Jupiter, now fully provisioned and refueled in shambolic Ketchikan, departed for more northerly and remote locales.  The small inlet and harbor community of Meyers Chuck was highly recommended as a sheltered refuge with a good dock where nothing happens.  The curious name of the community originates from the Chinook word chuck, meaning inlet that fills at high tide.

Historically this chuck has been many things to few people.  The current population stands at 7, although we are told that summer residents might inflate the populace to 25 “if they ever come”.

Houses built on pilings along the shore

Jupiter on the float at Meyers Chuck

We entered the impossibly small harbor with its necklace of houses, sheds, and shacks built on pilings along the high tide rocks.  Improvements have never spoiled the pleasing prospects here, but there is a solid float built and managed by the State of Alaska to which we secured the boat alongside a few local fishing craft and a cruising sailboat.  The honor system moorage fee for the night, as calculated by the State for a 60 foot vessel is $12.84.

Whimsical sculptures mark the beach trail

Town center and post office

Village humor

On this rare sunny day we hiked the community’s narrow foot paths through the mossy, rocky forest to a wild beach overlooking Clarence Strait.  The path is carefully marked by rustic sculptures and carefully placed zany artisanal detritus.

Meyers Chuck is home to Cassy’s famed cinnamon buns, freshly baked and delivered warm each morning to visiting boaters.