Arctic Tundra and Remote Outposts
The exploration of Jenny Lind Island offered sightings of an Arctic fox and caribou roaming the tundra. The Distant Early Warning (DEW) line installation, from the Cold War, reminded us of the region's strategic importance during the mid-20th century. In Cambridge Bay, a vital Inuit community along the Northwest Passage, we enjoyed Arctic delicacies and saw the arrival of an annual supply ship. The town’s library display of Arctic Dreams by Barry Lopez brought attention to the inner emotional connection many feel with this remote landscape.
On Edinburgh Island, a hike revealed panoramic views and traces of wildlife, such as old antlers. Johansen Bay provided an sad contrast, with abandoned structures and oil drums serving testimony to past human endeavors to exploit the Arctic’s resources. At Port Epworth near Tree River, we encountered stromatolites—ancient microbial fossils that are some of the earliest life forms on Earth. The sight of small Arctic trees growing as tall as three feet underscored the resilience of life even in these extreme conditions.
Finally, at Port Bernard, we walked through tundra marked by traces of historical occupations, from the Hudson Bay Company and Royal Canadian Mounted Police outposts to DEW line stations.
