Setting the Stage: A Quest for the Elusive Northern Lights
The allure of the Northern Lights drew me to the snowy landscapes of Fairbanks, Alaska. With hopes high and cameras ready, I embarked on a mesmerizing journey to witness this natural phenomenon. But Alaska had much more in store for me than just the dancing lights. It became a playground of adventure and exploration, offering experiences that surpassed my wildest dreams.
Sled Dogs and the Iditarod Trail: Unleashing Joy
Before delving into the Northern Lights quest, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to play with sled dogs. Surprisingly, these working dogs transformed into playful pups, craving belly scratches and ear rubs. Once harnessed to the sled, they led us along a portion of the iconic Iditarod trail. As I nestled into the low seat, I marveled at the snowy scenery whizzing by, a testament to the pure joy that these incredible animals bring.
Exploring Ice Sculptures and Roaming the Town of North Pole
Alaska’s icy landscapes are a canvas for artistic wonders, and I couldn’t resist exploring the intricate ice sculptures that adorned the region. These frozen masterpieces transported me to a magical world, where shimmering ice took on mesmerizing shapes and forms. Additionally, a visit to the town of North Pole, with its charming Christmas-themed attractions, added an extra sprinkle of delight to my Alaskan adventure. There were Santa themed sleighs, workshops, trees, and toys everywhere!
Denali Park: A Winter Playground
Denali Park unfolded like a winter wonderland, inviting me to embrace the joys of the season. I frolicked and played like a carefree child, or more accurately like a giant Sasquatch clomping through the snow, but hey it was all in good fun! Equipped with GIANT snowshoes, I mean these things are like 2 tennis rackets tied to your feet, I gracefully (see earlier clomping Sasquatch comment) glided through the the powdery snow, and even dove in to leave behind my first-ever snow angel imprinted on the landscape. Getting up however was an adventure all in itself, which my brother was all to happy to take plenty of pictures of. Why is it brothers are so helpful like that!
The Alaskan (Exxon Valdez) Pipeline: Up Close and Personal
Alaska is home to awe-inspiring industrial marvels in addition to the stunning scenery and one of the highlights of my trip was witnessing the grandeur of the Alaskan pipeline. Standing before this massive structure, I couldn’t help but marvel at the intricate engineering that allows oil to flow through its veins. It served as a reminder of the diverse landscapes and industries that coexist within Alaska’s majestic wilderness.
Growing up in the 80s/90s, I can distinctly remember the Exxon Valdez oil spill so it was really interesting to see what the actual pipeline looked like. First of all, it’s much larger than I expected and kind of looks like a big metal version of a children’s slide.
Disabled Travel in Alaska: Embracing Acceptance and Inclusivity
After Denali, we headed to the Chena Hot Springs Resort, a magical place with natural thermal springs, an ice hotel, and some incredible sculptures.
The ice hotel was a highlight, where sipping martinis from glasses made entirely of ice added an extra chill to both our adventure and our beverage! There were ice sculptures, ice furniture, walls, and well everything was made of ice. And just look at how cool my brother looks with his martini—he’s like a regular James Blonde! Okay, I’ve been holding back on the “cool” pun, but I couldn’t resist sneaking it in here, and I’d say I’ve shown incredible restraint only including it once. Alright, alright I’ll go back to sitting on my hands now, no more really bad puns.. Back to our regularly scheduled adventure!
After the ice hotel, what better way to warm up than a dip in the steamy Chena Hot Springs, where the therapeutic waters enveloped me from head to toe. One can think of the hot springs without also thinking of the infamous aroma of Chena Hot Springs! That distinct scent lingering in the air is actually a testament to the natural wonders bubbling beneath the surface. You see, those mineral-rich waters, heated deep within the earth, carry with them a unique bouquet of sulfur compounds and other minerals that give Chena its signature scent. If you time it just right, you can actually view the Aurora Borealis from the springs, and yes, at certain of the year your hair WILL freeze! I however went in the early spring so my hair was safe and I had to wake up 3 AM to see the Northern Lights rather than hand out in the hot springs.
As an amputee, I ventured into Alaska with a mix of excitement and apprehension. However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover when locals and tourists alike embraced diversity and disability with open arms. At Chena Hot Springs, where I chose to remove my prosthetic leg while swimming, I found a safe and accepting environment. No one stared or made me feel uncomfortable, reaffirming the beauty of inclusivity in travel. Frequently I chicken out and stay on dry land because disassembling in public can be both embarrassing and difficult, because once you have your leg there are a whole host of challenges: How do you get in water? Where do you leave your leg? How do you get out of the water? Where do you leave the towel (because you can’t put your wet leg into your dry prosthetic)? So, to say this was a real treat is an understatement.
Why yes. That is a metal dragon sitting in a bed of snow.
And. It. Was. HUGE!
Daenerys Targaryen would be proud.
The Dance of the Northern Lights: A Night to Remember
The climax of my Alaskan adventure arrived in the form of the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Armed with patience and determination, I woke at 3 am and journeyed away from the comfort of my hotel, eagerly awaiting the cosmic spectacle.
The waiting felt long, but as the last night unfolded, the vibrant green lights burst across the sky, showering us with their brilliance. It was a celestial dance that ignited a sense of wonder and left me breathless. It is one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen and something that is more amazing than any photo can depict.
Embracing the Spirit of Adventure in Alaska
Alaska is a destination that calls to the adventurous souls within us. Disabled travel becomes a gateway to extraordinary experiences, as I discovered through my journey in this breathtaking land. From dog sledding to exploring icy landscapes and witnessing the Northern Lights, Alaska offers a world of wonders that transcend limitations and inspire us to seek out the extraordinary.
The thing about destinations like this is they only seem daunting. I used hiking poles, snow shoes, show poles, at times crutches, and one heck of a sense of humor. I was never the fastest but I always got to the same destination as everyone else. Even in Denali there were trails and I felt safe with all me gear, and if you’ve read many of my posts you know I’m always fairly certain I’m one step away from a fall. Yet, I do it anyway. I trust my gear and the people around me and frankly I’m safer win my travels than I am at home (see my Instagram posts about my 2023 catastrophic fall in MY OWN DRIVEWAY!). Don’t let fear control your life. You only have so much time, so many revolutions around the sun, don’t let them pass you by—make sure you seize them and chase your dreams before they pass you by without doing the things you dream of!!! Okay, is this where I insert the “Hang in there” style cat poster? 😄
Carrying Alaska’s Magic Within
As my journey in Alaska came to an end, I carried the magic of this extraordinary destination within my heart. The quest for the Northern Lights, the playful encounters with sled dogs, and the thrill of exploring icy landscapes left an indelible mark on my soul. Alaska reminded me that disabled travel is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s about embracing the wonders of the world, creating memories that shine brightly long after the journey concludes.
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