Arctic Roadshow- Part II (Chena Area)

After three days in Fairbanks we headed down Chena Hot Springs Road.

A gorgeous sunny afternoon,we decided to hike to Angel Rocks.
A five mile loop climbing from the Chena Hot Springs Road, travels through these unique rock out-croppings.
The hillside above the Chena River covered with "Angel Rocks".

Clear skies and green hills, gorgeous country. Gretchen enjoys the day.
Despite the presence of mostly evergreens, the terrain reminded me a little of the Shenandoah Mountains.

Monday we set out from Granite Tors trailhead for a 15 mile loop of the large rock formations. Very much a "natural stonehenge" of granite in the Chena hills.
Snacking on wild blueberries for breakfast as we hiked.

This area has seen a couple large wildfires in the last 7 years, so the "Fireweed" is blooming everywhere.

Jasper & Jack found copious amounts of Ermine, Marmot, and Tundra Squirrels to chase.
Mid-way hikers shelter. Provided a haven to eat our lunch out of 55 degrees and drizzling rain.
Gretchen crossing the alpine tundra, Tors in the distance. Just past 7 miles was very "boggy and wet".


Interesting neon orange and green algae growing on some of the Tors.

After a long 15 mile hike it was great to relax in Chena Hot Springs.
Sign said 106 degrees, but it sure felt warmer.

Chena River
Jasper after a long hike
Jack racked out
Tors Campground
Typical camping dinner; Shrimp Alfredo
Typical camping appetizer- red wine, IPA, and plenty of guacamole
Spotted a young moose along the Chena Hot Springs Road

Very photographic Moose, love the reflections.
Tuesday morning we said goodbye to Chena Hot Springs with a delicious breakfast in the lodge and headed North- Arctic bound!