We exited the inter-coastal ferry at Haines. The people renting a car to us met us at the ferry. If they hadn’t, walking would have taken a awhile. Things are spread out in Alaska. They recommended visiting Chilkoot Lake nestled in the Haines State Forest . After being in Juneau, this felt more like the Alaska I was expecting. A beautiful sprawling lake, eagles catching fish, dense forest, and clean air. Absolutely stunning. We puddled along a bit looking at the campsites and skipping rocks and admiring the lake’s outlet. We watched a group fishing: A grandfather, daughter, and grandson. Alyssa and Kylie had never been fishing so they were mesmerized. Then the unexpected happened, they offered the girls a chance to cast and catch a few of the local fish: Dolly Varden Trout. The fish supply is so plentiful that within minutes, each girls got to catch a trout.
This kindness showed by these strangers set the tone for the rest of the trip. So far the people of Alaska were kind and welcoming.
