The Fourth

Traveling in the US on the 4^th of July without reservations is about as crazy as doing so on July 1^st in Canada.  But since the 4^th fell midweek in Canada, there were no problems getting reservations for the night, although we were uncertain as where we would land.

This was arguably the most unpredictable day of the journey so far.  Cory says, “You are only 25 miles from some of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Canada.”

Seriously, I was simply looking for a place to park the rig.  After determining the small mountain roads are passable for a 36 foot rig, I pointed the buggy uphill towards them.  The enthusiasm within our 5182 cubic feet of occasional joy did not include that occasional joy one might hope for with such a discovery.

All the same, away we went.  There were bridges that didn’t seem reasonable for our RV to cross, but as the hip kids say, “yolo”.  There were canyons that mere words could not adequately describe and there were waterfalls galore.  But the mac daddy was the Helmcken Falls.  It was an amazing discovery!

Helmcken Falls is arguably one of the coolest waterfalls in Canada!  And Wells Gray Provincial Park could take a month to explore this place by itself.  We had a great time here and opted to make it a half day rather than explore more around the park.  On our way out, the bear I was afraid of the night before made itself known, by crossing right in front of us.  Another little hike or two and our city slickers were ready to tour lovely Vancouver.

It was an intense drive through the mountains and about as scenic as you could ever imagine.  This is an incredible drive.

But Cory had given me one more little surprise for our day.  The Othello Tunnels were supposed to be an old rickety gravel parking lot that would require one to squeeze through a poorly locked chain link fence that would offer a fun afternoon activity.  Unfortunately, when we rolled into the park, it was legitimate.  A true parking lot, no “No Trespassing” signs and even a welcoming park employee were the marks of this place.  Oh well, a great time was experienced by all.

It turns out the Othello Tunnels are unbelievably cool.  If you find yourself near Hope, BC, do yourself a favor and stop at this provincial park!!

Escargot

Finally, we made our way to Surrey where we camped at Tynehead Campsite.  I don’t know if me running over the electrical pole or the pay showers freaked the kids out the most.  I know I had to repeat, “Serenity now” a couple times after taking out the pole.  But a quick shower in the pay shower helped the blood pressure and the peace of mind!