Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Seward Stompin' Grounds

One of the benefits of living in Alaska for the summer is all of the ground you get to stomp while here. There are tons of things to do all over Alaska, and fortunate enough for me, most of them lie in Seward. 

My friends and I have taken advantage of all of the wonderful things Seward has to offer, and all of the Alaska SeaLife Center discounts we receive for being employees! Bonus!

We have gone on cruises around Resurrection Bay & beyond...


We have gone ziplining into the abyss & repelled down trees... 


In June, I had a wonderful visit from my mom in North Carolina. We got to go on an Ididarod dogsled ride, and snuggle with their puppies, too!






The following day, we visited Exit Glacier. As we approached it, there were signs that had a date of when Exit Glacier reached that far. It was incredibly disheartening to see how much it had retreated, but I'm glad we got to visit it before it melts any more. 




Of course, nothing compared to the amazing hikes in the area!



But honestly, how can you compete with the natural beauty that was just 2 blocks from my apartment in Seward?

Some friends and I camped out by Resurrection Bay one night, and this is the darkest it got all night! 



Truly amazing time spent in Seward. There are so many more opportunities available there that I didn't even have enough time for! I look forward to going back and exploring more of Alaska!


xoxo,
Jules

Monday, September 7, 2015

Hike to the Harding Ice Field

2,800 feet above sea level, lies one of the most incredible works of God I have ever experienced: the Harding Ice Field. Stretching out to the size of Rhode Island, the Harding Ice Field is a sheet of ice that feeds all of the glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. 


Photo credit: National Park Service


This hike is no joke. I knew I was in for a challenging day when I neared the trailhead to the ice field, and several park rangers wished us good luck. We took our time climbing, and I'm glad we did- the views were fantastic the entire time!








It took us so long to get to the top, but WOW, was it worth it!






All smiles for making it to the top!



It was amazing to take in the sheer size of this amazing work of God!

"He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights"
Psalm 18:33



xoxo,
Jules