Day 21: Travel to Dawson City, Yukon

This morning, having left the campground at 6:30 a.m., should have put us in a good position to see some animals out having breakfast.  No, that was not the case.  However, about an hour into our trip, we saw a very large, very handsome elk with huge antlers still in velvet.  We passed too quickly to get a photo, but it is imprinted in our memory forever.  What a beautiful sight.  The sun was shining brightly and the elk looked up just as we passed, striking a pose for us.  He was very majestic!

We went right on by Braeburn’s Lodge.  Too many cinnamon buns on this trip already.  We stopped in the rest area where the Montague Roadhouse Historic Site is; a preserved early day roadhouse on the stage coach route between Whitehorse and Dawson City.  During the late 1800’s to early 1900’s, it offered travelers a good meal and a place to sleep on their way. 

Montague Roadhouse

Five Finger Rapids was a scenic spot to take a 5 minute break from the frost heaves.  We decided NOT to take the 219 steps down to the bottom, however.  

Five Fingers Rapids

We are always amazed at the vast wilderness of the area known as the Tintina Trench, the largest fault in North America.  The landscape has changed considerably here over the last million or so years, and will continue to do so for years to come.

Overlooking Tintina Trench

Sign explaining Tintina Trench

Landscape changes at Tintina Trench


After reaching the campground at Goldrush RV Park, and getting everyone parked, we gathered to await the arrival of Pat Brooks, the owner of the campground.  He was coming to talk to us and get us oriented to Dawson City and what there is to see and do here.  While we were waiting for him, we gave each guest a “Welcome to the Klondike” surprise, in the form of a Klondike Bar.  They were a big hit.  Who can say no to ice cream? 
 

Klondike bars

At 8:30, we led a small group up to the Midnight Dome.  The majority of the group was going to go up around midnight, but we wanted to be asleep by then after our early start this morning.  Regardless of the time, it is an awesome view from up there.  We also saw a little black fox with a white tuft on his tail as we came down the road on our return.  Another fine day comes to an end.

Black Fox crossing the road

Submitted by: Rig #1

Spence & Madi