During their steam train journey, Prince William and Catherine made an unplanned stop at a bridge along the White Pass and Yukon Route railway in the remote northwest. The unexpected detour took place amid the stunning scenery of the Montana mountains, adding an element of spontaneity and adventure to their royal engagement. Their aides were surprised by the couple’s sudden decision to explore the railway alongside the historic steam train. It was noted that this same train had been used by the Queen and Prince Philip nearly 60 years earlier during their visit to the region, much to the delight of both William and Catherine.
Known for her distinctive sense of style, Catherine made a seamless transition from her striking red coat and heels to something more comfortable yet still stylish. She opted for a warm and elegant Sentaler ribbed sleeve wrap coat in a grey shade that perfectly matched the setting. Pairing the jacket with comfortable yet stylish jeans, she wore Soles’ famous Virgi Chocolate Suede boots, which are known for their high-quality craftsmanship in cowboy and biker styles. This thoughtfully chosen outfit allowed Catherine to maintain her grace and elegance while still enjoying the adventurous nature of their spontaneous stop.
The couple’s curiosity and excitement were evident as they crossed a wooden bridge, which afforded a closer view of the tranquil Bennett Lake. Their journey continued with a warm welcome from the local First Nations community, complemented by an intricately carved totem pole. However, the real highlight of the visit came from a captivating performance by a group of young Tagish dancers dressed in traditional robes and headdresses. These talented children, aged between four and seven, performed the enchanting dances of “Raven” and “Wolf”, earning applause and cheers from William and Catherine.
In the middle of the performance, William pointed to a mischievous boy, causing Catherine to laugh and adding a joyful moment to the event. Immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions of the local community, the couple was serenaded by the melodious voices of the children singing in the native language of the Tlingit First Nation. The atmosphere became even more festive as the entire crowd joined in a lively rendition of the “wolf” song, which echoed throughout the area. This display of unity and celebration left a deep impression on the royal couple.
The people were greeted with warmth and hospitality from the area. Through this unexpected experience, Prince William and Catherine not only discovered the area’s breathtaking landscape and historical significance, but also formed a connection with the local community, fully immersing themselves in its vibrant culture. Their spontaneous choice to stop and interact with their surroundings added an exciting and authentic dimension to their royal visit, creating precious memories that will last a lifetime.
