Packer.log – 8/25/25

07:50 – 23.5m
59.4598774, -135.305851

Embarking on the Day with White Pass & Yukon Route

The tour kicked off with a thrilling start, leveraging the iconic White Pass & Yukon Route. Our expedition began at the original elevation of 23.5 meters, setting the tone for a day full of exploration in the captivating landscapes around Alaska.

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway Starting Point

09:01 – 23.5m
59.4598774, -135.305851

Commencing the Laughton Glacier Hike

Our group split into pairs, embarking on the exciting hike towards Laughton Glacier. The route promises an engaging mix of natural beauty and challenging terrain, allowing us to immerse in the pristine Alaskan wilderness.

Trailhead Starting Point

09:02 – 588.6m
59.5522649, -135.121037

Weather Insights at the Trailhead

As we approached the trailhead, we encountered overcast skies with excellent visibility, making for a promising weather report at 588.6 meters elevation. With a temperature of 12.7°C and no precipitation, it was ideal hiking weather for our journey ahead.

09:27 – 588.6m
59.5522649, -135.121037

Rare Fungus Discovery: Amanita Muscaria

During our trek, we spotted a rare and fascinating fungus—a newfound sprout of Amanita Muscaria. Known for its striking appearance, this discovery added a unique element to our Alaskan adventure.

Rare Amanita Muscaria Fungus

10:33 – 588.6m
59.5522649, -135.121037

Scenic Snack Break at the Lookout

A mid-morning pause for a snack at a beautiful lookout provided a chance to recharge while soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding glacier landscape—an unforgettable experience amid nature’s magnificence.

11:04 – 752.7m
59.539514, -135.0908374

Monitoring Weather at Sandlot

At 752.7 meters elevation in the Sandlot area, we observed broken clouds and a temperature drop to 11.9°C. These conditions enriched the hiking experience as we continued deeper into the landscape.

11:21 – 826.8m
59.5336657, -135.0942513

Current Conditions at Glacier Toe

Reaching the Glacier Toe, our instruments showed a significant change in weather, with temperatures falling to 9.8°C. The breeze added a refreshing touch to this pivotal moment of our expedition.

13:03 – 926.9m
59.5247529, -135.1009697

Weather at the Glacier Moraine Summit

Upon reaching the summit of the glacier moraine, we were met with a crisp 5.8°C. This vantage point offered extensive superior visibility and emphasized the vastness of the stunning Alaskan ice fields.