On the road again

Setting out from Whitehorse, I'm back on track. Back on the Alaska highway that will take me into the interior. I'm able to resume my journey somewhat promptly, after sleeping in a bit and reapplying.

I was tasked with getting some Firebean coffee by my Juneau friend, so I tracked that down first. Then I topped up the fridge with a few more fresh options than I've had lately and I'm off. The end goal was originally Beaver creek, just on this side of the AK border, but I got sidetracked.

The road from Haines junction northwest is bordered by the Kluane park. The jagged, snow capped peaks allure me. Evidently it is a huge, beautiful park, with glaciers and mountains and all the "Alaska" terrains I'm hoping to explore. Driving along side it, I'm forced to pull over when I see the breathtaking and huge lake. I simply cannot describe it, but I surely had to stop and admire it. 

Evidently I stayed there a bit too long, as I made it to the local ranger station just after they closed. Well damn. I was eyeballing a hike into the park, up to a point that overlooks this gouged out valley and the retreating glacier that caused it. The park requires a permit, and I need a bit more information about the route. I drive a few miles up the road, pulling over for a short hike up to get a better perspective on the lake. I dawdle and drive slowly, pulling over frequently to explore as I debate the glacier hike. Is it worth camping early for? And taking the 2 or 3 days to do the hike?

Ultimately, I decide yes it is and find a place to tuck the van for the night.