CLIFTON — The Harrison family of Kentucky made a surprise and  notable arrival in Clifton last week as they were spotted on Hwy. 6 on a unique, never seen before, bicycle built for five, traveling northbound on their way to Alaska.

Family members tented in Clifton City Park overnight, before enjoying breakfast with Mayor Fred Volcansek, then continued on their way to Alaska, talking to people all along the route.

The family set out from Kentucky on Aug. 1, and plans to reach Alaska by the summer of 2010.

“We love to travel, love simple green living, and love challenges,” said Bill Harrison, the father of the peddling clan. “We also love being together as a family.”

Bill, his wife, Amarins, and daughters Cheyenne, 6, Jasmine, 4, and Robin, 3, are looking to share the family’s journey with others to demonstrate how to live a dream — despite a strained economic, social, or educational climate.

The 7,000-mile journey will cover the southern states, followed by a trek up the west coast to Vancouver Island. From there, the family will take the Marine Highway to the Alaskan mainland and from there cycle  to Fairbanks, Alaska.

The Harrisons plan to live in Fairbanks for a year, to explore the Alaskan lifestyle and expose the children to new customs and traditions.

The entire journey is being documented on the family website at <www.pedouins.org>.