Since Mike and I have been traveling so much with our move to Fairbanks, we have not had a chance to see some of the sights. So, yesterday, we decided it was time to get out and have some fun. We started with the Fairbanks Farmer’s Market. It was the first day that they were open this season. There were not any fresh vegetables, but there were plenty of things to see and buy. They had all kinds of vegetable and herb plants for sale. They also had arts and crafts, as well as, baked breads and jams. It was great to see all the vendors out with fresh smiles and happy faces. Mike and I walked away with two pieces of fudge (one chocolate and the other peanut butter).
After visiting the farmer’s market, we drove out Chena Hot Springs Road to a place called Angel Rocks. There is a 1.2 mile hike up to Angel Rocks. Needing a little exercise, we felt up to the challenge. One thing I failed to mention was the weather. When Mike and I were getting ready for our day, we did not read or listen to the weather. So, in our feeble little minds, we thought, “Well, it’s May 9th. It should be nice and warm today.” So, Mike put on a pair of shorts and I put on a pair of capris.
Now, back to our hike… We got out of the car and the temperature was 45 degrees and the wind was blowing at about 20 MPH. I don’t know the exact wind chill value, but it was COLD! For about two seconds, we thought about getting back in the car and finding a warm fireplace in which to curl up in front of and read a book. Common sense did not prevail. Personally, I think it was peer pressure. Several Alaskan cars pulled up beside of us. They got out of their cars with their summer clothes and everyone looked happy. I thought to myself, “If they can do, so can I!” With bravado in my voice, I said to Mike, “Sure, honey. I’m up for it!” And, off we went.
About ¼ mile up the trail, it was completely covered in snow. We tromped through like real Alaskan troopers. I only slipped and came close to falling no more than ten or twelve times. Mike was better than me. He only slipped a couple of times. At this point, I did not feel like a trooper any more! I was sliding just a little too much and I found myself getting a little whiney. I looked at Mike and said, “If I slide into the river and they can’t find my body, enjoy the money. Oh, if they don’t find my body, give me at least five years to turn up before you declare me legally dead. Oh, one more thing, if they can’t find my body and you have a memorial service, make it a good one.”
After huffing and puffing up the hill, we finally made it to the top. We sat for a few minutes and ate our fudge. It was at this point that we crossed paths with another couple. They had their dogs and a couple of guns with them. This made us feel really safe. If there were any bears in the area, these people would protect us. We waited for them to start back down the hill and we quickly followed.
Once we got back to our car, we drove out to the Chena Hot Springs. The hot springs is just that a “hot spring.” Basically, it is an area where the water comes out of the ground at 165 degrees. Thinking that we are completely insane, Mike and I walk outdoors in our swimsuits in 45 degree weather. It was definitely cold. However, once we entered the spring, we never felt cold again. In fact, after about 20 minutes, we were too hot. We got out and cooled off in one of the regular hot tubs.
Overall, we had a lovely day. I am including some pictures of the moose we were able to see, as well as, some of the hike. We hope you are doing well and God bless!
Mike and Kristie
After visiting the farmer’s market, we drove out Chena Hot Springs Road to a place called Angel Rocks. There is a 1.2 mile hike up to Angel Rocks. Needing a little exercise, we felt up to the challenge. One thing I failed to mention was the weather. When Mike and I were getting ready for our day, we did not read or listen to the weather. So, in our feeble little minds, we thought, “Well, it’s May 9th. It should be nice and warm today.” So, Mike put on a pair of shorts and I put on a pair of capris.
Now, back to our hike… We got out of the car and the temperature was 45 degrees and the wind was blowing at about 20 MPH. I don’t know the exact wind chill value, but it was COLD! For about two seconds, we thought about getting back in the car and finding a warm fireplace in which to curl up in front of and read a book. Common sense did not prevail. Personally, I think it was peer pressure. Several Alaskan cars pulled up beside of us. They got out of their cars with their summer clothes and everyone looked happy. I thought to myself, “If they can do, so can I!” With bravado in my voice, I said to Mike, “Sure, honey. I’m up for it!” And, off we went.
About ¼ mile up the trail, it was completely covered in snow. We tromped through like real Alaskan troopers. I only slipped and came close to falling no more than ten or twelve times. Mike was better than me. He only slipped a couple of times. At this point, I did not feel like a trooper any more! I was sliding just a little too much and I found myself getting a little whiney. I looked at Mike and said, “If I slide into the river and they can’t find my body, enjoy the money. Oh, if they don’t find my body, give me at least five years to turn up before you declare me legally dead. Oh, one more thing, if they can’t find my body and you have a memorial service, make it a good one.”
After huffing and puffing up the hill, we finally made it to the top. We sat for a few minutes and ate our fudge. It was at this point that we crossed paths with another couple. They had their dogs and a couple of guns with them. This made us feel really safe. If there were any bears in the area, these people would protect us. We waited for them to start back down the hill and we quickly followed.
Once we got back to our car, we drove out to the Chena Hot Springs. The hot springs is just that a “hot spring.” Basically, it is an area where the water comes out of the ground at 165 degrees. Thinking that we are completely insane, Mike and I walk outdoors in our swimsuits in 45 degree weather. It was definitely cold. However, once we entered the spring, we never felt cold again. In fact, after about 20 minutes, we were too hot. We got out and cooled off in one of the regular hot tubs.
Overall, we had a lovely day. I am including some pictures of the moose we were able to see, as well as, some of the hike. We hope you are doing well and God bless!
Mike and Kristie
Snow covers part of the trail up to Angel Rocks.
Mike is feeling ice cold water flowing down from the hills. 
In the winter, the Chena River is frozen solid.
This moose is checking Mike out to see if he is safe.
Moose are looking for fresh vegetation this time of year.
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