Day 37, August 12th, 40km and 535m climb. Elkwood Campsite to Weary Creek Recreation Site
Today we climbed Elk Pass. This is the first of the Divide crossings on the Divide ride. It was a relatively easy slog with 2 solid hike-a-bike sections and a bit of a grovel for the rest, but overall not too bad.
We had a late start for some reason, I think I forgot to set the alarm! The first 5km was on sealed bike path to the next campground. Here there was a store so Gordon had a coffee and I stocked up on some lightweight yummies for later. It was only a couple of kilometers from here to the start of the climb.
From the top we dropped rapidly into the Elk Valley and followed a mostly downhill, but definitely undulating, forest service road. More beautiful valley views and plenty of campsites to choose from. Last night there was a huge thunderstorm and we'd packed the tent away wet so we took the opportunity at one of the campsites to have some lunch and dry everything out. We arrived into Weary Creek at about 3.30pm to find Zach already there. Soon after, the two French Canadians we'd also met the first night arrived followed by two through hikers on the Divide hiking trail. So quite the party tonight!
We were all treated to a herd of wild horses wandering through the campsite as well. No bears today but lots of fresh scat so they are definitely around. Bags are hanging from the bridge over the river tonight!
We've crossed back into British Columbia today too. We found Alberta a bit militant with signs everywhere saying no freedom camping. We're glad to be back in BC with their free rec sites and slightly more relaxed approach.
My sleeping mat is still going down despite all our efforts to fix it! Might be time to buy a new one once we get back into civilization.
Some of you may be wondering about the relatively short distances we are traveling. We have learnt through trial and error that these distances are about right for us both to enjoy the ride and keep Gordon's symptoms under control. We have plenty of time to stop for photos, have a leisurely lunch, talk with people and enjoy the campsites without rushing. After over a month on the road we think we have it figured. Of course, if there is another thing we've learnt it is that this may all change tomorrow!
Add comment
Comments
Sounds very sensible to me!
Superb scenery.