This next leg of our journey took us to a hot spring, wildlife on the highway and our second milestone.
We did not want to leave Muncho Lake, but the unpredictable wind, rain, and sun got to us. The lake is just spectacular, but we have to move on. Our first stop was the Liard Hot Springs, a very popular stop for Alaska Highway travelers. This is on Mile 496 of the highway and used to be the site of a major camp during construction. These natural hot springs are a piece of paradise, with temperatures ranging from warm to hot to hotter depending on the spot you select. We soaked our tired muscles for half an hour, and on our way out, we saw a moose.
As we moved along the highway, wildlife was the centerpiece. We were the only ones on the highway this early morning, so we expected lots of animals on the road. We were not disappointed. We encountered Stone Sheep checking us out, a Moose that scampered away as we approached, grazing Bison, and Bears munching away without caring about the tourists gawking at them. This was a slow drive due to some deterioration of road conditions and the increasing amount of wildlife along the way. However, we were surprised that the roads overall have been in fairly good shape. We’ll see if that holds true as we continue.
Arriving at Watson Lake, Mile 635 is the second milestone in our Alaska Adventure. We are now in the Yukon Territory, the final Canadian territory to traverse before arriving in Alaska. This community is a favorite stopover as it is home to a famous attraction, The Signpost Forest. It was started in 1942 by a homesick GI who erected a sign pointing to his hometown of Danville, IL. Today, the collection of signs constantly grows due to visitors who wish to promote their own communities. We took a stroll and were amazed at how far the signs have traveled and their number, which has grown to over 70,000.
We stayed overnight at Tags RV Campground right across the Signpost Forest. Big rig friendly, quiet and okay for overnight stop.
Comments
15 responses to “Hot Springs, Wildlife, and a milestone – Yukon Territory, Canada”
Looks absolutely amazing! I am soooooo jealous!
It is indeed amazing! My pics can not do justice. Maybe that upcoming sabbatical can be a good excuse to drive up here.
Mona and Steve…your tip is amazing..Wish I could do that..Learning all about places never heard before. Enjoy..
We are having a great time! Thanks
Love your photos and look forward to your posts…….taking notes for our trip 🙂
Thanks, we are also learning more of what we have read. Its really amazing!
I’m learning so much about Alaska and look forward to reading about your next adventure annd seeing the beautiful photos. Thanks
Monalisa & Steve,
Am so enjoying your blog with all the beautiful pictures, interesting facts & history. You both look wonderful; it sounds like you’re having the time of your lives. So cool! Drive safe, be careful the animals love tourists for snacks.
Miss you both. Jeanie
Oops I meant learning so much about Canada…..
Glad that you are enjoying the ride. There are more beautiful photos up ahead.
We missed you too and we wished you are with us to experience this awesome adventure.
It’s getting prettier. Awesome pictures of the moose. ML, looks like you were enjoying the hot springs. I bet your skin felt real silky afterwards. Love those springs. Keep safe…. Hugs….
The soak was indeed very relaxing that we both feel sleepy as we drove on.
On your return trip I would guess you need to be wary of the bull moose. If it is the rut season I hear the bull moose can be aggressive and dangerous.
I’m loving your site. Hello ML.
Thanks Mike, so far the wild animals had been just grazing along the highway.