
The Heights of Skagway

by Russ Harris
Title
The Heights of Skagway
Artist
Russ Harris
Medium
Mixed Media - Fine Art & Photography
Description
As the White Pass and Yukon Route ascends from the port of Skagway, La Jolla artist Russ Harris captures the train as it embarks on a breathtaking journey through one of the most exhilarating sections of its track, where steep, rocky terrain dominates the landscape. Here, the railway clings precariously to the mountainside, offering passengers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The tracks wind along the cliffs, with sheer drop-offs plunging into the lush valley below, creating a thrilling sense of elevation and isolation. Massive granite outcroppings and jagged peaks tower above, often dusted with snow, while vibrant alpine meadows burst with wildflowers during the brief summer season. As the locomotive climbs through a series of sharp curves and steep grades, it navigates trestle bridges and dark tunnels, a testament to the ingenuity of the engineers who conquered this unforgiving landscape over a century ago. The rumble of the engine echoes against the rocks, mingling with the rushing sound of distant waterfalls, and the air becomes crisp and fresh, invigorating all aboard. This stretch captures the awe-inspiring beauty and ruggedness of Alaska’s mountains, making for an unforgettable experience that showcases nature’s grandeur and the tenacity of human endeavor.
Uploaded
March 16th, 2025
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