The drive along the Susitna River was beautiful. We stopped many times along the 49 miles as we drove to the historical Independence Mine. The mine operated in 1938-1941 and was one of the largest gold producers in the Willow Creek mining district. There were over 200 men working the mine in cold, dangerous conditions. They made $7.50 a day with room and board. Many families also lived there. They had their own school. When we were there 4 years ago, it was not open and there was hardly anyone else there. No so this time - there were many other tourist there. There are a lot of hiking trails around the area and they were being well used.
One of the most amazing things we saw was a dozen or so hang gliders sailing off the peaks. They could reach great heights and stay up for an amazing amount of time.
Prior to making that trip, we stopped and took a tour of a Muskox farm. These animals disappeared from Alaska in the 1800s but were brought back from Russia I think in the 30s and today there are 2 farms and several thousand wild Muskox in Alaska. Their qiviut (wool) is combed and collected once a year. The items made from this qiivuit is quite expensive. It is very light weight and is supposed to be much warmer that wool. In fact a lady was pricing a bundle of yarn. It was $95 a skein and it took 2 to make a hat.
We built a fire at out campsite after arriving "home" even though it wasn't very cold. It fact it was the warmest day we have had since we arrived in Alaska. It is enjoyable to sit around it and visit/tell stories anyway.
Don't think I will apply
Olive feeding the muskox named Olive
Beside the rushing Susitna River
The remains of the Independence mine
The rail cars the gold was transported out of the mine
Below: hang glider from the mountain peak
Independence mine from trail above it
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