Went up to Exit Glacier today; so named because it proved to be a suitable 'exit' from the Harding Ice Field upon exploration. The Glacier has been receding historically about a mile every 90 years, but recently that pace has almost doubled, raising concerns about the impact on the surrounding ecosystem. As the glacier melts it flows down into this huge valley, with a massive riverbed running through it. When we were there the river was pretty low but you can tell that when it runs it's incredibly wide as there are no trees or any vegetation to be seen there - the force of the water must be really something when it's running that full. The hike was quite short and easy compared to what we're used to in CO but beautiful nonetheless; we had a little bit of drama when I stopped to get some pictures, figuring I'd catch up to the group, and took the wrong fork in the trail. We all found each other eventually and made it up there, and took a bunch of pictures. The area right around the glacier is like being on the moon, lots of flinty rock (some of it really sharp like an arrowhead) and no vegetation save for some lichens. According to the guide, after the glacier recedes it takes many years for vegetation to take hold, and you can really see it when you're up there looking back down the valley.

Had lunch at Chinooks' Waterfront restaurant; they brew their own beer which was probably the best thing about the place. We've been pretty spoiled by the restaurants here; surprisingly good and in fact Ray's (to be reveiwed later) and Yoly's have been terrific.

Back on the water tomorrow and hoping for a big finish to an awesome trip! Until later.....

View all the photos here