Day 187 / June 26, 2024

It was a VERY late night in which we *may* have set up in the wrong campsite and then debated until 1 am whether or not we should pack up and move to the correct site. We ended up staying put and hoped that no one arrived overnight looking for their campsite. (For the record: I was told #38 on the phone when I made the reservation a few days ago and the highlighter does go to that site. It also clearly states that we’re in #4 so…🧐)

Needless to say, we didn’t sleep well, but who can feel tired when this is the view from the campground in the morning?!

We grabbed our bikes and headed out to check out the turquoise waters of the Kenai River. The non-motorized river is known for some of the most pristine fishing in Alaska.

The majestic Kenai Mountains aren’t too shabby either.

The steep hill up from the river was perfect for some friendly bike races. 🚵‍♀️ 🚵‍♂️

Then we went to Sportman’s Landing to see the famous Russian River where Riggs wasted no time dipping his paws in the crystal clear water.

The view along the river with the Prickly Wild Rose blooms was pretty.

The water was moving dangerously fast at this point in the season so it’s a good thing the salmon weren’t running yet because Adler would have wanted to get out there!

🐟 🐟 🐟

The Russian River Ferry (which uses the river’s current to power the boat) carries foot passengers across the river to the busiest “combat fishing” spot in Alaska. When the salmon are running fishermen/fisherwomen will be standing shoulder to shoulder on the bank. Yikes!

Dreaming about catching the big one…

Next it was time for a hike to Russian River Falls which is frequented by bears. The trail is in bear territory or what we’ve nicknamed “bearitory.” 🐻