Homer in Winter

I have always said I wouldn't travel in Alaska during winter.  Weather can change in an instant and you can be in sun one minute and a snowstorm the next.  However, Rob had work in Homer and of course we wanted to tag along.

Headed out during a Winter storm warning for Whittier thru Moose Pass.  We figured we could beat it if we left early as they predicted 2 feet of snow in the passes...and that meant Turnagain Pass.  There is no way around it if you want to get to Homer.  It is an absolutely gorgeous place in summer and on a glorious winter day...I am sure it is too.  However, in winter storm ... not so nice. 

Thankfully, Rob does not panic and planned to turn around in Whittier (just before the pass) if the weather there was white knuckled.  What I am sure was much worse as the day went on, was not as bad as we feared.  We arrived just short of Homer to the worst of the snow, and driving off Homer Bluff we encountered a cold rain.  Much like the eagle was bearing in the picture above. 

We bundled up and braved what was then a drizzle to go throw some rocks back into Kachemak Bay.  Until the rain gained up on us and we headed inside for dinner at the Land's End Resort.   

Sea Otters are prevalent in the Bay, as too are Seals, however, just saw one seal and he didn't like posing.  This guy enjoyed it.

Like I said, Alaska is full of micro climates and here by the sea, the weather can change so quickly...you better be prepared.

The next day began with rain and then for about two hours the sun shown and we headed back out sans jacket.  It felt like our last trip here when the weather was fantastic. 

Dad joined us for some more rock throwing.  Until the clouds came back and the skies opened up yet again.  A few hours later, the sun shone bright.  We were on a roller coaster....jackets on, mittens on, jackets off, mittens off, boots off...hurry lets go outside!

Homer is Eagle heaven.  So many adolescent eagles flying around, with what I am sure are moms and dads keeping a close eye.

Not as many boats as in summer and considering the weather, not many venturing out at all with gale warnings surrounding the bay and ocean.

Went from winter to summer in an instant.  Amelia got a lot of exercise when she could and threw about 200 rocks back to where they belong.

The next day...

was cold again with a snow dusted landscape.

We had watched the sunrise while having breakfast.

Until it was time to head back home...sigh...thru the pass that was predicted to get 10 inches.  Once again, our luck held out and only a few flakes and wind.  On a high note...we did miss a high wind warning here at home :)

I will remember this trip when we ponder travel in winter.   

Lastly, we hadn't seen a moose in our yard all winter.  The day before we left for Homer we found this guy peering at us with his mom not far away.