They took a different route south on their way back to the lower 48. Called the “Cassiar Highway,” this road is not as well-developed as others and lacks a centerline and shoulders for easy pull-off, a challenge for driving big rigs. But what it lacked in road functionality (and wifi connectivity) it gained in beauty of wilderness – the mountain ranges, lakes and forests made it a very pleasurable ride. They took time to enjoy the incredible areas, especially when they produced opportunities to fish.

 

The journey south began when they left Fairbanks. The temperature had dropped and fall was well on its way with hints of winter approaching. Time to head south! It was a push with one-nighters in Tok, then Destruction Bay – a two-nighter in Whitehorse to catch their breath and re-stock (and FINALLY get an opportunity to try the Canadian dish, poutine), then one-nighters at the Highway 37 junction (where they were the only rigs in the whole RV park – definite sign of the end of the travel season), Tatogga Lake, Kitwanga (where original clan totem poles still stand), Prince George and Kamloops.

Poutine, a Canadian favorite – sometimes it comes with the french fries, cheese curds and gravy mixed together. In this case, it is called a poutine kit and you mix your own. In less classy forms, it comes with cheese sauce instead of curds. They’re glad they tried it but prefer french fries with ketchup anytime.

 

 

In Kamloops, the two couples celebrated their amazing journey with one last happy hour and said their goodbyes as each had chosen a different path for returning home. What a welcome treat to have a vivid rainbow and lovely sunset as omens for safe travel!

 

More to come about this adventure – stay tuned!

 

[Photos by Mary VanCott]