operations at this education-based
facility.
User groups enjoy the day as much as participants, said
Mike Morgansen, outreach specialist for REI, provider of
snowshoes and Nordic skis for the event. “Trails Day often
brings new people in to explore the outdoors, since it’s such
a kid-friendly place. We share similar goals with CCSC, so we
love to support the event. It is great to offer someone their
first exposure to some of these activities.”
For those making tracks to Winter Trails Day, heed the
advice of AK Fam, attendees since AK Kid was a mere toddler
stumbling around in pint-sized snowshoes. All activities are
held at the facility, located on Science Center Drive just off
Elmore Road in Anchorage, and begin promptly at 10 a.m. It
Winter Trails Day at Campbell Creek
Science Center
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
WHERE: Campbell Creek Science Center facility, 5600 Science
Center Drive, Anchorage
CONTACT: 907-267-1247, www.blm.gov/ak/st/en/prog/sciencecenter.html.
ACTIVITIES: Snowshoe/ski rentals, mountain biking, geocaching,
winter survival, self-guided hikes, bonfire, skijoring, winter
running, and more. All activities are FREE and family-friendly.
Last gear check-out is 3:30 p.m.
behoves a family to arrive around then and secure a parking
spot near the center’s entrance. Dress the kids in warm
clothes and bring a backpack to store mittens and hats that
are sure to be flung around the room when the crew goes
inside for a cookie break or craft session. Our family enjoys
the snow shelter construction class the most, followed closely by a popular geocaching session, where kids spend a halfhour or so dashing through the snow in search of a cache
filled with goodies. If bringing small children to the event,
pack a sled for tired little legs and to transport the wealth of
stuff sure to accumulate by day’s end.
The weather outside might still be frightful, but the warm
glow that comes from exercise and discovery is truly delightful. Don’t miss out.
COURTESY PHOTO
Johnson Pass slide, March 28,
2009. Alaska State Troopers and
Alaska Mountain Rescue Group
Search teams on site.
Weak snowpack?
By Debra McGhan
A
h, the growing days of light in Alaska. February is one of my
favorite months because it brings with it a renewed sense
that we are going to survive the winter. While snow and ice still
grip the state, longer days entice us to get out and enjoy and
explore our great state.
This month brings us the Iron Dog snowmobile race,
Anchorage’s Fur Rondy, and preparations for the Iditarod sled
dog races. It also brings us a time of year that too many people
have been caught under mountains of snow.
In 2006 and again in 2010, February has proven to be an
especially deadly month. It was February 8, 2006, when Brian
Mulvehill and a friend were snowshoeing on Flattop mountain
in the Chugach when he was caught in a slide. Mulvehill, who
had only been in Alaska about five months, didn’t make it out
alive.
Then on Feb. 14, Richard Strick Jr., a lifelong Alaskan from
McGrath, set out on his snowmachine with five others to pioneer the trail for the Iditarod. It had been snowing heavy for
nearly a week. As the group worked its way up through the
Dalzell Gorge on their way to Rainy Pass, a slope suddenly let
loose, and Strick was buried under a mass of snow.
Brendan Smart, who had recently returned home on leave
from Iraq, headed to Hatcher Pass with his snowboard and
friends on Feb. 28. As he headed down the slope, the first of sev-
eral massive slides was triggered that buried him under nearly
20 feet of snow. His body was not recovered until May.
Three more people were caught and killed in Alaskan avalanches on Feb. 13, 2010. A long storm cycle preceded these
accidents which took the lives of William Brasher Schorr, Jim
Bowles and Alan Gage.
When reading back over the historical data, I keep finding
similar stories where lots of snow had fallen recently and a
beautiful, blue sky day followed that enticed people to get out
and enjoy the new snow and sunshine. But that has proved over
and over to be a recipe for avalanches and unless you know the
signs, can be a deadly combination especially when you blend
in another common ingredient, a terrain trap.
The Alaska Department of Public Safety, State Troopers and
the Alaska Division of Parks SnowTRAC are working with the
North America Outdoor Institute to bring avalanche awareness
to the general public through public safety contracts and grants.
The challenge of providing valuable life-saving education to
the people of Alaska is being met by a team of loyal members,
donors, supporters and staff along with more and more people
joining the effort. Take a look at the internet today and you’ll
find numerous learning opportunities from providers throughout the state dedicated to safe travel in the backcountry.
Organizations and companies considered partners, supporters and friends in this effort include H2O Guides Inc., the Alaska
Alaska Coast
DCALENDAR
OOR
ANCHORAGE VOLKSPORTS CLUB – “Do-it-on-yourown” non-competitive 10K (6.2 mile) walking events
open to the community free of charge. Dogs welcome, must be on a leash. (907-688-0190)
FEBRUARY 26
FEBRUARY 2011
OUT
tournament, outhouse races, ice bowling, and
Running with the Reindeer, old-time melodrama,
Alaska Native tribal gatherings, the Miners &
Trappers Ball, fur auction and more. For more information visit .
coast-magazine.com
Get free promotion online and in print!
Events can now be posted on the COAST magazine website free of charge! Events must be submitted to the online calendar in order to be considered
for printing in the magazine.
Visit www.coast-magazine.com. Under the Events
tab, choose Add New Event. You may add an event as
a guest visitor without logging in; however, signing
up for a calendar account will allow you to make
changes to the event information in the future.
COAST reserves the right to publish or withhold any
information submitted.
All events will be moderated before appearing to
the public, so be sure they pertain to our region and
are appropriate. COAST magazine will make efforts to
print your events, especially those that would be of
interest to our readers, on a space-available basis.
ARTS, CULTURE & HISTORY
FIRST FRIDAY EVERY MONTH
First Fridays Art Walk - Visual artists are in the spotlight the first Friday of each month when Anchorage
art galleries stay open late to celebrate new works by
local artists. A map for participating galleries is
included in the Thursday edition of the Anchorage
Press publication, one day prior. From 5:30 p.m. to 8
p.m.
CYCLING
FAIRBANKS
Year-round bicycling with The Fairbanks Cycling Club.
Visit www.fairbankscycleclub.org. Unlimited opportunities abound with Alaska All Season Cycling; email
[email protected] for info.
FESTIVALS
FEBRUARY 25-MARCH 6
Anchorage Fur Rendevous - A time-aged tradition
that dates back to the early 1900s when trappers and
miners emerged from the Alaska wilderness to trade,
socialize and compete in survival-type games.
Affectionately known by locals as “Rondy,” this event
includes wild and wacky activities, contests, performances and events including the snowshoe softball
HOCKEY
Fur Rondy Fireworks – An AT&T sponsored fireworks
extravaganza in Downtown Anchorage. For more on
this event and others during Fur Rondy visit www.furrondy.net.
SHOOT A PUCK with the Anchorage Adult Hockey
League. www.aahl.net, 907-563-3503)
KAYAKING/CANOEING
SEA KAYAK BASICS, Sea Kayak Rescue &
OUTDOORS & HIKING
THROUGH MARCH 5
Westchester Family Skate - Shake the winter blues
while getting some exercise with fun-filled skate
days. Each Saturday will feature warming barrels, hot
chocolate and a unique theme. There will be music,
games, prizes and fun for the whole family.
Sponsored by ConocoPhillips and Parks & Recreation.
Learn more at
www.muni.org/recreation/Pages/default.aspx.
ONGOING SCHEDULE
HoWL (Homer Wilderness Leaders) training and outdoor experience programs - Join HoWL for overnight
camping and hiking, rock climbing and rafting, glacier
traverse course, and a women’s weekend retreat.
Most courses geared for youths with adult opportunities as well. HoWL focuses on wilderness leadership
and survival. Learn more about courses and cost for
your family and friends at .
REACH NEW HEIGHTS with the Mountaineering
Club of Alaska. (www.mack.org)
BECOME A SKILLED VOLUNTEER rescuer with
Alaska Mountain Rescue (www.amrg.org, 907-5662674)
EAGLE RIVER NATURE CENTER has a variety of
classes and learning opportunities for inquiring
minds. (907-694-2108, www.ernc.org)
ALASKA ROCK GYM hosts climbing classes for all
ages and abilities. (907-56-CRANK, www.alaskarockgym.com) The Alaska Botanical Garden 13th Annual
Garden Fair & Art Show - Family fun, garden art
show, craft and plant vendors, demonstrations,
Children’s Village, show of alpine and rock garden
plants, music, and food court. Admission: $5 per person. Age 2 and under are free. Learn more at
www.alaskabg.org.
FAIRBANKS
Fairbanks Hiking Club climbs new peaks. For more
info, call John Risser, (907) 488-6500, or visit
www.fairbankshiking.org.
Get out and climb with the Alaskan Alpine Club.
www.alaskaalpineclub.org, (907) 479 2149)
DOGS AND KIDS are welcome at the Alaska
Outdoors twice-weekly social hiking event. ()
INDOOR RUNNING: Check out the Subway Center’s
indoor track, 1111 O’Malley Center Dr. when the
weather turns foul. First time is free, cards cost $65
for 25 runs and $30 for 10 runs. (907-349-7465)
CAN’T READ A MAP? Take classes from the Arctic
Orienteering Club (AOC) and learn the sport of crosscountry navigation using map and compass. Beginner
to advanced, various dates/locations
(www.oalaska.org, 907-345-1749)
Whitewater Kayaking classes at the Alaska Kayak
Academy (907-746-6600, www.alaskakayakacademy.com
ALASKA KAYAK SCHOOL has a list of events, trips
and courses for Anchorage, Seward, Homer and
Whittier.
BASIC PADDLE AND RESCUE Kayak Courses –
Located at Wasilla High Pool and Bartlett High Pool
for 4 weeks, repeating each month. Students will
learn solid paddle technique, proper body mechanics,
safe exit from a capsized boat, what to look for when
shopping for equipment, as well as be introduced to
the Eskimo Roll from ACA certified instructors. Ages
10-adult. Having the proper fitting boat and paddle
makes a big difference in your learning. As a year
round professional kayak school we have the proper
equipment for children to adult students. Qualifies for
home school P E class. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED,
contact Alaska Kayak Academy by phone at (907)
746 6600 or visit .
MISCELLANEOUS
FEBRUARY 7-11
Alaska Forum on the Environment – Find over 80
technical breakout sessions and sensational keynote
events. For 2011, the forum will continue to offer a
comprehensive series of sessions on climate change,
energy, environmental regulations, cleanup and remediation, fish and wildlife, solid waste, and special programs for Alaskan youth. We will be focusing on
Alaska talent in our keynote presentations and will
be announcing our keynotes and morning speakers at
a later time. Stay informed and register for the event
online at .
FEBRUARY 12
Mrs. Alaska America Pageant - Come cheer on
Alaska’s married women during the largest and first
pageant for married women in the world. The 35th
annual celebration of Mrs. Alaska-America will take
place on at 7 p.m. in Anchorage at the Wendy
Williamson Auditorium. The participants will be
awarded over $30,000 in prizes and awards. Call
632-7775 for info or visit .
FEBRUARY 18-MARCH 5
Zoo Lights - A new parade of animals will take over
the Alaska Zoo this winter. Come experience ZOO
Lights! The Alaska Zoo will unveil a new winter wonderland for you and your family to explore. This new
animal menagerie is set to take over this holiday season. They’re big, bright and move in funny ways!
Wander our trails decked with colorful displays of
wrapped trees, walkways of star-studded canopies,
brightly lit animals to guide your way through the
zoo punctuated by whimsical animated animal displays. Learn more at www.alaskazoo.com.
MUSIC
FEBRUARY 27
Drumming Circle - Feel the beat and join in. Led by
local musician Jesse Wright. This event is free and
open to all musical abilities. Borrow a drum from us or bring your own. The circle
is held every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. Learn more at www.grassrootsfairtrade.com.
18. Pro Class Race Start: February 20. Learn about the team, follow their progress
with GPS tracking, and learn about side events online at .
SPORTS
RUNNING/WALKING
FEBRUARY 5
UNITED WAY OF ANCHORAGE Walk for Warmth – A public charity walk through
town. For more information contact Beth Johnson at (907) 263-4696 or visit
www.kiveunitedanchorage.org.
FEBRUARY 26
Frostbite Footrace and Costumed Fun Run - Races include the Costumed Fun Run
as well as competitive runs. Courses run through downtown. The race route begins
at the 5th Avenue Skywalk (between the Egan Center and the Performing Arts
Center) and finishes at 6th Avenue and H Streets. An awards ceremony will be
held inside the Glacier BrewHouse. Learn more at www.furrondy.net.
TUESDAY NIGHTS
Bonny Sosa Tuesday Night Race Series - For many Anchorage families, the Tuesday
Night Race Series is a fall family tradition. These fun runs are like no other in
Anchorage. Come rain, snow, or wind, these races are not cancelled. Whether you
are a competitive runner or just want to get out and see a new trail or meet new
friends, this is the event for you. The course will be revealed to no one until just
prior to the start. Race day sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m. and end at 6:15 p.m. Races
start at 6:30pm. Register online at www.active.com. For more information visit .
ANCHORAGE RUNNING CLUB (ARC), 907-258-4964, www.anchoragerunning-
club.org
RUNNING CLUB NORTH (RCN), 907-459-2012, www.runningclubnorth.org
SOUTHEAST ROAD RUNNERS (SRR), www.juneau.com/serr
CORDOVA RUNNING CLUB (CRC), 907-424-3500
KETCHIKAN RUNNING CLUB (KRC), www.ketchikanrunningclub.org
ALASKA MOUNTAIN RUNNERS (AMR), 907-345-1857,
SKI & SNOWBOARD
FEBRUARY 25-27
Telepalooza at Alyeska Resort - The 8th annual Jeff Nissman Memorial Telemark
Festival is a celebraton of clinics, fun races, demos, beacon park games, live music
and lots of fun. Every year telemark skiers convene for Telepalooza, a celebration
of Nordic traditions and the free-heel discipline. New this winter, Alyeska will host
a multi-discipline big mountain comp at the same time. Visit .
Rage City Rollergirls Roller Derby – Bouts at Dena’ina Center - The league was
established in March 2007 and is in its third competitive season (2010-2011).
While Rage City members must be 21 or older, bouts are all-ages events with PG13 rules of conduct and presentation. All Rage City members are required to volunteer in the Anchorage community. The Chairs of the organization’s committees
sit on the Board of Directors with four officers and not only skate but act as volunteer staff. For more information contact Jen Schober at (907) 272-4801 or visit the
league online at .
FEBRUARY 25-27
World Championship Sled Dog Races - Sled Dog Races are a Rondy Classic, which
began in 1946 and continue today with what is known as “The Rondy.” The Open
World Championship Sled Dog Race is considered the grandfather of all Alaska
races! Learn more about these races and other Rondy events at .
SWIMMING
JOIN ONE OF THE MANY pool classes at the Mosley Sports Center at APU. $70
per session. (907-564-8314)
MUNICIPAL SWIMMING POOLS around Anchorage host open and lap swims
daily. (www.muni.org/parks/pools.cfm, 907-343-4476)
YMCA: 5353 Lake Otis Parkway, daily morning and evening open swims, call for
schedule (907-563-3211)
UAA: 3211 Providence Drive, open and lap swims daily, $5 adults and $3 children
11 and under, with lots of kids showing up on the weekends. (907-786-1231)
MOSELEY SPORTS CENTER AT APU: Offers open and lap swims along with adult
and children lessons. Call for times/days. Discounts for seniors; punch cards available. (907-564-8314)
TAKE AN EARLY MORNING RIVER WALK Mon, Tues, Wed, & Fri or p.m. on Thurs.
at H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark, 1520 O’Malley Road, $5. (907-522-4420)
FEBRUARY 26
Ski 4 Kids Day - Ski 4 Kids Day is a festive winter day full of events for children
aged 0-14. Ski 4 Kids Day is a dual fundraising and awareness effort where obstacle courses, a mock-biathlon, and series of races tempt and tantalize kids of all
ages. Even better, proceeds from the event directly benefit the Anchorage Parks
and Recreation’s ski outreach program. The ultimate goal is to help develop an
appreciation of winter outdoor sports and to promote fitness for Anchorage area
youth! Visit for more information.
SNOWMACHINE
FEBRUARY 18 & 20
Iron Dog Snowmachine Race - Two-man teams top speeds of more than 100 miles
per hour on a 2,000-mile sprint from Big Lake to Nome to Fairbanks, Alaska, in the
world’s longest and toughest snowmachine race. Trail Class Race Start: February
Alaska's outdoor
adventure magazine.
To advertise
or subscribe:
(907) 677-2900
MCGHAN continued from page 29
Avalanche School, the Alaska Avalanche Information Center, the
American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education, the
American Avalanche Association, the Alpine Safety Awareness
Program, Friends of the Chugach Avalanche Information Center
and Friends of the Utah Avalanche Information Center.
Behind every one of these organizations are individuals such
as Dean Cummings, Sean Wisner, Sarah Carter, Tom Murphy,
Blaine Smith, Carl Skustad, Matt Murphy — just a few of the
names I identify as today’s Alaskan leaders in safe mountain travel and avalanche awareness. These are the movers and shakers
that are dedicating their time and energy to helping in the
cause.
Thanks to all of these people and so many more for caring
enough to make a difference. Today it’s easy to find a class my
16-year-old son with a snowboard would have enjoyed and
appreciated experiencing — my main reason for joining this
effort.
This year, in memory of all those who have lost their lives in
avalanches, take the time and bring your sweetheart to a training program that may prove to be a fun, memorable time that
could benefit you for the rest of your life.
To learn more, check out www.naoiak.org, contact Debra
McGhan at 907-376-2898 or e-mail [email protected].
2011 Iditarod roster
TRAILMIX continued from page 9
dinner and a presentation; climbing clinics, climbing competition or end-of-day parties, auction and barbecue.
Clinics include introductions to various types of ice climbing for beginners, intermediate and mixed climbing; a lead
climbing clinic; numerous specific skill-building clinics;
women’s clinic and more. Learn about the ice and snow
encounter during climbing trips, first aid for victims of a fall,
the gear and its proper use, and much more.
“We’re working on some new things; otherwise, the plan is
clinics on Saturday and Sunday like in the past,” said Jayme
Mack, festival director.
Those new things may include some big names in the sport.
“We have some people that are tentatively planning to come
up like professional athletes, and that’s something we haven’t
had in the past,” she said.
The Alaska Ice Climbing Competition is an additional event
that pits climbers of all abilities against each other for a chance
to be crowned with the coveted crampon, ice screws and ice
pick crown specifically welded together for this event. It hangs
prestigiously at AMH. Competitors can enter the competition
for an fee of $30. Other activities also have a range of registration fees.
For full event details and updates, visit www.akicefest.com.
For questions about the clinics and competition:
Contact: Matt Szundy
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (907) 783.0505
For general questions about the festival:
Director: Jayme Mack
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (907) 382.0212
IDITAROD continued from page 13
fourth win, although not consecutively. Father and son Dick
and Rick Mackey are the only father and son racers to each
take the championship. And who could forget Terry Adkins and
Rick Swenson, who each competed in 20 Iditarods, a feat perhaps more impressive than
Online at
taking a win.
For trailside cheering, fans
www.iditarod.com is
can consider numerous locawhere GPS tracking and
tions around Anchorage to
include downtown at the start- live updates and blogging
keep fans in the know
ing line, wooded trails at the
BLM Campbell Tract site, and
during every anxious
others. Many locations from Big
moment of the race.
Lake to Willow and nearby at
Deshka Landing are accessible
by trails.These sites may require guidance from residents, a special
invite from those who own the land along the trail, or a bit of prerace scouting. In Willow, the race restart will take place at 2 p.m.
on Sunday, March 6. Early arrival is crucial as Parks Highway congestion will be at its worst.
For at-home following, news stations annually report on the
race during regular news broadcasts. Online at www.iditarod.com
is where GPS tracking and live updates and blogging keep fans in
the know during every anxious moment of the race. Also found
online are streaming broadcasts found at insider.iditarod.com.
GUIDES and SERVICES
Advertise your
business here!
Call 677.2900
to find out
how!
Alaska's outdoor
adventure magazine.
To advertise
or subscribe:
(907) 677-2900
FUR RONDY continued from page 10
has some tips for proper planning.
“Dress appropriately. I’ve seen people walk around freezing
with high heel boots, things like that,” says Duck.“Dress in layers,
get warm clothes, and be prepared for any kind of weather.”
Of course, event goers could always warm up in their car!
“The Rondy guide has specific information for the best
places to park,” says Duck.“The city bus system is always a good
option for getting around town, but the Community
Development Authority is really working hard with us to make
parking available.”
She also recommends that individuals and families planning
to enjoy multiple days of the event should investigate hotels
that offer specials during Fur Rondy. These hotels will be listed
on the Fur Rondy website to make reservations decisions easy.
Then it’s time for fun.
“Once you’re down here, we have a free shuttle on Friday,
Saturday and Sunday so it’s not a big issue getting around downtown,” says Duck.
Most the events are actually within walking distance. Rondy’s
official list includes the grand parade, hockey tournament, melodrama, Miss Fur Rendezvous pageant, Native arts market, outhouse races, poker tournament, Running of the Reindeer, snowshoe softball, snow sculpture contest, the first Yukigassen USA
World Championships, an amateur photo contest and sled dog
races.
The parade hardly needs describing. Crowds gather to watch
some of Alaska’s most colorful characters cruise through town
in a spectacle of costumes and creative floats. It starts at 10:30
a.m., Saturday, February 25 on 3rd Avenue. The hockey tournaments take place on two separate weekends, Saturday and
Sunday, February 26 and 27, and again on Saturday and Sunday,
March 6 and 7. Three divisions include intermediate, novice and
co-ed teams. This is what hockey is all about – raw, local competition.
Did the historic trappers have a Miss Rondy way back when?
Hopefully, for their sake. You can’t have a Rendezvous without a
cheerful lass leading the way to fun.
“She’s the good will ambassador, basically,” says Duck.“She
walks around, greats people, attends events with the Lord and
Lady Trapper and King and Queen Regent.”
These regal figureheads date back to the festival’s beginnings
and embody the true spirit of Fur Rendezvous. But, if Miss
Rondy doesn’t put a smile on your face, pay close attention to
the outhouse races.
Teams push a teammate in a custom built outhouse down a
course of snow. It’s serious business, and for some, the No. 2
most enjoyable event. No. 1 would have to be Running of the
Reindeer, a northern take on bull running. Hundreds of costumed characters gather to get chased through downtown by
reindeer and their sharp antlers. Of all the events at Rondy, this
one takes the cake for pure childishness, and the participants
and spectators love every minute of it.
Snowshoe softball has also become a favored event. Teams
gather to play ball with the hindrance of snowshoes on their
feet. Many players add to the fun by wearing costumes.
Watching Donald Duck or a California Raisin put a hit on a
ball and then try to run to base with snowshoes flopping on
their feet is a fun sight to see, and falls are common.
Snowshoe softball games take place on Saturday and Sunday,
February 26 and 27.
And Yukigassen, aka snowball war, already looks like a crowd
favorite. The first Yukigassen USA World Championships ought to
impress upon spectators the awesomeness of a true snowball
fight. Yukigassen can be witnessed at 4 p.m., Saturday, March 5.
“Within the first three days we had 89 teams on the list,” says
Duck.“What we have here is the first U.S. championship tournament, ever. Our tournament will have the champs for Alaska and
the entire United States.”
Snowballs are synonymous with winter, but nothing quite
symbolizes the Great White North like sled dog races. Fur Rondy
plays host to the Open World Championship Sled Dog Races
presented by the Alaska Sled Dog and Racing Association. These
races have gained in notoriety and prestige, enough so to be
named the International Sled Dog Racing Association’s unlimited
class event of the year for the 2009-2010 season.
One of the races greatest attributes is that they can be
watched from numerous locations around Anchorage as the dog
teams and mushers cruise through downtown and the local
parks. Races occur on February 25, 26 and 27.
Rondy is all about culture too. From the Native arts market or
fur auctions, Rondy has events and attractions that appeal to
everyone’s idea of a good time. With 75 years of successful party
hosting behind them, the Rondy staff and board of directors, as
well as volunteers and local event participants, know how to
welcome guests and the extra sunshine as spring approaches.
“It really started as a chance for people to get out and connect
after a long hard winter,” says Duck.“Even though we have found
ways to get out and have fun during long, cold, winter days, it
seems that the anticipation of being able to celebrate the lengthening days makes everyone want to get together and party.”
With so much to see and do, refer to the Rondy schedule of
events for planning. Find the schedule, memorabilia and gifts, historical information and event registrations online at www.furrondy.net.
KAYAK continued from page 25
kayak following an unplanned capsize, is an essential skill.
You need a wet exit to survive an unplanned capsize if
you don’t know how to roll the kayak back up safely.
Please note: most kayakers do not know how to roll, and
many in Alaska have never practiced wet exits. Be sure of
one thing: We’re all between swims.
A warm pool is also a great place to learn the mechanics of kayak rescues safely in the comfort a bathing suit. In
the same way, the counter-intuitive motions of bracing
and rolling benefit from a healthy ease of learning in a
warm pool. You develop better “wet skills” in pools
because you’re likely to practice in the winter before summer paddling begins, I mean, who in Alaska goes to the
pool to practice kayaking skills in the summer? Paddlers
that use winter pool time to learn and practice technical
kayaking skills under the guidance of professional instructors have a definite leg up on paddlers who don’t practice
in the pool during the winter. The Alaska Kayak School has
offered pool kayak training programs in Homer, Soldotna
and Anchorage every month of the winter since 2003.
To learn more, go to alaskakayakschool.com/calendar.

February, 2011 - Alaska Coast Magazine

Transcription

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