Why Travel the Small Towns and Backroads?

Why take the back route?  I’ve already shown that the small town gas stations, restaurants, and motels are filled with great people.  Now let me add value to my case.

Gravel roads slow you down.  As you concentrate, you feel connected to the road and the environment in a way you won’t feel on an Interstate.

You’ll see the scenery in a way you’d never see on an interstate.

When you meet a new friend, you can stop and take his picture!

When you see a beautiful spot, you can stop, get out of the car, and take a walk!

But don’t eat the mushrooms!

 

Of course, stop and admire the vistas!

Watch the light as it moves across the landscape.

A free ferry doesn’t slow you down – even if you have to wait until the third trip.  It gives you time to enjoy people and refresh your spirit in the scenery.

The town of Chicken, Alaska.  Maybe 10 year-round residents.  The guidebook points out lots it has to offer!

 

Hey, study the light on the landscape again!

And again!

Drive carefully.  I drove over 120 miles of gravel roads.  The Top-of-the-World road between Dawson City, Yukon, and the Alaska border is incredible.  But in a wind it can be treacherous!

Stop when you enjoy the scenery – don’t drive off the edge.

Slow down.

Take pictures!

Next – Songbird banding at Creamer’s Field Migratory Bird Refuge.