Today we entered a monument to wilderness, in every sense of the word. Misty Fjords National Monument was established by presidential proclamation in 1979 as a way to preserve and protect the wilderness status of this remarkable landscape for generations to come. A national park is established by congressional approval to protect a combination of scenic, recreational, educational, and inspirational values. The designation of a national monument ensures the protection of just one thing, whether it be a historic building, a national landmark or, in this case, the ensured longevity of wilderness protection status in a land carved by glaciers.
7/31/2024
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National Geographic Sea Lion
Wrangell, Alaska
After navigating the Wrangell Narrows overnight, we arrived at the small town, Wrangell. The land of this town was originally stewarded by the Tlingit people, before contact with Russians and later, Americans. There were several activity options for our guests to enjoy during the day. In the morning, several guests chose to take a jet boat tour up the Stikine River, the fastest free flowing navigable river in North America. Other guests chose to visit the Anan Wildlife Viewing Area and were rewarded with an amazing view of black bears feeding on salmon. A third group chose to visit Chief Shakes Tribal House to learn more about the culture and traditions of the native Tlingit people who continue to call this region home. At the end of the day, as we traveled away from Wrangell, we were delighted to spot the dorsal fins of killer whales breaking the surface of the water. What a spectacular way to end an amazing day.