“To the lover of pure wildness Alaska is one of the most wonderful countries in the world... it seems as if surely we must at length reach the very paradise of the poets, the abode of the blessed.” John Muir, Travels in Alaska

Alaska is an immense land of breathtaking scenery. It’s a place where adventure and contemplation coexist.

One moment, you’re exhilarated hiking through untouched forest with breathtaking views of glaciers ascending mountains that touch the sky. Next, you’re absorbed by the stillness of the night, feeling insignificant under the spellbinding undulating curtains of the Northern Lights.

It’s also a place of change. “Alaska isn’t about who you were when you headed this way. It’s about who you become,” according to Kristin Hannah, a New York Times bestselling author. Somehow, just being in this vast landscape surrounded by the beauty of nature transforms you. The trials and tribulations of city life disappear, replaced with the serenity of connecting with the wilderness.

In a world where you think everywhere has been explored, Alaska remains a land of hidden treasures. Your discoveries bring moments of adventure and contemplation, making you feel alive and connected.

The Shot

On September 14, we awoke in Butte, Alaska. Our photography group headed to the Wolf Lake Airport and a helicopter ride. We landed near Gravel Creek, a 6-mile-long, fast, continuous glacial stream that empties into the Matanuska River.

We launched our drones and flew upriver towards the Gravel Creek glacier.

At Gravel Creek with our helicopter in the background

Dappled light danced across the landscape. As I flew towards the glacier, I waited for the light to paint portions of the mountains flanking Gravel Creek and the glacier in the distance. I was exhilarated by what I witnessed.

As my drone returned, I took the opportunity to just look around and soak in the beauty of Alaska. You can see 18 seconds of what I experienced at Zenfolio | Chuck Derus | Alaska. I was in the paradise of the poets and the abode of the blessed.

The Friday Photo will return after the holidays on January 9.

Thanks for looking and Happy Holidays,

Chuck Derus Zenfolio | Chuck Derus