And Then There Were Four....

Thursday, July 29

Trois-Riviéres to Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures

On the road by 8:30 to a sunny sky. We had a really nice ride today again along the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Again we rode through nice agricultural land. Dairy farm after dairy farm lined the highway. Silos, some farms with 5 or 6, were common.

The terrain was again mostly flat with good shoulders to ride on. A strong cross wind challenged us at times. As we rode today we came upon a cyclist pulling a 'Bob' trailer. He is cycling from Kingston to Halifax to visit his brother. We rode the rest of the day with him and are camping with him tonight. Jerome is a retired teacher and a real storyteller! Lots of fun. He entertained us all evening with stories of his riding and of his twin brother who is a priest in Peru. He cycles about 10000 km a year and does some marathon running as well.

We are camping in the Canadien-Americana Campground in the town of Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures. We are about 15 km outside of Quebec City.

Daily Distance = 106.39 km. Time on the bikes = 5 hours 38 minutes. Average Speed = 18.86 km. Maximum Speed = 44.51 km. Wildlife Sightings = Great blue Heron.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1.

P.S. Eric had his second 100 km day today!

Soybeans, Corn, Soybeans, Corn....

Wednesday, July 28

Lanoraie to Trois-Rivières

On the road this morning by 8:00 well rested. Today's ride took us along the Fleuve Saint-Laurent. (How's that for using my limited French skills?). The river really is bigger than any other river we have ever seen. Freighters could be seen regularly heading 'up stream'. We rode past some of the best fields of soybeans and corn we have seen anywhere. The beans were 4 feet high and the corn at least 10 feet in height. I really am unsure if this is normal or if they have just had the 'perfect' year for growing crops. (Maybe it has something to do with the agricultural subsidization that Quebec farmers benefit from)!!! Silos everywhere and numerous dairy farms dotted the landscape. This is obviously one of Quebec's best agricultural regions.

As we rode along the river today we came upon an area that is a 'playground' for para-sailing. Lac Saint Pierre is a shallow area (part of the St. Lawrence) with lots of wind. While stopped for lunch we were treated to quite a show.

We are staying in the Motel Canadien, a small motel that caters to cyclists. It is located on the eastern edge of Trois-Rivières. As the afternoon progressed the sky got darker and darker. Upon learning of the possibility of thunderstorms and the beginning of some rain as we were leaving Trois-Rivières, the motel seemed like the prudent choice over camping in Champlain.

Daily Distance = 93.80 km. Time on the bikes = 5 hours 3 minutes. Average Speed = 18.57 km. Maximum Speed = 34.81 km. Wildlife Sightings = Great Blue Herons, Goldfinchs, Kestrel.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1.

P.S. We saw more tour cyclists today than any other day of our entire trip!!!

Well Needed Day off.....

Tuesday, July 27

Lanoraie

After 11 days on the road we decided to spend the day on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. There could be worse ways to spend a day of rest. While the laundry was being done, Eric and I played a game involving bean bag tossing for at least 2 hours. We then took a leisurely ride into town to the grocery store and to a 'Frite Wagon' for lunch. Eric is presently having a swim in the campground pool while Sue is having a nap on the picnic table! Tough life on the road!!!

We have been entertained today by large container ships heading both ways on the river. These ships are massive boats with the cargo containers stacked high above the decks. The banks of the river in this area are lined with 'estate' size houses. It would be interesting to know if these are just 'summer homes'. People really do have 'too much' money, or more likely, the banks 'lend out' way too much.

Daily Distance =15.82 km . Time on the bikes =52 minutes . Average Speed = 18.20 km. Maximum Speed = 32.53 km. Wildlife sightings = black squirrels.

Kevin =3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1.

P.S. While picking up supper at the local supermarket I met 2 more Cross Canada Cyclists who are our age and left Vancouver May 1. Hard to imagine cyclists slower than us! Now I will tell you the reason. He has a really bad knee so they are only able to ride when his knee allows it. He could hardly walk and the knee was visibly swollen. Hope they can continue and finish their dream.

Days Like Today Make You Forget All About The 'Crappy' Ones....

Monday, July 26

Saint-Jerome to Lanoraie

We were on the road by 8:40 after a full breakfast in the Hotel. We rode Saint-Jerome's bike path down to Hwy 158 and then turned east to continue our route around Montreal. Hwy 158 led us through really productive farmland. The sandy soil is obviously conducive to growing vegetables and I do not mean for market gardening. Carrots, beets, potatoes, asparagus, corn, cabbage, tomatoes, strawberries, and raspberries. (A greenhouse operation growing strawberries obviously has done OK! A 'massive' house has been built beside it with a 'private helicopter' in residence!) Dairy farms, sod farms, pork barns, and chicken barns dotted the landscape as well. The area grows 'abnormally' tall corn. While stopped for a washroom break we realized that the corn was at least 4 feet taller than Eric...6'1" + 4' = 10 feet. Must be all the fertilizer they spread!!!

Eric's comment part way through the day best sums up our ride today. "This is my favourite ride since I joined you guys". That says it all. A 'cross-tail wind', limited traffic, nice countryside, a town every 20 km, and sunshine made up our day. It really did make us forget about all the 'crappy' days on this adventure.

Today we managed to get to the St. Lawrence River. It is odd but this for me is 'right up there' with getting through the mountains of British Columbia. We are camping at the Chez Denise Campground outside of Lanoraie. It is a small campground right on the banks of the St. Lawrence.

Daily Distance = 96.34 km. Time on the bikes = 5 hours 10 minutes. Average Speed = 18.62 km. Maximum Speed = 51.93 km. Wildlife Sightings = Great Blue Herons, Cormorants.

P.S. We have decided to take a day off tomorrow to regenerate ourselves! (I have been told 'I' need it.)

Kevin=3, Sue=0, Eric=1

A Long Night....

Sunday, July 25

Pointe-au-Chene to Saint-Jerome

A long, long, long night. As cyclists we are ready to 'hit the hay' by 9:30 but last night that proved to be impossible. The 'live' band played late into the night. Lots of 'Doors' music, my era, but Jim Morrison the lead singer was 'not'! It seemed like most of the night was spent with people wandering by the tent and yelling. Sleep was impossible... Unless you were Eric!

On the road by 8:15 to a big black sky and a 'quiet' campground. Our ride today took us through agricultural land as we headed north of Montreal. Soybeans and corn dominated the cropland while poultry (both chicken and ducks) was the dominant livestock. For the most part we continued to have a good biking shoulder and flat terrain. The traffic was surprisingly heavy for a Sunday and we were surprised by how 'vibrant' a town Lachute was with numerous outdoor cafes busy at 10:00 a.m.

We decided to cut our day shorter than we planned. Sue's sore knees, Eric's quietness, and so I am told my 'testiness' (I cannot believe that) means we needed to find a Motel early in the afternoon so we could rest up both 'physically' and 'mentally'! We are staying at the Best Western in Saint-Jerome. As we entered Saint Jerome it became very obvious that an awful lot of people are cyclists. The old rail yard that is now a park had hundreds of cyclists in it.

Daily Distance = 69.60 km. Time on the bikes = 3 hours 56 minutes. Average Speed = 17.67 km. Maximum Speed = 33.07 km. Wildlife Sightings = Kestrel, Marsh Hawk, Coopers Hawk, Great Blue Heron.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1.

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's Off to Quebec We Go....Finally!!!

Saturday, July 24

Orleans to Point-au-Chene

After a quiet evening and a great sleep we were on the road by 8:10. Thanks again, Maura for opening your house to 'total strangers'. Another 5 km of bike trail. And then onto Old Montreal Road for our ride to Cumberland and the ferry over to Quebec. When we rode down to the ferry we were allowed to ride right on and it took off before we were even off of our bikes. The cost...an astronomical 2 bucks each!

It is hard to believe that we are finally out of Ontario. What a 'huge' province especially to cross on bicycles. Five full weeks to cross it. I am not sad to see it behind us. A summary of it is almost impossible but suffice it to say that it threw a whole bunch of varied experiences at us. Now it is time for Eric to 'shine' with his French language skills.

The rest of the day was spent riding Hwy 148, which has a dedicated shoulder for cyclists. What a pleasure after much of Ontario and Manitoba. We made a stop at the Chateau Montebello, a huge log Hotel that you would have to 'mortgage the house' to stay at. It is so large that you could not get 1\4 of it in a photograph! An information stop, an ice cream stop, a grocery stop and a chat with a cyclist riding a 'recumbent tricycle' made for a long stay in Montebello.

We are staying at the La Place Rouge, a small campground that actually was full but gave us a 'piece of grass' to set up our tents on. That is what happens when you arrive on Christmas Eve in Quebec. At least that is the reason for a huge party tonight with live music in the campground. Sleep might be hard to come by! Anything for a party!

Daily Distance = 83.35 km. Time on the bikes = 4 hours 39 minutes. Average Speed = 17.94 km. Maximum Speed = 44. 93 km. Wildlife Sightings = Eastern Kingbirds, Dairy Herds.

Kevin = 3, Sue =0, Eric = 1 1\2 "really close to a complete flop".

If Only All Cities Had Bike Paths....

Friday, July 23

Stittsville to Orleans

We were treated to a two part dinner last night. We had barbecued salmon at 5:30 followed by steak at 9:30. It was certainly our own fault if anyone went to bed hungry and as you can imagine no-one did! By 7:30 am we were 'fuelling up' again with bacon and pancakes (with 'real' maple syrup), muffins and coffee. Thanks again to Lori and Lionel. Our stay at your B+B was greatly appreciated. (And the dinner was not bad either)! And thanks Simon for letting me be part of your 'batting' practice last night. It was fun!

We were off by 8:30 with 'muffins' in our bags for treats on the road. Ottawa is such a dream for cyclists. We jumped on the Trans Canada Trail in Stittsville (after some minor trouble finding it...all our own fault) and rode a combination of old rail trail (hard packed gravel) and paved bike trail all the way to the Rideau Canal beside the Parliament Buildings. What a pleasure to not have to ride with traffic.

Upon arriving at the canal we were able to watch boats being lowered through the lock system. Everything was 'manually' operated to let the water through and to open the 'gates'.

A quick picture taking session at Parliament Hill and a chat with a fellow Cross Canada Cyclist going west to east but much quicker than us as he had left from Victoria one month 'after' us. Oh to be young!

So now we are 'three' again. Sadly, Patrik and Taryn had to leave us today to return home. Thanks guys for being a part of our adventure. We had fun and I hope you did too!

We left the downtown of Ottawa by way of Sussex Drive passing many of the foreign embassies along the way. Yes, Eric got to see the Prime Minister's Residence! We then got onto the bike path and rode all the way to Orleans. While stopped and looking at our maps and obviously looking 'lost', we had two cyclists stop to ask if we needed help. While talking they asked us where we were staying tonight and we said that we were not sure. We were promptly offered one of their homes for the night. Thank you Maura for opening your house to 'total strangers'. Your hospitality is amazing!

Daily Distance = 54.54 km. Time on the bikes = 3 hours 27 minutes. Average Speed = 15.76 km. Maximum Speed = 36.08 km. Wildlife Sightings = Groundhogs, Cardinal, Mallard, Black Ducks, Canada Geese, Coopers Hawk.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1, Taryn = 0, Patrik = 0.

P.S. Tomorrow we will finally leave Ontario!!!

The Ottawa River is Really Big....

Thursday, July 22

Renfrew to Stittsville

On the road by 8:10 to a totally blue sky and 'riders' eager not to ride on Hwy 17. (Seems like getting away by 8;00 is really difficult....it might be the result of the crew 'rebelling' against my timeframe!).

We took the 'River Road' from Renfrew to Arnprior roday, County Rd #1. What a beautiful ride! The Ottawa River is really big!!! Far bigger than we remembered. It was more like following a lake with islands and homes lining the shoreline. Beats the heck out of riding in traffic.

After consulting the tourist information place in Arnprior (the local antique dealer), we set off on county roads for a leisurely ride to Stittsville. Yes, I can imagine people are going "Where the heck is Stittsville?". Well, it is part of Greater Ottawa. Believe it or not we are almost out of Ontario! Can hardly wait!!

We are staying at Lori, Lionel, Sebastien, Simon and Natalie's place. Lori and and Lionel are Eric's Aunt and Uncle. We are being treated 'royally' and have literally taken over the house! Thanks guys, we really appreciate it!

Daily Distance = 82.87 km. Time on the bikes = 4 hours 7 minutes. Average speed = 20.10 km. Maximum speed = 59.34 km. Wildlife settings = Mallards, Turkey Vulture, Eastern Kingbird.

Kevin = 3 1/2 "Way too close for comfort!" Sue = 0, Eric = 1, Taryn = 0, Patrik = 0

Downhill All the Way....

Wednesday, July 21

Denbigh to Renfrew

After a really nice dinner in the Swiss Inn Restaurant we had an early night. I guess that is the result of yesterday's hill climbing!

On the road by 7:45 to a partly sunny sky and the beginning of an easy ride. The highway was smooth with very little traffic and wound its way 'down' through a valley. The key word today was 'down'. It seemed like the ride was 'downhill all the way' to Renfrew. The consensus among all of us was that this was our reward for yesterday!

Today's downhills produced the top speed for the trip, over 70 km/hr. Some people might think this seems awfully fast and maybe even stupid. You would be right!!! But what a rush!!!

Today's ride took us through an area of marginal farmland dominated by old log barns with many of them still in use. We will have to drive this route sometime in the future and photograph all of the log buildings. As we got closer to Renfrew we came into 'good looking' farmland and lots of silos.

Upon arriving in Renfrew we were helped out by 2 different individuals in our search for our campground. One even gave us a map from her car and advice on a really nice route to Ottawa tomorrow.

We are camping in the KOA Campground west of Renfrew. It is just off highway 17, the TransCanada. There was just something wrong with the idea of getting to Renfrew and then heading towards Pembroke when we want to go to Ottawa. What the hell, what's 8 km out of our way?

Daily Distance = 80.66 km. Time on the bikes = 4 hours 7 minutes. Average speed = 19.55 km. Maximum speed = 71.44 km. Wildlife sightings = Red Breasted Nuthatch, Red Squirrel.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1 + "Thank God Patrik was there to grab onto!", Taryn = 1/2 "My bike fell down, but I didn't!", Patrik = 1/2 "Oops, there goes my bike!"

Hills, Hills, and More Hills....and then THE DENBIGH HILL.....

Tuesday, July 20

Bancroft to Denbigh

On the road today by 7:55 to a sunny sky and ready for our climbing. We had planned a shorter day and it is a darn good thing we did. The day was definitely challenging as we climbed through the rock and trees along Hwy 28 away from Bancroft. Every once in a while farmland would appear, not very good, but farmland just the same. I cannot imagine what it must have been like 150 years ago to get your land grant from the crown, somehow get to your property and find nothing but rock. Those first few winters must have been pretty tough.

After getting a lecture from a local resident about our choice of where we were taking a roadside rest (and if you can believe it I did not tell her what I thought) we had a fun downhill run that made us nervous about what was coming ahead. Sure enough, the downhill was followed by 'a hill', not just any hill, but a 12% grade that seemed to go on forever and ever. Not what we wanted after 55 km of riding. The young crew members powered up the hill while us more 'seasoned' riders went for a 'stroll'.

We are staying at the Swiss Inn and Motel in Denbigh. We could not resist the opportunity with Patrik along! The reality is we had no other choices for accommodation in this area!

Daily Distance = 65.87 km. Time on the bikes = 4 hours 3 minutes. Average speed = 16.23 km. Maximum speed = 62.25 km. Wildlife sightings = Turkey Vulture, Great Blue Heron.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1, Taryn = 0, Patrik = 0

P.S. As we took a break in the village of Denbigh we were stopped in front of a fire hall, a 'volunteer fire hall'. No big deal! However, when we looked behind us we realized that the building directly across from the fire hall was burned to the ground. The people of this area might not feel overly good about the abilities of their fire fighters!!!

No Rain...But No Flat Riding Either....

Kinmount to Bancroft

After a really good breakfast at our B+B and being reassured by the owner, Patrick, that our ride to Bancroft would be a flat one and that after Bancroft it would be more difficult, we hit the road a little later than usual, at 9:00. The consensus is that tomorrow might be 'very difficult' since today's ride was anything but flat, in fact, it was downright 'hilly'. With lots of rest stops, lots of liquids, and the wish by Sue and I, that we had the 'young legs' like our other 3 crew members, we managed to arrive at our destination in Bancroft. A visit to the local grocery store followed by a 4 km ride (in the wrong direction for tomorrow's ride) and we arrived at our campsite.

We are staying at the Bancroft Tent and Trailer Camp, a small campground with lots of permanent trailers, but only 5 dollars for a wheelbarrow load of firewood and free showers!

Getting dinner ready tonight was a bit of an adventure! I managed to burn water (with a little help from the powdered milk) and while 'chiselling' out the pot in the washroom, Eric arrived dripping blood from a self inflicted cut to his finger tip. (That is what happens when you play with Swiss Army Knives, right Eric?). 'Dr. Kevin' (who is more experienced than me with cuts?) managed to stop the bleeding and put a bandage on it. Do not worry Cindy he will survive!!!

Daily Distance = 87.82 km. Time on the bikes = 4 hours 50 minutes. Average Speed = 18.12 km. Maximum Speed = 62.25 km. Wildlife Sightings = Great Blue Heron, Pileated Woodpecker, Osprey, Campground Cat.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1, Taryn = 0, Patrik = 0.

The Last of The Flat Riding...For A While....

On the road to a beautiful blue sky by 8:00. No wind, new pavement, some shoulder, reasonable traffic and a flat road meant for a nice ride that was fairly easy and quick. A muffin and tart stop at a small place on the highway where they advertised 'stuffed olives'. Go figure!!!

As we rode along today we came upon some trees, not just ordinary trees, but 'shoe trees'! Hundreds of pairs of shoes dangling from the trees! You have to wonder about the human race. Somebody decides, probably as a joke, to hang shoes in a tree and then other people do it to. I guess the question would be why? On the other hand some people would say why not?

We are staying at the Kinmount House Bed and Breakfast, a beautiful old brick house with a wrap around verandah, located on top of a hill overlooking the downtown and the river.

Daily Distance = 79.58 km. Time on the bikes = 3 hours 47 minutes. Average Speed = 21.03 km. Maximum Speed = 53.42 km. Wildlife Sightings = Osprey on the nest with young, Canada Geese, Stuffed Grey Fox, Rooster, Chicken, St. Bernard.

P.S. Eric achieved a milestone today, he passed 1000 km for his trip!

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1, Taryn = 0, Patrik = 0.

Blame Everything on Patrik...

Saturday, July 17

Wasaga Beach to Orillia

Almost away at 7:30 this morning until we discovered a 'slack' tire on Taryn's bike. Kevin to the rescue...or not! All I managed to do was let all the remaining air out of the tire. About the time that I was getting concerned we figured out how my pump converted from 'schrader' to 'presta'. Success! On the road by 8:00 (I am sure that it was Patrik's fault). A quick ride along HWY 26 despite the volume of traffic and the rough surface. Thank you west breeze! After turning onto Horseshoe Valley Road, riding became more difficult due to some climbing and some minor bicycle repairs. Taryn's bike rack was falling off and it seems that after hearing some discussion it might have been Patrik's fault! Our ride along County Road 93 and then County Road 11 was a series of climbs but certainly rideable. And of course, a really hot and sunny day had to produce some rain, but only over where we were! A huge cloud (would not have been more than a km wide) went over and absolutely 'soaked us'! Welcome to Kevin and Sue's Cross Canada Bicycle Ride!

Our intended destination was Mara Provincial Park but due to it being a Saturday night in the middle of July, it was full so we are staying in the King's Inn in Orillia. It is a nice little motel that never left the 60's. When they found out what we were doing, they greatly reduced their usual rate and gave us a can of aerosol. I guess people feel sorry for us, or just think we are 'crazy'!

Daily Distance = 80.74km. Time on the bike s= 4 hours 5 minutes. Average Speed= 19.73km. Maximum Speed = 57.73km. Wildlife Sightings = Blue Jay, Blue Bird.

Kevin=3, Sue=0, Eric=1, Taryn=0, Patrik=0.

P.S. Another milestone was hit today. Sue and I have ridden 5000 km since leaving Vancouver.

The Saga Continues.....

Friday, July 16

Home to Wasaga Beach

A second day off and we were raring to go. It felt kind of odd to be leaving home for a second time, knowing we will be on the road for two more months. Part of the needed energy to keep going is due to our 'new crew members' Patrik and Taryn. They are neighbours who are joining us for a week and hopefully we will be close to Ottawa within that time. So now we are five!

On the road by 8:00 to a beautiful bright blue sky. A 2 km coast down Bayview Hill had us wishing that it was downhill all the way to Newfoundland. At Meaford we decided to ride the Georgian Trail (the old rail line) all the way to Collingwood. The trail is 'fine hard packed' gravel and a real pleasure to ride. Sure was better than riding highway 26 which is under construction from Meaford to Thornbury.

We are camping at the Cedar Grove Campground in the edge of Wasaga Beach. It is a 'crappy' little campground full of permanent trailers and they charge 'extra' for showers!!!

Daily Distance = 64.97 km. Time on the bikes = 3 hours 29 minutes. Average speed = 18.63 km. Maximum speed = 58.26 km. Wildlife sightings = Cardinal, Blue Jay.

Kevin=3, Sue=0, Eric=1, Taryn=0, Patrik is lucky to still = 0.

Day Off...But No Spare Time....

Wednesday, July 14

Home

We had a busy day off today, restocking our supplies, having our bicycles serviced, visiting with friends and buying Eric a tent that 'repels water and does not collect it'!

We have managed to spread our gear all over the place and looks like most of our 2nd day off will be spent putting our 'stuff' back together. We are looking forward to restarting our adventure!!!

We Are Home...Temporarily....

Tuesday, July 13

Colpoy's Bay to Our House

After being treated to another great breakfast we were on the road by 9:05. Thanks Dorothy for making our overnight stay a special one!

Our ride down from Wiarton to Owen Sound was a nice easy ride on County Roads in much better condition than our Provincial Highway #6! It was made easier when we got to Cobble Beach and dumped our gear into Bruce's truck (Sue's cousin) for him to carry home for us. Thanks Bruce, it really is so much easier without all that weight! The hills between Owen Sound and our house have sure become 'easier' after almost 5000 km of cycling. We 'cruised' up hills that we used to train on and struggle to climb. I guess we really are stronger now than we were 2 1/2 months ago!

We were treated to Sue's family arriving at our home with dinner tonight. Nice treat since we really do not have any food in the house! Thanks guys and it was nice to see everybody.

We are planning on taking two days off to get ourselves organized and ready for the 2nd part of our adventure. It is hard to believe that we have traveled from Vancouver all the way to South western Ontario by bicycle! We have been warned that stopping at home is a mistake as you will not want to start back up again feeling you have already accomplished something. I am positive that is not going to be the case. We are looking forward to the rest of our journey.

Daily Distance = 63.47 km. Time on the bikes = 3 hours 39 minutes. Average Speed = 17.38 km. Maximum Speed = 53.94 km. Wildlife Sightings = Bobolink, Wild Turkeys.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1.

Hospitality Continued....

Monday, July 12

Tobermory to Colpoy's Bay

A leisurely start to today as we were treated to a great breakfast by Brian and Pat. Thanks again for your wonderful hospitality! After a miscue on our return to Highway 6 (don’t worry Brian it was not your directions that were the trouble it was that Eric and I deferred to Sue's sense of direction) we were off and heading south on new, first coat, pavement. And anybody on the Peninsula who thinks that the shoulder might be paved I suspect will be gravely disappointed. Not a sign of that happening. Also, our first 60 km to Ferndale were once again 'really wet' due to a steady rainfall. Anyone who needs a rainfall should just wait until we ride through and we can guarantee some 'damp' weather!!!

The afternoon ride to Colpoy's Bay was much nicer as the sun came partly out and 'sort of' dried us. We were overtaken by two cyclists today who stopped to chat with us. They were biking from Sault Ste. Marie to Ottawa and were setting a quite a pace. They had ridden from Little Current across the island and caught the 9:00 ferry (61 km). They had then ridden almost 75 km when they passed us by 2:30 and were heading for Owen Sound for the night another 60 to 70 km. I guess we are really traveling slowly as we are doing the same distance over parts of 3 days. But you know we are enjoying ourselves. I hope they are at their pace!!!

We are staying tonight at our friends' place, Dorothy, who has treated us to a great dinner and conversation. I could really get used to this kind of touring. Thanks Dorothy for your hospitality.

Daily Distance = 83.79 km. Time on the bikes = 4 hours 40 minutes. Average Speed = 17.94 km. Maximum Speed = 36.41 km. Wildlife Sightings = Another one of those days where it was tough to see anything but the rain on the pavement!

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1.

P.S. Tomorrow we will arrive home and thus 'phase one' of our journey will be over. A couple days off and I know we will be ready to begin 'phase two' and a whole new series of experiences!!!

Hospitality....

Sunday, July 11

Lake Manitou to Tobermory

On the road after a large breakfast to a 'bright blue sky' and bicycles 'free of gear'. Verla sent us off this morning well 'fuelled' and decided to carry our gear to the ferry for us. What a pleasure to ride again with no weight! Highway 6 across the island was extremely rough with cracks (grass growing in some) that shook us and the bikes constantly. Construction signs said the start date to reconstruct the highway was to begin July 5. Wonder what year they were referring to??? After arriving in South Baymouth our gear was re-loaded and Verla provided us with a 'huge' picnic lunch that included 2 kinds of pie. Thank you so much Ike and Verla for your incredible hospitality.

After a smooth ride on the Chi-cheemaun we were met in Tobermory by our new found friends, Brian and Pat, and escorted to their cottage on Lake Huron. Brian and Pat cycled across Canada in 2008 and a common acquaintance, Judy, introduced them to our blog and its ramblings.

We have had a really fun evening swapping stories, eating a wonderful dinner, and drinking some wine. It is as if we have known each other for a long time, a bond that only touring cyclists can truly understand. Thanks guys for your hospitality. We are in your debt.

Daily Distance = 69.09 km. Time on the bikes = 3 hours 48 minutes. Average Speed = 18.11 km. Maximum Speed = 46 .69 km. Wildlife Sightings = Deer, Sandhill Cranes, Loon, Chipmunk.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1.

P.S. Not a bad day on our 29th wedding anniversary!!! Life is good!!!

The Day That Made Me Into a Liar....

Saturday, July 10

On the road by 7:30 to a beautiful blue sky. The first 30 km was a difficult ride with lots of climbing through the La Cloche Mountains. (Did not know that Ontario had mountains!) A nice ride followed to Little Current. As we approached the 'Swing Bridge' we were treated to a view of the bridge opening and closing allowing sail boats and large cabin cruisers to pass through. (And here I thought we had been in a recession)! A leisurely lunch at 'Farquer's' Ice Cream Shop fuelled us up for our afternoon challenge. Now for the part that made me into a liar...As we rode out of Little Current I told Sue and Eric that the ride to the cottage on Lake Manitou would have just a couple of small hills. Boy was I wrong! By about the 5th climb I was wondering if I was on the right road to our destination. And we were not finished yet! Finally I re-assured everyone that there were no more hills. And what should appear but another climb. My credibility was destroyed!

Today was also a day to see wildlife. A young bear, a male moose with a 'rack' and 2 deer, one with a 'rack'

We are staying at our good friends, Ike and Verla's cottage at the north end of Lake Manitou. We were greeted at the top of the laneway by a homemade sign welcoming us to the cottage. We are being treated 'royally'.

Daily Distance = 74.33 km. Time on the bikes = 4 hours 34 minutes. Average Speed = 16.23 km. Maximum Speed = 58.26 km. Wildlife Sightings = Bear, Moose, Deer, Cedar Waxwing, Loon, Red Tailed Hawk.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1

Everyone In A Hurry....

Friday, July 9

Blind River to Espanola

On the road this morning by 7:30 to a partly cloudy sky. Quickly the clouds cleared and it turned into a beautiful day for a ride. Flat roads through rock, bush and 'low and behold', farmland. Another pocket of agricultural land with a Mennonite or Amish presence. Do not think it would be an overly productive area!

After a quick lunch in a picnic shelter in Spanish, we were on the road again. The downside of today's ride was all the traffic. Way too much!!! Everyone in a hurry and a couple of 'moron' drivers passing with us coming towards them. For a race of people who call themselves 'intelligent' we sure can do 'stupid things'!!!

Today Eric had a couple of firsts. He saw the first moose of his life as it crossed the road ahead of us, stopping in the middle of the road, reversing direction, falling down and then crossing the road. Eric also had his first 'metric century' ride of his biking career. Well done!

We are staying in the Pinewood Motor Inn in Espanola. As we entered Espanola we saw the reason for the town's existence, pulp and paper. A huge mill dominates the entrance to the town!

Daily Distance = 105.04 km. Time on the bikes = 5 hours 29 minutes. Average Speed = 19.09 km. Maximum Speed = 47.15 km. Wildlife Sightings = Great Blue Heron, Cedar Waxwing, Kingfisher, Moose.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1.

P.S. Neil, we saw 3 scenic routes today!

Lazy River...The Mississagi...

Thursday, July 8

Thessalon to Blind River.

Another wet night left everything soaked for the pack up. 2 baseball diamonds with 'dugouts' provided a dry spot for our breakfast and bicycle loading. On the road by 8:45 to a foggy, drizzly start. A light sprinkle accompanied us for the first 30 km until we stopped for our '2nd breakfast'.

From Iron Bridge to Blind River we were accompanied by the Mississagi River, a wide, slow moving river that at times reminded us of the Saugeen. Our afternoon ride was both short and flat. As a result we were to Blind River by 1:00. Our average speed was one of the highest of the whole trip.

We decided to stay in Blind River tonight as we were in need of 'dry' accommodation as well as badly needing our laundry done. We are staying at the Lakeview Inn. It is a really clean little place but quite a 'trimming of the trees' across the road would be required in order to see Lake Huron! We were unsure of Spragge's services (Spragge was our original destination) so we cut our day shorter. Just means tomorrow's ride is a little bit longer!

Daily Distance = 59.37 km. Time on the bikes = 2 hours 55 minutes. Average Speed = 20.23 km. Maximum Speed = 48.74 km. Wildlife Sightings = Sandhill Cranes, Marsh Hawks, Canada Geese, Porcupine.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Eric = 1.

First day of month # 3....

Wednesday, July 7

Off to a late start this morning due to foggy conditions and technical problems with 2 bikes. (And for a change it was not mine!!!). Today's ride could only be described as a nice ride along the Trans Canada. 45 kilometres of expressway made for a quick first half of the ride. A bit of a surprise today as we came upon an agricultural area outside of Sault Ste. Marie and a community of Old Order Amish or Mennonite.

A touring cyclist from Montreal (going the wrong way) stopped us for a chat. He is a student cycling to Vancouver from Montreal solo. He took our picture for his journal. After talking to him for 30 minutes we rode on to Bruce Mines and stopped in an 'air conditioned' restaurant for an ice cream cone. Nice treat on a day where the humidity was high and the temperatures were around 28. (Not complaining because the sun was shining... Yes that is correct we rode in sunshine today once the fog cleared). Another 20 km ride and we arrived in Thessalon, our intended destination.

We are camping in Lakeside Park and campground, a municipal campground, in Thessalon. The campground looks out onto Lake Huron, our 2nd Great Lake of the trip. Camping next to us is a touring cyclist from north of Quebec City. He is beginning a 5 year adventure and heading down to Dallas, then to California, then either to Australia for the winter or maybe to South America. He is pulling a fairly large trailer with his dog in it.

Daily Distance=95.57km. Time on the bikes=5 hours 6 minutes. Average Speed=18.68 km. Maximum Speed=42.14 km. Wildlife Sightings=Ospreys, Sandhill Cranes, Frog

Kevin=3, Sue=0, Eric=1.

Thanks Neil For Bringing Sunshine...Not....

Tuesday, July 6

Pancake Bay to Sault Ste. Marie

On the road by 8:20 this morning after a 'wet' night in the campground. Today was a good ride with 'some' hill climbing before lunch but we left the 'best' for the afternoon. We rode through rain for most of the day so we stopped at Goulais River General Store and borrowed their veranda for lunch. The owner told us about 'mile long hill' out of Goulais River that turned into a 2.8 km climb which was a real challenge. (You know the education system really needs to teach the metric system to people in Northwestern Ontario)!!! After climbing 'mile long hill' we were resting when Neil asked if we were going to take 'the scenic' route. We all looked at him and he said "well does that sign not say something about a scenic route"? It was in fact a sign to the local dump! Sure made us feel good about following him all day!!! Then the fun really began. The steady rain turned into an absolute downpour for the last 10 km into Sault Ste. Marie. It was as heavy as anything we have ridden in on this trip. We pulled into Velorution Cycle for some badly needed repairs to my back wheel. They did not have a new back wheel but phoned around for us and sent us to Algoma Cycle in the downtown area. 30 minutes later my bike was like 'new' again. I am sure I will be able to fix that shortly!

We are staying at the Water Tower Inn as the rains have continued and we were 'thoroughly soaked'. (Again)! Neil left us later this afternoon to return home. Thanks Neil for your 'bicycle repair tips' and more importantly for being a part of 'our adventure'. It was fun having you along.

Daily Distance = 77.76 km. Time on the bikes = 4 hours 31 minutes. Average Speed = 17.19 km. Maximum Speed = 49.17 km. Wildlife Sightings = very hard to see anything when the weather was so nice!!!

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Neil = 0, Eric = 1.

A day of visits.....

Monday, July 5

Agawa Bay Campground to Pancake Bay Provincial Park

After a 'soggy' evening and a 'wet' night we packed up and were on the road by 8:10. A 'foggy' ride for the first 20 km forced us into using our 'flashing tail lights' and riding close together. Today's ride was challenging at times with longer and steeper hills than the last couple of days. Our 'new crew' members took all the hills in stride and even seemed to enjoy the challenges. I guess they have not climbed enough of them yet!

Today was a day to visit friends and family. About 5 km before our destination a van slowed down and looked at Eric and Neil (who of course were ahead of Sue and I) and then stuck their heads out at Sue and I and yelled at us. Marilyn and Bill (Marilyn works at the hospital with Sue) are at the beginning of a 5 week holiday to the Calgary Stampede and then onto Vancouver Island. Have a great trip guys! Five minutes later a SUV with a trailer carrying a kayak and a canoe slowed and pulled a u-turn and came up behind us. Rob (my 1st cousin) and his wife Jan jumped out. They had been told we were in the area so they were looking for us. One minute later and we would have missed them. Have fun canoeing and kayaking for the next 2 weeks guys.

We are camping at Pancake Bay Provincial Park. Our campsite is on the water, a beautiful, smooth bay with a sandy beach as far as you can see in both directions.

Daily Distance = 62.44 km. Time on the bikes = 3 hours 55 minutes. Average Speed = 15.86 km. Maximum Speed = 53.42 km. Wildlife Sightings = Cedar Waxwings, Red Squirrel, Chipmunk.

Kevin = 3, Sue = 0, Neil = 0, Eric = 1.

45 Up...45 Down....

Sunday, July 4

Wawa to Lake Superior Provincial Park, Agawa Bay Campground

On the road by 8:00, supported, so without gear. Today's ride was hard at times with lots of long gradual climbs followed by similar downhills. 45 km up 45 km down. The views were again spectacular, as good as any scenery we have seen in Northern Ontario. Lots of opportunities for pictures and 'rests'! 30 km into the ride I realized that I 'once again' had a 'back wheel' issue. A spoke had let go from the rim. After some consulting with the 'crew' we decided that I should ride Sue's bike and put her onto my 'wonky' bike. Success for the rest of the day! We have now switched our back wheels so I can 'screw up' another wheel. Sault Ste. Marie can't get to us soon enough!

Today was also another day of firsts, at least for Eric! He rode further than he ever has before and he had his first 'fall' a rather 'ungraceful tumble' in a parking lot. Only minor abrasions. Day 2 and fall # 1, liking my odds of being overtaken.

We were entertained today by a lady from Wisconsin who Neil and Eric referred to as a 'stalker'. We saw her at least 4 or 5 times taking photographs and talking up a storm. She even took an action shot of us as we rode past her on the road.

We are camping in Agawa Bay Campground and it is lightly raining. We are sitting in our 'kitchen shelter' and enjoying the wine. Sure could get used to this 'support thing'!!!

Daily distance=88.44 km. Time on the bikes=5 hours 1 minute. Average speed=17.55 km. Maximum speed=45.79 km. Wildlife sightings=Black bear

Kevin=3, Sue=0, Neil=0, Eric=1 and an injury to his 'pride'!

A Support Vehicle...What a Dream....

Saturday, July 3

Obatanga Provincial Park to Wawa

A little disorganized to depart this morning with the 'new crew' members so not on the road until 8:40. The 'disorganization' had nothing to do with the 'new crew' but trying to decide if we were carrying gear or not carrying gear. Good decision! Ride without our weight! I know people will be wondering why this would be such a 'hard' decision and you know it really should have been a 'no brainer'. What a dream! Bikes are actually easy to ride without the gear. So much so that the combination of 'no gear', a relatively flat ride, and the 'new crew' full of 'piss and vinegar', made for a nice quick ride! Good thing because by 2:30 it began to rain (we were in a Motel by then) and rained hard for 3 hours. With Neil and Eric along for the ride and Cindy in the Van bringing our lunch, it was a great day.

We are staying in the Parkway Motel on the east side of Wawa, a really nice little motel where our bikes are stored in their garage, we have use of their private hotub and use of a barbecue so 'Eric' can cook us our supper.

Daily Distance = 63.39 km. Time on the bikes = 3 hours 15 minutes. Average Speed = 19.45 km. Maximum Speed = 43.69 km. Wildlife Sightings = Red Squirrel.

Kevin = 3 Sue = 0 Neil = 0 Eric = 0. (It's nice to be # 1).

Northwestern Ontario Provincial Parks....

Friday, July 2

Obatanga Provincial Park

We had the day off today waiting for the 'new crew members' to arrive...and maybe to rest a little too!

Northwestern Ontario has some of the nicest Provincial Parks we have ever visited. Sioux Narrows and Caliper Lake on Hwy 71 are both remote parks with lots of fishing (if you are into that) and hiking opportunities. Quetico, with its huge wilderness area, is ideal for the launching of outback canoe trips. Neys and Rainbow Falls make it easy to connect to the 56 km hiking trail, The Casque Isles Trail, along the shores of Lake Superior from Terrace Bay to Rossport. White Lake is perfect for canoeing and Obatanga, with its 32 lakes, is the ideal setting to do wilderness canoe trips. All of these parks have amazing campgrounds that are 'anything but busy'. And we have had the pleasure to camp in each one with the exception of Quetico! Another area that is a 'must visit' for us at a future date! The one negative has been the boil water order at Sioux Narrows, White Lake and again at Obatanga. This is something that the Provincial Government needs to address quickly and not as the Notices say "sometime in the future filters will be installed to rectify the problem". Knowing the speed with which things are done by the government this could be indefinately!!!

While having dinner last night 3 'touring cyclists' rode into the campground. I got talking to them. A guy and his sister left Victoria May 3, circled Vancouver Island and have ridden some 'insane' distances. A 300 km day and a couple of 200 km days all in a row in the prairies. One day they were on their bikes for over 14 hours. Must have better padding on their buts than we do!!! Nuts!!! They are on their way to St. Johns. With them (only joined up yesterday in White River) was a guy who left Victoria May 11 and is heading for Halifax. Finally people going 'the right way'

Daily Distance = 0.

P.S. Our 'crew' has arrived safe and sound and keen to get rolling tomorrow.

Canada Day...A Great Day For a Ride....

Thursday, July 1

White Lake Provincial Park to Obatanga Provincial Park

We left our campsite at 8:00 to a bright blue sky. Could almost get used to packing up and leaving the rain gear away. Today could only be described as a beautiful day for a ride. The truck traffic was a little lighter (but it is still surprising how goods still have to continue to move), the road was good, and the people starting their holidays were patient. Did I say that the 'sun shone' all day today??? The riding was challenging again at times but the hills were manageable. It amazes me how we don't 'sweat the details' when we drive our 250 horsepower cars up and down the hills. We also rode through 'The Burn'. In May of 1999 a cigarette thrown from a car caused a massive forest fire west of White River. For 15 km we could see the burn but it is amazing with the reforestation efforts how the area is recovering. In 2004 when we were through here, it was still a charred mess. Today you have to be aware to know that it ever happened.

We also had a pleasant surprise this afternoon when a pickup truck slowed and the driver stuck his head out and yelled at us. Dan and Ruth were on their way to the cottage...finally...only joking...so we had a great roadside visit. Nice to chat with someone we actually knew, the first since leaving our friends' house in Maple Ridge oh so long ago! And Dan and Ruth, thanks for the 'ice tea'. Have a great summer at the cottage.

We are camping at Obatanga Provincial Park. July 1st and no-one is here. Our site is by far the largest site we have ever had and is situated above Burnfield Lake. Downside, we have another 'boil water' order. Imagine that!!! We are being joined tomorrow by Sue's brother, Neil, who will be riding to the Sault with us and our nephew, Eric, who will accompany us for the summer. Looking forward to the addition of new rejuvenated crew members.

Daily Distance = 79.86 km. Time on the bikes = 5 hours 13 minutes. Average Speed = 15.27 km. Maximum Speed = 55.01 km. Wildlife Sightings = Loon, Junco, Merlin, Red Tailed Hawk.

Kevin = 3 Sue = 0.

P.S. Did I mention that we have had '3 days in a row' of sunshine???

A Marathon....to Marathon...

Wednesday, June 30

Neys Provincial Park to White Lake Provincial Park

Since my 'built in' alarm clock failed this morning we were late getting started, leaving the campsite at 8:25. Neys Provincial Park is quite a nice campground with sites right on the beach of Lake Superior....but, but, but....not set up for cyclists as the campground is located 5 km. off the highway so a climb of 3 km. was required to get back up to Hwy 17. That was just the beginning. The 30 km. to Marathon was a marathon. We faced some of the most gruelling kilometres of the whole trip. Hill after hill had to be climbed so that by Marathon we were beginning to doubt the reality of our destination as we had another 55 to 60 km. to go. But, as per usual on this trip, when you start to 'feel defeated' the terrain flattens somewhat and the rest of the day is doable.

We are camping in White Lake Provincial Park, another beautiful park, but also bicycle 'unfriendly' as it, like Neys, is 4 kilometres off the highway again making for a tough start to tomorrow's ride. No wonder 'cross Canada cyclists' do not stay in Provincial Parks! That and the cost. To add insult to injury the park has a 'boil water' order that no one seems to want to tell people about. I guess it is a 'dirty little secret' that the provincial government is unwilling to spend the money to provide 'good water' and yet will still charge $30 for a piece of dirt!!!

Daily distance=92.59 km. Time on the bikes=6 hours 27 minutes. Average speed=14.32 km. Maximum speed=57.21 km. Wildlife sightings= chipmunk, red squirrel, red-tailed hawk, cedar waxwing, osprey, kingfisher, grouse with her babies.

Kevin=3 Sue=0.

P.S. We passed the 4000 km. mark for our trip today and it is 4000 km. I would not give back for the world!