National Geographic Sea Lion was on her way to Juneau as dawn broke, revealing more views of Alaska and its majesty. It was another clear day with glassy seas and beautiful landscape in all directions. Numerous bald eagles soared overhead and perched in Sitka spruce trees lining the waterfront as we came to the dock, a suitable greeting committee for our arrival to the small capital city.
We visited Juneau to take advantage of a variety of outings. Many of us chose to glide just above the trees as we ascended 1800 feet up Mount Roberts. Spectacular views of the city and of Douglas Island awaited us at the top. Spring expressed itself on hiking trails in the form of 60-degree weather and unfurling ferns and false hellobores, which distracted many a photographer who stopped to admire and photograph the transient beauty of the young plants. Several continued up to the top viewpoint to take in 360 degrees of grand views.
In town, we wandered the streets of Juneau, shopping for gifts and souvenirs before heading to Mendenhall Glacier. There we were able to stretch our legs on numerous hiking options and learn more about the history and changes in the glacier’s path in the interpretive center.
After lunch, while on our way toward Glacier Bay National Park, we took advantage of the warm air with time on the bow, soaking up the sun on our faces, taking in the scenery, and pausing to watch a humpback whale that slowly swam alongside us, surfacing every few minutes until we had to pull away and continue on our way. It was a welcome detour in our journey. We could get used to this.
