Saturday, March 31st - Driving the Elliott Highway

Yesterday, Steve and I decided to take advantage of the sunshine and predicted 30F weather. We ran a few morning errands and then took a drive up the Elliott Highway to the fork where the Dalton Highway (also known as the Haul Road) splits off and heads to Deadhorse.

Our drive took us about 160 miles roundtrip. The scenery was beautiful, with rolling hills going off in many directions, and a winding road that climbed and dipped along the way. We didn't see any wildlife at all, and only passed a handful of other vehicles, despite it being a weekday. Those vehicles we did pass were 18-wheelers on their way to the northern terminus of the Pipeline. We made sure to give them a wide berth as they rumbled past us.

Along the way, we did see some trucks and trailers parked at some of the turnouts. There are a lot of snowmachine trails in the White Mountains, and we're sure that's where everyone was headed.

About 30 miles north of Fairbanks, I saw a welcome sight to the eyes. Pussy willows!!! This is the first sign of spring I've seen yet, and it was a real treat. Perhaps Spring hasn't forgot those of us in Interior Alaska after all! I know I'm quickly growing tired of below zero morning temps and snow coating everything. I want to play in the dirt, in a garden. I want to see grass and dandelions. I want to plant flowers and see colors! I feel like winter has been here forever.

Here are some more photos taken along the route:

Sawtooth Mountain

Birch stands

Cabin (see outhouse to left?)

Sawtooth Mountain & hwy

Today, it is 40F above zero!!! Do you know how happy we are?! In fact, I am so happy about this warm-up, that I opened the sliding glass doors to let some fresh air into the house. Immediately, Sedona and Airborne ran to the screen to sniff the air and watch the birds enjoying the bird seed on the deck. If this keeps up, maybe the snow will quickly start going away. This weather is perfect for sweatshirts only. Can we finally pack away the parkas and long underwear?! *fingers crossed*

Come on April and some SPRING weather!

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