Alaska - Pilot's Choice - Glacier Landing
September 2003
First Landing - Halfway up the Glacier
This was the summer of 2003. Rick had an unplanned week of vacation, so this 7-day Princess cruise had balcony rooms available, so we decided to see Alaska.
One of the excursions was a "Pilot's Choice" helicopter ride to where the glaciers are formed.
One of my favorite Images - Blue Ice
Some ice was melting over this long summer, which carved out mini-streams. The ice appears blue (like the ocean.)
In glaciers, the pressure causes the air bubbles to be squeezed out, increasing the density of the compacted ice. The pressurized ice absorbs other colors more efficiently than blue. A large piece of compressed ice, or a glacier, similarly appears blue.
Was it Cold? Absolutely!
The sun was out, so it didn't feel super cold, and it was so beautiful. Not many get a chance to spend time on a glacier. This was an experience I won't ever forget. The weather has to be perfect to make a trip like this.
On The Way To The Top Of Alaska
Landing at the top of Alaska - where many glaciers form
This was quite an experience. The two pilots gathered us together and asked us to close our eyes and listen to the silence for 30 seconds. This is when the cliché "the silence is deafening" is appreciated.
Where the Ice Meets the Sea
Video - Glacier Tour with Blue Ice and Stream
Note: Video was the highest tech available in 2003.
Alaska:
Where "Ice Ice Baby" is more than just a throwback song. It's a weather forecast!
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Enjoying Life One Glacier At A Time...
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