tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38761860786259908702023-11-15T23:47:18.804-08:00No Wrong Turns - Exploring the Pacific NorthwestWe have a passion for the outdoors and a love of the Pacific North West. From day trips to longer adventures we always jump at the chance to get outside…on foot, by bike or by kayak! To capture the spirit of discovery, we decided to name our blog No Wrong Turns. You simply can’t make a wrong turn when you are out exploring because each and every turn leads to a new discovery. Our goal is to share our wrong turns with you. See you out there! Jane and Rob Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-77184048112945738672014-04-14T06:37:00.001-07:002014-04-14T06:37:15.249-07:00La Conner - Tulip Tour by BikeAfter paddling yesterday at Widgeon Creek, we had a really bad case of Spring Fever. Nothing quite cures Spring Fever like a slow bike tour through the Daffodil and Tulip fields outside of La Conner in Washington State. Words will not do it justice....so we will share the day via pictures.<br />
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Tiptoe through the tulips with us.....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where's Waldo? Look carefully!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b></div>
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We imagined a peaceful,cycle in solitude through spectacular farmer fields.....we found everything BUT solitude!</div>
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<b><u>Map and Route Tips:</u></b></div>
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Check the<a href="http://www.tulips.com/bloommap.cfm" target="_blank"> bloom map</a> before you go:<br />
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..and be sure to check out the <a href="http://www.lovelaconner.com/skagit-valley-tulip-festival/" target="_blank">Skagit Valley Tulip Festival</a><br />
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Cyclists....need to be really careful. Traffic can be extremely heavy....and the drivers and passengers are ALL looking at tulips NOT watching for cyclists. Be defensive....for sure!</div>
Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-17003558043294473482014-04-13T06:59:00.003-07:002014-04-13T06:59:44.831-07:00Widgeon Creek by Kayak...Lions and tigers and bears...oh my!Today was our first paddle of the season,,,and it was SPECTACULAR. I must confess that it really doesn't matter where you paddle on your first day of the season, as it is simply the pure joy of being back in your boat that matters. I wish I could describe the feeling that comes across you as you dip your paddle into the water on that first day. With every stroke of your paddle you get farther away from the City and your every day work life and a sense of peace and calm seems to overtake you. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Launch Site at Grant Narrows - Pitt Lake</td></tr>
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We were extremely lucky today as the water was calm, the sun was out and the wind was down. We made the choice to paddle along Widgeon Creek, an estuary at the south end of Pitt Lake. It was a picture perfect spring day...the mountains were snow capped and you could feel the land coming to life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2z9hnBednYJCQIhIPyq76FvaTERkDu-uzuA6JhaYQLeShd8o2-8FuXO0IeN47Zy7I6G3qYmxhNm7aoL-frcW93X3b1oY4j1FHFXIRRm10qj9Wz5j1KgkXM-D4kAXpCwQ49qg4dIcEKM/s1600/DSCF4255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2z9hnBednYJCQIhIPyq76FvaTERkDu-uzuA6JhaYQLeShd8o2-8FuXO0IeN47Zy7I6G3qYmxhNm7aoL-frcW93X3b1oY4j1FHFXIRRm10qj9Wz5j1KgkXM-D4kAXpCwQ49qg4dIcEKM/s1600/DSCF4255.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow Capped Mountains</td></tr>
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To enter Widgeon Creek you must paddle across Grant Narrows. It is a short crossing, but during peak season you must be careful to watch for motor boats. Pitt Lake is the only tidal lake in Western Canada and the tide swings are unbelievable. This 24 km lake is known as the largest fresh water tidal lake in North America. A few years ago we were camping on the lake and almost lost our boats, as we didn't account for the tidal swing when selecting our campsite.<br />
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We made our way through the marsh and enjoyed the ever changing scenery as the creek twisted and turned. We passed by the Widgeon Creek campsite, which had been over run by a troop of boy scouts. They were planning a day hike up to the falls. The falls are spectacular and well worth the hike.<br />
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After bidding farewell to the Scouts we travelled further up the creek until the water levels were just too low to continue. We enjoyed a picnic lunch on the sandbar and contemplated the paddles we would like to take this summer. So many destinations....so little time.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect sandbar for a picnic</td></tr>
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The highlight of the trip was a bear sighting! As we paddled back to the boat launch we were chatting away, when we rounded a bend in the creek and came across a magnificent black bear. I saw him first, and Rob continued to chat. I "casually" mentioned BEAR...and we back paddled to put some distance between us. We watched him forage for quite a while, until he finally put his head up and took notice of us. At that point, we decided it was best to move on. Better grubs be his lunch!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Da Bear!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b><br />
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The Widgeon Creek paddle is perfect for beginners! A canoe rental outlet is conveniently located at the boat launch, so it is not uncommon to come across "newbies" out for the first time. We are always thrilled to meet and greet those new to the outdoors and we take every opportunity to share our love for paddling, hiking and cycling. Today we came across a young couple, who clearly were on their first date. In his ultimate wisdom this young man decided a romantic paddle on Widgeon Creek would be the date to WOW her. Unfortunately, it was abundantly clear that his lady love did not share his passion for paddling or the outdoors. When we passed them, he had tied her boat to his and was towing her, literally UP THE CREEK! She could not have looked more miserable! We found them one kilometre from the boat launch, she was staring down and refusing to paddle. We greeted them with a hearty hello...and made the executive decision to NOT mention the bear that was around the next corner, foraging for food along the river bank. We didn't think that information would help spark the romance. We hope we made the right decision......<br />
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<b>Map and Route Tips:</b><br />
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Pinecone Burke Provincial Park <a href="http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/pinecone/" target="_blank">http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/pinecone/</a><br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="405" scrolling="no" src="http://www.strava.com/activities/129560730/embed/c0485dd595b0e5d285c27c4acd57f09ed2a7f9c9" width="590"></iframe>Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-39842655863729701932014-04-05T16:25:00.000-07:002014-04-05T16:25:29.934-07:00Fraser Valley - North Abbotsford by bikeWe ventured out on another route we discovered on the <a href="http://www.trailsbc.ca/" target="_blank">Trails BC</a> website - the North Abbotsford Loop. The route connects the Matsqui, Discovery and Clayburn trails and features lots of variety.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwOiBSbqrBkgnmhuyZCfBlwDaaMrViTPBUObaUk1o04zBWZNKzVYXcsQ2usmG4EBfVZPNoODT5Dr6kJllGYwD7hzmpQzPaeUwWTo_oHKKhwKlsAsflTPR8dt0rZ6F3BdpAdyR8Dd3e5QU/s1600/S0034120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwOiBSbqrBkgnmhuyZCfBlwDaaMrViTPBUObaUk1o04zBWZNKzVYXcsQ2usmG4EBfVZPNoODT5Dr6kJllGYwD7hzmpQzPaeUwWTo_oHKKhwKlsAsflTPR8dt0rZ6F3BdpAdyR8Dd3e5QU/s1600/S0034120.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Mission Bridge</td></tr>
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We began the day at Douglas Taylor Park in the Mount Lehman area and quickly joined the Matsqui Trail through the Matsqui First Nation land. The trail was beautiful, but again, not recommended for road bikes. We had to hop on and off frequently to cross the equestrian gates and we were moving quite slowly as we navigated tight corners and crushed gravel.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOUtYwtderSmswZSgFnU85P3K7ru8nF0P03RdF411xEFtQZrzTNzkZmSh7fDjpby4cNBBtYLPyaxZgQI491ch2VMrYxMt10OlHe3Secr28nW-9NNvDS2UMgenH-ecAM5z8xWS0VuUs_c/s1600/DSCF4112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOUtYwtderSmswZSgFnU85P3K7ru8nF0P03RdF411xEFtQZrzTNzkZmSh7fDjpby4cNBBtYLPyaxZgQI491ch2VMrYxMt10OlHe3Secr28nW-9NNvDS2UMgenH-ecAM5z8xWS0VuUs_c/s1600/DSCF4112.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeling really happy my bike wasn't loaded with gear!</td></tr>
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The trail continued on to the Mission bridge and along dykes as it followed the Fraser River and provided excellent views for the entire length of the dyke trail. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE1oqgXzd0EM2W4as4Je4Zru7bXhGunJuQ-OwwFUk59r9G8XiHh5FrCsneFZYMekw-IuXSOmb6e5VUJtmGNq5KHiWw8Jj_GUs9qPZa0c0G5xqcT3I7hZhyewM70EpGBEjzYMbf2CZ0FQ4/s1600/DSCF4133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE1oqgXzd0EM2W4as4Je4Zru7bXhGunJuQ-OwwFUk59r9G8XiHh5FrCsneFZYMekw-IuXSOmb6e5VUJtmGNq5KHiWw8Jj_GUs9qPZa0c0G5xqcT3I7hZhyewM70EpGBEjzYMbf2CZ0FQ4/s1600/DSCF4133.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great views of the Fraser</td></tr>
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After leaving the dyke trail we wound our way through back country roads to the historic town of Clayburn. This quaint little village and has been designated a heritage site and is well worth a visit. It is a gem. However, it is located at the foot of Sumas mountain. Now, past experience has told us that when the route is at the FOOT of a mountain, there generally is nowhere to go but UP.....and UP we went. It was quite a steep climb out of Clayburn....good training we told ourselves as we gasped for breath!<br />
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Unfortunately, the weather was not cooperating and it was quite socked in, so we weren't really able to enjoy the view from the top - hopefully, next time! In all honesty, I am not sure that we were upset about the lack of view, or more upset that we didn't have an excuse to stop for an extended period to take pictures and catch our breath.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPo2eU87mSWBB7j4ddSzk7Uac6fpgSKZW3jVQUU8WfCaW9eflAtwsmLO78YFwyxTyR1b8PglrAL6PWI0-7dedJDBHf1y__3ephlW_n73NohvxF7OXk76_0kAY9i-oMSiaXYQQP6TBjzk/s1600/DSCF4130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPo2eU87mSWBB7j4ddSzk7Uac6fpgSKZW3jVQUU8WfCaW9eflAtwsmLO78YFwyxTyR1b8PglrAL6PWI0-7dedJDBHf1y__3ephlW_n73NohvxF7OXk76_0kAY9i-oMSiaXYQQP6TBjzk/s1600/DSCF4130.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another sign of spring....curious babies!</td></tr>
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A highlight of the route was the Discovery Trail. This trail is 30 km of paved pathway connecting the east and west ends of Abbotsford. It features towering trees, boardwalks, open meadows and a great section through the Fishtrap Creek wetlands.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsXHUslwSGKKatEVw2IT2CfJfZhRoJ6LzI4c-Y1pCbkOC1_KKe1tth4M5pIPZIcRUEmFhdQd5hyphenhyphenJ4Qo2N1dzx34aBUodQIiB8YKrbpu9RQmJbcAUgZDZBJnmIw-lqtzn-EFvbKdHBD4Y/s1600/DSCF4138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsXHUslwSGKKatEVw2IT2CfJfZhRoJ6LzI4c-Y1pCbkOC1_KKe1tth4M5pIPZIcRUEmFhdQd5hyphenhyphenJ4Qo2N1dzx34aBUodQIiB8YKrbpu9RQmJbcAUgZDZBJnmIw-lqtzn-EFvbKdHBD4Y/s1600/DSCF4138.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Discovery Trail - Abbotsford</td></tr>
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<b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b><br />
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We were riding along a section of the dyke trail when we came across a large group of boys. It was mayhem! Bikes, helmets and gear strewn everywhere. They were in the middle of a "repair" session and were in need of extra tools to adjust seat heights. In turns out it was a group of Boy Scouts training for their summer adventure along the Kettle Valley Railway. We had a wonderful chat with the boys and their fearless leaders and left chuckling. It turns out the kids were about 1 km from their start point.....they had already stopped for SNACKS and for seat adjustments! A great group of leaders and kids....fantastic to see them out there.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6PwlfmxeBLZKODbLS_OxNDYCUBW7pH42c84YN9NzGnkvNoAgdRrQy67Q7Swb13cZkJwEwI5QrK3bHoUWa2AUIJV07efQAG9ZZnNT219V3TSZ6jVZCPh-VuKOZXUJxNwL-0pdaHRgJX2A/s1600/DSCF4135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6PwlfmxeBLZKODbLS_OxNDYCUBW7pH42c84YN9NzGnkvNoAgdRrQy67Q7Swb13cZkJwEwI5QrK3bHoUWa2AUIJV07efQAG9ZZnNT219V3TSZ6jVZCPh-VuKOZXUJxNwL-0pdaHRgJX2A/s1600/DSCF4135.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at the picture closely - We also giggled at how many of the Scouts were "helping with the repair! </td></tr>
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<b><u>Map and Route Tips;</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.trailsbc.ca/">www.trailsbc.ca</a><br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="405" scrolling="no" src="http://www.strava.com/activities/127238938/embed/7559eafb7c287d35a4cea35cc667f205beb4b143" width="590"></iframe>
<br />Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-28014263371571601312014-04-02T18:51:00.002-07:002014-04-02T18:51:39.541-07:00Tri Cities Loop by Bike<div>
The Tri Cities loop is part of the Trans Canada Trail but be forewarned - it is definitely NOT for road bikes. There is a lot of variety - paved trail, roads, crushed gravel, forest trail and dyke riding as you wind your way along this route connecting Coquitlam, Port Moody, and Port Coquitlam. Not a great choice if you are looking for speed and distance, but if you are interested in amazing views and exploring, this is a winner!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXT6xVhlolzyYqO7XVl-B1qRuZoXomx72tqYxtoZd8NyWM7ZXJl_n8jaYT0N6tFq088kRKlScW5XJAXBfuQV6TzoL6mlHJX2Vk_FcQ7Tx4LpUWpSkXB_yXfS9tn0wccif-7XD9JOubHWw/s1600/DSCF4077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXT6xVhlolzyYqO7XVl-B1qRuZoXomx72tqYxtoZd8NyWM7ZXJl_n8jaYT0N6tFq088kRKlScW5XJAXBfuQV6TzoL6mlHJX2Vk_FcQ7Tx4LpUWpSkXB_yXfS9tn0wccif-7XD9JOubHWw/s1600/DSCF4077.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salmon stream along Hoy Creek Trail</td></tr>
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As we step up our training for our West Coast tour, we have been trying to get in a few longer rides on the weekend. The forecast was good, so we began our trek to the trailhead at Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam Centre park. Despite a good forecast, the day turned out to be quite "humid" We were glad to have come equipped with our heavy duty rain gear.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheFQEtbgKrl5IEOfPwxrgcX4vd-H34JpZ0OUFq9K4KuU_AwGQG6Gyx6Onf9CODgvH1rXIyVS25CY3TvHnVXXgHj67ajgqp0_FtBYNFmZozQTLn1cRCVidVpMvMpbJarNtI5uheeI2B-VY/s1600/DSCF4107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheFQEtbgKrl5IEOfPwxrgcX4vd-H34JpZ0OUFq9K4KuU_AwGQG6Gyx6Onf9CODgvH1rXIyVS25CY3TvHnVXXgHj67ajgqp0_FtBYNFmZozQTLn1cRCVidVpMvMpbJarNtI5uheeI2B-VY/s1600/DSCF4107.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cue sheet a little worse for wear due to the "humidity"</td></tr>
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The route had lots of variety! We rode past Rocky Point Park in Port Moody, Barnet Marine Park and enjoyed city riding along the Burnaby Urban trail and the Central Valley Greenway. Near the end of the ride we enjoyed a section in <a href="http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks_lscr/regionalparks/Pages/ColonyFarm.aspx" target="_blank">Colony Farm Regional Park</a> before making our way back along the Poco Traboulay Trail.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjVPkkRKgSYhvE8taH6ZGJLhXZCv1H8isN3vJJTNqx4RA8mZvTlkBHpUP_kghdAIAVo2Dn269-0Wxa9DLNImu0w1crarW7H4nxxu4URZVuX_acfZUEhKCtbNUWKXSVJLpBGiBS0f6FoM/s1600/DSCF4076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjVPkkRKgSYhvE8taH6ZGJLhXZCv1H8isN3vJJTNqx4RA8mZvTlkBHpUP_kghdAIAVo2Dn269-0Wxa9DLNImu0w1crarW7H4nxxu4URZVuX_acfZUEhKCtbNUWKXSVJLpBGiBS0f6FoM/s1600/DSCF4076.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forests come to life - spring is in the air</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6CaAkY9_JuLWLsWFzxs3dgaY90DsRPfogH_f0Iib__LK2Y25M-WPQ4OTeAPeqX5IGUDBrz4BVGIJ4PXGsvSpbG-hVmG_oQgXkjoStJvwjVHz8wrDWZustVoRT80T2K6Xup2jLvPunBr0/s1600/DSCF4081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6CaAkY9_JuLWLsWFzxs3dgaY90DsRPfogH_f0Iib__LK2Y25M-WPQ4OTeAPeqX5IGUDBrz4BVGIJ4PXGsvSpbG-hVmG_oQgXkjoStJvwjVHz8wrDWZustVoRT80T2K6Xup2jLvPunBr0/s1600/DSCF4081.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bears also coming to life! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6EWRjYTvy-EyFmm0Ef-oqAiu3j76oJdU7lyugBezAyTmLs3S1_6kaVdHtAu4rBjhH_PXxs0CiNo2AlsBcvpGH9YBqKq8SnjXnLK0Il-gaiwmWzqwX3tBwuj1IKQrAro7t2HHoRXW5S0/s1600/DSCF4085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6EWRjYTvy-EyFmm0Ef-oqAiu3j76oJdU7lyugBezAyTmLs3S1_6kaVdHtAu4rBjhH_PXxs0CiNo2AlsBcvpGH9YBqKq8SnjXnLK0Il-gaiwmWzqwX3tBwuj1IKQrAro7t2HHoRXW5S0/s1600/DSCF4085.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Section along the Trans Canada Trail after leaving Rocky Point</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_9qLbc_oGPejEGfgHWDz22UECOyHdh4b-OEE5J2u5Mv_JUUYTXEmfXM639SAN8UamQOKvLe9LZxOPDV8DYsNNADaWstVB-7B3Z-fHiZLAJceZB8ZvzQR6E1fcpRjpZujVKu3SvWQuIA/s1600/DSCF4088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_9qLbc_oGPejEGfgHWDz22UECOyHdh4b-OEE5J2u5Mv_JUUYTXEmfXM639SAN8UamQOKvLe9LZxOPDV8DYsNNADaWstVB-7B3Z-fHiZLAJceZB8ZvzQR6E1fcpRjpZujVKu3SvWQuIA/s1600/DSCF4088.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bummer....we were climbing up!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrVjV7qTO1fYu0OrG07y1o5dt06jsavPV6qf-4Xto3-sPQVynv0kqn4YwJvIo2soNZH7wYHaGmAQ5B2OttoEN6-yZfgw7ZW9Mr7Zqjl9gRM7Fu-Cxb2ToZagLlid4ixd_ktmcJUo3Oks/s1600/DSCF4094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrVjV7qTO1fYu0OrG07y1o5dt06jsavPV6qf-4Xto3-sPQVynv0kqn4YwJvIo2soNZH7wYHaGmAQ5B2OttoEN6-yZfgw7ZW9Mr7Zqjl9gRM7Fu-Cxb2ToZagLlid4ixd_ktmcJUo3Oks/s1600/DSCF4094.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think it is clearing up!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQKmLN0_EPZGbfXf5U0d5aWNtIKb74xgN2vDv0wuWT_CSZw37V7exyIoIf5maInTtXwhVXa9qkdfC4mKIzbSgYyq6VQN9_O2QhFyhig-a8jkeadVqvvPeLke_0HDrm6J_qOvtJOyv1SU/s1600/DSCF4098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQKmLN0_EPZGbfXf5U0d5aWNtIKb74xgN2vDv0wuWT_CSZw37V7exyIoIf5maInTtXwhVXa9qkdfC4mKIzbSgYyq6VQN9_O2QhFyhig-a8jkeadVqvvPeLke_0HDrm6J_qOvtJOyv1SU/s1600/DSCF4098.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Are you sure this is the right trail?</td></tr>
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<b><u>Giggle of the Day</u></b></div>
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When I found this great route on <a href="http://trailsbc.ca/">trailsbc.ca</a>, I excitedly shared it with Rob. He took a look, agreed that it looked both amazing and challenging and promptly declared, "we are going to get lost".....and we did! Not once, not twice, but numerous times. On the bright side we discovered a fabulous kayak launch site at Barnett marine park. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6k8iqOGppo09NjEPm68NoDbsg5jpyVWWHBuHLtx9sf4_AN_6RGerqK_Yv8tuktbfhZTUiD8GLSQJ6JW9FJn0xY8-mJ21-n3t2LbFxtVtTE1lQQWU2j2pV_NKZ1Hm9YlBxN4RLJIneEJo/s1600/DSCF4096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6k8iqOGppo09NjEPm68NoDbsg5jpyVWWHBuHLtx9sf4_AN_6RGerqK_Yv8tuktbfhZTUiD8GLSQJ6JW9FJn0xY8-mJ21-n3t2LbFxtVtTE1lQQWU2j2pV_NKZ1Hm9YlBxN4RLJIneEJo/s1600/DSCF4096.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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We have also been playing with a web app called stravos. This tool allows us to time and map our rides through our cell phone and provides data on speeds, elevations etc. etc. Today we decided to join the 21st century and go high tech for our ride. No maps, no compasses...just all the technology an Iphone can provide. Everything was great until the four hour 27 minute mark...after following a wonderful trail along river and through woods we arrived in a little town called Maillardville and realized we had no idea where we were and also realized we weren't even in the right city. Not to worry, our handy iphone and stravos would set us straight. A great plan...except the cell phone battery was dead. No worries, we had marked our parking spot with a gps tag....our only problem...the gps tag was stored in the dead cell phone. We went old school and asked for directions...they were sketchy at best, but definitely better than what our iphone was offering.<br />
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Here is our Stravos map.....<br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="405" scrolling="no" src="http://www.strava.com/activities/125488324/embed/ac82dd79333858eae00dbd393f477abf6a0c1a90" width="590"></iframe>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik-Otn5lSAg_oJ0Qsu-pi739g_XQHMUivYVzFt-uX7U3kOJrKsJT07QBFhOCaAYElWyBeTJclg2RCFkWNflk0c78KfaVbd_puWYexM9vj1xMKO7yOWKJvIquB83_Uq3S5zd3yVy5cLmQg/s1600/S0014103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik-Otn5lSAg_oJ0Qsu-pi739g_XQHMUivYVzFt-uX7U3kOJrKsJT07QBFhOCaAYElWyBeTJclg2RCFkWNflk0c78KfaVbd_puWYexM9vj1xMKO7yOWKJvIquB83_Uq3S5zd3yVy5cLmQg/s1600/S0014103.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breathtaking blossoms along the way.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u>Map and route tips:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
Our finished map!<br />
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<iframe height="480" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.kzkxwc63APcE" width="520"></iframe>
</div>
Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-89159661162682658042014-03-25T18:29:00.001-07:002014-03-25T18:29:25.827-07:00Ladner Loop by BikeThe Ladner Loop is a perfect ride for those who may be a little out of shape after just getting back on their bikes after a winter of rain. It is flat, REALLY FLAT, scenic and includes a lot of trail riding along the dykes. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAw5FWciBzJUzPcuMineUxFkmMAf5XoYWiexBriH9iDJQyO3LZ1VpyEy8_8-C6i4p6zleNTyl7ukYtupWSaJsL9NZqyQ22s85E5Wu19w1AWmaWfJmJCRwClNvnE2Uyn0ysfj7wlRua84/s1600/IMG_3175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAw5FWciBzJUzPcuMineUxFkmMAf5XoYWiexBriH9iDJQyO3LZ1VpyEy8_8-C6i4p6zleNTyl7ukYtupWSaJsL9NZqyQ22s85E5Wu19w1AWmaWfJmJCRwClNvnE2Uyn0ysfj7wlRua84/s1600/IMG_3175.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the dyke</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The views are spectacular, and you are often treated to some great bird watching as you travel in the <a href="http://www.ibacanada.ca/site.jsp?siteID=BC017&lang=EN" target="_blank">Important Bird Area</a> near Roberts Bank.<br />
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We had another almost perfect day. The sun was out, there was no wind, and did I mention the route was FLAT - really FLAT? The area is almost surreal as you are so close to Vancouver, yet you feel miles away from the big city as you pedal through acres of farmland and along the dykes. (lots of great farmer's markets to stop at when in season)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwu4uhMRg691mFYe3wDP-WFB2S8pB3NLDA7zvRpr1eC4qzM2ITcLRec9zuExd5PnqVtt0nEvAGkEZo70YU5MfS4z9a-12bc0G0RHPrncGXLh20SxRaj4QZTTFxTqnrttUhpy3Ux7z9T00/s1600/IMG_3174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwu4uhMRg691mFYe3wDP-WFB2S8pB3NLDA7zvRpr1eC4qzM2ITcLRec9zuExd5PnqVtt0nEvAGkEZo70YU5MfS4z9a-12bc0G0RHPrncGXLh20SxRaj4QZTTFxTqnrttUhpy3Ux7z9T00/s1600/IMG_3174.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The view of the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal and the Roberts Bank Terminal brings you back to reality. Roberts Bank is huge and the number of trains coming and going is mind boggling! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLmKC-AXckMCNRXVRgqU1D67yyL3Xuvfg51WpwLenSojO4nDMChgjMYyYhExUYeqpRgC9FB5tEGVgOrydMlpOQ2jAupK-5IHT0ssQzRhxuQwtmVkDxImtiIPQTmhkAbDujQcDhZ6sPM8/s1600/IMG_3182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLmKC-AXckMCNRXVRgqU1D67yyL3Xuvfg51WpwLenSojO4nDMChgjMYyYhExUYeqpRgC9FB5tEGVgOrydMlpOQ2jAupK-5IHT0ssQzRhxuQwtmVkDxImtiIPQTmhkAbDujQcDhZ6sPM8/s1600/IMG_3182.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cargo ships loading at Roberts Bank</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 23px;">"</span><a href="http://www.robertsbankrailcorridor.ca/challenges-solutions" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 23px;" target="_blank">The Roberts Bank Rail Corridor</a><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 23px;"> consists mostly of single rail track and currently carries up to 18 trains per day, ranging from 6,000 to 9,500 feet in length. The volume of train traffic is expected to increase to 28–38 trains per day by 2021, and some train lengths are expected to increase up to 12,000 feet." </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9URL0WsyYeGP8sM7HHqHs2RATiFt-S667lW-f6SsJ0eFDIb1CMqsnrikpyt1_W3iTFqWfwC9HYWAJzMBZC77IJPgnXT1koTexEL5coyWN0pBX4IAlk7aidFCrcO-684AZ9a_Bh47m1X8/s1600/IMG_3180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9URL0WsyYeGP8sM7HHqHs2RATiFt-S667lW-f6SsJ0eFDIb1CMqsnrikpyt1_W3iTFqWfwC9HYWAJzMBZC77IJPgnXT1koTexEL5coyWN0pBX4IAlk7aidFCrcO-684AZ9a_Bh47m1X8/s1600/IMG_3180.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roberts Bank rail corridor</td></tr>
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We had to hop off our bikes and cross several train tracks to complete the loop. We stopped for several minutes to watch the comings and goings of this very, busy terminal.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEiQ0ih4r-mAqYWV4fMeMmhQRm43tuALls4v6u-orSiZOq3oU9Nr5HvbXf8vHan3MOhj3mmn4vG4UkWLhFHJppMfllX2gviNkThbKlGGR14swRYtAhm3s_BML6H2_7A9QRsNJxGQxaE0/s1600/IMG_3179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEiQ0ih4r-mAqYWV4fMeMmhQRm43tuALls4v6u-orSiZOq3oU9Nr5HvbXf8vHan3MOhj3mmn4vG4UkWLhFHJppMfllX2gviNkThbKlGGR14swRYtAhm3s_BML6H2_7A9QRsNJxGQxaE0/s1600/IMG_3179.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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After leaving Roberts Bank, we cycled on through Tsawwassen and enjoyed a great ride along the Mud Bay trail.<br />
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It was a beehive of activity as joggers, cyclists, walkers, birders took to the trails in order to enjoy a sunny spring day. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyd0_an5jOImdQJuzvMk-HRndANogbiTkQ4OD59z5O_mZ4JQm7aE8o3nwMDPh77oZUY7iz7WWVKfbKsseriCk5r4TSHs_dko9svBPJt1bznl1ykizIhGdAYXLJoK5B-zVxMUo9hfgGj8g/s1600/IMG_3185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyd0_an5jOImdQJuzvMk-HRndANogbiTkQ4OD59z5O_mZ4JQm7aE8o3nwMDPh77oZUY7iz7WWVKfbKsseriCk5r4TSHs_dko9svBPJt1bznl1ykizIhGdAYXLJoK5B-zVxMUo9hfgGj8g/s1600/IMG_3185.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Giggle of the day: </u></b><br />
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We recently discovered a group called The Slow Bicycle Movement. Curious, we investigated further to learn more about the criteria for joining the group and becoming a card carrying member. Members must agree to:<br />
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<ul>
<li>meander</li>
<li>stop</li>
<li>look</li>
<li>eat</li>
<li>take pictures</li>
<li>laugh</li>
<li>chat</li>
</ul>
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The description fits us perfectly! We giggled throughout the entire Ladner Loop every time we hopped off to meander, look, EAT, chat......you get the picture!<br />
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<b><u>Map and route tips:</u></b><br />
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The loop begins at <a href="http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks_lscr/regionalparks/Pages/DeasIsland.aspx" target="_blank">Deas Island Regional Park</a> and follows the Millenium Trail under highway 99 to Ladner. From Ladner, follow the Fraser River out to <a href="http://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/brunswick-point/" target="_blank">Brunswick Point</a> and then continue on to Tsawwassen and Mud Bay and then a quick loop back. <br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="405" scrolling="no" src="http://www.strava.com/activities/123376819/embed/113e614768b3d7719967541a4d850225dc8a4d1a" width="590"></iframe>
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Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-70823039120061650322014-02-16T15:37:00.000-08:002014-02-16T15:40:25.059-08:00Bike Centennial Trail Washington StateIt was time to be back on the bikes and this weekend we decided to head south to the Centennial Trail in Washington State. The trail is 29 miles long and runs from just north of Bryant to the City of Snohomish. Another rails to trails initiative the trail is designed for walkers, runners, cyclists and horseback riding...and we saw them all. A few brave in line skaters were even braving the rain!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVAdudOFqqIdyFf8fAAXqzPL1VucbQrIXAg3DwALr3Um32e75P5lUNbAaymvPcvvQdoRAkQpR7BfEOInk7mnyoOI7FmeIlyWNeirfvWIq64-QF09X4gCjYbnPG5m6VD9veIkHgqwnEUg/s1600/DSCF3959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVAdudOFqqIdyFf8fAAXqzPL1VucbQrIXAg3DwALr3Um32e75P5lUNbAaymvPcvvQdoRAkQpR7BfEOInk7mnyoOI7FmeIlyWNeirfvWIq64-QF09X4gCjYbnPG5m6VD9veIkHgqwnEUg/s1600/DSCF3959.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail access at Arlington</td></tr>
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We decided to jump on the trail at Arlington. There are many access points to the trail, so it is easy to hop on and off to explore the many local shops, parks and family attractions. Arlington is a wonderful little town and definitely a blast from the past. American flags proudly flying and good old small town charm everywhere! Of course, Seahawk pride and evidence of the 12th man is also everywhere!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-9MMQv1cofe7FlHsGE-tVBMrGy-nYGnSrLRfYTY3ztV6ENnYkmTl6FNCmZBVnVJnyR_wlVAhFAUDFfFyfNjdmuzTA2Jpq2_ugy5iB8G5kd6yZryKvzFj7ZJF4MdRj1Wt5nw8jQUVmDc/s1600/DSCF3960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-9MMQv1cofe7FlHsGE-tVBMrGy-nYGnSrLRfYTY3ztV6ENnYkmTl6FNCmZBVnVJnyR_wlVAhFAUDFfFyfNjdmuzTA2Jpq2_ugy5iB8G5kd6yZryKvzFj7ZJF4MdRj1Wt5nw8jQUVmDc/s1600/DSCF3960.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Go Hawks</td></tr>
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Rob will tell you that no day trip is a success unless you begin your day in the Ma and Pa diner. And so, without a second thought we found ourselves enjoying omelettes at the BlueBird Cafe...family owned since 1958.<br />
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Just outside of Arlington the trail is under construction, so riders are forced to ride in traffic for a short distance. We found the drivers to be very considerate, but as always were grateful to be back on designated trail away from traffic and noise. The trail featured many scenic views and rest points. We simply can't recommend this trail enough. It is an easy ride, well maintained, great access points and lots of services along the entire length of the trail. Truly a gem!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dL3m9f9zSeNLEnQWK5a2v1Md2R7KlSccLL6UKbFwDnVz3IvdSN-avmc6AogUzQpoWZ8ty7WQuMapdHJo6tv_7b5RUXOzaqwCDK3mUTDY4Q_eZUAR0hZSIpQHxRCMrMdKBX6B-KbbegA/s1600/DSCF3981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dL3m9f9zSeNLEnQWK5a2v1Md2R7KlSccLL6UKbFwDnVz3IvdSN-avmc6AogUzQpoWZ8ty7WQuMapdHJo6tv_7b5RUXOzaqwCDK3mUTDY4Q_eZUAR0hZSIpQHxRCMrMdKBX6B-KbbegA/s1600/DSCF3981.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrBoCRawNg5INpXwrJr3TzCahaZu5iBE4HmCsjacBMy34b_5ryjBgKc7WjuuzyJlYSPVmKo6niMWMhezkOWega6CSqGkA-NXll9btI3Yyw0KNGargI4uL1q2QzG-OuqyxbjzGCWyXb43M/s1600/DSCF3967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrBoCRawNg5INpXwrJr3TzCahaZu5iBE4HmCsjacBMy34b_5ryjBgKc7WjuuzyJlYSPVmKo6niMWMhezkOWega6CSqGkA-NXll9btI3Yyw0KNGargI4uL1q2QzG-OuqyxbjzGCWyXb43M/s1600/DSCF3967.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the lake</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZDCt6X7gudCH5w7afJdEvH_46dIMzh3C4tWUfX1r3yblHcTEOdw6NZRNU2UIczfHmVy-JePAQQ3l5JfHVRYm2YgwA_MCCiFHnUEeBG-OzqLYvxWEs-ezPT9tDvcfAkUdRE4ltjVGDWQ/s1600/DSCF3972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZDCt6X7gudCH5w7afJdEvH_46dIMzh3C4tWUfX1r3yblHcTEOdw6NZRNU2UIczfHmVy-JePAQQ3l5JfHVRYm2YgwA_MCCiFHnUEeBG-OzqLYvxWEs-ezPT9tDvcfAkUdRE4ltjVGDWQ/s1600/DSCF3972.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scenic boardwalk to the lake</td></tr>
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Unfortunately we have not been on our bikes this winter as much as we would like so we must confess that we were not in the best shape for a 60 mile jaunt. (Mind willing - body ain't!) As the rain and wind picked up for the return journey our legs began to give out. It really was a test, both mentally and physically to get back to the trail head. We were both fighting leg cramps and bike butt and at times had to get off and walk. On the bright side, the weather had turned so nasty that there was no one left on the trail to witness our walk of shame.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCm6DKo-ssLlWuEI9Yz9lX8OX84PL1hNV_n95L8PvISW5y21y0ZYiGRiT_NaOqubD5mNcZoGuf_antJcqMJ50cIJ9LQegRwXEkIPRjvIU_sf1wLSyjv4K0x87JSA4V7NLH7dWUkNW4WkE/s1600/DSCF3983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCm6DKo-ssLlWuEI9Yz9lX8OX84PL1hNV_n95L8PvISW5y21y0ZYiGRiT_NaOqubD5mNcZoGuf_antJcqMJ50cIJ9LQegRwXEkIPRjvIU_sf1wLSyjv4K0x87JSA4V7NLH7dWUkNW4WkE/s1600/DSCF3983.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think it is clearing up!</td></tr>
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We trudged along, and were absolutely thrilled to return to our van at the Trail head parking lot. We made a promise to ourselves to pick up our work-out schedule and return to the Centennial Trail in the summer....rumour has it the ice cream stores along the route are amazing! <br />
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<b><u>Giggle of the Day:</u></b><br />
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One of the joys of rails to trails routes is it usually means FLAT, and generally the Centennial Trail is a very easy ride. However, there is one section featuring a slow steady climb - 642 feet. On the bright side, when you reach the top of the hill, you are made honourary members of the Robert M. Culpeper Blistering Saddles Cycling Team!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNj2ynT5kw2Bj530MuAQ4lIh3r9JiDXpcqo2mw8J6rnffly84xeub9CYttFzVnRri5VLLHONOKWy1xsP7BrbaKXFm-ZFWTSa1smneKcV3KveIq9zzLQPjXXezcZEgwF-4AL5VFYQPjlhs/s1600/DSCF3965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNj2ynT5kw2Bj530MuAQ4lIh3r9JiDXpcqo2mw8J6rnffly84xeub9CYttFzVnRri5VLLHONOKWy1xsP7BrbaKXFm-ZFWTSa1smneKcV3KveIq9zzLQPjXXezcZEgwF-4AL5VFYQPjlhs/s1600/DSCF3965.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not really a team you want to join</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEmFRMl5nYY7t0ZI5LlJqJ_tC_DgRHERHlD0eUpKYwxs_5LtC-R2TB3QVOLAFHbdqCMxNAndBVt8KGfYZpM56pBuRXWyYe1bkE4-mzERSVQhmSolSNHp3nd1ikiDXEmBjFrKygQM9Ljk/s1600/DSCF3975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEmFRMl5nYY7t0ZI5LlJqJ_tC_DgRHERHlD0eUpKYwxs_5LtC-R2TB3QVOLAFHbdqCMxNAndBVt8KGfYZpM56pBuRXWyYe1bkE4-mzERSVQhmSolSNHp3nd1ikiDXEmBjFrKygQM9Ljk/s1600/DSCF3975.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free Library - now that is community in action!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdFzax_4g40qr6YwDyUuHaB2oZ5QgnBJXovKQ2qkSw_-tqXnEJyXCT2ovth-vOGvD5lwYcZZ2s39Z_AyVQxMBU4_un00sz3aq6EQEPPnkULdHgdBNAi2VIBEqoWW4iWYhCoSn331tw60/s1600/DSCF3977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdFzax_4g40qr6YwDyUuHaB2oZ5QgnBJXovKQ2qkSw_-tqXnEJyXCT2ovth-vOGvD5lwYcZZ2s39Z_AyVQxMBU4_un00sz3aq6EQEPPnkULdHgdBNAi2VIBEqoWW4iWYhCoSn331tw60/s1600/DSCF3977.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...for those feeling a little thirsty</td></tr>
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<b><u>Map and Route Tips:</u></b><br />
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<iframe height="480" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.kfTcVUPefTDo" width="520"></iframe>
<a href="http://www1.co.snohomish.wa.us/departments/parks/park_information/park_directory/regional_parks/centennial_trail.htm" target="_blank">Centennial Trail</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Centennial-Trail-Snohomish-County">http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Centennial-Trail-Snohomish-County</a><br />
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<br />Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-14627304111203730932014-02-16T15:15:00.001-08:002014-02-16T15:15:53.705-08:00Snow Shoe Mount Baker - Washington StateMany boast that one of the joys of living in the lower mainland area of British Columbia means that in the winter you have the opportunity to ski and play golf all in the same day. Living here in the rain forest means that one often "forgets" about winter, as it never really feels like it. (of course, our reference for defining winter is growing up in Alberta and Manitoba) Well, this weekend we both craved WINTER. Maybe the long hours on the couch watching our athletes compete in Sochi drew us to the mountains or maybe our recent cold snap reminded us of winter. Whatever, the reason we decided to pack up our gear and head to Mount Baker in Washington State.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVwf_wZtNRpd_vrC0iDe3hVIOBPW0mfLPQ9sRuE4VfT904GI-VDs62bKbr50kWUiBF9XiSM10rqolH7UH3s5TyDpR8B2J9TujE4pWbkWPSvfJEC2ZydXorWH6j-qURAWsiDuX7Ew-SIg/s1600/DSCF3918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVwf_wZtNRpd_vrC0iDe3hVIOBPW0mfLPQ9sRuE4VfT904GI-VDs62bKbr50kWUiBF9XiSM10rqolH7UH3s5TyDpR8B2J9TujE4pWbkWPSvfJEC2ZydXorWH6j-qURAWsiDuX7Ew-SIg/s1600/DSCF3918.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creative Fencing at Glacier Ski Rentals</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdcZc1yGlWuv-rIEsHrg4SBcs-VKMmA6Wsgz_kMYGGP_qN8MbWHh5YBoRBxAqi4EFrtbrfX00YAgWuk2eoEC1E43QlNAn87BDCkMLFi36fe0w3ITv_SUDh4GxtPOX2SZaKlwJeUaB7p8/s1600/DSCF3920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdcZc1yGlWuv-rIEsHrg4SBcs-VKMmA6Wsgz_kMYGGP_qN8MbWHh5YBoRBxAqi4EFrtbrfX00YAgWuk2eoEC1E43QlNAn87BDCkMLFi36fe0w3ITv_SUDh4GxtPOX2SZaKlwJeUaB7p8/s1600/DSCF3920.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep...we were going in the right direction!</td></tr>
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The only way to describe Baker is MAJESTIC. The glacier covered peaks of Baker lie within <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/mbs/home/?cid=fsbdev7_001681" target="_blank">Snoqualmie National Forest. </a> The following description is from the USA Forest Service website:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlAJkGE5qii7cDV82eyaLhqX8HoDSZZTBfahCPb11rwYJBAZuoFP0Banf5oj5hl2NZsQ_vfkIlefZLN_TC5S8N-WQ7_ZmsQUH7v6ppC_HGQWRGly47ITAj2BB0GZ4RsgF6NQlQIniCA0/s1600/DSCF3923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlAJkGE5qii7cDV82eyaLhqX8HoDSZZTBfahCPb11rwYJBAZuoFP0Banf5oj5hl2NZsQ_vfkIlefZLN_TC5S8N-WQ7_ZmsQUH7v6ppC_HGQWRGly47ITAj2BB0GZ4RsgF6NQlQIniCA0/s1600/DSCF3923.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fffdee; color: #333333; font-size: x-small; line-height: 17.136px;">The most prominent feature of the Mt. Baker Wilderness is the 10,781 foot [3,286 meters] active volcano from which the wilderness takes its name. Mt. Baker is the northernmost volcano in the United States Cascade Range located 15 miles south of the Canadian border. The mountain is perpetually snow-capped and mantled with an extensive network of creeping glaciers. Baker's summit, called Grant Peak, is actually a 1,300-foot-deep mound of ice, which hides a massive volcanic crater. Directly to the south is a smaller and younger crater, which is currently a center of periodic steam eruptions. Sherman Crater is only partially ice-filled and the rim's pinnacle, known as Sherman Peak, reaches an elevation of approximately 10,160 feet [3,097 meters].</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving the ski are boundary for the back country</td></tr>
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We decided to start our day trip from the Mount Baker ski area. We arrived to a full parking lot! It was a winter wonderland and we were thrilled to see families skiing, snow-shoeing and sledding. We made our way to the upper parking lot area, found the road up the mountain and entered the back country. The snow was absolutely fantastic...quite a surprise as we had seen very little snow as we made our way up the mountain. The weather conditions were not great, the light was flat and there was definitely a storm moving in. We decided to not venture too far and chose to head to Artist Ridge in the Heather Meadows area. This trail is well known for its many viewpoints - but today, was not the day to capture a view. Visibility was really poor. Despite the poor visibility we enjoyed bumping in to numerous winter enthusiasts and many snow hounds in search of fresh powder in the back country. <br />
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<b><u>Giggle of the Day:</u></b><br />
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We had a good giggle as we took note of how equipment has changed......</div>
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<b><u>Map and Route tips:</u></b></div>
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<iframe height="480" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.kpX-FuSJ2hEQ" width="520"></iframe>
Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-9509297570110297452014-01-27T18:56:00.000-08:002014-01-27T18:56:51.167-08:00Mayne Island by Bike<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The <a href="http://www.vancouverisland.travel/regions/gulf-islands/" target="_blank">Gulf Islands</a> are one of British Columbia's best kept secrets. Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, there is so much to explore and discover and cycling is the way to do it.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7yjIRVZtDFXVCHVds11HKDygJUOfV0HhCV9dIzb_v9ohjZ2GTwBWHEs8L9DBTG15Ck64iYLzXYWo2iKnymP1GrlUK912YfIYGWSxSLvc0EdnBQAadpLVANpBNTxNiTXczyLlDWRpbSQ4/s1600/DSCF3880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7yjIRVZtDFXVCHVds11HKDygJUOfV0HhCV9dIzb_v9ohjZ2GTwBWHEs8L9DBTG15Ck64iYLzXYWo2iKnymP1GrlUK912YfIYGWSxSLvc0EdnBQAadpLVANpBNTxNiTXczyLlDWRpbSQ4/s1600/DSCF3880.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting to board the ferry at Tsawwassen</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Nothing beats the January blahs better than a weekend getaway to <a href="http://www.mayneislandchamber.ca/" target="_blank">Mayne Island</a>. Our friends (who shall remain nameless to protect the innocent) invited us for a weekend at their cottage. We began early in the morning cycling to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal. It was a spooky ride as the fog was dense. You always feel so vulnerable on your bike while riding in the fog, yet at the same time your senses seem to come alive. We rode cautiously, listening to the call of the eagles and watching everything come to life. The air was crisp and cool and as the fog began to lift we were treated to a wonderful sunrise. It felt so good to be back on the bikes....mindlessly pedalling through the fog!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The ferry makes a quick stop at <a href="http://www.hellobc.com/galiano-island.aspx" target="_blank">Galiano Island</a> (another great bike destination) and then proceeds on to Mayne Island. As you approach the dock at Mayne Island you leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind you and either consciously or unconsciously begin to adapt to "Island time" The cycling on Mayne is wonderful...although be prepared for a few hills and cycle in single file as there are no shoulders. Having said that, the drivers are thoughtful and give plenty of room when passing.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-zl5Muep11s3groQNNsfUht84VE5mw4VDkpwi8zBP3qWIWVa-G-rqmLOKc0BW-qyvE3cfIOVg-PfP09Rha_zYQLc3TTfqFyzHYG-tyvoBif18M4yTNyZZ10YAI8pu38y9ZXswTqvKQPI/s1600/DSCF3890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-zl5Muep11s3groQNNsfUht84VE5mw4VDkpwi8zBP3qWIWVa-G-rqmLOKc0BW-qyvE3cfIOVg-PfP09Rha_zYQLc3TTfqFyzHYG-tyvoBif18M4yTNyZZ10YAI8pu38y9ZXswTqvKQPI/s1600/DSCF3890.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful views are plentiful</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowdrops remind us that spring is around the corner</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We cycled from the ferry to the cottage...which is truly a bit of heaven on earth. The cottage reflects the hosts...warm & friendly...like a big hug. It features panoramic ocean views - in fact, you can quickly lose track of time and also the will to move as you sit by the wood burning stove and gaze at the ocean.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOCsu6UYq5j-3_XV-7eUWRiqHeYdTCZUTQslbxG_FzHIgigwhqaq12UJlEiJe-z2HFFYZM-NUOBpu3SjIyJeT4uZWxKG7WwMxp2t0k2ttSoXGJoAyYfe86LRfgi07CVjvIFU2NeOI2oDc/s1600/DSCF3897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOCsu6UYq5j-3_XV-7eUWRiqHeYdTCZUTQslbxG_FzHIgigwhqaq12UJlEiJe-z2HFFYZM-NUOBpu3SjIyJeT4uZWxKG7WwMxp2t0k2ttSoXGJoAyYfe86LRfgi07CVjvIFU2NeOI2oDc/s1600/DSCF3897.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">There is much to do on Mayne - beautiful parks including one of the <a href="http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/bc/gulf/index.aspx" target="_blank">Gulf Islands National Park Reserves</a> at Bennet Bay, beach combing, artists galleries and to our surprise a Japanese Garden. This weekend we chose to hike to the spectacular viewpoint on <a href="http://www.mayneisland.com/places/pdf/maynehiking2013.pdf" target="_blank">Mount Parke</a>. We were thrilled at the panoramic view, yet couldn't stay for long as we were losing daylight.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mayne residents enjoying an all you can eat lunch buffet</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The weekend went all too quickly and we left feeling rejuvenated and ready to return to explore more of the Island...next time by kayak?</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The weekend was full of laughter and great conversation. Giggles were plentiful. Here are a few:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">While in Minor's Bay we decided to pop in to the local grocery store to pick up some lunch meat. As we waited for service, a friendly voice came on the loud speaker and said, "Shelly to the deli." We burst in to laughter and thanked Shelly for the giggle and for the shaved ham...of course!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Car stops - The island features numerous car stops....a sign of community and of days gone by. The signage both inspires and amuses! Here's the scoop:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You are welcome to use our 25 Mayne Island Car Stops. This is free, voluntary, alternative transportation that is environmentally and community-friendly. We encourage drivers to share the ride, reducing fuel consumption and our ecological footprint. We encourage pedestrians who need a lift — including those arriving by ferry or boat — to try waiting at a Car Stop, and be open to the generosity of drivers. (Unlike a bus, there's no regular schedule; like a bus, you trust the driver.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Car Stops signs are green and white road signs located at pullouts all around Mayne. They indicate the locations where drivers may expect to see passengers seeking a ride. They are two-way stops, so if you're standing there, indicate with your hand which way you're heading, and if you cross the street, be careful.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">THE RULES:</span></strong></div>
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<li style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Drivers don't have to take the first in line;</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">you don't have to accept a ride - that's fine.</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's at your own risk if you take a lift,</span></li>
<li style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">the ride is free, so consider it a gift.</span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9pC9dvmw9m4E9lulzSpcIn8OADm7o-PVazfIAMd583-1iOQ6FU0VlOGn6fNT1F4XHl2s12RrIWtpOWXc1vHNXrFrHOZYoUuZsDfJ4yx7eo2qw_ErHtFkVF49pEGL0Va-u28w-_WD0Ng/s1600/DSCF3904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9pC9dvmw9m4E9lulzSpcIn8OADm7o-PVazfIAMd583-1iOQ6FU0VlOGn6fNT1F4XHl2s12RrIWtpOWXc1vHNXrFrHOZYoUuZsDfJ4yx7eo2qw_ErHtFkVF49pEGL0Va-u28w-_WD0Ng/s1600/DSCF3904.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CAR STOP - </td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Last, but not least, as we rode back to the ferry dock to begin the trip home, we passed numerous Islanders on foot, with backpacks, suitcases, dollies all trudging along the main road back to the ferry. It tickled us as we passed young and old on the "Mayne Island Pilgrimage."</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLhGU5pe1qlxCd7Xz_QJshsazhoBgGUrCEime1PN25wPxDuLJFu3bDdgG7BsP6DXXEapyLfdzdz0Yj63qTUPUOOejjKYSOvBocHhAhquFEZdXntJ0Fx102tqluTduiHNOi8Mao72mQGo/s1600/DSCF3916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLhGU5pe1qlxCd7Xz_QJshsazhoBgGUrCEime1PN25wPxDuLJFu3bDdgG7BsP6DXXEapyLfdzdz0Yj63qTUPUOOejjKYSOvBocHhAhquFEZdXntJ0Fx102tqluTduiHNOi8Mao72mQGo/s1600/DSCF3916.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mayne Island "pilgrams" wait to disembark ... until we ride again!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Map and Route Tips:</u></b><br />
<iframe height="480" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/u/1/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.k8SK8il1Hc-M" width="540"></iframe>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.bcferries.ca/" target="_blank">BC Ferries - Schedules and Route information</a></span>Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-61770581680679133642013-12-09T08:01:00.001-08:002014-02-17T06:33:21.622-08:00Ski Whistler and Blackcomb, BC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They say a picture is worth a thousand words......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ11Ozl2QhJ1vHAtECzWuj8RAdrrmdbbXDt5eR8G75HnT6XKN8SQ0QjlxbM1ipQ7sB8-t86Mb0TnEH-_H8554U18ZfjmwYErck9H6oTPTto9P4cOPyhkQ96p3usC0U75hzMXlwbu4TJnU/s1600/DSCF3690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ11Ozl2QhJ1vHAtECzWuj8RAdrrmdbbXDt5eR8G75HnT6XKN8SQ0QjlxbM1ipQ7sB8-t86Mb0TnEH-_H8554U18ZfjmwYErck9H6oTPTto9P4cOPyhkQ96p3usC0U75hzMXlwbu4TJnU/s1600/DSCF3690.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upper Alpine</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sporting the Onesie!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Incredible views from the <a href="http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/events-and-activities/summer-activities/peak-2-peak-gondola.aspx" target="_blank">Peak to Peak Gondola</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shout out to <a href="http://www.campjubilee.ca/" target="_blank">Camp Jubilee</a>....we wore our toques proudly!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9n7YZ6xBpsVdtZbxoH9ZAgWtW5B9IBkn3B5Gfrnb2NfZDR8mC4L2CP5uhMXcwiocsrbr9qvCbtDgzEESyI3dix69PZKdYiSj3cVgkk7vGm0_3omffb6f-IY_TM-qd0mYEWsjyJracyVM/s1600/DSCF3706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9n7YZ6xBpsVdtZbxoH9ZAgWtW5B9IBkn3B5Gfrnb2NfZDR8mC4L2CP5uhMXcwiocsrbr9qvCbtDgzEESyI3dix69PZKdYiSj3cVgkk7vGm0_3omffb6f-IY_TM-qd0mYEWsjyJracyVM/s1600/DSCF3706.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downloading....back to the Village for Apres Ski at the <a href="http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/events-and-activities/the-village/restaurants/glc.aspx" target="_blank">Garabaldi Lift Co</a>.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas in the Village</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steep and Deep?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2imt5k2GgH4MiSmUU5dHJSsLUuhdEAalRTHUabxN6Hh4-BIsPtpRvZxOV5eXQsY_B0L1XyE3Dp0rdpfJzu5IjBLcLmHZsERArkRjkUtSFMkoLYKJVsolTWOwj5S6NC_37BY9dJbYdks/s1600/DSCF3752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2imt5k2GgH4MiSmUU5dHJSsLUuhdEAalRTHUabxN6Hh4-BIsPtpRvZxOV5eXQsY_B0L1XyE3Dp0rdpfJzu5IjBLcLmHZsERArkRjkUtSFMkoLYKJVsolTWOwj5S6NC_37BY9dJbYdks/s1600/DSCF3752.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/shannon/" target="_blank">Shannon Falls</a></td></tr>
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<b><u>Giggle of the Day</u></b><br />
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I know you will find it hard to believe (or maybe you won't!), but while skiing on Saturday morning we made a wrong turn off the Solar Coaster Express chair and found ourselves on the far side of Blackcomb Mountain. Being early in the season, several lifts and runs were closed so we were feeling a little anxious that we may find ourselves at the bottom of a run with a long hike back up to a chair. To our delight, we rounded a bend only to descend upon the <a href="http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/crystal" target="_blank">BRAND NEW Crystal Ridge Express chair</a>....and it was opening day! We were greeted by live music, an open ceremony and free Kit Kats! This is the first new chair to be opened on the mountain since 1994 and we were one of the first to ski it....talk about a wrong turn that went right!<br />
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<b><u>To Get There;</u></b>
<iframe src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.kMRL-bIGQFTo" width="540" height="480"></iframe>Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-30239688467266262812013-11-26T05:42:00.001-08:002013-11-26T05:46:30.899-08:00Cycle - Lochside Trail - Tsawwassen to Victoria, BCThe Lochside and Galloping Goose trails on Vancouver Island, B.C. provide for a great day trip (or over-nighter), a way to beat the ferry line-ups (and ferry expenses) and a chance to travel past marinas, beaches, farmland, wetlands and visit beautiful downtown Victoria. All this on dedicated multi-use trails!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKOf0y07-lUOaQBu1NZN3rtAxdJvsuAsC96iKbf8aQ-5q1HwuI1zL2Kn8YzOfijLC5XzV5GPxxqLb549lixJfY5BthNMgypa99LMyMtoibhys4P6w2XbJ7pnESrq8ohJLMVVnh0Up25SQ/s1600/IMG_2758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKOf0y07-lUOaQBu1NZN3rtAxdJvsuAsC96iKbf8aQ-5q1HwuI1zL2Kn8YzOfijLC5XzV5GPxxqLb549lixJfY5BthNMgypa99LMyMtoibhys4P6w2XbJ7pnESrq8ohJLMVVnh0Up25SQ/s1600/IMG_2758.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curious onlookers</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lochside Trail, Vancouver Island, BC</td></tr>
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We cycled up to purchase our tickets at the Tsawwassen Ferry terminal. We patiently waited outside the booth for the attendant to notice us. Finally, she opened the window and asked what we were doing in the cold and dark. She joked that she wasn't used to seeing bikes at this time of year and at this time of day. It was only 7 am and minus two degrees - we didn't understand her point.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZL8zU-t0tDGRR0wOY82R-z23SMpnkFUAf7gRRn5aT-P9mdRtROMR-T4njb5RezCyRsp8uOkc4iNfeg16Hnv8FUWAntIYzKXqG6S_wqqsU9EnA3ubTEN1i4CVZ0t8ZUCo1DCxQmbODcY/s1600/DSCF3436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZL8zU-t0tDGRR0wOY82R-z23SMpnkFUAf7gRRn5aT-P9mdRtROMR-T4njb5RezCyRsp8uOkc4iNfeg16Hnv8FUWAntIYzKXqG6S_wqqsU9EnA3ubTEN1i4CVZ0t8ZUCo1DCxQmbODcY/s1600/DSCF3436.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the car deck of the ferry</td></tr>
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You can't travel on the ferry without stopping in for a coffee and a little nibble. They were selling gingerbread men at the cafeteria, so naturally we had to pick one up. It was then that the debate began...there were both gingerbread men and women for sale. Of course, we couldn't agree on which to choose. Finally, the gingerbread woman won out....more icing....(her skirt!) Proud of our ability to reach consensus we approached the cashier only to be pulled back into a debate over the politically correct way to name the tasty treat....the cashier decided on "ginger - person." <br />
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The crossing from the mainland to Vancouver Island takes just over 1.5 hours and is an incredibly scenic ride through Active Pass and the Gulf Islands. Today we were treated to a spectacular sunrise and incredible views of Mount Baker. After docking on the Island, cyclists are directed off the ferry to the trail which begins at the Swartz Bay terminal, near Lands End. I just love that name - "Lands End"...it makes me think of Pirates and secluded coves, and secretly as I pedaled along I was hopeful that Captain Jack and the Black Pearl would round the bend. A pirates life for me!<br />
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Being November, and quite early in the morning, we find the trail has a nice layer of frost on it. We take extra care as we certainly don't want to hit a patch of black ice and go head over heels! We laugh as we stop to break ice on the farmers fields....it is a beautiful, sunny day - one of those crisp fall days that make you feel happy to be outside! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRw0qcr2wBfW5vf11wN9N139d5xQspLtNmmh3gtHHIUNi-9SENRMjVDicYMwWe87ARvolJMJGqlli93_FklHzK5XmFvdJQwHN4McharH6nrzWwRDh0wwDBzL4DHvmpaw_hH2YswDRAYyw/s1600/IMG_2746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRw0qcr2wBfW5vf11wN9N139d5xQspLtNmmh3gtHHIUNi-9SENRMjVDicYMwWe87ARvolJMJGqlli93_FklHzK5XmFvdJQwHN4McharH6nrzWwRDh0wwDBzL4DHvmpaw_hH2YswDRAYyw/s1600/IMG_2746.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frozen fields along the trail</td></tr>
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As we cycle along we came across a pig farm and 2 of the largest pigs I have ever seen! We joke about the smell bringing back memories of Minor Hockey locker rooms...and move along quickly. We enter a shared trail through a beautiful forested area, This stretch of the trail is very popular with the "horse" crowd, although today we are alone. Maybe, too cold for the horses?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikeimKf56UFnCPsLNe648dYYwgs4vdBXR6rZ-2K2PZ1-idrwguD6oP2sh4G_lWuJQgl9LJyhhNxWfeRS5mhRN8tCUj-dHd79-bzPfGoH1vQVeTCWn5NbSh1iKeJQDdStDaYy1SlpkUnck/s1600/DSCF3409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikeimKf56UFnCPsLNe648dYYwgs4vdBXR6rZ-2K2PZ1-idrwguD6oP2sh4G_lWuJQgl9LJyhhNxWfeRS5mhRN8tCUj-dHd79-bzPfGoH1vQVeTCWn5NbSh1iKeJQDdStDaYy1SlpkUnck/s1600/DSCF3409.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hold the bacon!</td></tr>
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The trail wasn't very busy, but those who did brave the early morning were a fun bunch. We greeted the other riders and walkers with hearty good mornings and laughed as each and everyone we passed had to comment on the weather. We could only imagine what our family on the Prairies would think of the "cold" comments!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Views of the wetlands</td></tr>
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As you approach Victoria, the trail connects to the Galloping Goose, which you can follow to the Inner Harbour. Again, we are thrilled at the ability to travel to downtown on a dedicated bike path. FANTASTIC! Once in downtown, we put on our tourist hats and visit the inner harbour, Fisherman's Wharf and a wonderful Irish pub for lunch! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWA9gO6d6XIvh_qPI-okbye_PowmU1oJn4snwjRz5SR_F5NHayP1WfmOQh-7ZSIMeVKvAXzZlghhDjGxVT3n_ubIaLLeyoYR22IEOy__Log-I9T7THZNukiFTxcTdiy_CUOPtmsZF8hGw/s1600/IMG_2754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWA9gO6d6XIvh_qPI-okbye_PowmU1oJn4snwjRz5SR_F5NHayP1WfmOQh-7ZSIMeVKvAXzZlghhDjGxVT3n_ubIaLLeyoYR22IEOy__Log-I9T7THZNukiFTxcTdiy_CUOPtmsZF8hGw/s1600/IMG_2754.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Character house boats at Fishermans Wharf</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am relaxed!</td></tr>
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Time always seems to fly by....especially in the Irish Pub and although we had planned to begin our return trip by 3pm in order to beat the darkness, we find ourselves running late.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.irishtimespub.ca/" target="_blank">Irish Times Pub - Victoria, BC</a></td></tr>
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Despite our best efforts to get an early start back to the ferry, we found ourselves pedalling in darkness. The trails were just too dark to continue on and we were moving at a snails pace as we tried to navigate the potholes and bumps in the pitch black. We decided to make our way up to the main highway and return to the ferry terminal on well lite roads. Thank you <a href="http://www.mec.ca/" target="_blank">MEC</a> for the great bike lights! Safety first! </div>
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<b><u>Expensive Giggle of the Day:</u></b><br />
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We really haven't been on our bikes much the last couple of weeks due to various work and "life" commitments and we were both in a state of withdrawal so to speak. We spent a week of anticipation looking forward to our trip to Victoria. Saturday finally arrived, and we jumped out of bed, loaded up the truck and drove to Tsawwassen. We arrived at the ferry terminal and were so excited to start "spinning" that we unloaded the truck, jumped on our bikes and started pedaling to the ticket booth. Later that day, it struck us that in our excitement to get moving....we had not bothered to plug the parking meter. Later that night, we returned to our parking spot to be greeted with a $60.oo dollar ticket. Could have been worse....the truck might have been towed.<br />
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<b><u>Map and Route Tips:</u></b><br />
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<iframe height="480" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.k2WPQ93Ckn2Q" width="520"></iframe>
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BC Ferries <a href="http://www.bcferries.ca/">www.bcferries.ca</a><br />
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Lochside Trail <a href="http://www.crd.bc.ca/parks/lochside/">http://www.crd.bc.ca/parks/lochside/</a><br />
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Galloping Goose <a href="http://www.crd.bc.ca/parks/galloping-goose/">http://www.crd.bc.ca/parks/galloping-goose/</a></div>
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Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-48921140982857194322013-10-29T19:58:00.003-07:002013-10-30T06:43:11.814-07:00Cycling the BC Parkway to Central Valley - Graffitti, cowboys and spawning salmon!Exploring the lower mainland by bike is always a treat, and today was no exception. We decided to begin our trip at the New Westminster Quay and head into Vancouver via the BC Parkway. This multi-use urban trail is 26 kilometers long and follows the Expo Skytrain line from Surrey, to New West, South Burnaby and into Vancouver.<br />
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The heavy fog that had blanketed the lower mainland for days magically lifted and we were treated to a bright, crisp, sunny fall day. The colours of the leaves were magnificent and we enjoyed the sound of them crunching beneath our tires as we pedaled along.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaRFaYTMyXme0O8jAEFIKRudwVckKYHxziKGHxI2hyphenhyphenKoRChqysDVL24ClpKt38WvHAKCEXMQPhTIJ6IbkFWNYdj2ibPa-tTNNWDha4TeU8Ok2Q6PhL22YRb8L9eVrUNq3wQLm3AKaES0Q/s1600/DSCF3546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaRFaYTMyXme0O8jAEFIKRudwVckKYHxziKGHxI2hyphenhyphenKoRChqysDVL24ClpKt38WvHAKCEXMQPhTIJ6IbkFWNYdj2ibPa-tTNNWDha4TeU8Ok2Q6PhL22YRb8L9eVrUNq3wQLm3AKaES0Q/s1600/DSCF3546.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">View of the Fraser River near New Westminster Quay</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjUuUccHXn6QJwJ-L1px0DaqBhWQ8Z_56GXavnzef3sRD37pdH8mCqLHwFywC9ehMB8DybpKn4AhnloHHbXjdvZStito9FLAlnlebOWAhGkDTvyv0KrTA24KbXMV1IdplycGSMES1Nrs/s1600/DSCF3549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjUuUccHXn6QJwJ-L1px0DaqBhWQ8Z_56GXavnzef3sRD37pdH8mCqLHwFywC9ehMB8DybpKn4AhnloHHbXjdvZStito9FLAlnlebOWAhGkDTvyv0KrTA24KbXMV1IdplycGSMES1Nrs/s1600/DSCF3549.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Signs on dedicated bike paths....AWESOME!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQNDnHlNrGoIODxvsdRmM5Ae9Mpi4WQg-gEpbpEkVcYmtyQPnA8McEVkRW6HbTu8LkxMMXBhvto_Qa6l_MBHtX8_3fJlq3TozYDuOXS6CjgmIPaXgJvJ6GaSjT06mhB3CY5zRL1D6Ia8/s1600/DSCF3552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQNDnHlNrGoIODxvsdRmM5Ae9Mpi4WQg-gEpbpEkVcYmtyQPnA8McEVkRW6HbTu8LkxMMXBhvto_Qa6l_MBHtX8_3fJlq3TozYDuOXS6CjgmIPaXgJvJ6GaSjT06mhB3CY5zRL1D6Ia8/s1600/DSCF3552.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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It was another day of contrasts - industry along the river and rail lines, graffiti, high end condos and homelessness, yachts, shopping malls, sports fields, restaurants, bars and people, people, people! We saw it all. It truly is remarkable that in a few short kilometres a cyclist travelling along the urban trails can pass through numerous municipalities and experience both the highs and the lows of our communities. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh19poj2kNZj5CnOk0KBrz3yOtCy0Nrw-YKFT20bsFAXAqLnhCzZE63_Nbd8qXTGL9FgHgfHTEH03wAbPmwg-_FTpdMY2r3X1Hj6wRyNEZCkJYi-Hr8soFlGpxh3-HVz6ngViKIOoQYxrs/s1600/DSCF3556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh19poj2kNZj5CnOk0KBrz3yOtCy0Nrw-YKFT20bsFAXAqLnhCzZE63_Nbd8qXTGL9FgHgfHTEH03wAbPmwg-_FTpdMY2r3X1Hj6wRyNEZCkJYi-Hr8soFlGpxh3-HVz6ngViKIOoQYxrs/s1600/DSCF3556.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anything in a size seven?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaz5n2HjQ12s7_NjhtV_yaMtrbeWHTlUlmOTgDNOt7bgyICoTWSWb0ttbuMEvo7w3sw9g75xynvabru-xLfhNNYXQnBYLjrvBsSYzmT7VXbbThOnoXz-tw2BZ4gddl4qYkbQduoBKw14/s1600/DSCF3557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaz5n2HjQ12s7_NjhtV_yaMtrbeWHTlUlmOTgDNOt7bgyICoTWSWb0ttbuMEvo7w3sw9g75xynvabru-xLfhNNYXQnBYLjrvBsSYzmT7VXbbThOnoXz-tw2BZ4gddl4qYkbQduoBKw14/s1600/DSCF3557.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brilliant Fall colours</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQXY9g0La4ZkBOcx9CYLOye4o9J_sSxkfo2uqkZjOuDDEmdpB4j4JGZCbIxcZ649N27LcHxm0oiDF4tTmyLul7jcNZZwbhoz04X8Wtg18PoDDUkgI2OV5brHVcAbXJ6ZzUOAXzuvvQh8/s1600/DSCF3566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQXY9g0La4ZkBOcx9CYLOye4o9J_sSxkfo2uqkZjOuDDEmdpB4j4JGZCbIxcZ649N27LcHxm0oiDF4tTmyLul7jcNZZwbhoz04X8Wtg18PoDDUkgI2OV5brHVcAbXJ6ZzUOAXzuvvQh8/s1600/DSCF3566.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching downtown Vancouver</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ZNF0AVgu8JibYtccCrLJPmnMlEtfyNn8sCeSZvj2M2xb1tQ_P75R_gNz-_vXXF3Kkn4-vugVbtiDT4HLTZ_xT2LM_xzMJ3z6cxW-KxqsFlcO9R1JIHBDPeSOdJqitW6hwPSEmP4j0CQ/s1600/DSCF3569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ZNF0AVgu8JibYtccCrLJPmnMlEtfyNn8sCeSZvj2M2xb1tQ_P75R_gNz-_vXXF3Kkn4-vugVbtiDT4HLTZ_xT2LM_xzMJ3z6cxW-KxqsFlcO9R1JIHBDPeSOdJqitW6hwPSEmP4j0CQ/s1600/DSCF3569.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Was there a George Clooney sighting here?</td></tr>
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We cycled along the waterfront to English Bay and Stanley Park enjoying the Sunday morning sights and sounds. As we approached Canada Place, Rob noticed DeDutch Pannekoek House conveniently located right on the seawall. The breakfast menu seemed to have his name on it so we had to stop. Rob simply could not MASH one inch further. It was such a warm day that we were able to sit outside on the patio and enjoy our breakfast as we watched the float planes take off and land.<br />
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We decided to experiment and try a new route out of downtown. We followed the Dunsmuir bike lane to Adanac and then began the climb out of Vancouver toward Simon Fraser University. We were confident that we would be able to find our way back to the Central Valley Greenway....and after a few stops and starts that's exactly what we did! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfW1YF_lYbGV9GoLD3CukUnx4eroKoB0AQ8EtqWemc62uSHVFeiFeSawvZJmebKXguBpYr5aL0hmNkp1bqOVmaK_I5w1r-kHA8jQTYFBigXU3si-aH2OXjQLzuXGy9FD2t0eex_H5tmig/s1600/DSCF3578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfW1YF_lYbGV9GoLD3CukUnx4eroKoB0AQ8EtqWemc62uSHVFeiFeSawvZJmebKXguBpYr5aL0hmNkp1bqOVmaK_I5w1r-kHA8jQTYFBigXU3si-aH2OXjQLzuXGy9FD2t0eex_H5tmig/s1600/DSCF3578.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading uphill towards Simon Fraser on the Frances Union Bikeway</td></tr>
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The highlight of the day was on the Central Valley Greenway. As we entered the park there was a sign warning folk to be cautious as there was a bear in the area. We thought that was a bit unusual...after all we were in the middle of Burnaby. However, as we pedaled along we could hear splashing coming from the stream below and quickly deduced why bears might be hanging out! The salmon were putting on a show. We hopped off our bikes and made our way down to the stream to watch the epic battle. Salmon were coming up the stream in waves as they fought their way against the current. It was inspiring to watch. Credit to the restoration crew who has been working to restore the habitat!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEQdrSXnV8d_5TLHHSkGCmZPWDyZzzPE1J7W7LGx-L4jPKttbp6NoKyg_F362ybppW8BxO9lMoAdCjY9fRw1I97HH_ZiJai4PuxSpNpmhqnDKVEeqtJh_K_YcoxLLIJ-V19Fe2hwUDBs/s1600/DSCF3583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEQdrSXnV8d_5TLHHSkGCmZPWDyZzzPE1J7W7LGx-L4jPKttbp6NoKyg_F362ybppW8BxO9lMoAdCjY9fRw1I97HH_ZiJai4PuxSpNpmhqnDKVEeqtJh_K_YcoxLLIJ-V19Fe2hwUDBs/s1600/DSCF3583.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salmon fighting their way up Still Creek to spawn</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ty0z0jCXv-QiI9tiM6lfhLdIjknzbGiWRa_OuNtna95oUGLIdTUrgr0Zixamx_JKJSJZZd-RcfCAW0HNMdcrlxB1GaSZLIAjsiWfBWwSk32lEQsSmiCn2chuZviyCa9lB22QIybin5Q/s1600/DSCF3611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ty0z0jCXv-QiI9tiM6lfhLdIjknzbGiWRa_OuNtna95oUGLIdTUrgr0Zixamx_JKJSJZZd-RcfCAW0HNMdcrlxB1GaSZLIAjsiWfBWwSk32lEQsSmiCn2chuZviyCa9lB22QIybin5Q/s1600/DSCF3611.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steps to help the salmon along their way</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNr2LtIW9Cv5EjvXCahyF14BZzWBCZGLJj9KtGqcTxmf_vSRxZqN6o7mSiKXNj8OVksa3oYvGLlYsQoxNTHzKLgdUpvVXQvc2H36JdWPzGh27ukkPxl3F2teV1s-zFjS9CkY-nY_y7Lw/s1600/DSCF3614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNr2LtIW9Cv5EjvXCahyF14BZzWBCZGLJj9KtGqcTxmf_vSRxZqN6o7mSiKXNj8OVksa3oYvGLlYsQoxNTHzKLgdUpvVXQvc2H36JdWPzGh27ukkPxl3F2teV1s-zFjS9CkY-nY_y7Lw/s1600/DSCF3614.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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As usual the day ended far too quickly! To celebrate the salmon sightings we stopped for a gelato....chocolate of course! Another perfect day and perfect ride.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guilt free Gelato break....life is good!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b><br />
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As we came to a red light on Main Street near Science World, a young gentleman pulled up beside us and exclaimed "HOWDY PARTNER!". He was dressed in full cowboy gear....boots, hat, jeans, vest and sheriff's badge. (in fairness, we were in downtown Vancouver AND it was the weekend before Halloween). The young man pulled a 26 ounce bottle of scotch out of his bike basket and asked if we would like a swig. How generous! We did notice that half the bottle was missing. We weren't sure if he was on his way to or from the party....or just keeping the party going. Before we could ask, he gave a hoot and a yippee and was back on his way. <br />
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<b><u>Map and Route tips:</u></b><br />
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City of Vancouver <a href="http://vancouver.ca/streets-transportation/cycling-routes-maps-and-trip-planner.aspx">http://vancouver.ca/streets-transportation/cycling-routes-maps-and-trip-planner.aspx</a></div>
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BC Parkway <a href="http://www.translink.ca/en/Getting-Around/Cycling/BC-Parkway.aspx">http://www.translink.ca/en/Getting-Around/Cycling/BC-Parkway.aspx</a></div>
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Central Valley Greenway <a href="http://www.translink.ca/en/Getting-Around/Cycling/Central-Valley-Greenway.aspx">http://www.translink.ca/en/Getting-Around/Cycling/Central-Valley-Greenway.aspx</a></div>
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Burnaby bike Routes <a href="http://www.burnaby.ca/Page386.aspx">http://www.burnaby.ca/Page386.aspx</a></div>
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Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-70689174418616396122013-10-06T10:26:00.002-07:002013-10-06T10:26:18.425-07:00Harrison River Kayak Day Trip<span style="font-family: inherit;">It seems hard to believe, but once again we were blessed with amazing weather for our day trip to <a href="http://www.tourismharrison.com/" target="_blank">Harrison Hot Springs.</a> Paddling in the fall always feels like a bonus, and when you are lucky enough to have the sun on your face and the wind on your back, it seems to feel extra special. Today was such a day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We launched from the public beach area near the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa and marveled at the view of the <span style="font-size: 14px;">Breckenridge Glacier. It was picture perfect with the sun hitting the snow capped mountain peak. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Launch site - Harrison Hot Springs</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1f1mzmadp9m1KEfaDQ4uPTOiYLKiCSKJGQL6ut_6s9Ec4lZZ5mNJP8txg-xt-wsXmflFxwgBJKyBiQPJ0z0d0lUHeCCkR73mtl0NYJ8mroOKArIjdBmHSq4JaunfhtQrOZ9_oli-rlhE/s1600/DSCF3440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1f1mzmadp9m1KEfaDQ4uPTOiYLKiCSKJGQL6ut_6s9Ec4lZZ5mNJP8txg-xt-wsXmflFxwgBJKyBiQPJ0z0d0lUHeCCkR73mtl0NYJ8mroOKArIjdBmHSq4JaunfhtQrOZ9_oli-rlhE/s1600/DSCF3440.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Breckenridge Glacier</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYn94qhq8wcTKVOJylIJn5hZvEcPpRLhtu1xy-oThhaM_nGvyb5xh4fT0u5DlyTZqI3Zk8IhWUlA_Uea-CxCZ6WdEx4G2PVWkDudqx-AZU9ZTGOWikPJSJnyabyWKYxWKHqGQ0UW98u1E/s1600/DSCF3443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYn94qhq8wcTKVOJylIJn5hZvEcPpRLhtu1xy-oThhaM_nGvyb5xh4fT0u5DlyTZqI3Zk8IhWUlA_Uea-CxCZ6WdEx4G2PVWkDudqx-AZU9ZTGOWikPJSJnyabyWKYxWKHqGQ0UW98u1E/s1600/DSCF3443.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harrison Hot Springs</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;">We paddled across the lake and made our way to the mouth of the Harrison river. The </span><span style="font-size: 14px;">Harrison River (18 kilometers)</span><span style="font-size: 14px;"> is a short but amazing river. The first designated Salmon Stronghold in Canada, it is the only area in BC to host all five species of salmon and steel head trout. The salmon habitat in the Harrison Basin is an example of a crucial salmon system that has somehow remained pristine. This abundance of salmon draws in 1000's of Bald Eagles every fall making the Harrison River the 3rd largest gathering place of Bald Eagles in North America. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14px;">As we made our way down the river - an easy float as the current was with us, we enjoyed the peace and serenity of the area. As we floated in silence, we could hear the fish jumping and splashing around us. I suppose that is the outdoor equivalent of hearing a pin drop. The river was an incredible green colour - reminding us of the glacier lakes we have visited in the Rockies near Banff and Lake Louise and the fall colours were spectacular.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glacier fed river - amazing colours!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Iv14TDhyphenhyphen5pS1qA_Ah5s6qF3YnXr1CrUMi7savHnxw-s71GRiO8WLOYX-Sv8hX8urM2biDGE8Lk5pC4cRIRoaBx7sT2rvR7RTJ4Bly3OoEaRHX2AuYcMQRuP35L6Mq2vjJGKDMMqdgac/s1600/DSCF3516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Iv14TDhyphenhyphen5pS1qA_Ah5s6qF3YnXr1CrUMi7savHnxw-s71GRiO8WLOYX-Sv8hX8urM2biDGE8Lk5pC4cRIRoaBx7sT2rvR7RTJ4Bly3OoEaRHX2AuYcMQRuP35L6Mq2vjJGKDMMqdgac/s1600/DSCF3516.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaves starting to turn - symphony of colour!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We landed on a small beach and climbed up the rock to get a view of the river below. Perfect! Further downstream lies Chehalis Flats. The largest concentration of bald eagles ever recorded was documented in this area. Work is underway to protect this area and create awareness of <a href="http://www.prettyestateresort.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/bald-eagle-etiquette.pdf" target="_blank">Bald Eagle Etiquette for the Chehalis Flats and Harrison Mills area.</a></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rest stop - with a view</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It was time to turn around and face the paddle back against the wind and the current....our easy float was over. The wind had picked up so we took advantage of our friend <a href="http://www.paddling.net/sameboat/archives/sameboat202.html" target="_blank">Eddy</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> to take brief rest breaks as we paddled back to the lake. </span> Curious seals followed us back - it is always a treat to see the seals so far upstream and a sure sign that the fishing is good! We watched in fascination as a seal battled with his dinner - we were unsuccessful in getting a photo of the epic battle, but we can assure you that the seal won!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl78tzbLf-5HsMw3GpsjiWP0ecIak58ySTCHyYe_S3jUsx0a-iVAJmj0cTkkHZThXN1ENXH6wFyVPFtsHjjuPdVoI7xdIvy41boFHlBfM823eXqSBFG4BUny2BmOVokP3nkKH1nc43bk8/s1600/DSCF3515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl78tzbLf-5HsMw3GpsjiWP0ecIak58ySTCHyYe_S3jUsx0a-iVAJmj0cTkkHZThXN1ENXH6wFyVPFtsHjjuPdVoI7xdIvy41boFHlBfM823eXqSBFG4BUny2BmOVokP3nkKH1nc43bk8/s1600/DSCF3515.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<b><u>Giggle of the Day:</u></b><br />
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The sight of the kayaks always seems to attract on-lookers, especially tourists visiting Canada, and today was no exception. Our van was parked on the main street directly opposite an outdoor cafe. There were several groups of tourists sitting outside watching us load up the gear. We overheard one man say, "How the h### are they going to get those boats on top of that van?" ...followed by "will you look at that!" followed by "Well, I'll be "darned." Of course, we pretended to be cool and calm on the outside, but inside I was praying I would not drop the boat in front of such an enthusiastic and curious audience!<br />
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<b><u>Map and Route Tips:</u></b><br />
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<iframe height="480" src="http://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.kdE2aWwP6Tq0" width="520"></iframe>Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-54042114316633361462013-09-17T17:36:00.002-07:002013-09-22T18:15:11.898-07:00Lummi Island Kayak - Over night trip<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Summer has come and gone so quickly! We just couldn't accept the oncoming fall without at least one more overnight kayak trip. There are so many wonderful opportunities to paddle in the Pacific North West that it was quite a tough decision to pick a location for our last overnight of the year. We decided to paddle close to home and so chose an overnight trip to Lummi Island in Washington State.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gooseberry Point Boat Launch</td></tr>
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We launched from Gooseberry Point, on the <a href="http://www.lummi-nsn.org/website/index2.html" target="_blank">Lummi First Nation land</a>, adjacent to the Lummi Island ferry. We arrived to find that the beach was a beehive of activity as fishermen tested their skill against the elusive salmon. Numerous onlookers were being encouraged to throw rocks at the seals as the fishermen tried to pull in their nets. The seals seemed undeterred at all efforts to divert their attention as they appeared to be appreciating the salmon smorgasbord being provided.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hale Passage</td></tr>
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To begin the paddle we crossed Hale Passage toward the east side of Lummi Island. The passage is notorious for wind, waves and funky currents so we were grateful to have a smooth and uneventful crossing.</div>
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We paddled along the eastern shores and enjoyed peeking at the numerous ocean front cottages. They are all unique, character homes....you know they have stories to tell about endless summers spent on the beach. We stopped for lunch at Inati Bay, home of the Bellingham Yacht Club. Several sail boats were anchored in the cove and their crews were enjoying picnics and campfires on the beach. The gang welcomed us to join the yacht club and encouraged us to attend the Friday evening potlucks!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inati Bay</td></tr>
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After lunch and visit with the folk at Inati Bay we continued on to the Department of Natural Resources marine campsite on the southern end of Lummi Island at Real Bay. This site is part of the Cascadia Marine Trail. We were absolutely thrilled with the campsite.....gentle beach landings, primitive campsites complete with fire rings and picnic tables and a skookum outhouse (toilet paper included). Life is good! We set up camp and settled in for dinner and a glass or two of wine on the beach. As we watched the campfire burn down we chatted about the day and pondered what tomorrow would hold.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lummi Island Marine Campsite</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zrUls5n8MjD_xN4hMw_cPu-z2sDdZS-B0H8afNwIGmATGoxxhx8Oi1tURc0nCaapQsV2JGaMuV2ebwDWuOnjvMdyYR7YL1sAT-039G71QTecTu5xb00YFrqXlufssaG8gmw3Cc21R0w/s1600/DSCF3327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zrUls5n8MjD_xN4hMw_cPu-z2sDdZS-B0H8afNwIGmATGoxxhx8Oi1tURc0nCaapQsV2JGaMuV2ebwDWuOnjvMdyYR7YL1sAT-039G71QTecTu5xb00YFrqXlufssaG8gmw3Cc21R0w/s1600/DSCF3327.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bare feet, Barefoot Wine and a room with a view....a perfect combination.</td></tr>
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On a side note, we must give credit to WAKE - the <a href="http://www.wakekayak.org/" target="_blank">Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts.</a> We learned that DNR no longer maintained the campsite, and in order to avoid closure WAKE volunteers stepped up and now steward the area. Thank you ...and great work!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We weren't alone as we prepared to launch at low tide</td></tr>
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<u>Giggle of the day:</u></div>
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We had a very disorganized start to the morning! We crossed the border and were merrily travelling along Highway I-5 when I asked Rob if he had packed the tent. He went white....a sure sign that he had NOT packed the tent. I tried to remain calm, and suggested that maybe we could make due with the tarp. He then asked me if I had packed the life jackets and spray skirts. I turned white....a sure sign that I had NOT packed the life jackets and spray skirts. We grudgingly turned around, went back to the border crossing convinced the border guards that we were not smugglers - just scatter brains and did a redo!</div>
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<u>Day Two - WAKE campsite to Gooseberry Point</u></div>
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The marine weather forecast for the day was not good...heavy winds, rain and a potential thunder storm were in the works. We definitely did not want to be crossing Hale Passage in those kinds of conditions so we decided to get an early start and attempt to beat the incoming weather. We were on the water by <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://1" x-apple-data-detectors-result="1" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event" x-apple-data-detectors="true">7:30am</a>. What a spooky morning. The water was like glass, but the fog was so thick that we could barely see 30 feet in front of us. There was a stillness and quiet that at first was unsettling, but we soon came to enjoy. Steep, heavily forested cliffs make up the south end of the island...ideal for another day of great critter viewing. As we made our way around the southern tip of the island we crossed an eddy line and were bounced around as the ocean played with our boats. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heavy fog as we depart from the campsite</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkO2VATfEctMJg7t3i2wAPxURLgQDVp8fBEUdKPl7du67-WuH2rJDvH6AyB14v4XtJ7zq2kBTkR6Xraj2aHa4Qlz_AuF2h1jO6CRj8ntmh81FC6FQzhfhA7p8k0x75OerQbjEH_uI3hQ/s1600/DSCF3351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkO2VATfEctMJg7t3i2wAPxURLgQDVp8fBEUdKPl7du67-WuH2rJDvH6AyB14v4XtJ7zq2kBTkR6Xraj2aHa4Qlz_AuF2h1jO6CRj8ntmh81FC6FQzhfhA7p8k0x75OerQbjEH_uI3hQ/s1600/DSCF3351.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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We continued along the west side of the island and enjoyed the view of the rocky headlands. Unfortunately, the fog still had not lifted so we were unable to see the islands to the west. About mid way up the island the geography changes quite dramatically and we travelled along sandy beaches and again had terrific views of the ocean front homes.<b> </b><br />
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We were intrigued to see two parallel rows of huge fishing boats side by side, Each boat had a man standing high on the mast, almost appearing to be at watch. We joked about a pending pirate battle and were waiting to hear battle cries. <br />
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As we approached the north end of the island the wind picked up...we were also going against the current, so needless to say we were working hard and not going very far. We rounded the bend and then fought our way to Lane Spit. We decided to cross the passage at Lane Spit and attempt to angle our way back to Gooseberry Point. It was quite a paddle, and as with all Weiss vacations we also encountered rain. We finally completed the crossing wet, exhausted and happy to be on solid ground. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rain picks up as we continue across Hale Passage</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back on dry land</td></tr>
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<u>Giggle of the day:</u></div>
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As you know there are many hazards to be faced when playing in the great outdoors. During this trip we had to face boomers and bombers and debated the dangers of both. Let us explain:</div>
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<u>Boomer:</u> a boomer is a large rock that lies in wait just below the water line. If not careful, you can hit the boomer before you notice it is even there. Sometimes they can cause considerable damage to your kayak.</div>
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<u>Bomber:</u> likely note a technical term, but a term we use when referring to those naughty seabirds who appear to communicate and fly in formation over us....dropping their bombs!</div>
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We encountered both on this trip.....we will leave it to your imagination as to which one of us was boomed and which one of us was bombed!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bomber lines up his target......and begins the approach!</td></tr>
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<u>Map and Route Tips:</u><br />
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<iframe height="480" src="http://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.kugq4Mm_j9bM" width="540"></iframe>
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DNR campsite, maintained by WAKE - GPS N 48 39.525 W 122 36.852</div>
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Nautical chart: <a href="http://www.charts.noaa.gov/OnLineViewer/18424.shtml" target="_blank">NOAA Chart 18424</a></div>
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<a href="http://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/tide_predictions.shtml?gid=259" target="_blank">Tide tables</a></div>
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<a href="http://co-ops.nos.noaa.gov/currents04/tab2pc2.html" target="_blank">Hale Passage currents</a></div>
Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-79186058554243788502013-09-16T17:59:00.000-07:002013-09-16T17:59:45.970-07:00Larrabee State Park Kayak Day Trip<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;">Although we are always seeking to find new routes, the day trip out of </span><a href="http://www.parks.wa.gov/parks/?selectedpark=Larrabee&subject=all" style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Larrabee State Park</a><span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;"> is one that we try and paddle each and every year. It never disappoints! The boat launch area is just outside historic </span><a href="http://www.fairhaven.com/" style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Fairhaven</a><span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;">, and one of our favourite breakfast spots -</span><a href="http://www.skylarkshiddencafe.com/" style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Skylark Hidden Cafe</a><span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;">. To access the state park you must follow </span><a href="http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/LocalPrograms/ScenicByways/Chuckanut.htm" style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;" target="_blank">Chuckanut Drive</a><span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;">....one of the prettiest drives in the area, and even if you are not the least bit interested in paddling...you must drive the </span>Chuckanut<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;">!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mexico or Chuckanut Bay?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Incredible sandstone cliffs</td></tr>
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This year the paddling gods were on our side as we arrived at the boat launch to find near perfect, well actually PERFECT conditions! The water was calm, the sun was shining, and we had the boat launch to ourselves. We excitedly loaded our gear and began to paddle out of the cove.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boat Launch at low tide - Larrabee </td></tr>
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The water clarity and visibility was unbelievable. It felt like we could see to the deep dark bottom of the sea. Of course, we knew this meant that we were in for a full day of fantastic critter viewing! We marvelled at the variety of life we saw: water jellies, lions mane jelly, moon jellies, a variety of anemones, sand dollars, barnacles, red rock crab, purple shore crab, bat stars, leather stars, sun stars, pacific blood star, purple star, sunflower star, giant pink star, Red Sea urchin, and many more we simply could not identify. We are looking forward to the day that Emma, our aspiring marine biologist will help us correctly identify those we miss.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Underwater Starfish gathering</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhdq8eF0xIdDsumdUwtcKOzhfrfTHlG-neyfihwxVyUL2Krm_rl62oTt3hBFIR37TuGLWcEoZ6FoIRMngfpzQGdNhXTXYmAkqdKZsCAoFtFeNp0wxKFivyIHK0M-fleSwkKXJ4BIFcMU/s1600/DSCF3301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhdq8eF0xIdDsumdUwtcKOzhfrfTHlG-neyfihwxVyUL2Krm_rl62oTt3hBFIR37TuGLWcEoZ6FoIRMngfpzQGdNhXTXYmAkqdKZsCAoFtFeNp0wxKFivyIHK0M-fleSwkKXJ4BIFcMU/s1600/DSCF3301.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jellies lead the way</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sand dollars</td></tr>
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It was a very slow leisurely paddle as we explored the amazing sandstone cliffs. The cliffs have been weathered and battered by wind, ocean and rain and as a result they are a visual feast of smoothly rounded shapes and intriguing patterns...curves, crevices, and holes!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sand stone - sculpted by Mother Nature</td></tr>
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After travelling along the sandstone cliffs, we crossed open water to visit a Nature Sanctuary. This small island in Chuckanut Bay is a terrific spot to stop for snack and a stretch. It is a protected area and home to many bird nesting sites. We enjoyed some beach combing and tide pool viewing. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coffee Break at the Nature Sanctuary</td></tr>
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On our return trip we once again poked and plodded our way along the shoreline. It is amazing how the ebb and flow of the tides can dramatically change your view and at times you feel like you are paddling a whole new stretch of water. We found a wonderful secluded cove to land and scrambled up the cliff to a fabulous picnic spot over looking the ocean. The view was indescribable. Reluctantly, we looked at the time and knew it was time to return to the boat launch and head home. Thank you Larrabee for another awesome paddle....see you next year!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch break with a view</td></tr>
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<u>Giggle of the day:</u></div>
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After lunch, as we paddled back to the boat launch, we noticed a creature in the water up ahead. It looked like a seal, but there was something not quite right. We paddled closer only to discover a new species....a DOG FISH. Yes...here we were sandstone cliffs to our right and endless ocean to the left and a dog in front of us. It was dog paddling like crazy and breathing heavily. We were quite concerned, and tried to get closer to corral it to shore. However, every time we drew near the dog would try to jump on board one of our kayaks. It was quite a big, sturdy dog, and we were concerned that he would capsize one of us. We managed to get him to rest on a paddle for a bit and then he followed us to a section of shore where he could climb out. We never did discover the dog's owner or where he came from....but, we were able to rest easy knowing that we had managed to accompany him to shore.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The elusive DOG FISH</td></tr>
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<u>Map and Route tips:</u></div>
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There is a small fee to park and launch at the Larrabee Boat Launch.<br />
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Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-46571217288556697952013-09-03T06:31:00.000-07:002013-09-03T06:31:01.793-07:00White Water Kayak School - Clearwater, B.C.<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">As August was quickly drawing to a close, we decided to find something new and different to try as a way to both celebrate and say goodbye to the summer. Adam and Emma had the last week of August off (unfortunately, Ian was scheduled to work) so we chatted about different trips we would like to take as a family......Cape Scott, the Oregon Coast, Bowron Lakes Circuit, West Coast trail, Galapagos (that will have to wait) etc. During our lengthy trip discussions and research we stumbled upon the <a href="http://www.liquidlifestyles.ca/" target="_blank">Liquid Lifestyles</a> Kayak school in <a href="http://www.districtofclearwater.com/" target="_blank">Clearwater BC</a>. SOLD! We decided to try our hand at white water kayaking.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Our adventure began with a road trip, 5.5 hours to Clearwater. Like all road trips we light heartily fought over seats, music, rest breaks ...and just like old times we pestered Rob with the "are we there yet chant and enjoyed a lively round of punch buggy!" Ah - the memories of family road trips!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We had reserved a campsite at the <a href="http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/n_thm_rv/" target="_blank">North Thompson River Provincial Park</a>. This is a terrific little site, situated on the North Thompson river directly off highway 5, only a few kilometres from Clearwater and a fantastic place to base camp while exploring the Clearwater area and <a href="http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/wells_gry/" target="_blank">Wells Gray Provincial Park</a>. We were in luck as the campfire ban had been lifted, so after we arrived, we set up our tents and enjoyed a terrific evening around the campfire. Of course, being a Weiss vacation, we were also treated to heavy rain throughout the night and woke to very wet, and chilly campsite.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Campsite over looking the river</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Morning came quickly, and we all were up bright and early wondering what the day would hold. We travelled to the Liquid Lifestyles office, met our fantastic guide Bryn ....signed the waivers and before you knew it, Bryn had set us up with wetsuits, life jackets, paddles, boats and helmets.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The course began with a morning on Dutch Lake as Bryn started with the basics:</span><br />
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<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">launching from the dock</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">wet exits</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">breath control</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">T-rescues</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">low bracing</span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKfBxFie9y8ljgTmA_P2-3zMx9sBPDAyyDpHkJlGm7TAP64GEbIHFWot6EHWlKzKCmhp0sZ5VgaPVbmTn01kyRU6qdJ7pv2g5jCBfMqqKdvdKjO1DmUanFAoWU-WpTjbkMMAA57Hn2DaA/s1600/DSCF3043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKfBxFie9y8ljgTmA_P2-3zMx9sBPDAyyDpHkJlGm7TAP64GEbIHFWot6EHWlKzKCmhp0sZ5VgaPVbmTn01kyRU6qdJ7pv2g5jCBfMqqKdvdKjO1DmUanFAoWU-WpTjbkMMAA57Hn2DaA/s1600/DSCF3043.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heads up on Dutch Lake</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7w_pK9oRetIgBBRPIVxsSVdHkWgIofkqLkUQRUNNUEu5UDb4s_ZqXFN3IkUHepleahnBVDU7wTZFortAFJtqpw8D-gSu6YaEkoJT5zK6MX4JcxwClbgMzDvKwsZz6VpLp7PGd9gnbRw/s1600/DSCF3017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7w_pK9oRetIgBBRPIVxsSVdHkWgIofkqLkUQRUNNUEu5UDb4s_ZqXFN3IkUHepleahnBVDU7wTZFortAFJtqpw8D-gSu6YaEkoJT5zK6MX4JcxwClbgMzDvKwsZz6VpLp7PGd9gnbRw/s1600/DSCF3017.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emma working on the T-rescue....she gone!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The laughs were plentiful that morning. Adam's spray skirt was really tight - so he struggled every time he had to wet exit and get back in his boat. We teased him relentlessly each and every time he had to fight with the spray skirt. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">By the end of the morning, Bryn was teaching Adam how to roll....Adam was catching on quickly....we were sure it was simply to avoid having to wet exit and deal with the spray skirt and our teasing.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bryn works with Adam to learn how to roll</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Rob won the prize for the first dump......it was a sharp right turn....that ended up with Rob taking the swim of shame to shore!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Emma was such a rock star....she amazed us all as she quickly learned to stay calm while upside down in her boat, patiently holding her breath as she waited for a T-rescue. Later that afternoon, when we were on the river, Emma dumped in a section of white water. I watched in pure amazement as she was being swept downstream, she calmly tapped on her boat and waited for the T-rescue. Later, I asked her how she managed to stay so calm. She gave me a cute little smile and said, "I knew Bryn would come." ....just that simple!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLN9ZOdnKTkr6rv3Die0q1rylLP2CgH12dnQqodDnRZPx9kMpvv9quBMaDlKKjsO40crS9H8uttikAQPoCjAlq1fD-9uMlz3pENVQZAYP2kg17YwSMP0FKoqdKAoFOuNM5-xeMhTqc7M/s1600/DSCF3048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLN9ZOdnKTkr6rv3Die0q1rylLP2CgH12dnQqodDnRZPx9kMpvv9quBMaDlKKjsO40crS9H8uttikAQPoCjAlq1fD-9uMlz3pENVQZAYP2kg17YwSMP0FKoqdKAoFOuNM5-xeMhTqc7M/s1600/DSCF3048.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch break over looking the river</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We enjoyed a terrific lunch sitting on the cliff over looking the river and the stretch of water we were to paddle that afternoon. We were all feeling really excited at the thought of hitting the river. We finished our lunch, jumped in the van and set off for our put-in. Once we arrived, Bryn casually hoisted his boat onto his shoulder said, "this way" and set off down a cliff to the river's edge. Rob and I looked at each other in disbelief. To fully understand you must try and picture Bryn. He was probably 6'2" with shoulders almost as wide - a Paul Bunyan type of build. Of course, Adam and Emma set off after him without blinking so Rob and I wished each other luck and followed along. I can not tell you how challenging it was to slip and slide our way along the trail, fumbling with our kayaks and paddles! Definitely a young mans game. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow the leader down to the river bank</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We arrived at the river bank relatively unscathed and Bryn began to take us through our paces. We practiced a few more t-rescues and then began to learn how to ferry across the river and eddy turn. The day ended with Adam, Rob and I going for a very long swim beside our boats! Emma managed to master that last eddy turn and was able to stay in her boat and paddle her way down the river.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AJrhZg4OYfXL0h7pZyfAoLfTN3lMUijzhcrM1wAVN6Dr3VKaIB9b9D0igCrbweaN9kYs7UKINMnwGEMOMCGfnLzSzFDhWsyUV2yy656BuY9T-aDlqS8TO5run3saIKVMFE4i23pDclY/s1600/DSCF3117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AJrhZg4OYfXL0h7pZyfAoLfTN3lMUijzhcrM1wAVN6Dr3VKaIB9b9D0igCrbweaN9kYs7UKINMnwGEMOMCGfnLzSzFDhWsyUV2yy656BuY9T-aDlqS8TO5run3saIKVMFE4i23pDclY/s1600/DSCF3117.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emma takes a break</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The day was physically demanding and we all arrived back at the campsite, battered, bruised, exhausted and LOVING IT! What a day. We really have to give our guide credit...Bryn was kind, and incredibly patient - yet managed to individually challenge each and every one of us.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkGBi8utjJsdN84fdRY_8h5KbMPYN-M5Tc34nriMWuO2V6I5Q03oiw-WcZhsstbdLiDTVqDyRdJdAqHRGEqiz0V11xJpbg4zWAdBA6Sljct7owE3aBO0CrE3NS-FJGnGrFrKX7LZxZOY/s1600/DSCF3128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkGBi8utjJsdN84fdRY_8h5KbMPYN-M5Tc34nriMWuO2V6I5Q03oiw-WcZhsstbdLiDTVqDyRdJdAqHRGEqiz0V11xJpbg4zWAdBA6Sljct7owE3aBO0CrE3NS-FJGnGrFrKX7LZxZOY/s1600/DSCF3128.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adam attempts to surf</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The next morning we awoke again to the sound of rain falling on the tents. Not that it mattered much...we knew we would be wet for the rest of the day. We arrived at the kayak office to the sight of the guides jump starting the vans. We tried to not take the sight of the dead van as an omen for what lay ahead. Bryn had planned a full day on the river... and a section of river that would be a bit more challenging for us. We were all excited and nervous at the same time.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">....creative entry point....</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We continued to practice our eddy turns, on faster moving water and YES...we again practiced t-rescues and in my case long distance swims! Adam really improved and was trying to master the roll and even surf a couple of waves. As we came near a section of river called Swimmers Alley, Bryn took away our paddles. He said he couldn't trust us with them! The golden rule was to never loose your paddle - and to Bryn's dismay, we frequently found ourselves on a river bank without a boat or a paddle watching Bryn paddling like crazy to rescue our gear. We made our way through swimmers alley with arms flapping like bird wings..and learning to trust in the river and the boat. A great lesson!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rob takes a break in the eddy</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Bryn was planning to challenge us with a class 3 rapid in the afternoon. I was completely exhausted and didn't want to hold the group up, so I suggested they continue without me. I was quite happy to wait at the take out point - safe and dry. The gang wouldn't hear anything of it, so Bryn suggested a double inflatable for the afternoon and Emma graciously agreed to give up her boat and join me in the inflatable. He teased us and nicknamed us the GOON SQUAD.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Goon Squad heading to the river</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Rob and Adam bravely tackled the rapids. The waves were really big (at least to the inexperienced paddler!) Adam successfully managed an eddy turn into the river and then as he hit the first hole, we lost sight of him .... the next thing we knew he was swimming. Rob didn't last much longer before the river took him as well. Rob and Adam must have swam at least 1/2 km before they could get out of the river and back into their boats. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Emma and I giggled as our double inflatable bounced and turned its way down the river..with Bryn yelling at the Goon Squad to get left..what a ride!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We managed to make our way through a series of class 1 and 2 rapids. The calm sections of water allowed us time to take in the views of the beautiful canyon and river....spectacular. We arrived at the take out point, tired, wet and happy.....we had all thoroughly enjoyed our time on the river and each of us had been pushed and challenged!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A great day on the river.....</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Bryn did a great job of teaching us the importance of checking your gear and ensuring you have everything with you before you hit the river. When we arrived at the put in point we unloaded the van only to discover that we had everything EXCEPT our guide's paddle. (we wont say who was responsible for loading the paddles) We learned the biggest lesson of all.....what it means to be up a creek without a paddle!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><u>Reflections:</u></b></span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">As I reflect on our holiday, I am forced to admit that I was the weak link! I am really comfortable in the water and love paddling....however, there was something about being upside down in the lake or on the river with your spray skirt on that terrified me. I was truly surprised at my reaction....I knew and logically understood that I only needed to hold my breath for a few seconds and help would be there, but the millisecond I flipped my boat, every instinct in my body SCREAMED at me to GET OUT! It was an irrational fear that I could not conquer.....I am determined to try again next summer and win this battle, because it was such a thrill to run the river! It was also an interesting reflection time for me. For years Rob and I have ventured out with the kids and at times had wondered if we were pushing them too hard or putting them at risk. However, deep down we knew that we could take care of them and keep them safe. This week I came to realize that I must now depend on them.....a passing of the torch so to speak. As I watched Adam and Emma fearlessly tackle the skills and the river I felt both proud and humbled! What a trip!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><u>Map:</u></b></span><br />
<iframe height="480" src="http://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.kiUy9dyl1qx8" width="520"></iframe>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span>Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-67015487703219633082013-08-26T13:49:00.000-07:002013-08-26T13:49:40.773-07:00St. Marks Summit Hike - Cypress Provincial Park<div class="MsoPlainText">
The majestic North Shore mountains provide an
amazing backdrop for Vancouver, B.C. -
arguably one of the most beautiful
cities in the world. These
mountains tower over the city and ocean
below and call out to those who wish to get outside and explore. Today we decided to grab our backpacks and
hiking poles and head to <a href="http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/cypress/">Cypress Provincial Park</a>. The park features numerous opportunities for
outdoor enthusiasts....a smorgasbord for day trippers and mountaineers
alike! <o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPDCM2FcHyv4i7KBt5yzVlzJnhe6lNrgGruKRkvtuhrvW89feMeiQr45uw51YegaQdO5_PhhWh8twUEDEyx9lbcQLKEKC1XsKxPsbjxjd0CAPhz6yAEupAI9I56NFtiQkNVQZQ7AzRJY/s1600/DSCF2843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPDCM2FcHyv4i7KBt5yzVlzJnhe6lNrgGruKRkvtuhrvW89feMeiQr45uw51YegaQdO5_PhhWh8twUEDEyx9lbcQLKEKC1XsKxPsbjxjd0CAPhz6yAEupAI9I56NFtiQkNVQZQ7AzRJY/s1600/DSCF2843.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Howe Crest Sound Trail</td></tr>
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We decided to hike the <a href="http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/cypress/hsct_map.pdf">Howe Crest Sound trail</a> to St. Marks Summit, and
potentially push on to the Lions, a famous Vancouver landmark. The trail head began near the <a href="http://cypressmountain.com/crazy-raven-bar-grill">Crazy Raven Bar and Grill</a> on
Cypress Mountain. The lodge is a great
spot to grab a coffee and treat after your day trip and is also great apres ski meet up during the winter months! <o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLkZHdhMMCMM-YGDBOHMzdjbYbRB5G9TA1odgHy-v0THi10TR7bvjHpA5zDHFF9zXl3wY6HZLSPIwL9ZUIGlofKQZ7RH3hAk5vQtljLlNqXu8vMovR5s2XWQyqfypkTNQnEkUcMei1xB0/s1600/DSCF2874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLkZHdhMMCMM-YGDBOHMzdjbYbRB5G9TA1odgHy-v0THi10TR7bvjHpA5zDHFF9zXl3wY6HZLSPIwL9ZUIGlofKQZ7RH3hAk5vQtljLlNqXu8vMovR5s2XWQyqfypkTNQnEkUcMei1xB0/s1600/DSCF2874.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crazy Raven Bar and Grill - Cypress Mountain</td></tr>
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As we parked our
car we reminisced about the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games. Cypress Mountain was made noteworthy for it's
lack of snow, but despite all of the controversy the Mountain brought us memorable Olympic moments including our first medal won by Jennifer Heil, (Ladies Moguls) and our country's first Olympic gold. Who can forget Alexandre Bilodeau's golden moment? We stopped to snap pictures of the Olympic Rings and chatted about our
favourite Olympic moments. GO CANADA GO!<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Memories of Vancouver 2010</td></tr>
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We began the hike up through the forest. We had the trail to ourselves and we enjoyed
the peace and quiet of the forest. The
air was fresh and chilly. The trail came
out of the forest and we joined a logging road and continued our climb. We re-entered the forest and continued to
climb...yes we were gaining altitude quickly!
The trail was extremely well marked and well maintained - thank you BC
Parks! </div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural Staircase</td></tr>
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We hiked the switch backs as we continued to climb. The mosquitoes and flies dictated our
pace....we found that if we kept a good speed up they didn't bother us, but the
second we stopped they instantly found us and proclaimed lunch! The underbrush began to thin as we continued
to ascend. Our legs enjoyed the soft pack
trail and we marvelled at the natural staircase made of all the tree
roots. The trail was challenging in
sections as we navigated roots, rocks and slippery sections. <o:p></o:p><br />
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Our hard work climbing was rewarded as we were afforded
peek a boo views of Howe Sound. Like
magic the fog lifted as we neared the ridge line and we could see for
miles! We passed through alpine meadows
and arrived at St. Marks summit. The
view from the summit was breath taking....we looked down over the ridge - 1400
metres to the ocean below. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spectacular View from St. Mark's Summit</td></tr>
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We were concerned about the time and not sure if we would
be able to reach the Lions and return before dusk. We regretted our late start as it was beginning to look like the Lions would be out of reach. We decided to push on a little further before making our final
decision The trail markings were
infrequent and we were relying on flagging tap to lead us on. As we began quite a steep descent the fog
began to roll in. Visibility was quite
poor. We were concerned that we might be
on the wrong trail so we decided to return to St. Marks summit and check our
maps and look for trail markings. As we
arrived back at the Summit we met another couple of hikers. We asked if they knew where the trail to the
Lions continued. To quote,
"interesting you ask. My daughter
and her friend were just air lifted out by search and rescue last week. They got lost on their way to the
Lions." Our decision was made. We chose to enjoy lunch on the summit and
return another day to visit the Lions...with better maps and an earlier start! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDkQbVnFVHl8CrCrNJysMEOmJMsapI1GlmHGdOcb5BibubsqRvoA40fM04EEJI2Q5ZuUQASnFPs-onoP03dktCfvKEoMCrvazalkowCNtIcW1hFToIPo3Qi5sP58bm0KuFLY8y70TXig/s1600/DSCF2849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDkQbVnFVHl8CrCrNJysMEOmJMsapI1GlmHGdOcb5BibubsqRvoA40fM04EEJI2Q5ZuUQASnFPs-onoP03dktCfvKEoMCrvazalkowCNtIcW1hFToIPo3Qi5sP58bm0KuFLY8y70TXig/s1600/DSCF2849.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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We had a late start today, and as we rounded the bend
onto the Cypress Mountain access road we were forced to come to an abrupt
stop. We were expecting to see wildlife
on the road, or a car accident, but instead there were 500 cyclists
blocking traffic as they waited at the
start line for the <a href="http://glotmansimpsoncycling.ca/cypress-challenge/2013">Cypress Challenge</a>...a 12 km bike race....straight
uphill. You could feel the anticipation
and excitement in the air. Traffic was
directed around the cyclists and we giggled to ourselves as we rejoiced in the
fact that we were driving up the road to our trail head.....and not
MASHING our way to the top!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Map and Route Tips:</u></b></div>
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Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-40320010250422712782013-08-22T08:42:00.000-07:002013-08-22T08:42:52.161-07:00Deep Cove by Kayak - Indian Arm Provincial ParkWhen the sun is shining and the water is calm there is no better city escape than kayaking out of Deep Cove, just minutes outside of Vancouver. <a href="http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/indian_arm/">Indian Arm Provincial Park</a> protects the shores of this amazing 18 kilometer fjord extending from Burrard Inlet in Vancouver. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eJAh1h7YtMFbRMQH8lVmjGOJ1QJzotRwJSZBRGEtVvuLA5FBLHbx28kpy7vojlWJ96uABDlEvSHTQmszcEna_wIytZO7597kRRB0ZWb4dM45K_Eeg5yoslDpLenTpg1TXQk2UB7ytoA/s1600/DSCF2815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eJAh1h7YtMFbRMQH8lVmjGOJ1QJzotRwJSZBRGEtVvuLA5FBLHbx28kpy7vojlWJ96uABDlEvSHTQmszcEna_wIytZO7597kRRB0ZWb4dM45K_Eeg5yoslDpLenTpg1TXQk2UB7ytoA/s1600/DSCF2815.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep Cove, British Columbia</td></tr>
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We began our day with an early start launching our kayaks from the beach area at the <a href="http://www.deepcovekayak.com/">Deep Cove Canoe and Kayak</a> beach front centre. Conditions were absolutely perfect - a slight cloud cover, no wind, flat water and tides in our favour. We slowly paddled out of Deep Cove enjoying the views of the waterfront homes and the marina. A few rowers and paddle boarders were also on the water sharing that early morning feeling of bliss!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFH7nivoXEoBRkUWko5Q_NxrhfTKLjX8K25Q1Aq5b-m2aX5pRfVhA0Ya2VDA1pHDyTMpRp2CD3jRZIwwNb-Lx0k7HbOR2Cx6BNbAocNMeE7CCiu8IMWtqtHlIhOSajAbX8vvgoZi1Rk74/s1600/DSCF2765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFH7nivoXEoBRkUWko5Q_NxrhfTKLjX8K25Q1Aq5b-m2aX5pRfVhA0Ya2VDA1pHDyTMpRp2CD3jRZIwwNb-Lx0k7HbOR2Cx6BNbAocNMeE7CCiu8IMWtqtHlIhOSajAbX8vvgoZi1Rk74/s1600/DSCF2765.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring the shoreline</td></tr>
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We did not have time to paddle to the estuary at the end of the arm, but we did enjoy the trip up Indian Arm past <a href="http://www.campjubilee.ca/">Camp Jubilee</a> and Silver Falls toward Bishop Creek. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMXKaX5KkjyIeQlhEm4DL5qR-QVY3HDCdCWWhH0yq3aCH8D8gC-5Z1y8Uy3MzSa-hD6cBgUGy38e7WC5DDzIQfhA2QPaWIWBYD7uR208aZMUYmsqkI34YaecRXmaC8y_YJIlvNokKrYI/s1600/DSCN0904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMXKaX5KkjyIeQlhEm4DL5qR-QVY3HDCdCWWhH0yq3aCH8D8gC-5Z1y8Uy3MzSa-hD6cBgUGy38e7WC5DDzIQfhA2QPaWIWBYD7uR208aZMUYmsqkI34YaecRXmaC8y_YJIlvNokKrYI/s1600/DSCN0904.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silver Falls - Spectacular!</td></tr>
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On our return we crossed the arm and enjoyed a slow leisurely paddle exploring the shoreline. The salmon were jumping...and the seals were feasting! We spent several minutes watching a seal catch and devour his lunch. We passed the old BC Hydro power plant and marvelled at the granite cliffs and majestic forest looming beside us. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyOWfle2Rt14ISvCAxHSvMPhfZ6PQV9bR8WBKS139-08gPg405vESb4VPnQ84OuRTVHiS3sBah4ChmU02r_W94peeoUz7JMVnUd8n390q-x84U7qi36xNA0zb5yjY9IIn-2QzRXCc4Ois/s1600/DSCF2775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyOWfle2Rt14ISvCAxHSvMPhfZ6PQV9bR8WBKS139-08gPg405vESb4VPnQ84OuRTVHiS3sBah4ChmU02r_W94peeoUz7JMVnUd8n390q-x84U7qi36xNA0zb5yjY9IIn-2QzRXCc4Ois/s1600/DSCF2775.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BC Hydro Power Plant</td></tr>
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The water was calm so we had a great view of the sea life below. The wildlife viewing on the Arm is a treat. The area features black bear, deer, coyotes, racoons and cougars - just to name a few. It is also well known for bird watching and of course the tide pools are always fascinating to explore as they abound with life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHqrA9H0EqdZclnFm0N8GP_mPoO9qIXJhvjQLxcs9n5Rv6lLvkxBTwb73QOftiAf39UhF2jowp9xjCQqdGM4cJ1vlF08jHDjF6MGu2s9TqWLHw1GcyEqgezElohYTRMU0_t0PxURRfwQ/s1600/DSCF2798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHqrA9H0EqdZclnFm0N8GP_mPoO9qIXJhvjQLxcs9n5Rv6lLvkxBTwb73QOftiAf39UhF2jowp9xjCQqdGM4cJ1vlF08jHDjF6MGu2s9TqWLHw1GcyEqgezElohYTRMU0_t0PxURRfwQ/s1600/DSCF2798.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Underwater camera catches the vibrant colours of life below!</td></tr>
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The paddle ended all too quickly as we returned to Deep Cove. We were thrilled to see numerous families renting boats and heading out to begin their paddling adventure on Indian Arm. It just doesn't get much better than this!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNI00h4RoJQSs3dcLPSzeT6F4wUalRTcZR_vDacaBeOX9y-vZ41guFI_YjWlR0Nk85nRqXw1zVLOMvDVc0CmXQYdVhLMFv57i64AQkftBeo16uvUOaDACqgWZXKe7egqe87cuP4Wr65Y/s1600/DSCF2825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNI00h4RoJQSs3dcLPSzeT6F4wUalRTcZR_vDacaBeOX9y-vZ41guFI_YjWlR0Nk85nRqXw1zVLOMvDVc0CmXQYdVhLMFv57i64AQkftBeo16uvUOaDACqgWZXKe7egqe87cuP4Wr65Y/s1600/DSCF2825.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b><br />
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We decided to paddle over to Twin Island to stretch our legs and enjoy a short hike and snack break. As we approached the island we could hear a very loud rumbling....not thunder but the sounds of campers from Camp Jubilee loading up their voyageur canoes for the return trip to base camp. We enjoyed watching the controlled chaos from afar and wisely chose to land at South Twin Island.....far enough from the campers to be out of the way but close enough to share in the giggles as the team of young paddlers and their fearless leaders tried to navigate their way back to camp.<br />
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<b><u>Map and Route tips:</u></b><br />
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The winds usually pick up early afternoon as they sweep up Indian Arm. Be sure to check your<a href="http://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/eng/station?sid=7735"> tide table</a>s and marine forecast before heading out. High winds and an incoming tide can really make the paddle back to Deep Cove quite a challenge!<br />
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<iframe height="480" src="http://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.kjKmiLEKzU9g" width="520"></iframe>
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For those wanting longer trips, marine camp sites are available at Twin Island, Granite Falls and Bishop Creek. We have enjoyed many an evening camping on the arm!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRbSoHPN-Z7rQu97oRMv1wAz6L3ZM97HenkCky9MxObG_LZTb89tndOY9s_RhOr7uX1kxDWL3HhgrCvOCaSy8xvILCNcl8qZ4Rw3rzd_uLuDG4DzHRargxKPFbURswUufBm1SN13JsRE/s1600/DSCN0884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRbSoHPN-Z7rQu97oRMv1wAz6L3ZM97HenkCky9MxObG_LZTb89tndOY9s_RhOr7uX1kxDWL3HhgrCvOCaSy8xvILCNcl8qZ4Rw3rzd_uLuDG4DzHRargxKPFbURswUufBm1SN13JsRE/s1600/DSCN0884.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granite Falls - Marine Campsite</td></tr>
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<br />Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-56556977735964108792013-08-09T07:28:00.003-07:002013-09-11T14:46:40.644-07:00Salt Marsh by Kayak - Deas Island Regional ParkIt is always amazing to us that in an area as populated as Metro Vancouver you can find secluded nature hideaways within minutes of the big city. <a href="http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks_lscr/regionalparks/Pages/DeasIsland.aspx">Deas Island Regional Park</a> provides such a getaway! We enjoyed a wonderful afternoon paddle and spent time exploring the salt marshes of the <a href="http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/habitat/conservation-lands/wma/south_arm_marshes/">South Arm Marshes Wildlife Management Area.</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4RSOxsx1w4s_znZEeHfihNwobTbvOGifoWgMMn44mP3y3VBlfj_MYdun_9G9AQ15e56vu39thDKaMo-CYIi0wU6F2QApy51w5mXYhE60lxtKM0AS1zWGWp1_09mog5abMDhOEMPwKfsQ/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4RSOxsx1w4s_znZEeHfihNwobTbvOGifoWgMMn44mP3y3VBlfj_MYdun_9G9AQ15e56vu39thDKaMo-CYIi0wU6F2QApy51w5mXYhE60lxtKM0AS1zWGWp1_09mog5abMDhOEMPwKfsQ/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Launch site at Deas Island Regional Park</td></tr>
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We began our trip with a nice, dry launch from the dock at Deas Island Regional Park. The launch area has great parking (free), washrooms and easy water access....all the amenities of the big city! As we arrived several young rowers from the <a href="http://www.deltadeas.com/">Delta Deas Rowing Club</a> were finishing up their training session and working hard to bring their shells up to the club house. Amidst the giggles and high jinx of a spirited group of rowers we jumped into our boats and began an easy paddle up the slough towards the salt marshes. Conditions were perfect - no wind, flat water and the sun was shining! We were in our boats for only a few minutes when we were greeted by a river otter scrambling across the banks. We floated by and enjoyed the show!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAARtTsiwzcLqHw0a5y8L2ZtXezFiZl2h9jwyVpSK7opdOeekt3gTfCCBzb7VddSnQlCBjDXarE3LJTYGxAtpoZa42TEsMgKaB4qrUkoF4t5HZMMi63c_ix5i2JJtZWQt72JX8hcf504/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKAARtTsiwzcLqHw0a5y8L2ZtXezFiZl2h9jwyVpSK7opdOeekt3gTfCCBzb7VddSnQlCBjDXarE3LJTYGxAtpoZa42TEsMgKaB4qrUkoF4t5HZMMi63c_ix5i2JJtZWQt72JX8hcf504/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paddling through the salt marsh at high tide</td></tr>
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Our route took us under Highway 99 and past Captain's Cove Marina. The kayaks always feel extremely small and powerless next to the ocean going yachts and sailboats docked at the marinas. However, it always makes me smile when I think of how the ocean manages to challenge and entice us all....from paddlerboaders, sailors, kayakers to captains of yachts we all seem to feel drawn to the water.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06OGfE07ZpoNVJP1YLWuG7ZMao2Lj1hAZUdCA9uM8cXMfhKg9DV9UktluAO5IT_XPsPTj0A2bCv76IFrE9XQRDQtI0tZqFeFAXPL6eF2jLZdQ-HaGg4PDdbFLHsgu9lLU23RI1r6Ga6Q/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06OGfE07ZpoNVJP1YLWuG7ZMao2Lj1hAZUdCA9uM8cXMfhKg9DV9UktluAO5IT_XPsPTj0A2bCv76IFrE9XQRDQtI0tZqFeFAXPL6eF2jLZdQ-HaGg4PDdbFLHsgu9lLU23RI1r6Ga6Q/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://captainscovemarina.ca/">Captain's Cove Marina and Pub</a></td></tr>
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We paddled on to explore the floating homes moored along Ferry Road in Ladner. Talk about nature at your doorstep. What a unique lifestyle! Imagine your living room rising and falling with the tides, panoramic views of the salt marshes and no traffic snarl-ups. Of course, you do have a wide variety of birds thinking your front porch is an excellent place to hang out for the day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Touring the Floating Homes</td></tr>
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Our return route took us through the secluded channels of the marsh. Definitely something you want to do during high tide. These channels twist and turn and seem to go on forever....and yes....we did get lost! It is quite disorienting in the marsh as the banks of the channels are high and you quickly lose sight of key landmarks. We laughed as we imagined ourselves paddling through the marsh, the tide going out and being stranded on the salt flats. Something we would prefer not to do. After reaching a dead end, we decided to backtrack and made our way back out.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Which way now ??</td></tr>
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The wildlife viewing in this area is usually terrific as the Fraser River Estuary marsh habitat is home to a wide range of species from Great Blue Heron to Eagles and songbirds and shorebirds. This area is actually one of the most important areas in the province for aquatic bird and raptor habitat. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqbNjqFc8iV5LLymmdauabupdM6vDLcj1c18aD_Smb1qiqvMBPT7qrWzF4rl5AG9IXc1qyZ0iMiDrHZLcedZNqqYXP_WvDbZlHDTCKl2Vyfxyz-NYKiypPEylSinrgtd8ZO4UIba49Jg/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqbNjqFc8iV5LLymmdauabupdM6vDLcj1c18aD_Smb1qiqvMBPT7qrWzF4rl5AG9IXc1qyZ0iMiDrHZLcedZNqqYXP_WvDbZlHDTCKl2Vyfxyz-NYKiypPEylSinrgtd8ZO4UIba49Jg/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gulls take advantage of a sandbar</td></tr>
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We meandered our way back to the boat launch and reluctantly called it a day. But, what a fabulous day it had been!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Return trip to the boat launch</td></tr>
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<b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b><br />
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It is always a lot of fun to paddle along side the floating homes. They are all unique and summer is a great time to view them, as the decks feature wonderful flower boxes. We must confess that we were probably a bit "snoopy" and were travelling too close to the floating homes. As we were trying to peek inside one of the living areas, we failed to notice a fishing line that had been left out. Before we knew it Rob was tangled up in the line! Needless to say the houseboat owner caught a big one that day!<br />
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<b><u>Map and Route Tips:</u></b><br />
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<iframe height="480" src="http://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zlkT7ucFd0WM.kVFJ5WERpuXE" width="520"></iframe><br />
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Be sure to check your <a href="http://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/eng/station?type=0&date=2013%2F08%2F09&sid=7735&tz=PDT&pres=1">tide tables</a> and marine forecast before heading out of Deas Slough. <br />
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The south arm of the Fraser River has quite a strong current and is very busy with large commercial traffic - not recommended for a leisurely paddle.<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-27904002889984032772013-07-30T07:01:00.000-07:002013-07-30T07:01:21.446-07:00Not So GranFondo - Horseshoe Bay to WhistlerThe route from Vancouver to <a href="http://www.whistler.ca/">Whistler</a> is a visual smorgasbord with panoramic views of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains. Each year road warriors from around the world flock to Vancouver to cycle the <a href="http://www.rbcgranfondowhistler.com/about-event/welcome-granfondo">GranFondo</a>. We decided it was time for us to tackle the route and planned our version of the Not So GranFondo.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Majestic views along the Sea to Sky highway</td></tr>
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When asked about our riding style, pace etc., we often joke that we are 'dawdlers". The dictionary defines dawdle as (1) to spend time idly and (2) to move lackadaisically. Rest assured there is nothing lackadaisical about the Sea to Sky highway. The route began at sea level and the trip from Horseshoe Bay took us 102km in distance with - 2400m up, 1750m down and a total end elevation gain of 650m. To say our legs were tired at the end of the day is an understatement! <br />
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The route is suitable for both the road warrior and fellow dawdler. In fact, we were passed often by those young strapping cyclists, with legs of steel on their road bikes spinning their way to personal best times. On the other hand we dawdled along and took delight in the views, waterfalls and picnic spots along the way. The route is also unique as it features a Sea to Sky Cultural Journey aimed at providing a First Nations perspective and cultural awareness. Interpretive kiosks line the route and are well worth the stop.<br />
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We must stress that the Sea to Sky highway is not for the faint of heart. In the old days, prior to the road upgrades, cyclists would often call this route the Scream and Die highway. Today the route is more bicycle friendly with nice wide shoulders for the majority of the trip. Having said that, it is a very busy highway and if you are not comfortable riding in traffic it probably is not for you. We must also caution that many a driver mistakes the Sea to Sky for the Indy 500 and it feels quite frightening when these race car drivers pass close to you at speed. I must confess I uttered a few choice words under my breath as high end cars screamed by me - way to close for comfort!<br />
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We began the day in <a href="http://www.horseshoebaybc.ca/">Horseshoe Bay</a>. We parked our vehicle in the long term ferry parking lot. Horseshoe Bay, especially in the summer, is a bee hive of activity and we took great delight watching families with cars/vans/trailers/motor homes packed to the roof as they waited patiently, and in some cases not so patiently, for their sailings. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horseshoe Bay, British Columbia</td></tr>
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We were excited to see awesome bike route signage as we set off for the Sea to Sky highway.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We do LIKE this!</td></tr>
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We were feeling quite confident as we enjoyed the ride out of Horseshoe Bay. We went through Lions Bay and passed Porteau Cove - a great spot to stop for a picnic and watch the scuba divers in action! We continued on to Britannia Beach and stopped to savour our morning coffee break at Galileo Coffee Company. We enjoyed chatting with a fellow from Lions Bay who teased us about the climb ahead. "You'll make it", he said with confidence. Strange how those kind words seemed to fill me with doubt!<br />
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We set off again towards Shannon Falls.....FANTASTIC! The falls are the third largest in British Columbia at 335 meters. They are breathtaking....and we always enjoy stopping here, both to take in the falls, but to also chat with the tourists who flock to the park. Today we had the pleasure of meeting two young men from Denmark.....they were almost speechless as they set off to scramble up the rocks at the base of the falls.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinPl72T9QPHYc5xyYZeV5oyi5qIJCnNVvApFdolBEiOh5D9mWehc0GVP__2aoAMGG5Agh5mAIffur6Zy_p0rjvkjcCKY8QW7PshMi5KPyIlx-vWOF2F1m905bbqsy3vRDVPvvpeNggBPI/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinPl72T9QPHYc5xyYZeV5oyi5qIJCnNVvApFdolBEiOh5D9mWehc0GVP__2aoAMGG5Agh5mAIffur6Zy_p0rjvkjcCKY8QW7PshMi5KPyIlx-vWOF2F1m905bbqsy3vRDVPvvpeNggBPI/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail up to Shannon Falls</td></tr>
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We continued past the Stawamus Chief, an extremely popular hiking and climbing spot. The Chief is a magnificent 700 meter high granite cliff and the view from the top is well worth the hike up. (we will leave the hike for another day!) As we entered Squamish we decided to stop at the <a href="http://www.adventurecentre.ca/">Squamish Adventure Centre</a> to get the inside scoop on local bike trails. The staff at the Adventure Centre were fantastic and shared with us the plans for the <a href="http://seatoskytrail.ca/">Sea to Sky trai</a>l. When finished the trail will be 180km of non-motorized multi-use trail connecting Squamish to D-Arcy along the Sea to Sky corridor. What a vision! We jumped on the trail as we left Squamish on our way to Brackendale.....and then the real climbing began!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXalO9eI68ajXKutKR0d_i-00zSedIBZOOQHJtxJVCdAypm8p0cAGLlydlhFx0CyEobk82-v0Uw8hw9-YqCJ8qkPIJhhd1ZlrgN-3cHubJk1N6JXxZq0VubTIB2qyXWOQHAW39SOx56YI/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXalO9eI68ajXKutKR0d_i-00zSedIBZOOQHJtxJVCdAypm8p0cAGLlydlhFx0CyEobk82-v0Uw8hw9-YqCJ8qkPIJhhd1ZlrgN-3cHubJk1N6JXxZq0VubTIB2qyXWOQHAW39SOx56YI/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bike friendly trail - Squamish - features bike wash station and tools</td></tr>
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To break up the climb we stopped at <a href="http://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/brohm-lake/">Brohm Lake</a> for a picnic lunch. We happily munched and watched the paddle boarders and swimmers enjoy the mountain lake. We left Brohm Lake refueled and refreshed and continued on our climb to Whistler Village. We couldn't resist stopping at <a href="http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/brandywine_falls/">Brandywine Falls</a>...another spectacular waterfall! We had the great pleasure of meeting a family from Tasmania....they were drawn to our bikes and had all kinds of questions about cycle touring. They were travelling across Canada and on their way to try out mountain biking in Whistler....go Tasi's!!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_BCN-slmd7AEp6JO4498peVok9fHFjKneLBUbGB2cJWhElJzDyubMOLYerAFyB-6mAdeTCoS1ZgVfsV3FUaJJm3p313NtNjrZoMeXkvIWxRYPQQuk7OZyrTyLonLJK_7Ly2d7U2jIlRY/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_BCN-slmd7AEp6JO4498peVok9fHFjKneLBUbGB2cJWhElJzDyubMOLYerAFyB-6mAdeTCoS1ZgVfsV3FUaJJm3p313NtNjrZoMeXkvIWxRYPQQuk7OZyrTyLonLJK_7Ly2d7U2jIlRY/s1600/image.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brandywine Falls</td></tr>
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We finished the climb to Whistler and connected to the Valley Trail at Function Junction. It was a welcome relief to get off the highway on to dedicated bike path and meander our way to the village. Whistler has something for every one and it is always a thrill to enter the village and be surrounded by active folks...hikers, bikers, rafters, paddlers, skiers....not to mention the shoppers, the sightseers and the "partiers!"<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whistler Village</td></tr>
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We enjoyed two fabulous nights in Whistler....GLAMPING. (that is our term for Glamourous camping. Yes, we left the tent and sleeping bags at home and decided to stay in a hotel!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEL9CcSF3kxMc-ODVaOqadipRk3jM6GWSfCTh5DD4OaAyd6ofJPmIN8uKLpK9v0bkdD6QqoPpBlBw1DfGY3nxZU9rWt992FNwF17ONH7Xt14tFATD7FxxeXXGHfetVG3LzUWVlOIgTLo/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEL9CcSF3kxMc-ODVaOqadipRk3jM6GWSfCTh5DD4OaAyd6ofJPmIN8uKLpK9v0bkdD6QqoPpBlBw1DfGY3nxZU9rWt992FNwF17ONH7Xt14tFATD7FxxeXXGHfetVG3LzUWVlOIgTLo/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wizard Express Chair - Blackcomb Mountain</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPULVjTpjsZXElOTwUOn0-XmSdLb-iBouayJoidJLEZ1y_iA8oOdnUJS9bjrHsQ3wKDRrw9AcmCVMgYnkj9Or3CsC2x_vfLn1ZDVW95Td7Nj5Rx7ErzXUikZDy5w-iN9xkpsuCofA3W0/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPULVjTpjsZXElOTwUOn0-XmSdLb-iBouayJoidJLEZ1y_iA8oOdnUJS9bjrHsQ3wKDRrw9AcmCVMgYnkj9Or3CsC2x_vfLn1ZDVW95Td7Nj5Rx7ErzXUikZDy5w-iN9xkpsuCofA3W0/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from outside our hotel - Blackcomb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbvkvQovLADeTWJ_EP9PH8mK5v2LCCHfG0ULcoTmIqWvpoH_bHbi3Kjkxih-H8z7RkbkpWEMTpbEzlcKC-oVcZ_GL4XjqMpcCsTRuOnM1GYUw42Knks0EUAUveGt_fU2m14mMgHkG90w/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbvkvQovLADeTWJ_EP9PH8mK5v2LCCHfG0ULcoTmIqWvpoH_bHbi3Kjkxih-H8z7RkbkpWEMTpbEzlcKC-oVcZ_GL4XjqMpcCsTRuOnM1GYUw42Knks0EUAUveGt_fU2m14mMgHkG90w/s1600/image.jpg" height="309" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With or without snow....the training must go on!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The only thing better than the view on the way <b>TO</b> Whistler, is the view on the way <b>BACK</b>!!! The entire return trip is on the ocean side of the road and we found ourselves stopping frequently to take pictures of the rivers, the mountains and the ocean. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-YqjOz2eciSYSpHSDVYgz5GybeaduOYBKH56XicRMtE_cNhfcirAfkTeIO1WbVhNYHE605p06KAu7uQ976DGZ7iGFqG_xDOgm8_kKyJYyMofBOQMryGpxvVjkHDIO_SCF1QcJ1x-uYA/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-YqjOz2eciSYSpHSDVYgz5GybeaduOYBKH56XicRMtE_cNhfcirAfkTeIO1WbVhNYHE605p06KAu7uQ976DGZ7iGFqG_xDOgm8_kKyJYyMofBOQMryGpxvVjkHDIO_SCF1QcJ1x-uYA/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valley Trail passes by the golf course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEmhm3HfGzqVINLdF0BcKcFB_t2QQNtDd5KyEnUBRP97OrU-aknHptBK7qZIq5QWI1-oEEyMqz_UaB_O8wP5s1oI-2JsIElS6MjZyQNgVzEFrx2rfb-jXcNGZlEO7QqaLfC8d3UYzPfsY/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEmhm3HfGzqVINLdF0BcKcFB_t2QQNtDd5KyEnUBRP97OrU-aknHptBK7qZIq5QWI1-oEEyMqz_UaB_O8wP5s1oI-2JsIElS6MjZyQNgVzEFrx2rfb-jXcNGZlEO7QqaLfC8d3UYzPfsY/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fantastic trip back along the river's edge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
On the return trip you are afforded the most breathtaking views of the Tantalus Mountain Range - snow capped mountains, the valley, the forest and the river below. We would include a picture...but, a photo simply does not do it justice. You must visit and see it for yourself!<br />
<br />
It's your turn......<br />
Cheers<br />
Jane and Rob<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Giggle of the day:</u></b><br />
<br />
We arrived in the village, legs spent, sun burnt, hungry and thirsty! As we entered the village the first thing we saw was the <a href="http://www.longhornsaloon.ca/">Longhorn Pub</a>...say no more! We decided a round of Coronas and an order of Nachos was in order.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTa_cVvMrnnH1ocBvBggrTaQI412qODJ9xtGuvArlnsof1foFVyNJNb9J1I9mHanRf_Sp4RiTdiNz_XmOKV_DSrQCQiOL2zb29rA74Iky2taIvakWgPejSJDViC9KBFkBXnrR6QH1a1w/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTa_cVvMrnnH1ocBvBggrTaQI412qODJ9xtGuvArlnsof1foFVyNJNb9J1I9mHanRf_Sp4RiTdiNz_XmOKV_DSrQCQiOL2zb29rA74Iky2taIvakWgPejSJDViC9KBFkBXnrR6QH1a1w/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words......</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUEWLuAt0ZEFGtXDZ9VFGzNIaiMcFD4W7_dYcPCGz8ggpiAXaTkQFtB35ATmlYjJ_MScMv3p2ZIT9DUcExetMdK3OMeafHZ24vDpIl1vLBvgzQ2aRH3wAkFzx07toAVC1VddL6Y0Bs6Aw/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUEWLuAt0ZEFGtXDZ9VFGzNIaiMcFD4W7_dYcPCGz8ggpiAXaTkQFtB35ATmlYjJ_MScMv3p2ZIT9DUcExetMdK3OMeafHZ24vDpIl1vLBvgzQ2aRH3wAkFzx07toAVC1VddL6Y0Bs6Aw/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We parked our bikes and found a seat where we could view the base of the mountain bike trails. After a couple of cold ones we decided it was time to find our hotel. We had booked using the <a href="http://www.travelocity.com/top-secret">Travelocity Top Secret Hotel</a> option. This is a great tool for those who enjoy pleasant surprises. You basically choose a location and a price range and roll the dice. Travelocity books your hotel and you do not learn which hotel you are in, until after you pay! Great fun! As we finished our beer we decided to figure out exactly where in the village our hotel was located. Now remember, our legs were completely spent after the day of riding......so to our dismay we learned our hotel was half way up Blackcomb Mountain! We trudged on up the mountain towards our hotel alternating between cursing and laughing at ourselves!<br />
<br />
We are happy to say the climb was well worth it and we enjoyed two fantastic nights at the Coast Blackcomb Inn and Suites.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rNHqnV5zZrUZJD1ICd-8KnKEOu9BlfsY-0eX1y4EV-6-lLNEYsgOMEnoJ7JzcCA3Cml_DIsk5fCwURcD57SHxj9l65CeM8cpIOfgu5stS38E8ldoXOTM9SGjhyphenhyphen8P3M0Uk9n6NbBtLyo/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rNHqnV5zZrUZJD1ICd-8KnKEOu9BlfsY-0eX1y4EV-6-lLNEYsgOMEnoJ7JzcCA3Cml_DIsk5fCwURcD57SHxj9l65CeM8cpIOfgu5stS38E8ldoXOTM9SGjhyphenhyphen8P3M0Uk9n6NbBtLyo/s1600/image.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to the Coast Blackcomb Inn and Suites</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u>Map and Route Tips:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
There is a short stretch between Porteau Cove and Furry Creek where the shoulder becomes quite narrow....exercise caution!<br />
<br />
Camping is readily available along the route and there are also lots of options to <b>GLAMP</b>! <br />
<br />
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<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-79274960079951848682013-07-24T18:00:00.000-07:002013-07-24T18:00:35.042-07:00Cycle Day Trip - Richmond to Vancouver via UBC<div class="MsoNormal">
This route is a fabulous day trip and can easily be done
year round. It is one of our favorite
city rides featuring fantastic views, great rest stops, and extraordinary people watching! The route takes you from
Richmond through <a href="http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks_lscr/regionalparks/Pages/PacificSpirit.aspx">Pacific Spirit Regional Park</a>, the <a href="http://www.ubc.ca/">University of British Columbia</a> campus, <a href="http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/spanish-bank-beach.aspx">Spanish Banks</a>, <a href="http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/kitsilano-beach.aspx">Kits Beach,</a> <a href="http://granvilleisland.com/public-market">Granville Island</a>, the <a href="https://vancouver.ca/home-property-development/olympic-village.aspx">Olympic Village</a>, <a href="http://www.scienceworld.ca/">Science World</a> with the option to continue on and explore <a href="http://www.vancouver-chinatown.com/">Chinatown</a>,
<a href="http://www.gastown.org/">Gas Town</a>, <a href="http://www.vancouverconventioncentre.com/jack-poole-plaza/">Jack Poole Plaza</a>, <a href="http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx">Stanley Park</a> and <a href="http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/english-bay-beach.aspx">English Bay</a>. The ride truly has it all, and it is a treat
to explore all of the different and unique neighborhoods Vancouver has to offer.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyHo6BsoMM4OoDTcZr1pxwmm5NfafWWEoW2Sl8VADJHKjjur3uwBwJU7T23qrVNZ4JNc_ctbpade8-jKpPdtGeCAspyNixW-VE-RPsn69wZGCYS1L0M4riqnUHpjNgwRQngOyRN8dmi7c/s1600/IMG_2389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyHo6BsoMM4OoDTcZr1pxwmm5NfafWWEoW2Sl8VADJHKjjur3uwBwJU7T23qrVNZ4JNc_ctbpade8-jKpPdtGeCAspyNixW-VE-RPsn69wZGCYS1L0M4riqnUHpjNgwRQngOyRN8dmi7c/s1600/IMG_2389.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of downtown Vancouver from the shared bike path</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We began the day by parking in Richmond in order to travel
over the Fraser River via the Canada Line shared bike/pedestrian bridge. Pay parking is available at the River Rock
casino, or free street parking is available on Van Horne Way or River Road. The bridge affords riders fabulous views of
the Fraser River, Richmond and the North Shore mountains. Be sure to check out all of the connecting
bike routes as you map your route for the day – the possibilities are almost
endless.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowFhcosdbzEHmacNjOoOp_XGcd4VifoDnC8vQAWb__griYnoZjWSdZUh04W9z-Eh4t0jRoG4knZv1SC0uUvTdjMaKNDGKtgRyhT7MtuJ-4WTWA473ytf7xZxCHd-AmJHDNfSL8fjfvTQ/s1600/IMG_2341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowFhcosdbzEHmacNjOoOp_XGcd4VifoDnC8vQAWb__griYnoZjWSdZUh04W9z-Eh4t0jRoG4knZv1SC0uUvTdjMaKNDGKtgRyhT7MtuJ-4WTWA473ytf7xZxCHd-AmJHDNfSL8fjfvTQ/s1600/IMG_2341.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bike friendly bridge from Richmond to Vancouver</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We followed Heather to the Midtown connector and as we passed
<a href="http://vancouver.ca/vandusen/">Van Dusen Gardens</a>, we stumbled upon <a href="http://epicfest.ca/">Epic Fest</a>…a sustainable living festival. We
were thrilled to see free bike valet parking. Vancouver is a vibrant city
and one of the most bicycle friendly cities in British Columbia!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzMTjOuJ1R3BdfdO2zvCA-BASykjaDPkptuMn0shGAUsJPIEQ6t3vq46l4QDKxpjhezhala9ErlMf0bGZQ6Mx9oqgQeSmi6xCMseT2-jMI3X29HCkwCmhWfP2nYyVSBvAj40gC1K9WQHU/s1600/IMG_2345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzMTjOuJ1R3BdfdO2zvCA-BASykjaDPkptuMn0shGAUsJPIEQ6t3vq46l4QDKxpjhezhala9ErlMf0bGZQ6Mx9oqgQeSmi6xCMseT2-jMI3X29HCkwCmhWfP2nYyVSBvAj40gC1K9WQHU/s1600/IMG_2345.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valet Parking for bikes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We continued to Pacific Spirit Regional Park and decided to
enjoy a ride along Salish trail through this magnificent rain forest. It is always amazing to us to find such a
lush forest in the heart of a cosmopolitan city…truly an escape! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQ1FqZODwV8n0oHRqMWnWIxaaeXb0P_uMtUKypg2VfACYGfgX5VTewoReETMh1PPi66q5GmUgESgFPWtklIjfNBIWSHNxTN7Vj8hd5x3hfAgceEp84RUjlgJ1sys63kmzcf-FUi8Fl6I/s1600/IMG_2347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQ1FqZODwV8n0oHRqMWnWIxaaeXb0P_uMtUKypg2VfACYGfgX5VTewoReETMh1PPi66q5GmUgESgFPWtklIjfNBIWSHNxTN7Vj8hd5x3hfAgceEp84RUjlgJ1sys63kmzcf-FUi8Fl6I/s1600/IMG_2347.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salish Trail - Pacific Spirit Regional Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We exited the park and explored the
University of British Columbia campus…always at its best in the summer
months. The views from the rose garden
were spectacular – it was one of those perfect, sunny west coast days.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYk4Nkxq4qmvyKbAnGSN_snZltRUocnVseuFavrHHo3KbJzLroqPl8prJLXbwAPBUUg33tBXeY_m3Tro4AhKmE2dKGpsO04V3Re5oASQRlgxv3F5r5TzXfHfGAW9usQgPwi8_g3AKYM4/s1600/IMG_2354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYk4Nkxq4qmvyKbAnGSN_snZltRUocnVseuFavrHHo3KbJzLroqPl8prJLXbwAPBUUg33tBXeY_m3Tro4AhKmE2dKGpsO04V3Re5oASQRlgxv3F5r5TzXfHfGAW9usQgPwi8_g3AKYM4/s1600/IMG_2354.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">University of British Columbia campus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7M-IZZA0o4giywXKcG2X8CrekJuYPeYi3C06qrONBawVIxPPKhXHN9F5BZzaWJ1uvl70RyFZTZYQaGUb11JXcGA6Lpl5tQ_eMDcXviYdFKuNrvWQDsLXxOxwp3Waw4U_-3Qm7QkeS2Ws/s1600/IMG_2361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7M-IZZA0o4giywXKcG2X8CrekJuYPeYi3C06qrONBawVIxPPKhXHN9F5BZzaWJ1uvl70RyFZTZYQaGUb11JXcGA6Lpl5tQ_eMDcXviYdFKuNrvWQDsLXxOxwp3Waw4U_-3Qm7QkeS2Ws/s1600/IMG_2361.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the North Shore Mountains from the UBC Rose Garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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As we continued along to Spanish Banks we soaked up the
views of the North Shore mountains and English Bay. The beach was alive!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWUZ877p3Z8857verlXw7AhT0NOXkuPx-IfFjlPGIrco81iMECTUC122lt3e7soxIvkOBSkp1xxmuG2ZRctwWv9SGJhtUUonTyVSXQKMOGq8jVvmzf5muUi8p-rtfTLY2CEAq_XVzxZU/s1600/IMG_2365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWUZ877p3Z8857verlXw7AhT0NOXkuPx-IfFjlPGIrco81iMECTUC122lt3e7soxIvkOBSkp1xxmuG2ZRctwWv9SGJhtUUonTyVSXQKMOGq8jVvmzf5muUi8p-rtfTLY2CEAq_XVzxZU/s1600/IMG_2365.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volleyball players hit the beach at Spanish Banks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sunbathers, walkers,
cyclists, beach volleyball, picnics, soccer, paddle boarders, kayakers,
sailors….and the best was yet to come.
We rounded the bend to find ourselves in the middle of the <a href="http://www.mec.ca/AST/ContentPrimary/Community/Events/Paddlefest.jsp?utm_source=mec.ca&utm_medium=redirect&utm_campaign=paddlefest&bmLocale=en">Mountain Equipment Co-op Paddlefes</a>t at Jericho Beach. We were
like kids in a candy store as we hopped off the bikes to check out all the
latest paddling gear! <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpoypCodyD4cFtiFnTmtUPO5VUU2uky2JJLZkUKJ-L0SpT3DuAdwvlIrnStyWKAxNkVQ2niEMT5Rxz6qEDPvXvwMgdGZ6zk7X9FyOAdJRD8HTv2XFmcrw5jI9FzDybvPNvr2L5VGyibyQ/s1600/IMG_2370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpoypCodyD4cFtiFnTmtUPO5VUU2uky2JJLZkUKJ-L0SpT3DuAdwvlIrnStyWKAxNkVQ2niEMT5Rxz6qEDPvXvwMgdGZ6zk7X9FyOAdJRD8HTv2XFmcrw5jI9FzDybvPNvr2L5VGyibyQ/s1600/IMG_2370.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paddlefest - the kayak candy store!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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The seaside route takes cyclists along to Kits beach, where
once again we were thrilled to see so many active, happy people. It was almost standing room only as
Vancouverites flocked to the beach like seagulls flock to french fries! We
enjoyed a picnic lunch at the beach and engaged in one of our favorite beach
activities….people watching.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKuf8sn1sfxKJtF4Qy92_aQ10QA_YSgGkuYNKYbaz0N8a34Wpd4DNfvdJaXE0euVbh9WxssqgaGt_-9rHvY239wxcCvf2RwruxDrOalvANBDBBQP_0fh4flOXJ0T_0fdrVOp_wRnb9tAQ/s1600/IMG_2379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKuf8sn1sfxKJtF4Qy92_aQ10QA_YSgGkuYNKYbaz0N8a34Wpd4DNfvdJaXE0euVbh9WxssqgaGt_-9rHvY239wxcCvf2RwruxDrOalvANBDBBQP_0fh4flOXJ0T_0fdrVOp_wRnb9tAQ/s1600/IMG_2379.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor pool at Kits Beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
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We continued on past Granville Island, along the designated
bike trail to the Olympic Village and Science World. We had spent so much time at Paddlefest that
we had to make the tough decision to head back along Ontario to our start
point. We will leave the downtown
section and Stanley Park for another day…..<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_unbJu3ro6eYwtWXIIn5a2yo-pSWegT9lSeqiEugrV_kVpzWe-S0qjt82avjxLo_m5lwU5oijGPGKO-cnBnGfHXOSJiYilBN5zahM9mPIdZ7aZ4v_pVyA9vSzU6vOSOhQJKUx6KtgYpE/s1600/IMG_2382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_unbJu3ro6eYwtWXIIn5a2yo-pSWegT9lSeqiEugrV_kVpzWe-S0qjt82avjxLo_m5lwU5oijGPGKO-cnBnGfHXOSJiYilBN5zahM9mPIdZ7aZ4v_pVyA9vSzU6vOSOhQJKUx6KtgYpE/s1600/IMG_2382.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Granville Island Public Market</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyL4kyoPRPBI2PV_MGtdGszLqYbGT1jFdFLkQvG0jAe6PYyblOeSPCJHC4tP3oP1vgMcVHTgZcBOwsWgrqp52EPf3WezmOMLFiCUfMT018Gt-AxpSGJTNf80JvuL_x6zUD2cerjL7OFTY/s1600/IMG_2390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyL4kyoPRPBI2PV_MGtdGszLqYbGT1jFdFLkQvG0jAe6PYyblOeSPCJHC4tP3oP1vgMcVHTgZcBOwsWgrqp52EPf3WezmOMLFiCUfMT018Gt-AxpSGJTNf80JvuL_x6zUD2cerjL7OFTY/s1600/IMG_2390.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Science World</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWcZf24QgwMdsWO_iCC6EQbXHhvmv5Kqi9_LM4Dsknk5LxWIxRjNgAeynDYkgPAQzU6xg-ARwyyRoB9FKgMQ2x1JLr8JHwU2f9cNKjVXQADAQTKhA7JlKuvy4LRBzpJMpdGrzjZOLei4/s1600/IMG_2391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWcZf24QgwMdsWO_iCC6EQbXHhvmv5Kqi9_LM4Dsknk5LxWIxRjNgAeynDYkgPAQzU6xg-ARwyyRoB9FKgMQ2x1JLr8JHwU2f9cNKjVXQADAQTKhA7JlKuvy4LRBzpJMpdGrzjZOLei4/s1600/IMG_2391.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tapandbarrel.com/">Tap and Barrel</a> - a great lunch spot with bike friendly parking!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Giggle of the day:<o:p></o:p></u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We decided our favorite local day ride was the one we would
like to include as our first blog entry to No Wrong Turns. It was so ironic that as we made our away
along Salish Trail in Pacific Spirit Park we made a wrong turn and found
ourselves in some sort of UBC experimental compost facility! Not quite as fragrant as the rose
gardens!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xZu4bBJsCQeHHqeG5IlTN6EhDRDRevHH6nSN2NYcsMKzmnbZEInOHERyxl81gkac1cXvOoquOPQj4VZCuazM-ysx40liU95cj9VL_ZacmatuqHlbjxD0Mw1Bb_vE4LXGMrryB67RQ2g/s1600/IMG_2349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xZu4bBJsCQeHHqeG5IlTN6EhDRDRevHH6nSN2NYcsMKzmnbZEInOHERyxl81gkac1cXvOoquOPQj4VZCuazM-ysx40liU95cj9VL_ZacmatuqHlbjxD0Mw1Bb_vE4LXGMrryB67RQ2g/s1600/IMG_2349.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where's the trail?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We laughed, refused to turn
back and had to bushwack our way out of the forest to Marine Drive…..<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Route Map<o:p></o:p></u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="375" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.ca/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=212739311403028287647.0004e248b21336e0780e0&hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=m&ll=49.237328,-123.182144&spn=0.168123,0.292511&z=11&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="https://maps.google.ca/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=212739311403028287647.0004e248b21336e0780e0&hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=m&ll=49.237328,-123.182144&spn=0.168123,0.292511&z=11&source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Bicycling directions to River Rd</a> in a larger map</small>
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;"><u>Cycling Route Planning Tool</u><br />
</span></b></div>
<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">Need to find the best route by bike? Check out
the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a href="http://www.cyclevancouver.ubc.ca/cv.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #5ea48c; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Cycling
Route Planner</span></a><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">. This handy
tool helps cyclists find bike routes anywhere in Metro Vancouver based on
options such as designated cycling routes, distance, elevation gain and air
quality.</span><br />
<o:p></o:p>Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3876186078625990870.post-88504543371507212762013-07-22T10:27:00.000-07:002013-07-23T11:52:21.449-07:00Background - No Wrong Turns<div class="MsoNormal">
,After returning from our 2013 cycle tour of the <a href="http://www.rwnetworks.blogspot.ca/">Mississippi River Trail</a>, friends, family and other outdoor enthusiasts encouraged us to
continue writing and to share some of our other trips. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIu9DcCUl-88Yw2a_mETx3NkvfqHbt3wCLI2WEf6XhrZRvneaK_88w1sIfschBDnhMP4gaV7hBmsG5CkHb1kS3Djw4PEuhjojRdNJ81lo-JvjFElXsz_-wGF3bH1G7tmJoWJb8Yzr7W2E/s1600/DSCF2080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIu9DcCUl-88Yw2a_mETx3NkvfqHbt3wCLI2WEf6XhrZRvneaK_88w1sIfschBDnhMP4gaV7hBmsG5CkHb1kS3Djw4PEuhjojRdNJ81lo-JvjFElXsz_-wGF3bH1G7tmJoWJb8Yzr7W2E/s1600/DSCF2080.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tire Dipping Celebration - Seattle, Washington</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have a passion for the outdoors and a love of the Pacific
North West – rivers, the ocean, mountains, and the rain forest. From day trips to longer adventures we always
jump at the chance to get outside…on foot, by bike or by kayak! There is so much to discover on the west
coast! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjZ5QbOjGuzsutfzghxalZ0iQLXv3rZzZ6JJVBJRfnu0ORcfWWxG-62lG7kQTTj8SELcBjUS7Rgvx4cwtRFjB954DpaWTpXBYMO5lpdfOtX-H_N3X5UKn1ZtVlOyv2DoeKIsbIw0nSTQ/s1600/RAIN.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjZ5QbOjGuzsutfzghxalZ0iQLXv3rZzZ6JJVBJRfnu0ORcfWWxG-62lG7kQTTj8SELcBjUS7Rgvx4cwtRFjB954DpaWTpXBYMO5lpdfOtX-H_N3X5UKn1ZtVlOyv2DoeKIsbIw0nSTQ/s1600/RAIN.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liquid Sunshine - Pacific North West</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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To capture the spirit of outdoor discovery, we decided to
name our blog <b><u>No Wrong Turns</u></b>. In our opinion you simply can’t make a wrong
turn when you are out exploring because each and every turn leads to a new
discovery…and in fact, in our experience, often the richest experiences come
from “wrong turns!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our goal<span style="color: #00b050;"> </span>is to
share our routes with those interested in exploring this gorgeous part of the
world. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/422613_144804112331050_1983860562_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Tusk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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Preparation is always paramount, especially when venturing in to the back country. Proper planning and equipment is
crucial…..you don’t want to be the unprepared hiker or paddler that needs to
call Search and Rescue for a lift home. Go with an experienced friend and learn about trip planning and wilderness first aid. Most
outdoor adventure companies offer lessons and guided trips - a great place to start and learn about
out-tripping before you venture out alone.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtnHNpObee_xpSdg8-tezTHb29m95TMbL1tLLoIzEfTRXgqo6q5KG1YnMIKVRZxcCneRMoSZsvxMi14_jWr8ucIStZXgBF72HHdDZiGa9a0cM3TKMKmV-rk2HNAiPhjjbo613KmpkLW0/s1600/party_Crasher.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtnHNpObee_xpSdg8-tezTHb29m95TMbL1tLLoIzEfTRXgqo6q5KG1YnMIKVRZxcCneRMoSZsvxMi14_jWr8ucIStZXgBF72HHdDZiGa9a0cM3TKMKmV-rk2HNAiPhjjbo613KmpkLW0/s1600/party_Crasher.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Campsite visitor - Indian Arm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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The Biggest Challenge – <b><u>JUST
START</u></b>! These trips are for every one, can be done at any speed, and feature some of the great locations on the roads less travelled. Along the way be sure to challenge your senses to see, smell, touch and experience nature. We guarantee you will not be disappointed.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/269224_106865952791533_1413385386_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Broken Islands</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<span style="color: #00b050;"><br /></span></div>
It's your turn........<br />
<br />
Share your turn!
<br />
<div>
Email info@rwnetworks.ca with a trip you would like to share and we will post it on No Wrong Turns.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
See you out there,</div>
<div>
Jane and Rob</div>
Jane and Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09284062943939465883noreply@blogger.com0