June 23
We arrived at Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court in Banff and settled in with our rig. Surrounded by gorgeous mountains, the drive was absolutely breathtaking. After dinner we took a lovely walk in the rain. As the rain lightened to a drizzle, we spotted a beautiful rainbow in the distance.
Fun Fact: Since the beginning of human history rainbows have been a symbol of hope to cultures across the globe.
June 24
We started our Banff adventure by parking at the train station where there's free parking—yay! We set off to explore Banff, racking up 8,500 + steps.
Our journey's highlight was the Cascade of Time Gardens, a stunning oasis that was just starting to come to life. If you visit, make sure to take your time wandering through this beautiful space.
For lunch, we shared a delicious Bison burger at a cozy open air pub. Beautiful weather!
Banff’s majestic mountain ranges are simply breathtaking. While the town itself is a bit too touristy for us.
June 25
We had a wonderfully relaxing start to our morning. Before we left Douglas rode his bike around the campground and saw a vehicle that had a RVing to Alaska sticker on it! We connected with them, Katy & Mike, and will hook up with them in Jasper. Interesting enough we both have pretty much the same itinerary.
Next we packed a picnic lunch, loaded up on snacks, and set off for Johnston’s Canyon. It was a beautiful hike to the Lower Falls, after a light lunch. It was amazing to see a gentlemen, Peter, doing this hike on crutches and another woman using a walker. It was a strenuous hike up, down and narrow. They were an inspiration!
Side note, what are the chances of this:
I met Peter on the hike which is my fathers name and later that night having dinner the waiters was very lovey and her name was Florence which was my mothers name, the universe is trying to tell me something!
Next, we headed to Lake Louise to catch the 2:00 pm shuttle to Lake Moraine and Lake Louise. Both of these were absolutely stunning and majestic!
During our adventure, we met a lovely lady named Sri, along with her parents, husband, and their two adorable dogs. They’re originally from Malaysia and now reside in Vancouver. We’re planning to reconnect with them on our way back home when we stop in Vancouver for a night.
Fun Facts: Lake Moraine is a stunningly blue-green, snow and glacially fed lake situated in Banff National Park, surrounded by the Valley of Ten Peaks. Lake Louise, also within Banff National Park, is renowned for its turquoise glacier-fed waters and scenic beauty.
We compiled our day with a delicious meal at the Outpost Pub, where we had the pleasure of being served by Florence, a delightful server from England. We love hearing people’s stories and making connections. Regrettably, I didn’t snap a photo of our beautifully presented meal—chicken thigh and leg accompanied by a fantastic slaw, pickled radishes, and a scrumptious basmati rice dish topped with a perfectly cooked a hokey sunny side up egg. Yummy!!
June 21
We crossed the border into Canada at Roosville with ease and grace, arriving at Redstreak Campground around 3:00 PM.
Overlooking the charming Village of Radium Hot Springs, breathtaking views of the Columbia Valley and the surrounding mountains.
After settling in at our site, we enjoyed a delicious dinner of salmon croquettes & veggies drizzled in olive oil. Since our site has no service, we are conserving water by using paper plates.
Around 7:30 PM, we ventured to Radium Hot Springs. It was absolutely delightful! We chatted with some friendly folks and enjoyed a relaxing soak in the springs.
Radium Hot Springs is a picturesque mountain town nestled between the peaks of the Canadian Rockies and Purcell Mountains, with the serene Columbia River meandering through it. The town has a population of just 1,339.
On our way back to the campground, we encountered a few long-horned sheep.
Redstreak Campground
June 22
**Morning Beginnings**
We kicked off our day with an invigorating bike ride around the campground. The crisp morning air at 55 degrees was refreshing and set the tone for the adventures ahead.
**Exploring Invermere:**
Our adventures led us to the charming town of Invermere, with delightful experiences.
**Fun Fact:** Invermere 34-km Lake Windermere Whiteway, officially recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the 'longest skating path in the world.' This iconic spot is a haven for cross-country skiing, skating, skate skiing, pond hockey and ice fishing.
Our first stop was the local Farmer’s Market, where we purchased some beautiful produce. Then, our eyes spied unusual and beautiful paintings by Roland Daum. I was particularly mesmerized by an oil painting of Lake Agnes, which we are enjoying looking at in our motorhome.
**Sweet Indulgence:**
Next, we treated ourselves with a handful of devious samples at Wild Mountain Chocolate - Bean to Chocolate Bar. They source organic beans and craft the chocolate right in Invermere. After our sampling , we purchase three bars with beans from Equator, Madagascar, and Peru.
We enjoyed the drummer who was entertaining and energizing to us and others strolling the Farmer's Market.
**Unexpected Discovery:**
Leaving the Farmer's Market, we stumbled upon a fabulous resale shop, Birds Eye Boutique. It was filled with hidden treasures. I couldn't resist picking up a couple of top-quality items—a dress and a top.
Invermere has so much to offer, from nature and culture to delightful treats and unexpected finds. Every moment spent in this charming town was truly memorable.
June 23
We drove back to Invermere to explore the Markin-MacPhail Westside Legacy Trail North, and let me tell you, the bike ride was absolutely breathtaking. This paved trail meanders through the stunning Columbia Valley, linking the communities of Invermere and Fairmont Hot Springs.
As we cycled along, we enjoyed vibrant wildflowers, the serene beauty of Windermere Lake, and a delightful mix of hills and curves. Strategically placed benches offered perfect spots to pause and soak in the panoramic views. This trail is a testament to community spirit, with numerous private ranch owners graciously granting easements to make this pathway a reality.
Fun Fact: In the early 1900s, ore was extracted from these towering mountains and shipped all the way to Wales. Amazingly, even though the process took two years, it was still profitable!
June 18, 19, & 20 2024
Driving down the historic Auto Tour Route of Lewis and Clark, we made our way towards Lakeside, Montana.
Arriving at Flathead Harbor Resort RV Park just as the rain started. It was a nice relaxing evening after a long day.
The next day after checking out the Marina we did some exploring in Somer, MT - Population 1,037 (2022) Somer is located on the north shore of Flathead Lake.
The morning filled some of our time with a lovely bike ride on the Historical Trail Rails - Trails of Northwest Montana. It was beautiful and the perfect way to start our day. The beautiful purple flowers were flourishing all over. They are Dame Rocket also known as Mother of the Evening, Sweet Rocket, Dame Violet, Summer Lilac & Wild Phlox.
Fun Facts about Flathead Lake - Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi in the lower 48 states, with over 200 square miles of water and 185 miles of shoreline.
After another delicious dinner, we took a leisurely stroll over to Flathead Marina, just across the highway from our RV park. It was a beautiful evening filled with heartwarming conversations and the joy of meeting new people.
Today, June 20, we kicked off our morning with another refreshing bike ride. We ran some errands and made sure to stock up on a few things before our adventure takes us across the border into Canada tomorrow.
For lunch, we treated ourselves to a mouthwatering meal at DeSoto Grill. The feast included salmon, brisket, elk, creamy potato salad, crunchy Cajun coleslaw, hearty collard greens, and delicious cornbread. Needless to say, we ended up bringing a substantial portion of it home to enjoy another day.
In the higher elevation and drier weather, my nose felt extremely dry and uncomfortable. Using organic coconut oil and Geranium essential oil provided soothing relief and helped heal the inside of my nose.
Fun Facts about Geranium Essential Oil
Skin care benefits - including dry cracked skin
Promotes Hair Shine
Emotional Well-Being - elevates one’s mood
Emotional Balance - promotes a sense of inner peace & calm.
Click on the link to learn more:
June 17 Arrived @ Pelican Fishing and Camping Access Point
Embarking on our first boondocking adventure along the Yellowstone River in Greycliff, Montana. It was an amazing experience of beauty, tranquility, peace and so soothing listening to the flowing river.
It was windy and cold and was the perfect setting for cozying up in our motorhome. Nice dinner and a soothing cup of herbal tea while admiring the breathtaking view outside.
Woke up to 45 degrees - with the wind chill it was 35 degrees.
June 17 - Strolling the town of Kaycee, WY, population 260
We arrived on Sunday, just after they hosted their 12th annual Father's Day “Chris LeDoux Festival”. They had 2500 attend from all over the midwest.
If you’re wondering who was Chris LeDoux…… (we never heard of him)
Chris Ledoux (1948-2005) was a world champion bareback rider - Inducted into the Museum’s Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2006 after a career as a word champion bareback rider.
Country Music singer-songwriter, entertainer.
In 1989 Garth Brooks immortalized him in the song that would become his first hit. “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old). This is when Chris’s career skyrocketed.
Chris had 36 albums (many self released)
Sold more than 6 million in the US as of January 2007
Unfortunately, he passed away March of 2005 from a rare cancer.
Strolling through downtown Kaycee was a treat, especially when you come across the magnificent Chris LeDoux Monument & Park (Good Ride Cowboy) which is a tribute to the legendary country singer and rodeo champion. The towering, amazing bronze sculpture is of Chris on his horse and they are on his guitar.
In case you can't see all of the picture - "Have Hope"..... it ends saying "Know You Are Loved And Never Give Up".
Just when you think the moment can't get more exciting we were surprised to see a herd of sheep making their way down Main street.
The combination of local history and rustic charm weaves itself into every corner, offering an experience that's as authentic as it is unforgettable.
