Inian Islands-Elfin Cove-George Island
If I was to use one word to describe today in Alaska, it might be stellar. From the clear sunny day with calm waters upon waking, to a close-up view of a humpback whale off our bow and the Fair-weather range in perfect clear view, it was a grand start to a well-rounded day of adventure. Zodiac cruises around the Inians gifted us with Steller sea lions, many juveniles interacting with our boats, curious and playful as they followed along, giving many photo opportunities for close ups. Puffins and bald eagles wove in and out of the scene along with the ever engaging sea otters, floating and diving in these abundant waters.
Late morning, Mary Jo Lord-Wild, a long- time resident of Elfin Cove, come on board to tell us about the nitty gritty of living on a board-walk fishing town, whose population swells to the hundreds in the summer, and just a handful of hearty souls throughout the rest of the year. She raised her family here and proudly spoke of the many advantages of a small community with family-owned businesses. Now the school has been turned into a museum because of the lack of young families. We were able to visit the town after lunch, and helped support the local economy with unique purchases such as smoked king salmon, jewelry, pottery and the usual tourist items like caps and tee-shirts.
Just minutes away, George Island beckoned with its scenic outcroppings and lush vegetation for long and short hikes. Because of its exposure to the Gulf of Alaska and the open Pacific Ocean, part of the history is that it was an outpost of approximately 40 soldiers during World War II, with a canon still in place at a high point on the island. Long hikers were able to view it and see the fantastic view of the open waters and the Fairweathers across the Bay. Tide-pools were also explored and the kids were rewarded with views of sea stars, various gelatinous animals washed up on the beach and plenty of driftwood and rocks to scramble over. Kayakers explored the craggy cliffs, a sculptural arch, and the serenity of calm seas that this day offered up.
A grand surprise and finale to the day was a special dinner on shore with sweet and sour pork, rock fish with teriyaki sauce and a yummy stout cake. An all-around picture-perfect day in this magical place left us with smiles of contentment and satisfying memories that will long be with us.
