Yukon summer adventure
Photo: Ottawa Adventure Travel Show
In 1898, 30,000 gold stampeders from around the world landed on the Alaska Pacific coast, hiked over the nearby Chilkoot and White Passes into Canada and raced down the Yukon River. Their quest: Klondike gold reportedly lying thick just below the surface within easy reach of a shovel. Ever since I read the kid’s version of Pierre Berton’s book, Klondike, 50 years ago, I’ve been gripped by this story.
So this summer I’m retracing the Klondike gold rush route by hiking and paddling 1,500 km through some of North America’s most rugged territory — alone. Solo! It’s a pretty unusual way to celebrate turning 60.
Rapids, whirlpools, glacial fast water and extreme wilderness conditions all combine to make this trip a challenging adventure trek. Increasing the excitement, the entire trip will take place in grizzly territory.
There are tons of reasons to come here. Here are my top three:
• Photograph Klondike gold rush relics and ruins.
• Shoot a story-telling documentary video (a virtual guided tour down the gold rush route telling vivid story-pictures that bring alive historic characters and ghost-towns).
• Thoughtfully and responsibly explore the physical and emotional boundaries that a reasonably fit senior can attain.
Along the way I’ll hike parts of the Chilkoot and White passes, camp in Klondike ghost towns, explore a paddle-wheeler graveyard, pan for gold and take part in an archaeological “dig” for prehistoric mammoth bones.
Eight weeks is a long time to spend alone in the northern wilderness, even for someone who loves the taste of solitude and silence. It’s no place for an inexperienced person, particularly a senior, to travel alone.
Why would I ever want to tackle a solo challenge as daunting as this one?
Partly because I don’t want to “rust” inside. Life is too interesting and challenges abound that lie well within reach. The rocking chair will still be on the front porch in 20 years’ time when I’m 80. But for now, I choose adventure.
Don’t get me wrong. Twenty-first century speed and bustle get the adrenaline pumping. But in my experience too much haste smothers optimism. It chokes the soul. Multi-tasking is great, but it discourages healthy introspection. We forget how to do nothing for a while. And I believe doing nothing is an important skill to own. Now that’s a heretical thought to utter in the 21st century!
Ralph Waldo Emerson once urged people to “adopt the pace of nature.” At least for a season. So before re-entering the fast current of life, I’m going to allow this challenging trip to reset my default settings. Who knows where it’ll take me.
Comments (10)
I agree with your philosophy and will follow your adventure vicariously. Bon voyage!
Submitted by Stanley George on Friday, June 01, 2012
Thanks Stan. I'll try to make this solo trip exciting for both of us! :>)
Submitted by Allen Macartney on Friday, June 01, 2012
Awesome. And look, you already found a use for the compass
Submitted by geoff matthews on Friday, June 01, 2012
Why does this not surprise me? You truly are the most adventuress person I know. I admire your drive to set these incredible goals for yourself. Truly looking forward to reading the updates on your blog.
Submitted by Lynne Thompson on Friday, June 01, 2012
Very exciting possibilities ahead! A stirring example of, as you say, grasping the challenges that lie within reach. Can't wait to see and read about what you discover.
Submitted by Tom Allen on Friday, June 01, 2012
"ARE YOU NUTS" (lol)
I too admire your courage and sense of adventure. Allen, when you first told me you were planning this trip I thought - more guts than brains - but now that I know the true you and your passion for the outdoors and experience in the wilderness I can only wish you all the best and know you will make it home safe. We all have our "MOMENT IN LIFE" and this is yours. May God be with you cause I can't. STILL THINK YOUR NUTS!!!!!
Just kidding......
Submitted by Lloyd Palmer on Wednesday, June 06, 2012
Bon Voyage Allen, I look forward to hearing all about your trip on your return! Be Safe. I'll stick to my rocking chair on the front porch :)
Submitted by Isabelle J on Thursday, June 07, 2012
wow, Allen....this looks so exciting. I will be following your adventure carefully. How long will it take?? 8 wks?? Be safe and rock on.
Submitted by Sharon Adams-Dean on Thursday, June 07, 2012
Hey Allen. Quite enjoyed our discussion the other day and will be looking forward to reading your blogs on this most excellent adventure of yours. You have spoken of doing this for some time and now, you're finally getting to scratch this one off the old Bucket List. We should all be so lucky. I would say that a few miles and a lot of water has passed under your canoe since our Rideau River trip in the 70's my old friend. Take care of yourself and good luck. Live breath and absorb the serenity. Get back in touch with life and Mother Earth and we shall see you on the other side.
Submitted by Brian Carlson on Thursday, June 14, 2012
Hi Allen: Well the time has finally arrived!! We thought we were adventurous but we don't come near what you are undertaking. We both wish you a wonderful trip; take care and we'll follow your "expedition" with great interest!
Submitted by Steve & Gael on Monday, June 18, 2012
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