Friday, June 28, 2019

The Prairies Review


The Prairies Review

 Until now I’d never experienced, only heard tales of the “Prairies”. Once you exit the Rockies your pushed in as if riding a wave, when you land it’s new and fresh. "I can see for miles and miles", the Prairies are the Rockies mirror opposite. Flat was something foreign, you feel confident the hard parts are behind. It’s like a breath of fresh air! Remember this is just the introduction, the rest is yet to come!
 There are endless stretches of road, if not for the curvature of earth you would see them forever. A bit of an exaggeration but I've never seen roads as long and as straight. There’s often no discernible land marks, look down, then up ten minutes, a half an hour later and it feels as if you haven’t moved. It all looks the same. This goes on kilometer after kilometer, day after day, a mindless repetition. You might also think of the Prairies as being flat, they’re not, far from it. It has its valleys and hills, not many but they’re there. The “others” are somewhat in disguise, gentler low grade inclines, it's the legs that tell the brain your going up. The winds, well there are general rules as to their direction they blow given the time of year. Truth is they don't listen, they do whatever they like. They’re strong, consistent, there are no natural or man made barriers to provide relief. They will test your physical and mental strength.
 Drumheller has history, lots of it, arguably one of the best museums in the world showcasing just that, earths ancient mammals, the dinosaur. The town of Milden was another highlight, my evening walk along the now overgrown rail tracks that led to an icon of the Prairie, it’s wooden Grain Elevator. Long since abandoned but still standing, an unmistakable landmark.
 Youngstown, a memorable campground, peaceful, the air was filled with the sounds of song birds from the nearby marsh. Often, mostly thru Manitoba I would turn off the music and listen to the birds as I rode on. There were many marshes that bordered the roads. The unexpected descent into the Assiniboine Valley, the landscape as I climbed out and looked back, unbothered by traffic. That was a great section! The memorable ride and joy of “Victory” in the Foothills of Alberta, I has concord the Rockies. Long since abandoned farm houses are stark reminders of the past, allowing the imagination to wander. I rode thru and into many small Prairie Towns, I was always greeted by welcoming friendly people. The fellow that bought me lunch at Subway. The women working the campground pay booth in Melville. She granted me free camping close to the showers in a full service site designated for RV's. I was cold and soaked to the bone,“Get warmed up she said” that was her main concern. 
Many of the roads are frost damaged, surface cracking was a common condition making for a bumpier ride than I would have liked. Shoulder-less highways were also common. Gravel in some sections, either I chose or it was a surprise to me.
 Overall the Prairies were a positive cycling experience, Ya tough at times. They are a distinct part of what makes Canada a whole. I wanted to experience it all, I feel fortunate to have done so.

Part Two-Minnedosa to Rainy River


June 26th, 2019/Morris to Vassar

Day's total/KM 126/elevation gain 129 meters
Total to date/KM 2896.1/Total elevation gain 18613 meters

I set the alarm for 6 AM in anticipation the tent would arrive this morning. Made breakfast, packed and was at the Post Office shortly after the doors opened. With the new tent strapped on I bid farewell and I was underway once again. I exited via Hwy 23, again the shoulder was gravel, traffic was somewhat light, it was still early. It felt good to be spinning the pedals again. The winds were light, I made good time to the junction and swung South on Hwy 59, then East onto the  403. When I crossed Hwy 216 the 403 went to gravel. A grater was working the section between 216 and beyond making headway difficult. I experienced my first spill, it was at low speed, the front wheel caught a soft spot and pushed the front end off balance, all I could do was chuckle. There was no harm done. At the turn onto Hwy 12 I stopped for a roadside lunch break, last nights pizza was on the menu. It was a nice break from the usual flat bread and pickings from the on board food stash. A shady dirt road that led to a farmers field was the perfect spot. I fended off the biting bugs and downed lunch like a starved seagull.
 I followed Hwy 12 to the turn that led to Vassar, 4.4 km’s in, I soon found the only store in town, picked up supper and a few beer. I backtracked to the campground which turned out to be quiet nice, I was the only camper, no washrooms or showers, it did have water. I was now on high alert for wood ticks, I had removed on in Morris, Vassar had more than it's share.

June 27th, 2019/Vassar to Rainy River

Day's total/KM 113/elevation gain 42 meters
Total to date/KM 3009.1/Total elevation gain 18655 meters
 
I broke the 3000 Kilometer mark! 
I woke at 6 AM and was underway shortly after 8. On today's menu was a 44k section to the U.S. Border, then another 70k plus back into Canada. I wasn't alone! Not far out from Morris I've been escorted by swarms of Horse Flies. It doesn't matter how fast I peddle they keep pace. The odd one comes in for a snack, but for the most part if they leave me alone.
 Crossing into the U.S. was uneventful, a couple of questions, a peek in the panniers and I was off. I soon spotted Subway shortly after entering the U.S. It's the first stores I’ve seen since Vassar. The U.S. offered up gravel shoulders just like Canada, it always makes it tough especially in traffic. I was met with slight head winds as well, nothing to get excited about. I made reasonable time and was soon approaching the Canadian Border. One last stop at McDonald's before entering Canada and my fifth province. Welcome to Ontario!
I had removed in Morris a blood sucking tick on my back. I wanted a Doctor to check it out. I walked into the hospital at Rainy River, they checked me out straight away. I was not to worry, it wasn't carrying Limes, some free dressing and requested I stop by in the morning.
The campground was alongside the banks of the Rainy River, bit of a weird spot, it was like pitching on someone’s boulevard, there were houses all around. Registration was back in town, which of course was now closed and so were the washrooms and showers. I acquired the restroom key from another camper, he agreed to leave it under his camper tire so I could use the facilities in the morning. A few beers then off to bed for an early start in the morning.

Morris, Manitoba
Vassar, Manitoba with the new tent!
Baudette, Minnesota

Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Part One-Minnedosa to Rainy River


June 21st, 2019/Minnedosa to Portage la Prairie

Day's total/KM 130.9/elevation gain 124 meters
Total to date/2639.1/Total elevation gain 18244 meters

I woke well before the 6 AM alarm, at 5:30 I figured best get at it! The weather report was calling for winds, Easterly’s 30 with gusts up to 50 km’s per hour starting around noon.  I put a twist on breakfast this morning, barbecued rolled oats. I walked away from the stove and returned to smoking oats, they weren’t too bad. I was soon on Hwy 16 heading East, winds were already light. At Neepawa I paid homage to the Golden Arches, two sweet buns and a coffee. Once I cleared the town it was back to Hwy 16, the winds had noticeably picked up, it was back to the struggle. The winds continued into Portage la Prairie. The traffic was heavy, a lot's of truck traffic I assume continuing onto Winnipeg. The highway was under construction prior to entering the city which made for more congestion. My first stop was Canadian Tire for stove fuel, it was on the main route, a quick in and out. Staff was accommodating allowing me to park the bike in the repair shop, so no need to lock things up. 
I pitched at Island Park, not far from town. Not a bad spot, I had to chase down the camp host, paid my dues and acquired the code for the showers. 
It rained hard and continued into the early evening, it was hardest it’s rained thus far.

June 22nd, 2019/Portage la Prairie to Carmen

Day's total/KM 69/elevation gain 130 meters
Total to date/2708.1/Total elevation gain 18374 meters

This morning I woke to a wet floor from last nights deluge. I made the decision to buy another tent, I just wasn't sure what to buy or where. I did a quick search on the Internet and had done some read ups prior and settled on the MSR Hubba Hubba. I had my people back home arrange the deal. Mec was to have it shipped to Morris, Manitoba, general delivery. The other option was to re-route into Winnipeg, I chose not to and would take the rest days instead.
 My exit from Portage la Prairie wasn’t brilliant, I headed along Provincial Road 240 then onto Hwy 2, there were more direct routes, too late I was already committed. I should just copy/paste the following “South Easterly's” day after day I've pushed against consistent head winds. Despite the low grades in elevation the legs have been getting a good workout bucking these winds.
Hwy 2 had a gravel shoulder, there was plenty of truck/car traffic making the section unpleasant for cycling. I did receive some relief from the head winds when the highway turned, it’s always short lived, then back to it.
 My initial destination was Morris, the winds had other plans and chased me into Carmen. First stop was the Co-op, they have a Deli that could hopefully take care of my constant craving for roasted chicken. I'm often turned away, "Sorry we've run out, or we only have whole birds". The day suddenly got brighter, it was chicken and potato salad on the menu tonight. Next stop was the campground, did the usual, set-up and pitched, ate dinner, showered then slept.

June 23rd, 2019/Carman to Morris

Day's total/KM 62/elevation gain 110 meters
Total to date/2770.1/Total elevation gain 18484 meters

 I decided to ride today, I had thoughts of splitting my day's between Carmen and Morris while I waited for the tent to arrive. I pushed on thus making Morris my destination to wait for the tent. I continued along Hwy 3, the shoulder was good to start then abruptly stopped and went to gravel, I hate it when that happens. I was left with less than three feet of paved surface, 12 plus inches of that was taken by the rumble strip, which was cut about center. Head winds again on that stretch. Swinging East on Hwy 23 brought the winds to my side and slightly behind, I was able to gain some speed. Hwy 23 was quieter which is always welcomed, its shoulder for the most part was non existing. Kilometer after kilometer of surface cracks, 15 to 20 feet apart, it gets a little tiresome on the tush with a bike with no suspension.
 The ride was short today, overall I made good time despite the winds early on. When I arrived in Morris I swung into my usual, Subway for lunch. The campground was situated on a corner lot, I can’t say it was ideal. Highway 75 was out front and 23 was along the side both busy with truck and car traffic. The Morris Multiplex sits in back, I’ll be glad when my tent comes!

June 24th, 2019/Rest Day/Morris

June 25th, 2019/Rest Day/Morris

 An unexpected delay, two in fact. The tent was suppose to ship from Winnipeg, the shipper missed that request and started the process from Vancouver. That was corrected via a phone call but resulted in the first days delay. The second delay, it missed the deadline to be shipped overnight to arrive in Morris for Tuesday morning with only one run per day. It was again left in Winnipeg and suppose to arrive tomorrow morning, Wednesday. The real sad part was for two consecutive days the winds have blown from the West!

Friday, June 21, 2019

Part Three-Nokomis to Minnedosa

Bavelaw School, Manitoba Border
Wayside Country Store, Manitoba Border
Binscarth, Manitoba

Part Two-Nokomis to Minnedosa


June 18th, 2019/Birtle to Minnedosa

Day's total/KM 94/elevation gain 145 meters
Total to date KM 2508.2/Total elevation gain 18120 meters

I followed Hwy 42 all the way into Shoal Lake. On exit I took First Avenue (gravel) which skirted along Hwy 16 for a short ways. I was doing my best to prolong the inevitable, Hwy 16. I was expecting large volumes of traffic, there wasn’t. It had a good wide shoulder which put some distance between me and those speeding lumps of metal. Even with the wide shoulder a lot of motorists still swung wide around me, it’s always appreciated. At the Junction of 16 and 10, I crossed, then followed 16A through to Minnedosa. Once again the campground was just out of town, my site was on the shoe of Lake Minnedosa. It was beautiful and relatively quiet. The camp host informed me that would change, the school kids would soon be let loose, summer vacation. Knowing that I decided to take a couple of rest days. 

June 19th, 2019/Rest Day/Minnedosa

June 20th, 2019/Rest Day/Minnedosa

 They have a large Co-op with a Deli in town, that meant chicken was back on the menu. I scoped out the local Chinese restaurant, SunSun, I was glad I did. Super nice guy, buffet lunch was the bomb, I went back twice and waddled out both times. If your ever in Minnedosa ya gotta go there. Did a few short walks in the area, scoped out town and just generally chilled out.


Welcome to Manitoba!

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

Part One-Nokomis to Minnedosa


June 14th, 2019/Nokomis to Kelliher

Day's total/KM 105/elevation gain 105 meters
Total to date KM 2163.2/Total elevation gain 17422 meters

A bit of back tracking this morning to get to Hwy15. Once I turned East I was again met with strong headwinds. The first 40 km’s was a battle! At Raymore the winds were lighter but still coming from the South/East. Eventually  the winds did subside and I was able to cover some ground at a reasonable speed. I stopped outside Punnichy for a roadside snack then back to it. I spotted an unfamiliar site, it was a store alongside the highway, generally the towns and stores are situated aways back from the highway making it somewhat time consuming. I grabbed a soft drink and chips, at that point the brief showers had turned to rain, still 20 k’s to go. By the time I rolled into Kelliher, chatted to the grounds worker another storm was about to unload, setup was in the rain. By the time the fly is attached the tent floor is soaked, it's the joy's of having a two piece tent.

June 15th, 2019/Kelliher to Melville

Day's total/KM 79/elevation gain 89 meters
Total to date KM 2242.2/Total elevation gain 17511 meters

The rains continued into the night and morning, heavy at times. When I woke the cloud cover was thick and low, no sun today. I’ve been riding with another cyclist from Japan,Taro, after some debate he opted to ride. With no pressure from him I as well decided to ride, not sure if it was a smart choice. He left well before me and was off to Yorktown, we bid each other a safe journey. I packed as quickly as possible wanting to take advantage of the brief pause from the rain. I was once again heading East along Hwy 15. As luck would have it the rains soon started, it continued the entire 79 kilometres accompanied by the usual head winds blowing hard from the South/East. It was a tough day.
When I finally arrived in Melville I was soaked to the bone and cold. The campground which was somewhat situated in town had a pay station. I figured on a day like this it would be vacant, there was a women inside willing to collect my money. I passed her my wallet and said my hand were too cold to fuction. At that point she handed it back and insisted I head to the showers, the campsite was free. I setup, showered to warm, cooked dinner in the tent and stayed there the rest of the evening. The rains continued, tomorrow’s forecast doesn't look promising.

June 16th, 2019/Melville to Esterhazy

Day's total/KM 79/elevation gain 156 meters
Total to date KM 2321.2/Total elevation gain 17667 meters

I set my alarm for 6 AM and woke to the sound of rain. At 6:30 I got dressed and had a look at what the day had to offer. Defiantly no sign of the sun, good news was the cloud cover was higher, it also looked thinner. I make coffee and breakfast in the tent, my usual rolled oats. 
With breakfast soon over, I'd wished it to last longer, it was now on with the rest of the day. It’s never fun putting on wet clothing from the day before, ya gotta do what ya gotta do.
I was soon thru Melville and heading East once again on 15, winds were light coming from the South/East but nothing like yesterday. I was able to make somewhat decent time and the rains soon subsided, what a relief! I swung South on Hwy 9 and East on 22 to Esterhazy. I arrived mid afternoon and sourced out the campground, pitched then gathered up my laundry. A few groceries then back to camp for supper and a shower. I fell asleep to the steady sound of rain.

June 17th, 2019/Esterhazy to Birtle

Day's total/KM 93/elevation gain 308 meters
Total to date KM 2414.2/Total elevation gain 17975 meters

I followed Hwy 22 thru to Hwy 8. At the junction I opted to stay on 22 despite it being gravel, it was another 30 KM to Binscarth. It was a good choice, the gravel didn’t last, another 10 Km’s or so I was then back on rough pavement. Welcome to Manitoba! The crossing was uneventful, a single post sign “Manitoba Welcomes You”. There was however at the crossing several monuments marking the past. A one room school house once stood and a General Store, I find the history fascinating.
I soon descended into the valley crossing the Assiniboine River, then the climb out, the legs weren’t accustomed to this, they'd gotten soft from the Prairie roads. The views across the valley were foreign, those were hills I was looking at. The gravel continued in sections throughout the 30 km’s into Binscarth, I only counted about a dozen cars, it was a nice little section. 
I’ve had three consecutive days of being chased by dogs. It’s a fight or flight response-I choose flight then fight if needed-the adrenaline and heart spike immediately. The first two encounters I had to assess trajectory and intent. Putting the hammer down on a fully loaded touring bike is exhausting. 
The third encounter-a hedged driveway, ear buds were in, I detected a bark, naw, couldn’t be. Three dogs charged from the cover of the hedge across the highway and were on me. The first one appeared friendly, his buddy, a pit bull wasn't trustworthy. All told I wasn’t bit or attacked, it’s just rather nerve racking.
Hwy 22 was now the 478 when I crossed into Manitoba, I followed it into Binscarth. On exit I took Hwy 41 then 42 into Birtle. I bought some groceries, the usual beers then backtracked a few k’s to the campground. The tenting area and washrooms could have used some attention but the site was well treed, something I wasn't use to. It was private, no other tenters, just the RV’s that were some distance away. It felt a little strange to be in the woods, I’d become accustomed to the more openness of the prairie. It was a great place to camp!

Friday, June 14, 2019

The Alberta Review


It took about twelve days to cross the province. I clocked 840 KM/5835 meter gain in elevation. 
Alberta served up some impressive scenery along with one of my best rides to date. The Royal Tyrrell Museum, the Icefields Parkway, Sunwapta Falls, beautiful crystal clear lakes and mountain views that seemingly went on and on.
It also had its share of significant ascents and descents. Climbing the Bow Summit and descending to Bow Lake. The Rampart Valley was one of the longest descents, it was a blast! 
Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff all world class destinations. But for me it was the places and sights that lay in between, the less touristy, quieter places. The early mornings when the mountain air was cool and the traffic was light were my favourite times. 
Prior to departure the family was good enough to share with me all the rather terrifying stories of grizzly encounters. I made several enquires at MEC regarding bear spray, other options were bear bangers, bells or whistles. I opted in the end to forgo them all! Despite all the stories and being rather vulnerable on a bicycle I still wanted to see a Grizzly. That wish was answered in the Valley East of Bow Lake. A large female and her new born, she was relatively close to the road with park staff monitoring her, keeping her and young out of harms way from the passing traffic. “A wish come true-It made my day!”
The other bear story was a rather closer than I’d like encounter with a large black bear in the early morning leaving Rampart Creek Campground. I was truly alone, the campground did not open until the following day. It simply required me to put distance between us in crossing the road, generally they run off, this one didn’t.
One of my best rides ever, ya sounds a little over the top. It was outside Canmore on the Bow Valley Trail. It took a bit I think to acknowledge that I had actually cleared the Rockies, the mountain climbs were behind me. This ride was really a celebration of that. It was the perfect day with the wind at my back.The grass covered foothills lay before me, fields of yellow dandelions contrasted against the white bark of the birch. The skies were blue with puffy white clouds . I could see the horizon all around! The pedals felt light and the bike almost effortlessly glided along. The downs provided enough momentum to see me up the next gentle rise with minimal effort. It was the perfect ride and good reason to celebrate.
The shoulders on many of the roads were not the best in Alberta, in fact in places they were none existing. Not sure if Albertan’s are the most friendly towards cyclists, I again had several too close for comfort incidences. 
Camping for the most part was exceptional, many of the places I pitched I hated to leave.
The people were friendly but not as inquisitive as those in B.C., altho there were many inquiries about my trip.
I seemed to have been almost pushed through Alberta, before I knew it I was leaving it behind and entering “The Prairies”.

Part Three-Drumheller to Nokomis


Milden, Saskatchewan
Milden, Saskatchewan
Straight Ahead

Tuesday, June 11, 2019

Part Two-Drumheller to Nokomis


June 11th, 2019Kindersley to Milden

Day's total/KM 122/elevation gain 166 meters
Total to date 1878.2/Total elevation gain 16903 meters

 I woke up to a familiar site, Kristof had arrived late and was pitched in a nearby site. We talked for a bit, he was staying on and uncertain which direction he would take. My plans were somewhat fixed, so once again we parted ways. I headed East on Hwy 7 to Rosetown, had some lunch at Tim Horton's. I back tracked to Hwy 4 then headed South to Hwy 15. I was again headlong into the wind, seemed all too familiar. I was aiming for Outlook but the winds forced me into Milden, I had enough for the day. Turned out to be a good choice, hot shower, hot water in the washroom all for $5.00, what a deal, ya know you've arrived. Wish all the sites were this good, it doesn't take much to put a smile on my face. I had wanted to explore a grain elevator on the Prairies, this was my chance. In back of the campground was a well overgrow set of rail tracks that led to an old wooden one. I love these quiet places, you can poke, kick the dirt and explore and no one's around to bother you. It was a great evening, I stayed around the old wooden structure only to be forced back by the setting sun.

June 12th, 2019/Milden to Kenaston 

Day's total/KM 91/elevation gain 225 meters
Total to date 1969.2/Total elevation gain 17128 meters

This morning I was up at 5 AM. I wanted to take another shower, when the price is rite I sometimes do that. It was a special day today. I was cooking eggs, mushroom, onion and Beef Jerky mash for breakfast. The mash was a welcomed change to the usual rolled oats, it doesn't get much better.
I was back on Hwy 15 heading East by 7:30, winds were light but coming from the South/East, not good.
I didn’t make good time to Outlook, bought some more groceries, had a coffee and two sweet buns at the grocery store. Checked out two places in town for stove fuel, no such luck. 
I was back on 15 once again, you step off for a bit and things change. I was met with stronger South/Easterlies and the road conditions worsened as I went on. Thunder clouds were looming above, there no escaping this time. I stopped to put on the rain gear and rode into it. The rains typically don’t last long but it can come down hard, shelter out here is pretty scarce.
The rest of the ride was uneventful, Hwy 15 deteriorated further with eventually no shoulder at all, I was getting use to that.
Kenaston was a welcomed sight. I was hoping to clock more kilometres today but the wind had other plans.  I called it a day.

June 13th, 2019/Kenaston to Nokomis

Day's total/KM 89/elevation gain 189 meters
Total to date 2058.2/Total elevation gain 17317 meters 

Gotta mention it! Just pushed past the 2000 KM mark!
I headed out at 7:45, East along Hwy 15. The road conditions were good, looks like not too long ago they laid down a new surface. That didn’t last long, back to the broken shoulder and continuous lumps. It pays not to complain, things got even worse, I didn't think that was possible. The Hwy was now gravel, wasn’t expecting that. That carried on for about 10 Km’s. It really wasn’t bad you just had to stay out of the deep stuff and follow the most worn track. Winds were again coming from the South/East  just a breeze unlike yesterday’s strong head winds. I arrived in Nokomis around 2:15, bought some groceries then off to find the campground. No showers tonight, cold running water only and portable toilets.

East of Drumheller

Part One-Drumheller to Nokomis


June 8th, 2019/Drumheller to Youngstown, Alberta

Day's total/KM 134.5/elevation gain 496 meters
Total to date/KM 1601.6/Total elevation gain 16159 meters

 I set the alarm for 6AM wanting to get an early start on the day. It looked as tho it still might rain but it was clearing to the East. I was on the road a little before 8 the winds were cool. I had my winter gloves on with extra layers on top. There was some climbing first thing coming out of Drumheller to warm things up, I headed North along Hwy 56. The bike felt heavy once again under the weight of groceries. I swung East onto Hwy 9. The winds were once again coming from the North/West,  for now in my favor. I stopped in at Hanna for some lunch at Subway.
Highway 9 was decent for cycling although there were long sections with minimal shoulder. Once they put in the rumble strip I had 18-24 inches of real-estate to ride on. It’s difficult to relax and take in the scenery, your constantly having to focus on the road. Richdale, my original destination did not have an RV Park or campground.  I considered stealth camping but there was little to no cover. It was a full day of riding by the time I arrived in Youngstown. With no campground marked on the map I cruised to the end of Main Street. I spotted a couple of guy's with a child, they were in a field. A worn down open faced building and what might be some washrooms. I pulled in and sure enough this was the towns campground, no signage, I just lucked out seeing them there. Camping was by donation. No showers, cold water only and washrooms, it worked for me. It turned out to be one of my more memorable nights, super quiet, I was the only camper. Not far, just a little further down Main Street was a marsh and I could hear the song birds.

June 9th, 2019/Youngstown to Alsask

Day's total/KM 91/elevation gain 259 meters
Total to date/KM 1692.6/Total elevation gain 16418 meters

I’d soon cleared Youngstown and headed East on Hwy 9. I was met with North/Westerlies once  again, for the most part they assisted my efforts, but as the road swung and changed direction they were just side winds. Weather wise it was decent, a little cooler throughout the day, cloud and sun but no rain.
I stopped at A&W for lunch in Oyen then onto Alsask. I entered province number three today-Welcome to Saskatchewan! The campground was closed, no water, toilets were boarded up and it looked like the place hadn't been used in years. I slipped under the gate, there was no stealth here, it's the Prairies. I had a clear visual of the highway, I wasn't bothered by anyone.
The winds were kicking up pretty good, thunder storm warnings were coming in from the surrounding areas and I could see the black clouds in the distance. I felt a few big drops on the tent, nothing more, by midnight the winds had subsided.

June 10, 2019/Alsask to Kindersley 

Day's total/KM 63.6/elevation gain 319 meters
Total to date/KM 1756.2/Total elevation gain 16737 meters
  
It’s been one full month that I’ve been on the road. I have to say so far it’s been going well. The skies were clear blue and the sun soon got things warmed up. I made coffee, passed on any cooking, I had little water for dishes. I ate a Clif Bar and a banana and was soon under way. 
Hwy 9 was now Saskatchewan's Hwy 7, the shoulder had improved, not as choppy. It was a continuous series of speed bumps (frost heaves) along much of the shoulder exiting Alberta, not easy on the butt.
Kindersley will be the biggest town for awhile It was a good spot to grocery up and do some laundry. I rode up to the campground to pitch then gather up the dirty clothes and build the grocery list, then back into town.
I was heading into Subway, just opening the door when a fellow behind me offered to buy me lunch, it was totally unexpected. It's these acts of kindness that really make the day. I figured he was going to join me, he didn't but did offer his place for me to stay. I had to decline, I wasn't going thru Saskatoon. The day was soon over with all the house keeping done. There was a little time at days end to relax, blog and give tomorrow's ride some thought.

Saturday, June 8, 2019

Royal Tyrrell Museum


This place is worth a visit, it’s world class. 





Part Two-Lake Louise to Drumheller

June 5th, 2019/Ghost Station to Beiseker

Day's total/KM 99.3/elevation gain 584 meters
Total to date/KM 1395.9/Total elevation gain 15320 meters

I was on the road early knowing it was going to be a long day. The winds were already working against me and it was still early. I figured once I cleared the morning rush of traffic in Cochrane it would lighten up, it didn’t. Things went from bad to worse. I turned North on Hwy 22, then East on 567, I had  at best a 2 foot shoulder, often less. The winds were from the South East, In front or at the side pushing me in towards traffic. I turned North once again onto the Simmons Valley Road and immediately gained speed with the wind at my back, it was short lived, 3 K’s of bliss. I was soon East once again and back into the wind for another 38 kilometers down Hwy 567. I wasn’t sure whether to laugh or cry. The winds were relentless and so was the traffic. I arrived in Beiseker mid afternoon. The campground was in town, although there wasn't much of one. The price to pitch was $20.00, shower included, ya gotta like that.

June 6th, 2019/Beiseker to Drumheller

Day's total/KM 71.2/elevation gain 343 meters
Total to date/KM 1467.1/Total elevation gain 15663 meters

 I was a little nervous heading out as the winds were already picking up. I pulled out of the campground a little after 8 and soon onto Hwy 9. I was immediately greeted with a wide shoulder. I figured that would soon end once I cleared town, it didn’t. The winds were now from the North/West pushing me along at record speed. I topped out my gears several times with little effort. A few long low grade hills but nothing really worth mentioning, the legs still felt fresh. I rolled into Drumheller at 11:30 covering the 72 k's in record time, wow! As I rolled in the fast food restaurant were lined up like dominoes. It was Subway for lunch, go figure. Mark’s Warehouse was on the list for a new pair of shoes then onto the campground. The cost per night was just shy of 40.00, just to pitch a tent. Oh and showers were not included, it's like getting stabbed in the back!

June 7th, 2019/Rest Day/Drumheller

I woke to rain several times in the night. The morning was overcast and looked as tho it could rain any time. I peddled this far and was determined to visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, I geared up arriving at the door at 9 AM. There was a light rain for the return trip back into town, at least I never got completely soaked. I picked up a few more groceries then back to camp for lunch. It wasn’t long after the rains came down and continued late into the afternoon. I showered then spent some time in the tent.
Alberta
"Thanks for your support"

Thursday, June 6, 2019

Part One-Lake Louise to Drumheller


June 2nd, 2019/Rest Day/Lake Louise

I made a lazy run into town, exchanged some beef jerky for the milder version and picked up some soup for lunch and stew for supper. That was the big effort for the day! I did some laundry, looked over the bike, blogged, ate and relaxed. 
It turned out to be a good restful day in Lake Louise.

Below is a pic I took of the groceries I bought in Lake Louise. It's the only store in the village, here's what I got for $63.00. There’s no Butter Ball or T-Bone included sitting out of frame.

The Hoover Effect-$63.00 

June 3rd, 2019/Lake Louise to Tunnel Mountain Campground, Banff
 
Day's total/KM 61.4/elevation gain 504 meters
Total to date/KM 1212.6/Total elevation gain 14335 meters

On exit from Lake Louise I took the TC, the shoulder was huge, almost another full lane width. Not a lot of traffic, it was still early but it did slowly build. I tried hopping onto 1A at Castle Junction, it was closed for construction. At the Castle junction I met back up with Kristof. He was chatting with another cycle tourist, Craig was finishing up three years of cycling, I can’t imagine.
It was back onto the TC till just outside Banff  I connected onto the cycling path that took me the rest of the way in, it was quiet, treed and I could hear the birds chirping. 
 Welcome to Banff, there was me along with all the other thousands of tourists! I had business to address first off. I exchanged my new stove for yet another one, it’s the second defective one. I also picked up another bottle of fuel. The chain I had installed in Kamloops was routed wrong so I had that corrected, it much quieter now. Off to the Source for a higher output dual charger for my iPhone and battery pack, that turned out to be quit simple.
I ate lunch at Subway, bought some groceries and beer then headed for the campground. Kristof had already secured a site which was lucky as the place was booked solid. We were grouped up with the RV’s, charged for power (which we used) and a fire even tho we never lit one. I would say this was the worst pitch yet but we were both thankful to have a place to stay.
 Tomorrow we were to part way's once again, Kristof was off to Calgary and I was headed for Drumheller. To round off the evening we both cracked a beer and shared stories of our adventures thus far. 

June 4th, 2019/Banff Tunnel Mountain to Ghost Station

Day's total/KM 84/elevation gain 401 meters
Total to date/KM 1296.6/Total elevation gain 14736 meters

I was up early, getting away took a bit. I needed the bike to navigate the campgrounds the wash station etc was a bit of a distance and required the bike. I said goodbye to Kristof, he was hoping to stay on another day but the camping situation was grim, it was unlikely he would get a spot.
I exited at the west end of town following once again the TC. It wasn't long before I connected with the cycle path that took me into Canmore. It was a nice relaxing run and away from traffic which is always welcomed. I stopped briefly at McDonald's for a coffee and muffin then headed East once again. I stayed on the Bow Valley Trail, twenty kilometers out of Canmore and the traffic was minimal. With no shoulder I cycled to the left of the white line the traffic was respectful. The road wound it’s way thru green grass covered hills, fields of yellow dandelions and the sky was blue with light white puffy clouds. The ups and downs were gentle allowing for good speed with minimal effort. Having been somewhat hemmed in by the Rockies, this new landscape had nothing to hide. It was the beginnings of the Prairie and a welcomed sight.
The winds picked up several kilometres outside of Ghost Station making for a little extra push to get in. The pitch was a reasonable one, just tucked off the highway. I spent a better part of the afternoon cleaning the dust I'd brought along from Banff.

Sunday, June 2, 2019

The B.C. Review


June 2nd, 2019/The B.C. Review

   You’ve  lived up to your name, Super Natural British Columbia. The scenery
was exceptional. What made B.C. even better was the people. I met too many to list, many of them never exchanged names. There was a late night meal cooked by a couple I met the first day out in Victoria. Much to my surprise we met again at Marble Canyon. The food was amazing not to mention the beer! I was invited at Steelhead Prov Park to join a family interested in hearing about my adventure. Horn honking as I climbed up over the Duffy Lake Road.
 To cross the province I gained 10800 meters (lost a few inches around my middle) and rode 875 KM to reach the Alberta border, a milestone.
 There were sections, although short in length were challenging on the bike. The Sea to Sky, climbing out of Squamish, for safety I opted to push in sections. Pemberton to Lillooet is narrow and windy but there was little traffic, the scenery was amazing. Highway 5 had a pretty decent shoulder but when the passing lanes appeared the shoulder typically disappeared. An over zealous road worker decided in one section to carve a two foot wide rumble strip rite up against the cement barrier. I was left with two options, rumble strip or left of the white line, either choice wasn't brilliant. Through Mount Robson again was a decent shoulder.
 The motoring public for the most part were respectful giving me a wide berth. There is always the rebels who hold their lane regardless. At times its nerve racking and then once in awhile down rite frightening. I wish bikes were better respected by “ALL” the motoring public.
Weather's a game changer. The worst was the section thru Squamish and Whistler, I was met with rain, wind for much of the day. But as George Harrison said, “All things must pass”. Sure enough it did as I was warmed by the morning sun the following day as I rode through the Pemberton Valley.
 As a cyclist you witness first hand the trash ejected by I assume passing motorists, defiantly not me. The ditches are littered, with well you name it, it’s all there. People travel to these natural areas to enjoy yet they leave their crap behind. Shame on all that do!
 The hills or I should say mountains and there were some mothers! I’m sure I would have blown out both knee caps had I attempted to peddle the Duffy Lake Road, I need a lower Granny Gear for those monsters. Each mountain pass came with its rewards, I have no regrets the views were amazing. 
 I encountered three black bears in total, one coyote, lots of deer. Cows and horses would typically watch as I passed by, not sure why.
Camping-B.C. was beyond expectation, its camping at its best. The truth be told I love camping, always have even as a kid. Regardless of weather (which will change) it never fails to impress.
 I can’t say there’s been a day so far that I’ve been reluctant to spin the pedals. When the big screen plays out front  I’m always up for the movie. It’s a nomadic life style this cycle touring and eventually its time to say goodbye. You’ve provided me with memorable moments, you are after all my home province and I shall return. I’m left with one parting question for you Alberta, what adventures do you have in store for me?

Part Three-Yellowhead Campground to Lake Louise


Columbia Icefields
Columbia Icefields
Bow Lake, Alberta

Part Two-Yellowhead Campground to Lake Louise

Alberta Border
Mount Robson Park, West Entrance
Sunwapta Falls, Alberta

Part One-Yellowhead Campground to Lake Louise



May 27th, 2019/Yellowhead Campground to Lucerne

Day's total/KM 86/elevation gain 616 meters
Total to date/KM 880.4/Total elevation gain 10830 meters

 The IGA opened at 8 am in Valemount, I was out the door and heading for Mount Robson shortly after. The first 35 km flew by with photo ops at the park entrance to Mount Robson. Traffic was resonantly light and good shoulders to ride on for the most part. I arrived at Lucerne around 2:30, beautiful spot situated rite beside the lake.
 
May 28th, 2019/Lucerne Campground to Wapiti 

Day's total/KM 40/elevation gain 210 meters
Total to date/KM 920.4/Total elevation gain 11040 meters

A bit of a milestone today, my first province crossed, I leave B.C. and onto Alberta, I'm now in Mountain Daylight Time.
 I arrived at the Wapati Campground just past noon. I met up once again with Kristof, we doubled up to save camping fees. I set up, did some laundry etc. I cycled the trail that parallels the parkway into Jasper. Shortly into the ride I encountered a female elk on the trail. As I approached she sidestepped the trail allowing for safe passage. Once I passed her the per suite was on! I’d stop, she’d stop, I,d walk, she’d walk all the while getting closer and closer. I decided to haul the bike thru the bush and onto the road where cars were beginning to stop and watch the show. The traffic acted as a distraction so I made my get away leaving the elk behind. The female were calving and apparently can be quit aggressive.
 I bought groceries, treated myself to Chinese food. Spent a bit of time in the town, it's generally busy in Jasper and I wasn't much into the tourist thing.

May 29th, 2019/Wapiti Campground to Honeymoon Lake

Day's total/KM 47.5/elevation gain 729 meters
Total to date/KM 967.9/Total elevation gain 11769 meters

Another day's start under blue skies. I’ve been lucky with the weather during the day so far in the Rockies with frequent rains at night. I stopped in at Sunwapta Falls for pics and a bit of lunch then onto Honeymoon Lake. The campground was pretty quiet when I arrived and was lucky to get a treed campsite, the pine beetle has devastated the park. A good number of campsites had to be clear-cut and in the coming years many more would follow. Approx 90% of the trees are at various stages of infection.

May 30th, 2019/Honeymoon Campground to Rampart Creek

Day's total/KM 89.9/elevation gain 1037 meters
Total to date/KM 1057.8/Total elevation gain 12806 meters

I hit the 1000 kilometer mark today! It was a tough one, reasonably long with some steep sections. It also had a 1004 meter decent into the Rampart Valley, I was cookin! I thought later if the bike had a mechanical failure I would have likely been road kill.
 It was late afternoon when I arrived at Rampart, the campground was closed, gated with a now entry sign. Opening day was tomorrow, I slipped under the cable blocking the entrance and had the park to myself, VIP! I set up next to the cook shelter and food lockers taking advantage of both. All was peaceful until around midnight when I was awoken to the sound of thunder shortly followed by heavy rain. I was glad to be dry in the comfort of my shelter as well as a sense of vulnerability knowing that between me and the rain was just my tent . It held up to the test with minimal leakage around the tubed floor. 

May 31st, 2019/Rampart Creek Campground to Mosquito Creek 

Day's total/KM 65.5/elevation gain 905 meters
Total to date/KM 1123.3/Total elevation gain 13711 meters

Two tough days back to back! Another 8 AM start under clear sky’s, leg warmers and extra layers for the day's start.
Shortly after exiting the campground I encountered my first black bear, a big one. It was only a few feet into the bush alongside the highway so I came up quit close, yelled my usual “Yo Bear”. This guy didn’t budge obviously habituated to the sounds of traffic and I guess yelling cyclists. I took the initiative since it wasn't and swung the bike to the other side of the highway, all went well.
 My second bear encounter of the day was a Grizzly and her new born. It was at a safe distance, park officials were monitoring them both. She frequently grazed alongside the road. Her and the new born were creating quit the commotion and park staff were there to keep the traffic moving and to see no harm was to come to them both. The park officer was kind enough to allow me the use of her binoculars. Seeing a Grizzly was on my bucket list, it was the first I've seen in the wild. 
Cycling the Rockies and the Icefield Parkway was another incredible experience in this cross Canada tour.

June 1st, 2019/Mosquito Creek Campground to Lake Louise 

Day's total/KM 27.9/elevation gain 120 meters
Total to date/KM 1151.2/Total elevation gain 13831 meters

It was going to be an easy ride today which allowed for a later start, I was on the road at 8:30 and soon into the hustle bustle of Lake Louise, not really my thing. I skipped past the usual grocery stop and wanted to secure a campsite. I paid for two nights, with the option of checking out early with a refund if I decided to do so. It wasn't long after setting up and along came Kristof, we've been leap frogging each other for some time now. I went back into town for groceries, the price of food is ridiculous. I've been to Lake Louise, hiked up the back as well several other hikes and exploring in the area so I decided to chill out around the campsite for the rest of the day.