Our journey left off with us looking for some way into the deep country and get off the highway but the rain was too much and we bolted from Stewart to Quesnel where we found what we’ve been looking for – and more. Our new philosophy is to follow the good weather. We move with the sun.

Terry was in charge of navigating and he found the most incredible route that ultimately got us to Loon Lake north of Cache Creek. Getting there involved more than 300 kilometres of rolling back roads with breathtaking views. Hit some whicked ruts but haven't had a serious tip-over yet. Knock on wood.

Our GPS indicates that we’ve ridden more than 5000 km since we left Kelowna June 13. One of the highlights was Beaver Valley. Our road literally took us through a farmers property (must be a right of way). The lush green rolling hills with livestock was priceless. Right out of a pamphlet. “It just doesn’t get any better,” as Terry would say.

One thing worth noting for you GPS geeks is don’t believe everything you see and using old back road maps can get you in trouble. Enough said.

The KTM’s are a big hit. People tell us how monstrous they are. I must admit, a fully loaded 950 does look intimidating mostly because it’s so tall. You need 34 inch legs to hop-on. Most of the people who chat-us-up about the bikes are middle aged men, whose kids have moved out and they’re looking to fulfill that dream of adventure.

The generosity and hospitality from average British Columbians continues on our journey. Asking for directions can get you invited to supper. One fellow we met worth noting was a logging truck driver named Jody. I always wondered what logging truck drivers thought of dirt bikers and assumed the worst. But Jody, who happens to ride a KLX 450, said most drivers don’t mind us. Good to hear. Watching out for logging trucks is priority number one followed by deer and such. Bears are plentiful. Folks say they’re coming down to the streams for the salmon. Hope to catch some of the action in the Kootenays.

On the road again.

(BTW, here’s a video sample of Terry and I driving into Hyder, Alaska in late June. Stopping on a dock where the ocean touches the mountains.)

Kel

Video -- Rob Trethetaway in Pemberton. Honda collection