Surrounded by whales!

Kayaking off of Chichagoff Island is probably the most amazing thing that I have ever done! The Humpback whales are everywhere. One whale came out of the water not more than fifty yards away. It was the largest animal that I have ever seen. We can hear and see whales all around us when we are kayaking. It is too bad that we will only be here a few days. I wish that I could stay forever!

Summer Ice

Ice climbing on the Davidson Glacier is the definitely the coolest part of the trip so far. I have never done anything like it. It feels weird at first with the crampons and ice axes, but it is so much fun. The ice is incredible too. The colors are so intense. Everything is such a deep blue. Hopefully, when I go home, I can ice climb there too.

Whitewater on the Blanchard....

We got picked up and headed for the Candian/Alaskan border so we could get to where we were rafting. When we arrived at the rafting location the group was given guidelines to follow and we were divided among two rafts. Everyone seemed really pumped and excited to go rafting but some people seemed cold and nervous. However, everyone soon was having a lot of fun and splashing eachother. After some rafting we stopped for lunch and got warmed up by the fire. Soon we were rafting again and before we knew it everyone was letting loose and having a blast! Everyone had a smile on their face and were ready for anything or anyone to come their way. Over all, EVERYONE had a great time, no complaints and only smiles and laughs. It was by far one adventure everyone would remember!
-Jessica

A perfect camp site in the Tatshenshini Wilderness....

We arrived at a campsite after a great six mile hike today. Today's campsite is particularly exquisite; beautiful weather with just enough wind to keep the bugs away. The hiking in the morning was pretty tough but everything was easier after lunch...I have learned a lot about everyone else from the backpacking so far and I could not be more pleased with the people I get to spend my time with for the 20 days on this trip. I would love to write about the view from our campsite but I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to do it justice. It is breathtaking and we should all try and remember what it feels like to wake up to a range of snow-capped mountains and clear blue sky.
-Becky