We start our day early with a ride on the fast ferry between Haines and Skagway, AK. The prices are breath-taking. Accustomed to the WA state ferry system, we as senior citizens, pay $2.70 for a round trip ticket from Fort Casey across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Port Townsend and back.
Here one round trip ticket costs $68. To be fair, the crossing does take 10 minutes longer, but we're still in sticker shock! Enough griping. We start by being at the WPYRR station at 7:30 AM to board. We have room to move around in our car. The cruise ship people have cars to themselves, and every one of them is full. Hey, we get a break!
As you can see, we are enjoying a day of rain. This is nothing new in SE Alaska. All the locals wear rubber boots. Only we tourists wear hiking shoes and/or sneakers.
This of course is the infamous pass made by the hopefuls in the Klondike Gold Rush. Unlike the CA gold rush of 1849, the Klondike Gold rush of 1898 lasted but two years. Prior to the railroad, this pass had to be hiked by foot, and the journey was made several times as the Canadian Government wisely insisted every person take a years supply of food and supplies. Each prospector took approximately 2 tons of goods with him/her over this pass. Many lost their lives as did several of the pack animals.
Our round trip up the pass and back complete, we now have plenty of time to stroll around Skagway and have lunch.
Look at this snow blower on steroids! It's still used from time to time.
For further information:
White Pass & Yukon RR
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