Truly Amazing Trip!! I have known Cathy for 40+ years and Mike since they were married 16 years ago. I went to visit (last minute) for a surprise Bday Party for Cathy. We pulled off the surprise with 7 friends/family flying in from TN and about 30 Alaska (new) friends! But I felt like it was MY BIRTHDAY with all the great adventures we had...in just 3 days! We arrived at Anchorage at 7pm and a shuttle was waiting to pick us up. The drive from Anc to Girdwood is truly beautiful and I saw my first Beluga Whale on that drive. We surprised Cathy as we just casually walked in like we were neighbors! Mike was grilling fresh-caught (4 hrs) King Salmon with amazing sides. (And this is how they treat all their guests, not just friends!!) The next morning, the ladies had a Spa Day planned at Aleyska Nordic Spa. Massages, Saunas, Steam Rooms, Hot and Cold outdoor pools, Fire Pits and a delicious lunch. You HAVE TO GO if you are in Girdwood! The Boys spent their day fishing in Whittier on Mike's commercial fishing boat. (more on fishing soon) We also hiked to Virgin Creek Falls that afternoon, right from their house.
Saturday was a little rainy but that didn't stop us from a 4 mile hike on the Girdwood Nordic Ski Trail. This area is used for cross-country skiing in the snowy months but a beautiful, moderately easy walking trail to the rivers/falls/bridges in the warm months. That evening was the Birthday Party, and once again, Mike outdid himself with the planning and catered menu-there were at least 15 appetizers, 10 or more main dishes, and many desserts, not to mention the "glacier ice" cocktails! Party was a success!
Sunday it was the girls turn to go fishing in Whittier with Mike. He also planned a Guys Fly Fishing Trip on the River complete with a guide. (The guys will have to give the details on that adventure,, but they said it was great!) Mike and the Girls set out into Prince William Sound for whale watching. Of course the snow capped mountains and glaciers were spectacular, but I was there for the WHALES!! First you see the mist from their spout, then a fin and usually a big tail slap of the water. If you are lucky you will see them "breach" out of the water, but you never know will that will happen. I was lucky enough to see 2 jump out beside each other! So many humpback whales just gliding in and out of the water and then the Orcas made an apperance! These are the "cute" black one with big white spots. Add a few seals, sea otters and an Eagle to the mix and you have the perfect day! BUT, we still need to Fish! With Mike's expert guidance, we reeled in 7 Coho and one King Salmon. The quota per person is only one King a day-with a fishing license. She was a 20lb fighter, but I got her in!! Added bonus, Mike packed a cooler of salmon as a check-bagged for me to take home the next day!!
All this to say, YOU NEED TO BOOK YOUR ALASKA VACA with Mike and Cathy!! They will tailor everything to your wants and needs. Cathy is THE BEST HOST and Mike KNOWS ALASKA because he has lived there for over 50years! I will attempt to post pictures! lol read more