Cascade Creek & Petersburg
The rumbling of Cascade Creek greeted the National Geographic Sea Lion as we pulled into the still waters of Thomas Bay. Landing on the beach at high tide, we strolled along the narrow margin between sea and forest. A small white lily, queen’s cup, demanded our attention upon entering the forest. The bright white flowers of queen’s cup were a splash of contrast in the diffuse light of this temperate forest. Utilizing a boardwalk created by Tongass National Forest, we walked in comfort beneath a canopy of Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees. We often stopped to absorb the sound and energy of Cascade Creek and were surprised by a unique songbird, the American dipper. Living its whole life in and near fast moving rivers, the American dipper is an active bird that often causes one to smile because of its rhythmic, bouncy movements.
Upon reaching the National Geographic Sea Lion, we were entertained and informed by an important guest, Dr. Fred Sharpe from the Alaska Whale Foundation. Dr. Sharpe shared photos and videos from his many years researching the complex behavior of humpback whales in Southeast Alaska. His unique footage generated many questions, some of them still unanswered.
We completed our activities with a visit to a true Southeast Alaska fishing town named Petersburg. With an economy deeply rooted in the fishing industry, the elaborate and well-maintained fishing fleet was abuzz with activity because salmon season draws near. With this lovely town as our port of call, we had many options for the afternoon: flightseeing by floatplane, helicopter glacier tours, walks in town, bike rides, hikes to a nearby muskeg and walks along the docks.
Today we reached the southern extent of our voyage. With the conclusion of such a full day in which each of us found something new to love about Southeast Alaska, we look forward to more surprises as we travel north.
