The Arctic Circle Trip

Day 20   Monday July 4, 2016                   Eagle Plains Motel, Dempster Highway, Yukon Territory

This was one of the best days of my life!  It was the accomplishment of a boyhood dream, to drive north until you hit the Arctic Ocean or run out of road.  Neither of these criteria were met on this trip, but to drive to the Arctic Circle accomplished a lifetime dream.  Words can’t describe the beauty of the landscape, the vastness, the ruggedness, and being in a place where the word Arctic is used to describe the trees, animals, and plants.  We were truly amazed at the sights we saw today.  These pictures do not capture the emotions of the day but we’ll try.

The first part of the trip was overcast and drizzling rain.  The clouds were low and picture taking was difficult.

YT-5 North to Inivuk, the Dempster Highway

This was a breathtaking view early in the morning.

Then it started raining with the sun out.  That equals a rainbow.

We passed through Eagle Plains and drove the 21 miles up to the Arctic Circle. 

Wide open country

When we got to the "rest area" where the sign was, we were somewhat disappointed.  The sign was in disrepair and the main arch that says "Arctic Circle" was missing.  Here's what it looked like:

Here's a happy Ed at the Arctic Circle

Here's a few shots of the surrounding area.

We saw a moose on the start of the highway and on the way back to Eagle Plains.

Here's Eagle Plains

The Dempster Highway all over the back of the truck.

Canadian and Yukon flags

The motel lobby

Room 11

Sititing in the lounge with our drinks and munchies.

Drinks and munchies

The view out the lounge window, looking west.

Our stay at Eagle Plains was very pleasant.  Believe it or not, the food is excellent!

This was the best day of the trip, so far, and a very special day for me.