Baranof Island and Sitkoh Bay
This morning we woke to perfect conditions for a forest walk and macro photography at the newly improved Lake Eva trail at Hanus Bay on Baranof Island. A few intrepid kayakers set out to enjoy the glassy waters and explore the inner tidal zone while the majority of the guests spent time in this dynamic forest of hemlock, spruce and cedar. The smell of skunk cabbage and decomposing vegetation permeated the air while the songbirds entertained us with their song high up in the forest canopy. It’s so easy to get caught up in the grandeur of the forest and overlook the less charismatic creatures like the banana slug, the largest of North American slugs, processing the forest matter.
After lunch, we cruised into Sitkoh Bay and were treated to a rare glimpse of a pair of Sitka black-tailed deer swimming across the bay. For several minutes we watched them swim to shore and then preen themselves on the beach. Further up the bay, two sets of brown bears with cubs were spotted feeding in the inner tidal zone.
Our pre-dinner entertainment was a culmination of guest photographs. Gorgeous landscapes, spectacular wildlife and dynamic macro shots will keep the guest returning for future trips.
