Cascade Creek and Petersburg
Cascade Creek was living up to its name this morning as we trekked along the boardwalk path that runs parallel to the whitewater rapids. Situated at the southern end of Frederick Sound in a place called Thomas Bay, Cascade Creek is a great setting to be immersed in the dense lushness of the temperate rainforest that characterizes Southeast Alaska.
A few hundred feet from the trailhead we stood at the base of a powerful waterfall, impressed by its power and force as our faces collected raindrops from the ensuing mist. Farther up the trail we came to a bridge that spanned the rushing cascade and gave us a birds-eye view of the boiling whitewater beneath us. The trail at Cascade Creek is made up of planks laid end to end as well as roots, exposed rock and fallen logs. Those who chose the long hike put their boots and hiking sticks to good use, but were also rewarded with mystical views of the mossy landscape and additional vantage points that looked out over the raging river. We passed many species of fungus, ferns, lichens, mosses, and other vegetation that lent themselves to the varied terrain and cast the surroundings in multiple shades of green.
Once we all returned back to the ship and dried out from the morning activities, National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin gave a captivating presentation in the lounge called “Among Giants—A Life with Whales.” His new book, identically titled, is a result of many years watching, photographing and learning from the marine mammals and includes many of his beautiful photographs.
Our afternoon was spent in the small fishing village of Petersburg, which is located on Mitkof Island and is sheltered by the narrow waterway of Wrangell Narrows. Of Norwegian heritage, this quaint village offers many interesting opportunities to explore the workings of a small Alaskan town. Bikes were available for those wanting to see the town on two wheels and a bog walk was offered for those interested in learning more about the Alaskan muskeg.
As the day drew to a close, we were joined by Petersburg resident Becky Knight, who came on board to give an insider’s talk about the Alaskan fishing industry. Her family has lived in Petersburg for many years and it was interesting to listen to her speak about how commercial fishing has influenced her and her neighbors’ lives. And for dinner, we enjoyed a much anticipated feast of Dungeness crab, caught fresh from local fisherman in Petersburg.
