Alaska Natural History Rafting Expedition Gates of the Arctic

DATES/TIMES: (There are two expeditions) Pre-brief: Aug. 3, 1999 (6-10pm) 1st. Expedition: Aug. 5-16, 1999 (12 days) ----------------------------------------- Pre-brief: Aug. 22, 1999 (6-10pm) 2nd. Expedition: Aug. 24 - Sep. 4 (12 days) LEADER: John Wenger, Naturalist/Wildlife Biologist FEES: $1085 (includes all transportation, even bush flight, in Alaska for expedition). QUESTIONS: Write leader, John E. Wenger 3217 Doil Drive Anchorage, AK 99507 Phone: (907) 562-5838 Office hours: 7:00-9:00am Tue or 3:00-5:00pm Fri (Anchorage time) Please call during office hours; otherwise, all requested long distance return calls are collect. E-mail: gowild@alaska.net

      Travel the famous Trans-Alaskan Pipeline haul road. Camp along the mighty Yukon River. Cross the Arctic Circle. Take a bush plane flight. All are part of an exciting expedition to raft the Koyukuk River in the Gates of the Arctic National Park. Observe, photograph, and enjoy the amazing natural history of this vast wilderness. Emphasis is on learning the bird, mammal, and flowering plant species. Returning, visit Denali National Park for more wildlife viewing.

      Beautiful Arctic Grayling inhabit the easy-flowing Koyukuk River. Your leader, a natural history instructor for the University of Alaska and former biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game will discuss the grayling's life history and demonstrate flyfishing techniques.

      This Alaska Natural History Expedition is attended by nature enthusiasts, averaging about 25-55 years of age, who are seeking an in-depth and adventurous Alaskan learning experience. Participants provide their own food and camping gear. 13 maximum.

Getting Started
      The expedition originates and ends at Anchorage. Although you will have received detailed preparation lists and instructions before the expedition begins, you first day starts with an important pre-brief. It will cover all final considerations and equipment checks. You will have one free day to make any needed changes or purchases before the expedition departure.

Trip Itinerary
      The leader with his 15-passenger van and trailer will transport the others and their gear. From Anchorage, we will van to Fairbanks to camp the first night. En route, plan on occasional short hikes to view wildlife and scenery. Continuing north, we reach the famous Trans-Alaskan Pipeline haul road crossing the Yukon River and the Arctic Circle. Finally arriving at historic Coldfoot, our rafting adventure begins… 80 miles down the beautiful Koyukuk River to Bettles. Since our float trip is speedy, we will be able to set camps for several days at a time. This allows plenty time for fishing, hiking nearby, or just loafing. These easy waters offer "sit back and relax" rafting providing close encounters with wildlife. Expect lots of superb bird watching and listening!
      From Bettles, you are treated to a bush flight over the Gates of the Arctic National Park back to the airstrip at Coldfoot. After an overnight stay in Coldfoot, we head south for photos at the Arctic Circle and a stop at the Yukon River. Later, we visit Denali National Park for more nature observation. Once back in Anchorage, we usually celebrate by having an optional Alaskan seafood dinner.

Fun Learning
      If you enjoy learning about nature, here is the perfect opportunity. Study the natural history of Alaska in a relaxed, nonacademic manner. The leader, an interpretive naturalist and wildlife biologist, will discuss nature from both a natural and scientific viewpoint. In other words, metaphysical aspects of nature will be considered as much as topics as, say, the Alaskan wildflower families or the social order of wolves.
      Hikes are moderately paced to "take in" bird, wild plant, and mammal observations. If you would like pointers, nature photography techniques are discussed and demonstrated.
      Days are long during far northern summers so you will have ample time with the leader to "pick his brain". You decide what Alaska natural history subjects you want to learn more about. Just ask. Of course, you may be as serious about learning as you desire and might prefer to just "sniff the flowers" and think about nature on your own.

Preparation and Responsibilities
      All details of the expedition have been carefully considered. All required permits have been obtained. This expedition is extremely well-planned and organized. Since space is limited, a detailed list of all essential clothing and equipment will be sent after fees are paid. Also included are packing instructions, the itinerary, and all trip details. You must be in GOOD physical condition and have no serious health impairments. Paddling the rafts while on the river and then day hiking near the river will be the most strenuous part of the expedition. You must know, not guess, that you can comfortably handle this expedition (if in doubt, request in advance, a physical fitness questionnaire to be completed at home).
      You are expected to be somewhat field experienced. Past overnight backcountry camping is essential. This means you can easily set up your tent, do your own cooking, are familiar with and can operate your equipment, and can prepare and carry your own gear. You are not to become a burden on the leader or the other members due to ill-preparedness, lack of experience, or poor mental and/or physical conditioning for remote field living.
      You will need to arrange for your own transportation to and from the pre-brief and departure site in Anchorage plus any lodging, if needed. You are responsible for meeting the schedule of the expedition and acting in a safe and conscientious manner in the field.

Reservation and Cancellation Policy
      To reserve a place for an expedition before May 5 or May 27 (90 days before the pre-briefs of the 1st. and 2nd. expeditions), a $200.00 deposit is required. The balance is due May 5 or May 27, respectively. For those applying after these dates, the full fee is required. Reservations are guaranteed when the full fee has been paid and the applicant's requirements (physical fitness and camping experience) have been approved.
      Cancellation would mean a loss of a percentage of fees paid, as follows: (number of days from pre-brief) within 30 days=100%, from 31-40 days=90%, from 41-50 days=75%, from 51-60 days=60%, from 61-70 days=45%, from 71-80 days=30%, from 81-90 days=15%, before 90 days=$100 (nonrefundable fee to cover processing expenses).
      Make check to Alaska Natural History Expeditions. For each person applying, submit clearly printed name, age, complete mailing address, and phone number. Send fee and information to leader, John Wenger, 3217 Doil Drive, Anchorage, AK 99507.

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