Several years ago I did a multi-day rafting trip on the Tatshenshini River. This is a free-flow river, with no dams anywhere. And not a single town, bridge, lodge or developed campsite to be found in over a hundred miles. Just a completely natural environment, and one of amazing beauty at that.
The Tatshenshini has its origin in the Yukon territory, flows through a corner of northwestern British Columbia, then through Alaska before draining into the Pacific Ocean.
We had several "rest days" during our trip, one of which was alongside a Creek known as Sediments Creek. From here there is a popular (although primitive) trail that takes you up a mountain, all the way to the alpine zone if you're interested in some exercise.
The trail starts through a forested region and climbs up hill until you're in an open area, probably an avalanche chute.
I ended my hike about halfway up the mountain -- pitch was too hard on the knees and lungs -- at a prominentory that offered beautiful views of the Tatshenshini Valley and the mountains that frame it, as you can see in the photo below.
A bonus of the hike was the perfusion of wildflowers I spotted as I rested, before descending back to the river. They were truly beautiful. I know the names of some, but many -- while familiar -- I can't name.
Here are some of my favorites from the walk:
Freshly blooming wild rose (above), and older faded wild rose blossom (below):
(beetle taking in some nectar)
Wouldn't have found a better sellection of flowers in a botanical garden.
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