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Summary

This travel guide follows an adventurous ski journey from Kotzebue to Kivalina, Alaska, highlighting the challenges and beauty of Arctic travel. From unexpected stays due to weather conditions, navigating through emergency shelters, to encountering local wildlife and historical sites, this guide offers a glimpse into the resilience required for such a trek. The journey emphasizes the importance of preparation, adaptability, and respect for the harsh yet stunning Arctic environment.

🏞️ Day 1: Preparation and Unexpected Stay

The journey begins with preparations in Kotzebue, including a visit to a local's home for lunch and an unexpected stay due to weather conditions.

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🏠 Seth Kantner's Home

A unique visit to a chicken-coop-converted-home for a lunch of musk ox, highlighting local hospitality and culture. The cozy setting and the opportunity to savor traditional dishes provide an authentic glimpse into the Arctic way of life.

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Tips

Arrange visits to local homes through connections or tours for an authentic experience. Engaging with the locals offers a deeper understanding of the region's customs and cuisine.

✈️ Golden Eagle / Arctic Backcountry Hangar

A place of gathering and preparation before embarking on the journey, showcasing the community's support for adventurers. The hangar serves as a hub for travelers, offering insights into regional aviation and fostering a sense of camaraderie among like-minded individuals.

Tips

Check local hangars for insights into regional aviation and potential delays due to weather. Engaging with the local aviation community can provide valuable information and support for navigating the challenges of Arctic travel.

🎿 Day 2: Start of the Ski Journey

The journey officially begins with skiing from Kotzebue towards Sisualik, encountering historical sites and local wildlife.

🏞️ Sisualik

Sisualik, also known as Sheshalik, holds a significant place in history and culture. It is renowned for its role in Native trade, dating back hundreds of years, and is named after the beluga whales that frequent the area.

Tips

Explore the historical significance of the areas you travel through for a deeper understanding of the region. Take the time to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural heritage that Sisualik has to offer.

🏞️ Day 3: Emergency Shelters and Fuel Discovery

A challenging day of navigating through emergency shelters, dealing with fuel shortages, and encountering wildlife.

🏠 Anigaak Ranger Station

Anigaak Ranger Station served as a crucial stop for shelter and unexpected fuel discovery, highlighting the importance of preparedness. The challenging conditions of the emergency shelters tested the adventurers' resourcefulness, while the fortuitous discovery of additional fuel underscored the significance of thorough preparation in the Arctic wilderness.

Tips

Always check for additional resources at emergency shelters and be prepared for unexpected conditions. The discovery of the cache of white gas at the Anigaak Ranger Station emphasizes the value of thorough inventory checks and the importance of carrying surplus supplies when embarking on Arctic expeditions.

🏞️ Day 4: Reaching Red Dog Shelter

• The journey continues to the Red Dog Shelter, providing a much-needed respite and recovery for the adventurers.

🏠 Red Dog Shelter

The Red Dog shelter, a heated cargo container, provided a luxurious setting to refuel, rest, and let the weary feet recover after a long cross-country tour. It offered a warm and reliable environment for preparation for the next leg of the journey.

Tips

Utilize available shelters for rest and recovery, and ensure to have equipment suited for the harsh conditions. Additionally, consider carrying dedicated, comfortable boots to prevent foot issues during the journey.

🏔️ Day 5: Final Stretch and Reflection

The final leg of the journey involves strategic planning to reach Kivalina, culminating in reflection and relaxation before departure.

📍 Sea Ice near Kivalina

A strategic camping spot on the sea ice, showcasing the importance of adaptability and timing in Arctic travel. The travelers made a calculated decision to camp on the sea ice about eight miles from town, demonstrating the need for flexibility and careful consideration of weather conditions in this remote and challenging environment.

Tips

Be prepared to adjust plans based on weather conditions and ensure safety measures are in place for ice camping. Travelers should prioritize safety and be equipped with the necessary gear for camping on the sea ice, including appropriate shelter and emergency supplies.