Nicky with a King Crab leg

Juneau is the controversial capital of Alaska, controversial because it is on an island with no access by road. We think it deserves its status, except maybe when the cruise ships are in. It is a beautiful city with some stunning architecture set in the significant hills that surround it. There is stacks to do and see even in the rain.

Rain again today, nearly all day. There is a short boardwalk over wetlands at the glacier that we avoided due to the cruise tourists. This walk has a reputation for good bear sightings so we ventured out before the busses.

Somewhat waterproofed

Not a shark but a king salmon

Ducks are so undignified at dinner time

No bears.

Had a look at the campground to see if we would have been flooded.

Campground totally closed. Now for a refund.

The road north of Juneau goes nowhere for 60km then just stops. However the sights were worth the drive, even in the rain, and we called in at the Shrine of St Therese on the way. The church is still used and the area used as a retreat. It is beautifully cared for by the Catholic Church.

Mary’s lookout, in comfort

From Mary’s lookout, the island with the church and shrine

St Therese church

An unusual monument

Another church on this road is Protestant and apparently the most photographed church in Alaska though I don’t know why.

Chapel by the Lake

The rest of the trip was scenic but the rain made for soggy photos. Worth the drive but would have liked some sun.

Echo Cove. Note the fog waterfall

Back to town and the State Museum. This was fascinating and we could have easily spent a long time here. There was a lot of material on the original inhabitants and their lifestyle, followed by their fate at the hands of the Russian fur traders and the white Americans.

An electric car power park becoming more common

Kayaks and fishing methods

An electric underground mining train engine

Then off to the Last Chance Mining Museum, a privately run display touted as a ‘must see’. Not so much.

The walk in was nice.

The waterfalls in the mountains impressive

Could take it leave it

A bit of fabric shopping of course then a great dinner at The Hanger overlooking the harbour. Nicky finally got to try some king crab. It was a great way to end our stay in Juneau, although we will be back for another 2 nights.

Tomorrow we are on an early ferry for Sitca, a Russian settlement originally and reported to be the prettiest of all towns in Alaska. We will see.

Dining at The Hanger

Garages for boats

The Juneau waterfront