This afternoon we had the opportunity to walk through the heavy snow that has been falling in the area the past couple of days. After all, we are north of 62 degrees north latitude so I suppose that snow is possible in October, though I am strongly assured that this is very unusual. I almost believe them...not!
The walk today was to visit the local First Nation's Spirit Houses. This is at the beginning of the walk before we head off into the forest. There is about 6" of snow on the ground, but up higher where we walked there was considerably more. It seems so odd that we will be returning south in a few days to green landscapes and much warmer temperatures. It's like being dropped into the middle of winter when we wake up in the morning.
There were 7 walkers, one hitchhiking baby and of course our fearless dog.
As we climbed up stream the vistas became quite enjoyable, though there was low cloud and snow falling in the distance.
Lots of animal tracks in the snow, some we could figure out, others that remain unclear. We even saw a place where an eagle had dropped on a rabbit, made its kill and carried breakfast away. The wing marks clearly visible in the snow.
It was pretty slick on the climbs and descents, so poles were carried by some of our troop. Those of us who didn't have one ended up on their butts a couple of times!!
The Alaska Highway looking towards Whitehorse 175 kms to the south. When we drove up the highway was covered white with ice and snow. Clearly it's been plowed and sanded, but later reports indicate that it's very slippery and tough going. Hopefully it will be in better shape when we have to drive south on Tuesday.,
We eventually arrived at the cemetery and discovered a beautiful view of the Yukon River and the town of Carmacks with a population of 350 souls.
The Spirit Houses arenthe burial sights of the local First Nations where a long vista is apparently important and I understand that many personal articles are placed in the grave. A little like the Pharos of Egypt, early Greeks and many others...a timeless burial process, albeit on a significantly reduced scale.
Carmacks from the top of the climb.
A father and daughter, the latter feeling pretty snug.
We slipped and skidded down to the bottom on a return loop...
...and took a few photos at the bottom to mark the occasion. A good way to spend an afternoon doing something typically Canadian, but a little bit unique for those of us who live on the south coast where we seldom experience snow. The addition of the Spirit Houses was a nice historical addition.
...and took a few photos at the bottom to mark the occasion. A good way to spend an afternoon doing something typically Canadian, but a little bit unique for those of us who live on the south coast where we seldom experience snow. The addition of the Spirit Houses was a nice historical addition.
Hey Ken, it also gave me a bit of an idea how a winter Camino might work out. Clothes layers, breathable light wind & water proof outer clothing and as always good waterproof boots. I'm still interested in exploring the possibilities. We plan to walk again today so I hope to learn a little more, though I know you have a much better experience with this. We will talk!
Great photographs--that's what Regina will soon look like, except for the hills, of course. . . .
ReplyDeleteThe Spirit Houses are very interesting. I was reading something this weekend that touched on Anishnaabe burial practices and they did something not entirely different, except there was a hole in the structure so the spirit could come and go.
Winter Camino--definitely.
Ken