The “WOW With Out Words” Experience
The clouds were keeping me from going further... further north into the Brooks Range and my destination, Atigun Pass. I'd been there before, and I had to come back. It is so serene, so majestic, it's God's country - the epitome of Alaska, The Great Land.
The weather cleared at dawn as I crested the 4800' continental divide, highest and northernmost highway pass in AK. The snow plow operator told me it was 10 below. I wished I wouldn't have asked. At least the bears would be hibernating, I hoped. I slept the rest of the day away. Stardate: October 26, 2001.
I was snug as a bug in a camper when I awoke at 7pm that evening. I peeked out the window and (Oh my gosh!) the auroras were active already. No time for breakfast tonight! The wind whipped my face as I set up my tripods and I knew I was going to have to earn this one. The auroras starting ripping across the sky as they began their color and shape shifting routine, a routine that is never the same. And then it hit. Like "W.O.W." With Out Words.
There are no words to truly describe a major auroral experience. It is like trying to describe something divine. Imagine this: A beautiful rose colored glow slowly developing over the mountains. A half moon rising and trying to peek through the clouds, and finally succeeding. The white treeless slope of a pedestal-like mountain projecting black & white, rock and snow. I'm looking for more words... translucent teal and midnight blue sheltering a crimson glow that is without question one of the most gorgeous sights I have ever experienced. It was a gift from nature. And now, I am With Out Words.
