Author: kaybrownsite

We are nearing Noah’s birthday and he is getting very excited. Each day we have a countdown, today is four days to go…

After going to bed at 7.30 am, Pete and I were up and ready to go by 3 am, Noah and Wes were not quite so ready.

Our rattling around the motorhome must have disturbed the boys as they were both ready to rise just after 6 am.

A small stop in town and a quick run for me before we were off again and ready for today’s road trip, all by 8.15 am

We crisscrossed borders, Montana, Wyoming, Montana and followed the edge of the Yellowstone National Park.

The drive was gorgeous following rivers, through the beautiful mountains (Rocky Mountains), past ranches, and farms, watching fly fisherman and cute log cabins along the river’s edge.

The last few early morning starts were beginning to take a small toll on Pete and he was becoming slightly over the driving (I wish I could help but Pete doesn’t trust my driving, justified.) We decided to find somewhere to stay for tonight and have a relaxing afternoon.

After passing the towns of Big Sky and Gallatin Gateway we almost stopped at the historic town of Bozeman until we missed the turnoff at the last minute.

Time to drive to the next town Livington and hope that there will be a site available.

Success, although the RV Park was displaying the FULL sign they had a spot for us. Tonight’s campsite is at Osens RV Park in Livingston, Montana.

After a grocery stop, the afternoon was spent relaxing and catching up on school work.

Dinner in the motorhome, a spot of rain and a very quiet evening inside.

 

Up again with the sparrows and back again on the road into Yellowstone National Park.

The morning was very cloudy and we even had a spot of rain and although the sunrise was not as spectacular as yesterday, it was still very beautiful.

Lots of photo stops along the way, Elk spotting, following beautiful rivers and a brief stop at Tower Falls.

The scenery was stunning driving through the mountain passes and very different from the landscapes of yesterday.

And then we began the drive into the Lamar Valley. It was amazing and we saw Bison everywhere, in the fields, crossing the road, it felt just like a safari. A few got a little too close, and it was difficult to move to the safe 23m viewing distance.  We believe they can become quite aggressive, or so the footage from the visitors’ centre shows…

Time to turn around and drive towards Mammoth Hot Springs.

A small stop along the way at the Petrified Tree, which as per a google definition is as follows: Petrified wood is the name given to a special type of fossilized remains of terrestrial vegetation. It is the result of a tree or tree-like plants having completely transitioned to stone by the process of permineralization.

Now you just need to google the definition of terrestrial vegetation and permineralization…

Next, onto Mammoth Hot Springs. A stop at the visitor’s centre, a sandwich eaten under the shady trees outside the General Store and then a lovely steep walk up the boardwalk, to view the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces.

A walk back to the car with Elk resting right in front of the houses.

By leaving early we had managed to miss most of the crowds and in some spots had them completely to ourselves. Now that we were edging close to midday and the crowds were building, it was time to look at returning to West Yellowstone and the RV Park.

Pete has been fabulous driving us around for the last two day and we certainly have covered some distance and seen lots of amazing sights. Another wonderful USA National Park.

On returning to the RV park Noah and I went for another lovely bike ride and we also managed another load of washing…

Out for dinner at a casual Chinese/American Restaurant (Park One Restaurant).

On our return walk back to camp, we saw unattended fires in fire rings (in the middle of summer, with the wind blowing, in dry surrounds, with bushfires burning out of control throughout the country. I could go on) outside one of the hotels. They may be bear aware but they are certainly not fire aware…

 

 

 

 

We had plans to start the day early and start the day early we did.

Pete and I up by 4 am to get ready for the day and Noah and Wes up not long after. AND in a surprisingly good mood.

All in the rental car and on the road from West Yellowstone to Yellowstone National Park by 5.30, just before sunrise.

As predicted the roads were quiet. We saw an amazing sunrise and Elk grazing on the side of the road.

Down to the Midway Geyser Basin where we saw hot springs and large Bison (a humpbacked shaggy-haired wild ox, native to North America and Europe) crossing rivers and grazing in the meadows.

Next, a stop and walk along the boardwalk at the Fountain Paint Pot (a mud pot). I have forgotten to mention that it was absolutely freezing this morning and the kids and I did NOT dress appropriately (our shorts and light sweaters did not quite cut it). By the end of the walk, we could not feel toes nor fingertips.

Onto the Grand Prismatic Spring (the largest hot spring in the United States) and another lovely stroll along the boardwalk. It was difficult to see it in its full glory from the boardwalk (much better from a height) but It was still quite impressive. By now the sun was also beginning to show us some warmth.

Back in the car and our next stop, Old Faithful, a cone-shaped geyser (hot spring) with predictable eruptions, approximately every 94 minutes. We had about 40 minutes to wait for the next eruption, the boys went and grabbed some coffees and hot chocolates and I saved our prime position seats at the front of the viewing platform (which I nearly lost).

Waiting, waiting, waiting and then finally it erupted. It was a bit difficult to see the eruption of hot water behind all of the steam, however, it was still impressive and worth the wait.

More touring and stops at the Kepler Cascades and Gibbon Falls, both lovely waterfalls but not quite as spectacular as some of the other waterfalls we have seen.

There is nothing better than making and enjoying a hike to see a waterfall. It appears and feels a lot more glorious and satisfying than stepping out of the car, in the carpark, to the viewing platform.

We have noticed that Yellowstone National Park is more of a drive around and stop and look at the scenery and wildlife, instead of hiking to them. A bit like a safari.

This is probably because the park is huge and the wildlife unpredictable. They take bear safety very seriously here (be bear aware). With no bear spray, this time I am happy to take the car.

More driving and a view of a deer along the river and another huge Bison along the road. Another stop and a break to eat our packed lunch and browse the gift shop at Canyon Village Visitors Centre.

Then, time to drive along the South Rim Drive to Artist Point, an overlook point on the edge of a cliff on the south rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, with a beautiful view of the canyon’s most famous feature, the 308-foot Lower Falls.

By now the roads were getting very crowded, it was becoming difficult to get a park at the attractions and Pete had been driving, once again for hours. It was time to return to the RV park for a rest.

Oh, and I didn’t realise that we had crossed the border into Wyoming while in Yellowstone, another state, tick…

On returning Noah and I had a lovely bike ride around the RV Park and town and some housekeeping, not a surprise, washing.

A lovely casual dinner at the log cabin restaurant Bullwinkle’s and then an early night for the Browns, ready for another early start to Yellowstone National Park.

 

Today we begin our journey to Yellowstone National Park. Is it the inspiration for Yogi Bear’s Jellystone National Park? I think maybe.

A slow start to the morning waiting for Noah and Wes to wake up and then on the road and back on busy Interstate 90 East by 8.30 am.

We pasted the historic old towns of Drummond and Butte with the summer ski fields, still slightly snow-capped, in the distance.

A small stop in Whitehall for gas and a light lunch in the motorhome.

Pete is very happy with the coffee in Montana, where they offer more than just the American dishwater…

Back on the road and on Montana 359 to Yellowstone National Park. The scenery today was gorgeous with beautiful farms and ranches, lakes and rivers and cute log cabins, all set amongst the mountains and rolling hills.

We drove through the historical and western towns of Harrison, Norris, McAllister, and Ennis.

Crossed the border into Idaho and then back again into Montana, until we reached our destination for tonight, Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park and Cabins in West Yellowstone, Montana.

Once we had checked into the RV Park we made the short walk to the visitor’s centre to find out the best way to explore Yellowstone. The park ranger was very helpful and advised us of the ‘must see’ locations.

We did walk away with two important observations.

1. We will need to try and hire a car as the park is not RV friendly
2. We will need to arrive ultra early to avoid the HUGE crowds

Off to Yellowstone Tours in search of a car rental.

At first, we did not think that we were going to be successful in renting a car but as if a car magically appeared, they managed to find us one for two days, available now.

AND I got to see a Grizzly Bear…

After collecting the car we went to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center and I got to see Grizzly Bears from the safety of an enclosure. Plus, learn about bear safety and what to do in an encounter. Which I hope I never have to use…

Downtown for a Chinese meal at a casual restaurant and then back to the motorhome with an early bedtime for Noah and Wes. It has been a long couple of days driving, they are shattered.

We have an early start and exciting day exploring Yellowstone National Park tomorrow.

 

 

Today we will be travelling through the three states of Washington, Idaho, and Montana. Just a few more to tick off the list 🙂

Leaving our Washington RV Park by 8.30 am we set off on the Interstate 90 East. It has been a while since we have spent time on these busy roads.

Past the historic city of Spokane, across the state border to Idaho and once again into the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

We travelled through the Idaho Panhandle (northern region of the state), passing beautiful lakes and lake houses and deer wading in the rivers.

A stop to stretch our legs in Historic Wallace with a lovely walk around the old Silver Mining town.

Across the next state border into Montana, surrounded by more of the gorgeous Rocky Mountains, Rivers, and Ranches.

A stop at an Interstate rest spot for lunch in the motorhome and then a lovely drive following the Clark Fork River to our destination for tonight, Missoula KOA in Missoula, Montana.

An amazing teppanyaki dinner at Kobe Seafood & Steak for dinner. A lovely surprise at the end of a long driving day.

A beautiful start to the morning. The Osoyoos Lake is stunning in the quiet early morning light.

A lovely run through vineyards, fruit trees and beside the beautiful lake. Noah and Pete also taking the opportunity of the gorgeous morning to go for a run/walk along the lake.

Time to make the border crossing. As I said before, we would have loved to have stayed longer on the west coast of Canada but unfortunately, the accommodation was just too difficult to confirm. What we have seen has certainly left us wanting more…

I was a little worried about our visa situation but after a short interview with a very helpful, although stern immigration officer we had the visas all fixed. The visas were issued incorrectly for Noah and I when we re-entered the USA from Cuba.

As the immigration officer advised, the airport officers are stamping thousands of passports all day, sometimes mistakes happen. Thank goodness for the departure reminder.

And now, we are back in the USA, back in Washington State.

Our scenery on today’s drive was extremely diverse and as beautiful as ever.

We followed the Okanogan Highlands along the Okanogan Trails Scenic Byway, along with the National Scenic Hwy. From alpine mountains to desert mountains, through small deserted towns and Indian Reserves, past the magnificent Grand Coulee Dam and through huge wheat fields and cattle farms.

A stop for fresh fruit smoothies and lunch in the motorhome along the way.

We drove through the outback towns of Wilbur, Davenport, Creston and many more tiny farming towns, until we reached our destination for tonight, the Ponderosa Falls RV Resort on the outskirts of Spokane.

Once we had checked into the RV Park we drove the short distance to the small town of Cheney where we had a quick drop in to say hello to Jesse Hunt, Dan and Helen Hunts youngest son. He is playing college basketball for Eastern Washington University, with his last year beginning shortly.

As he is sharing an apartment with two other young guys so we did not want to take up too much of their time and we were soon on our way back to the RV Park.

A settle in, a load of washing and then time to relax after a long day in the motorhome.

Time to keep moving…

All ready and leaving the RV Park and Lillicoet by 8 am.

Another beautiful day on the Gold Rush Trail, driving through the mountains and the ‘Canadian’ desert.

In fact, we spent most of the day driving…

A slightly intimidating wait for traffic at Big Slide, a notorious avalanche spot where the road is only one lane and looks like it could fall down the mountain at any time…

We drove through the towns of Lytton, Cache Creek, Spencers Bridge, The Shackan Indian Reserve, Merritt, Princeton, the fruit town of Keremeos and many more small old gold mining towns.

A little stop in Princeton to stretch our legs and have some lunch.

We were blessed with stunning scenery of ranches and rivers, rugged mountains, wildflowers, fruit trees, vineyards and beautiful, beautiful lakes.

As we were getting further into the day and we were still having difficulty confirming a campsite, it was beginning to look like we might be crossing the border back into the USA sooner than expected.

We have found it very difficult to find available campsites throughout our time in Canda, it is a busy place with limited spots (possibly because it is so beautiful). Often travellers are booking 12 months in advance.

On our arrival into Osoyoos, a gorgeous border town set amongst the mountains, lakes, and vineyards, we stopped in at the visitor’s centre, hoping to get campsite advice from an insider.

Success, they suggested an overflow site and it was available.

Tonight we are camped on the side of the road at the Swiws Provincial Park, Haynes Point, directly on Osoyoos Lake, it is magic.

Fun playing in the lake, a BBQ cooked beside the lake, and a wonderful end to our BC Canada adventures.

I really would love to see a bear, close (Brown or Grizzly, either would be fine :-)).

Not the dangerous right in front of me encounter, just from the safety of our motorhome, a window, a fence…

I have promised the boys they can buy whatever they like (I figure it is impossible) if they spot one AND we get the photo.

The good thing is that it has stopped the whines of “what can we do?” from the back of the motorhome, they are too busy watching for bears and planning what they will buy.

When we arrived at the RV park here in Whistler they mentioned to us to be cautious, particularly when emptying the rubbish, as there have been a couple of bears spotted.

This could be our chance…

So far, no good, no bear sightings. Although Wes has though he may have seen one many times…

Ready to go and ready to start exploring the alpine village of Whistler.

On our arrival in Whistler, we parked the motorhome in lot 4 and walked through the Lower Village and around the Ironman Canada Expo (Ironman is on Sunday). I had butterflies thinking about how the athletes would be feeling and it was a relief to know that this time it would not be me.

Up to the main Whistler Village where we had a lovely wander, watched the downhill mountain bikers suit up and then line for our Gondola Tickets.

We have been told that Whistler is busier in the summer with the downhill mountain biking and park than during the winter.

Up the Whistler Village Gondola on Whistler Mountian, where the views were amazing.

A small walk slightly down the mountain to the Peak Express and then on the chairlift to Whistler Peak, this time without skies.

My legs were shaking with nerves, but the views were breathtaking. Lots of photos on top of the peak and I even walked the sky-high suspension bridge. That was a walk in the park after the chairlift up.

It’s funny how snow can hide height…

Back down the Peak Express chairlift. The boys thought the lift was awesome, I just tried not to look down.

Onto the Peak 2 Peak Gondola (the longest and highest lift in the world) and across to Blackcomb Mountain, once again the views were stunning.

As we were meeting Harry for lunch we decided to remain on the Gondola and return to Whistler Mountain. They are working on the Gondola from Blackcomb Mountain; the only way up and down now is via Whistler Mountain.

Down the mountain and over to Earls Restaurant to meet Harry (a lovely young Geraldton boy who helped with the extensions on our home in Geraldton, plus helped build the new island camp).

It was wonderful to see him, and he is really enjoying his time in Whistler (how could you not). I don’t think we will see him back in Geraldton soon. What a fantastic time in his life.

Whistler is just gorgeous and has a wonderful vibrant village feel.

Time to say goodbye and hit Highway 99. The RV park in Whistler was full so we have decided to make the 100km or so journey to Lillooet, with another spectacular drive through the mountains.

The drive took us through First Nation Land, the beautiful winding roads with pretty wildflowers, gorgeous lakes, rivers and rugged mountains.

Finally, we arrived in Lillooet. We were told by our lunchtime waiter that we were “staying in the desert”. It is not quite the desert as we know but it is hot, dry and rugged and compared to Whistler, it is the desert.

Internet accessed next to the office only (Lillooet Cayoosh Creek Campground), no TV, luckily water and power. Close to city living…

 

Certainly not the quietest RV Park we have stayed at with two railways and a freeway running alongside…

A quick Aussie Observation: Canada is the first time since leaving Australia we have seen motorbike riders that are what we would refer to as ‘bikies’. Sometimes scary and rough outlaw motorcycle club members, wearing the colours of clubs such as the Coffin Cheaters and Hells Angels.

In the USA if you hear a bike roaring up beside you, even in numbers, it is a wealthy middle age to older age law-abiding member of the community, dressed in leather…

An easy start to the morning, ready to take the scenic drive to Whistler.

The campsite here in Vancouver has an RV vehicle wash (most parks will not allow you to wash your motorhome). Pete has been on the lookout for an RV wash since, well as long as I can remember. We, therefore, took the opportunity.

After a few false starts with the water not working, she was sparkling (or as good as it can be) clean.

On the road (Highway 1) and then onto Highway 99, the beautiful, scenic, Sea to Sky Highway.

The landscapes that we were surrounded by today were amazing and absolutely breathtaking.

We had a short stop at the beautiful Porteau Cove and a lovely walk through the forest to view the Shannon Falls.

Next, a stop for lunch at the small mountain town of Squamish.

As we were walking down the main street we could see Christmas decorations, Father Christmas, and the street appeared to be set up for ‘Christmas in July’, or so the sign read.

Gee, they celebrate Christmas in July in Canada even when they already have a white Christmas.

Oh no, they weren’t celebrating it, we had just walked onto a film set, filming a Christmas Movie. On researching, we think it may be called ‘Christmas Joy’.

We were completely unaware…

Maybe people dressed in full winter clothing may have given something away? Santa ringing a bell?

Anyway, they stopped the take to let us Aussie summer clothed tourists through and on they went filming the short scene. We crossed the road to watch, they had fake snow blowing and all.

Scene completed and they all began packing up and moving down to the park for the next shoot. The extras went for their free lunch and we followed the crew to the park, eating our lunch outside a small cafe and watching them set up for the new scene.

It was very interesting to watch all the behind the scenes action, I doubt we will make the final cut…

Enough movie action and time to do a quick food shop and visitors centre stop, before continuing on our way. We are staying in the Whistler wilderness tonight, although I do believe they have WIFI, happy campers.

Another gorgeous waterfall stop at Brandywine Falls and then onto our campsite for tonight, Whistler RV Park and Campground.

The park is set amongst the beautiful Fitzsimmons Range, it is just gorgeous. We will explore the Whistler township tomorrow.

Maybe the title of today’s blog should have been ‘Almost Famous’…

 

A nice casual start to the birthday boys morning with some average gifts (sorry Pete, we are together 24/7) and breakfast in the motorhome.

Time to get out and start exploring Vancouver.

A short walk to the Compass, Sky Rail (Trans Link) station and then on the train to Main Station.

A lovely walk along the Seawall to catch the small False Creek Ferry to Grandville Island.

The fresh food markets at Grandville Island were amazing. We purchased some samples (more sausage rolls, can you believe it, and fresh fruit smoothies) and then continued onto a child’s magic shop where Noah picked out a few magic presents for his upcoming birthday.

Back on board the ferry to Sunset Beach and then another lovely walk along the Seawall to Denman Street.

Lots of small quirky eating spots and Barbers / Hairdressers. Which resulted in haircuts for Pete and Wes (Noah is still traumatized and refuses until we get back to Australia) and an Aussie Bakery Cafe for Pete’s Birthday lunch. Pies, sauce, ginger beer and lamingtons… our Aussie food cravings now completely satisfied.

Back exploring and a walk towards Stanley Park. All of us sudden the street felt a little familiar. I looked up and around and discovered that this was where we had stayed last time we were here. I recognised the shape of the hotel window, the Japanese Restaurant, and the Safe Way across the street. The complete Vancouver sightseeing tour of my previous stay, from the apartment window.

Last night Pete had inquired as to where we had stayed on our last visit. I did not have the faintest recollection, although I did know it was supposed to be central. Now I really do believe in the power of the senses, spooky.

A small walk on one of the Stanley Park paths, Wes is still in no condition to be riding a bike.

The good news is the doctor is happy with how the bones are healing, phew.

By now we were all starting to get tired, hot and sticky. Have I mentioned the temperature is about 35 degrees here today? A heatwave by Vancouver standards and even we were feeling the hot temperature.

Noah was also not feeling very well with cramps in his stomach.

Time to starting thinking about returning to the RV Park. A warm, long, although, very scenic walk through Vancouver’s business district to the closest Sky Rail Station and then motorhome bound.

Pete is happy to have a quiet BBQ for dinner tonight, with a Nanaimo Lemon Slice Bar as his cake. I hope he has enjoyed his day…