WOW With Out Words

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.