Ideal Cove & Petersburg
Dark shapes of rocky intertidal coastline and outlines of tall conifer trees slowly materialized from the fog bank that shrouded Mitkof Island this morning. The mist cloaking the shore provided a dramatic background for our adventures into the mystery and drama of a healthy old growth-temperate rainforest. Huge Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees draped with lichens and mosses dominated the scene while newly sprouted fall mushrooms and red dots of bunchberry decorated the forest floor and many of the decaying trees.
As we moved along the boardwalk admiring the plants lit in soft pale green light, the complexities of this dynamic system were revealed in the details. Large and uneven age trees, a complex understory, and downed trees in various stages of decay are some of the hallmarks of an old growth forest.
Late morning, as we approached the picturesque Alaskan fishing town of Petersburg, the last of the fog lifted, revealing cloudless blue skies and, lucky us, sunshine. Perfect conditions to enjoy a variety of activities in this beautiful place.
Floatplanes, mountain bikes, bog walks, dock walks, town strolls, shops, fishing boats, and eagle watching were some of the options available. The bog walk or, more properly, peatland walks took us through the forest to a special habitat that comprises about 15 percent of the Tongass National Forest and is found around the globe in northern latitudes. Many of the specialized and miniature plants that are able to thrive in the acidic and anaerobic conditions present here are also found in Ireland, Scotland, Sweden and Norway.
Following a fabulous presentation by Dr. Fred Sharpe of the Alaska Whale Foundation, we headed into the sunset spread across Frederick Sound. Tonight we’ll dream of humpback whales and hope our amazing luck holds ….just one more day.
