Navigating Wildfires

Corinne Alaska, Boondocking 2 Comments

Checking on the status of wildfires around us has become commonplace on this summer adventure. One of the hot (pun intended) topics of discussion at the RV Rally was the status of the two wildfires happening between our rally location and Fairbanks, our next destination.

We started our journey northward with a couple of days of boondocking in the town of Healy (just north of Denali National Park).

The entrance into the boondocking spot looked a little sketchy. But our Rally neighbor had been to this location and assured us that we could get in.
And we did get in! Once we got down the narrow road, we had a wide open, gravel lot. It was time to relax.
In the town of Healy is 49th State Brewing. We had been here before when Janelle was with us. This visit, there was an addition to their outdoor space….that easel on the left side of the entry path.
Look at that. It was information about the Bear Creek fire. We found it interesting that this info was displayed at a local watering hole. But I suppose they have to get the info out however they can.

By the time we left our boondocking spot, the Bear Creek fire mentioned on the easel was pretty much contained. But we still had fires further up Highway 3 to contend with. The Alaska 511 website was checked frequently. We knew that there would be delays on the highway, there were pilot cars taking vehicles through the region affected by the fires.

Leaving Healy, I took this picture of ALL the cruise ship buses lined up, waiting to go pick up their cruisers that were probably in Denali.
As promised, we had delays while traveling the highway. This was a substantial line of cars, and we had to wait for 30 minutes before a pilot car could escort us northward.
We saw a number of places where the fire crews were stationed. They had their tents and equipment all over this vehicle turnout.
We had to wait a number of times for pilot cars to lead us.
Even though there were no flames jumping along side the road, we had plenty of smoke.
Drive carefully and safely.
We could see where the fire had been.

Alaska is used to having wildfires. Not surprisingly, they have a whole website devoted to the fires, https://akfireinfo.com/. Some fires are left to burn, others get beaten back. Alaska is a big state, it would be hard to fight all of them. Plus fires are what allow the Black Spruce trees to disperse their seeds. Fires are a fact of life here.

This is a good time to introduce you to the wildflower Fireweed. When I first heard about Fireweed, I was imagining a bright red or orange bloom, similar to the color of a flame. No, that is not the case.

Fireweed is a pinkish purple! So why is it called Fireweed? This wildflower is one of the first plants to appear in a burned out area. Hence, FIREweed! We are seeing it everywhere in July, not just in the burn scars. The plant can be used to make syrups, jelly, tea and ice cream. Who knew?!?

We are now in Fairbanks and have had some excellent adventures here. More to come!

2 thoughts on “Navigating Wildfires”

  1. Linda n Al

    Hey folks! Well, I binge read all your posts (and read them to Al) now that I’m finally on your blog! Whew, I can hardly wait to do a trip to Alaska! It’s always been on Al’s bucket list and now has become mine, too. And it is possible that some Australian friends might rent an RV and travel with us- want to do it again? LOL Most places you mentioned we have been to but not in an RV and not enjoying the travel as slowly as you have. We flew into Anchorage, so the start of your trip from Canada is fantastic. I can’t wait to hear what follows (although I already know where you’re at!)
    Safe travels! We’ll be following the bouncing RV!
    Linda and Al

    1. Corinne Post author

      A three month visit to Alaska has got to be vastly different that a 2 week visit. I will know all the ropes by the time you and Al are ready to head north!

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