The Tanana River in Nenana is a breathtaking thing in the summer, but it has its own special beauty and a dash of hope in the springtime. You see, springtime is when the Alaskan tradition of predicting the ice breakup on the Tanana River commences and Alaskans begin to watch for the exact minute of ice breakup on the river. This guessing game started with Alaska Railroad engineers started making $800 wagers on the breakup.
A tripod is placed two feet into the river ice 300 feet from shore. The tower is connected to a clock that stops completely as the ice goes out. Having seen the ice tower this past summer, I've always wanted to get in on the action. This year was my chance. I predicted April, 3oth at 7:58 p.m., and placed it in the red Nenana Ice Classic cans at my hotel. With this guess I have the chance to win thousands. Last year's jackpot was $225,000! How's that for a little Alaska fun and folklore? I'm getting the feels for a little date/time action with the 2nd graders. Don't worry...we will not be placing wagers.
A tripod is placed two feet into the river ice 300 feet from shore. The tower is connected to a clock that stops completely as the ice goes out. Having seen the ice tower this past summer, I've always wanted to get in on the action. This year was my chance. I predicted April, 3oth at 7:58 p.m., and placed it in the red Nenana Ice Classic cans at my hotel. With this guess I have the chance to win thousands. Last year's jackpot was $225,000! How's that for a little Alaska fun and folklore? I'm getting the feels for a little date/time action with the 2nd graders. Don't worry...we will not be placing wagers.