Pictures & Words: Lyle Such
Camera: Canon 5d MkIV
The final leg of our trip through Alaska brought us to Fairbanks, where we anticipated getting a good view of the Northern Lights
We had a long drive from Palmer to Fairbanks. Along the way we passed through the incredible scenery of Denali National Park. We'll definitely have to return here in the summer time.
We arrived in Fairbanks and headed straight to the forest where we would be taking a night snow shoeing tour.
The sun slowly setting behind the forest.
Our hosts lived at a dry cabin. No running water and a very basic form of living. They were surrounded by forest and state land, which means a lot of privacy and the ability to roam.
After dinner, we set out for the liminary walk. Shannon and Evan hand build these ice made candles and light them along a trail through the forest.
Each candle is unique, and only lasts through the winter season.
Perfect spot for pictures.
The next day we just explored the snowy parks around Fairbanks. We needed to get to bed early, later that night we would go out in search of the Northern Lights.
The snow around Fairbanks is very dry and powdery. Fun to throw around, but not the best for building an igloo.
Our trusty Jeep...able to get us through the roughest Alaska conditions...or maybe not.
Stopping at an Asian grocery store for supplies. At this point, we started hearing more and more about Covid 19.
Early the next morning, we drove up to Murphy Dome in hopes of seeing the Northern Lights.
Within 15 minutes, they were out. At first it looked like a cloud forming on the horizon, but for about 10 minutes the green was clear.
Unfortunately we trusted in the Jeep a little bit too much. We got stuck. We were in deep, and as we were digging ourselves out another car got stuck. We stopped and helped push them out...and they tried to return the favor.
We were in too deep, and had to call a local towing company. Being on top of a mountain, this ended up being the most expensive part of our trip. Oops!
The next day we decided to go dog-sledding with Black Spruce Dog Sledding.
We met the dogs of our team. Most were very shy, but slowly warmed up to Nini and I.
This was the calmest team I've ever seen, but when it came time to pull, they were all full of excitement.
On the trail. We sledded through a beautiful, serene part of Alaska.
Stopping for a quick break.
Getting to know the team after the ride.
This was our favorite dog. She was a shy, subservient natured dog, but super sweet. She also made the funniest noises once she was harnessed.
Saying goodbye to the team.