We get up around 7:30 am. We want to have enough time to arrive at Allakaket and leave camp around 10:30 am.
Last time packing our stuff on the river.
We enjoy paddling that last day – but only for 2h30.
When we stop for lunch we can already see Allakaket, mood is not great – we do not want go home at all.
Just before arriving at the confluence with Koyukuk River we see our last eagle for this trip. We paddle under the tree and he just stays there – looking at us like what the **** is that?
Once landed below Allakaket we pack our stuff and the canoes in their bags.
Now it’s time to find someone (preferably with a big pickup) to take us and our stuff the 4 km to the airstrip.
Unfortunately most people only have quads but while exploring the village the construction workers (they are renovating the school) agree to drive us and our stuff to the airport after finishing work. Of course, once we found them, people stop by to ask us if we need help getting to the airport.
On last time looking back to the river before leaving.
We set up our camp directly at the airport and some locals come by to chat and we also give them our remaining food.
It’s still wildfire season and there is a fire not to far – the helicopter is arriving and leaving all the time.
As it is colder now and we have no open fire – we do not stay up that long this evening and find refuge in our tents soon enough after having dinner.
Alatna 2019 