Fairbanks

We safely made it to Fairbanks today thanks to Kenny, our newest friend. We searched for 6 ways from Sunday to find a reasonable way to either get the tire changed or transported to where we could take it on to Anchorage to where we already have an appointment. I made at least 20 calls this morning and I was given the number for Kenny. Kenny is an incredibly interesting gentleman who transports vehicles among other things. He gave us an honest price to get the bike to Fairbanks on a flat bed trailer towed with his pick-up truck. We had an incredibly enjoyable time visiting with Kenny along the 5 hour journey. He even served as tour guide and made some extra stops and detours to ensure we got photos of things we needed. Thank you Kenny!

I have been taken back by all of the tall, skinny evergreen trees growing for millions upon millions of acres. Kenny informed us that they are white spruce and due to the rather short growing season each year they can be 30 years old or more and be just 6" at its base. Additionally, because they are so close together, the sun can't get to them. I have seen artificial trees that look like these. I never thought much of them. I have a new found appreciation of them now.

I say millions upon millions; I meant it...as far as the eye can see in any direction.

And rather unceremoniously, the Alaska Highway ends. As we passed this sign, I said, I wish I could have gotten a photo of that sign; fortunately, Kenny turned his rig around to allow me to capture it.

And there in the same parking lot was a more ceremonious sign. It is indeed with sadness that we reached the end of this wondrous highway. Full of history and splendor! Three iconic roads that have played such a vital role in shaping our nation. We shall indeed re-visit the Alaskan Highway, as it is our return route for quite a ways until we veer east in Fort Nelson.

As we drove by a store, I glanced at the sign and asked Kenny what the store was all about. He stated that he meant to stop there and he promptly turned his rig around so we could have a look see.

Most everything in this shop is locally made from burls from downed trees. Incredibly unique characters line the front lawn...

While inside this relatively small store is a display that would rival the likes of Cabella's.

I particularly enjoyed seeing the burled wood used in the construction of the building. Kenny, thank you again!

30 miles east of Fairbanks is the town of North Pole. This is a gift store/Santa's workshop.

Everything in town followed the North Pole theme. I was even able to share with Kenny a tidbit that he didn't know; A member of the town's City Council legally changed his name to...you guessed it, Santa Claus! http://www.northpolealaska.com/citycouncil

Though we are traveling in a different manner, we are still on our scheduled route and still seeing some beautiful scenery.

Thanks for riding along!

Till Tomorrow!