Anchorage to Matanuska River, AK

​August 13, 2023 


I took a little time this morning to catch up on emails, Facebook, and blog postings. I headed north, and out of the corner of my eye I saw the farmers market. The one near centennial campsite, where I stayed, more than 2 weeks ago, but unfortunately I flew past the exit. I made it back around, which took me more than 10 minutes of driving, but I met up with “fresh cook”, the man who made the wonderful papaya salad. He graciously made a half portion for me where I picked up some meatballs and sesame balls. I also got a charcoal mocha frappe. A nearly black chocolate milkshake, that was incredible. I got back on the road and continued to drive to the town of Eklunta, where I discovered Saint Nicholas, Russian orthodox church and cemetery. Wow the buildings were from the mid-1800s along with the cemetery covered in teeny small houses. Some very well kept to some completely in ruin. This was unusual and spooky where I was glad I didn’t see a skull, or skeleton hand, or foot, as well as any bear. You could hear a pin drop here. 

I stopped at Bushes Bunches Farmstand, hoping to find some local blueberries, but instead picked up some tomatoes, potatoes, and a purple broccoli. I asked about blueberry picking and they directed me to hatchers pass. I was tempted to head up there, but it got to be later in the day, so I settled in to the Matanuska River Campground. I debated the dry camping for $20 but for another $10, I could plug in to electric. So I bit the bullet and went for it as I wanted to heat up water for a very long shower. I was able to cook up my dinner via microwave as well as prepare an omelette for breakfast. I set the thermostat for 65° and by the morning it was running toasty warm. Sometimes the luxuries of electric are very welcomed.





























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