You’re supposed to be able to control the camera from the phone…it worked a selfie before leaving our cabinThe road begins to the Yukon and now perhaps the Northwest Territories
A little report from the front lines in the battle of high fuel prices and RV travel to the Yukon. It’s now day 10 we were a little side tracked which is what the trip is about…getting sidetracked and enjoying the journey. We visited Elk Island National Park on the way to Edmonton, hopefully we can stop on our return trip as we have yet to canoe that lake. Night one was spent at St. Albert Walmart, not an easy one to get to, that’s probably why we were the only ones in the lot that night (thank you Walmart). After this trip to the Yukon we will probably not be able to sleep without the lulling sound of semi’s and jacked up half tons with the original exhaust removed and noisemakers added for maximum effect. Our little cabin is way too quiet.
Elk Island National Park just east of Edmonton, Alberta.These boys rule Elk Island.
Day two we arrived in Hythe, Alberta stopping at Hythe campground. Oour apps informed us it would cost $20 without services. This was great as we did not need any services. We were informed that we had to take them and the cost would be $52.50. We naturally left this campground. It is right along the main highway to the Yukon and very noisy. Searching on iOverlander we found a campground at Spring Lake 26 km away on a forest service road. It is located beside a small lake, no power boats allowed, nestled in the forest away and quiet, a beautiful well kept campground. Sites featured no power or water but a picnic table and firepit, wood supplied in the cost of $27. We would go back and spend more time there for sure.
Home at Spring Lake recreation camp spot.Spring Lake, small but beautiful.No power boats allowed on Spring Lake fish are primarily trout.
Day three we arrived at a friend’s farm near there and joined a few friends for the next four days. A peaceful, enjoyable stay. While we were there we were told about an area to the south of us called Tumbler Ridge Global Geo Park. News reports coming from the Yukon at that time said travel not recommended due to the large number of forest fires close to the highways. Our son, a cook for camps, was flown from Kelowna to Pelly Crossing to cook for the fire crews. He beat us to the Yukon and had not even planned to be there. The washout of the main highway was detoured and traffic was moving again so we thought perhaps we would play in northern BC for awhile then head north.
Day 7, Sunday afternoon we travelled to Dawson Creek, BC Mile Zero of the Alaska highway and again where we spent the night at the local Walmart. That evening friends who we met at the farm Jess, Tanis and Josh joined us for a surprise visit bringing Ice Cream from Walmart of course.
Great scenery at Dawson Creek Walmart where you meet the nicest people from all over.Mile Zero with our friends Jess and Tanis our guides for the day.Typical tourist photo.The only original actual mile marker marking the starting point of the Alaska Hwy.The surveyor.
Day 8, the next evening we had reservations at Mile Zero campground in Dawson Creek, time to shower up, dump tanks and fill with water. Great campground. We camped in overflow or tenting area with a large number of groups travelling by motorcycle and some in overland vehicles. Would recommend this park without services picnic tables only but use of the showers and dump site included $27. We toured Dawson city visited the gallery and visitors center.
Jess, Charlotte and Tanis Dawson Creek museum, gallery and information center.
Day 9, mileage 1459 km left Dawson Creek on Highway 59 south to Tumbler Ridge 168 km away. Tumbler Ridge is set in the mountains and is a mini Banff or Jasper with many services and the usual tourist stuff. The park is billed as a Global Geo Park. Geoparks are specially designated places that are recognized for their international geological significance by UNESCO ( United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organizations). The 34 accessible geosites include mountain peaks, alpine meadows, glaciers, canyons, waterfalls, caves, karst formations dinosaur trackways and fossils. Also within the park boundaries are wind farms, mines and forestry operations. No matter what outdoor recreation you’re into from mountain climbing to snowmobile or ATV or less motorized travel the park has it all. We realized it would require many more days to properly explore this park and we were not set up for the hikes so it is on our bucket list as a must try and get back to, perhaps on our return.
Tumbler Ridge.Many wind farms located in the mountains around the Tumbler Ridge area.When we backtracked from Dawson Creek to do the Tumbler Ridge loop we came to Pouce Coupe community that featured this curved train trestle built completely of wood in 1930 for the Northern Alberta Railway. It is located just south of Pouce Coupe very neat.Pouce Coupe wooden trestle railway bridge.
Again there is a lot of history here we checked out many sites along highway 29 to Gwillim Lake Provincial Park situated as the name suggest on Gwillim Lake. The sites were as most of BC’s provincial parks clean spacious and offered no hook up services. As most of BC’s provincial parks and why we like them there are no reservations, its first come first served, $20 per night cash only as there is usually not internet service. The bears at Gwillim were an added feature if you don’t mind bears. Would also definitely recommend this park. We enjoyed a campfire in our campsite overlooking the lake and debated spending another day there to do some kayaking, however the winds were even stronger the next morning and the lake was rough.
Home at Gwillim Lake for the night.Many beautiful hiking trails takes you back to nature.They grow the trees big here lots of firewood, however in BC surrounded by trees you have to buy firewood ranging from ten to fifteen dollars Canadian cash only.
Day 10, 1665.9 km traveled left Gwillim Lake for Charlie Lake through 374 km of very beautiful and extremely hilly mountain roads in the Peace River country. Saw the Peace River Dam and the extensive 2.6 km berm they are constructing along with dozens of very high long bridges. Visited Hudson Hope museum, a very nice community in the valley. The old Ford did very well in the high steep climbs and deep descents very impressed with our 6.2 gas. One thing to remember when travelling this highway and these areas a lot of time it is cash only.
Peace River Dam near Hope BC.Bridge at Peace River Dam.There are many places one can camp for the night free in BC this was a lunch stop at one near the Peace River Dam.A trappers cabin we would now consider a tiny home at Hope BC.Love the history of our North it’s everywhere if you look.Typical trappers set up in the north with the food stored high in the air to protect it from wolves and bears and wild animals.Inside a typical pioneer log cabin a step up from the trappers cabins still small by todays standards.An old steam winch information below.New passive Dam construction in the Peace River valley.
Ten days of our travels is enough to burden one with so will leave it there with a few images. Subscribe to be notified of posts and we look forward to seeing you down the road in the studiowest.ca Northern Lite. Lots of truck campers in this country, we are not unique here.
Our dream of visiting the Yukon is close to day one in our travels. That means the update on Douglas Provincial Park in southern Saskatchewan, Canada will be put on hold. Despite high fuel costs we have decided to go anyway as we would probably spend as much trying to amuse ourselves seeing the same old thing staying here in Saskatchewan.
The trip has been in the works for three years now and due to one reason or another has not materialized so it’s go time on a budget that if we can do it anyone can. We really are looking forward to the challenge we have no set time, no place we have to be, with our Northern Lite truck camper we can just pick up and move home when we want. We can spend one month or three months as our little cabin back home is looked after by a very dear friend for however long we choose to stay.
You’re supposed to be able to control the camera from the phone…it worked
We are told by many the Yukon is fantastic and the trip will be well worth it, we appreciate the help of our fellow travellers who have shared some neat places to visit. Places off the grid and away from the tourist traps, places we may want to hang our hats and put out the mats for a little while. At this point our plans to visit Alaska are being put on hold. The Yukon has way too much to offer to rush our visit and cover too much territory in one visit. For us it’s not all about a destination (Dawson City) it’s about the journey and the beauty along the way. If I wanted to be run by the clock and calendar I would get a job…may have to along the way if fuel gets any higher.
I really am glad I traded the Dodge diesel off in favour of our gas engine now as diesel is more costly and may even get harder to find. With the high cost of fuel we will try and offset it by being creative where we stay, definitely not the 5 star campgrounds that have raised their rates due to covid and the popularity of RV travel. For those who have just joined the blog or do not know us we are totally self-contained in our 2017 four-season 9.6 Northern Lite truck camper. We have 100 watts solar on the roof and a 100 watt portable panel. We also installed a DC to DC charger, 2000 watt generator and two 6 volt 100 amp batteries. The truck is a Ford F350 4×4 SRW with stable blocks top and lower and factory sway bar. We have rear locking differential and 10,000 lb winch to get us out of most trouble spots (failing that we have a Spot X satellite phone for HELP). Also being only 22 feet this allows us a variety of areas to camp or spend the night.
That’s why we appreciate the experience of those who have made the trip with tips and places to stay and experience. There are a number of ways to contact us with information, the best probably being our email address, gerry@studiowest.ca or the blog comments section. We hope we can meet those who also are making the trip and love to hear from all you who we can share our trip photos and experiences with along the way. So if you want to see if we can do it on a buck ten and a prayer follow along, we will be glad to have you.
If you spot us along the way stop and say hi love to hear about your travelsOur home address for the summer
OK time to finish packing and in a truck camper one has to be the “master of compaction”. May you all enjoy your travels this summer and may the wind always be in your back. See you down the road….
Leaving Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and heading south we arrived at Danielson Provincial Park, it was early in the season just after the long weekend in May and we liked what we found. On the way down just north of the Danielson Provincial Park is the Gardner Dam, the world’s largest earth-filled dam creating Lake Diefenbaker on which the park is situated. We stopped at the Gardner Dam Visitor Centre for lunch, it features a beach and picnic area, no camping or overnight stays.
Gardner power station on Lake Diefenbaker.Gardner power station located at the north end of Lake Diefenbaker.The spillway that releases water down the South Saskatchewan river.At the spillway one can see just how low the water level is down, but at this writing they are rising.
Danielson has three camping loops, with, I would guess 300 sites plus and overflow area. Most sites are well treed and have power and water. The sewer dumps are new and very functional. The campsites can handle both small rigs and larger units in all loops. We found the sites well groomed and a very clean campgrounds. As it was early and we did not require power we opted to stay in the overflow area just off the lake. There are approximately 12 sites with fire pits and washroom with flush toilets. Potable water and a great view of the lake with sandy beach cost $20 per night. Regular spots run $33 with 15/30 amp power.
Overflow camping along the lake.Breakfast at the overflow site .A quiet peaceful evening all alone watching the evening sky change.The sky did change many times that evening.
The lake was very low when we were there but as I write this blog the lake is starting to rise due to the rains and mountain run off finally starting in BC. There is an excellent paved boat launch which gets you onto Lake Diefenbaker, a huge lake with good fishing and water sports as described in my former article on Elbow.
When we were there the dock and boat launch were a great distance from water.Lots of beach even at the deep end of the buoys.A lot of water required but on its way.
Danielson is home to two major hiking and biking trails one being the Trans Canada Trail and the other the Prairie View Nature Trail. The latter forms a loop which starts and returns to the park. We hiked a section of the Trans Canada Trail which follows the shoreline of Lake Diefenbaker.
Miles of shoreline to hike and explore.More of the shoreline at low water.Making the best of even low water did not dissuade this person or fishermen along the shore.
The Beach Side Pavilion is a small confectionary and burger/fries take out restaurant. The Pavilion is located right off the beach area that has lots of sandy shore line. Again we were there when the water was very low but can see it features a great swimming area and day picnic area as well. We hiked a long way along the expanded shoreline due to low water and could see the high dunes of sand pushed up when the lake is full and rough.
A large lake attracts large boats.Char looks so tiny.Complete with a spare on top.Out the backdoor.We love where our Northern Lite can take us.A common prairie visitor.Picture perfect!!Where we can drive it we can park it.
Danielson is open all year round with camping available from the May long weekend to Labour Day. Danielson is located at 51.25167* N.long -106.8692*W and is accessible by good paved highway suitable for all size rigs.
The well kept groomed trails.
We did a little side trip to the Coldwell Recreation Site which was not open yet so we hiked in and found a small secluded group of about 30 non power small sites. These sites are well treed and with turns that any RV over 20 feet should not attempt as posted outside the camp area. Non potable water is available and did not see a dump site. The sites are available on a first come first serve basis. We were told some long weekends the campsites are full. The area also features tables and firepits for day use picnics. It’s a neat little rustic campground located in the South Saskatchewan River Valley and not really all that close to water. The rustic, away from it all, kinda appeals to our style of camping for a few days…perhaps we will when it’s open some day.
Land of the living skies.
We found Danielson a great park to camp in and enjoy a big lake, we visited our southern parks in early and off season so have no idea what booking a site might entail during summer season, best check. In my humble opinion we need more sites that are first come and not reservable it’s hard to plan any length of stay when most sites are booked weekends only and you have no place to go…no Walmarts in the area. Or a least making sure booked sites are actually occupied and if not used a no charge cancellation policy if cancelled well in advance…just saying.
We have never stayed at the the other provincial park located on Lake Diefenbaker so we pushed on to Douglas Provincial Park, our impressions of that in my next posting. This trip, due to the fuel costs, we decided to take the back roads slow down and enjoy the trip the bonus was we saw lots of great country, I could look around while driving as we met very few vehicles and we got great gas mileage as compared to the major highways. Lesson learned: Enjoy the journey as the destination will arrive quickly enough. We all should have a destination in mind, but we are truly blessed when we can enjoy the beauty in getting there.
Right now we are back at the cabin saving our pennies so we can afford some fuel to hopefully get us to Dawson City in the Yukon starting beginning of July. While away our cabin will be well cared for by a dear friend. We will bring you along on that trip as well. Since fuel is so expensive we will be looking to doing a lot of boondocking and not staying at five star campgrounds regularly. This should be a learning experience. I told a friend we may have to eat road kill and pick pop bottles along the way he said as long as the road kill is fresh we should be OK. According to my trusty partner that will NOT happen I will be getting a job along the way… and she is emailing my resume to businesses along the Alaska highway.
Down the road to Douglas Provincial Park.
Thanks to those who subscribe it saves me from always having to post to Facebook and Instagram as it notifies you automatically when I do post. It also gives me more incentive to keep taking, editing and sharing our travels in this beautiful country. Not all campgrounds are created equal so will keep you posted on that as well.
Take care thanks to those who tuned in may the wind always be on you back…. watch for us studiowest.ca in our Northern Lite as we hope to meet you down the road….Charlotte and Gerry
Lake Diefenbaker 2022….just add water. It’s been a number of years since visiting the lake community of Elbow, Saskatchewan situated on Lake Diefenbaker. I really don’t know where to start, the lack of water in Lake Diefenbaker or the building boom in Elbow. OK positives first, for years, 10 to be exact, the rodeo committee in Elbow hired Charlotte and myself to photograph their rodeo events for them. At the time we were professionally doing rodeo photography and being at many different events always found Elbow our favourite rodeo. I know we were paid to say that….not really, Kevin Volmar and his crew were the best we have ever worked with and treated us good year after year, we also like the small community of Elbow. Fast forward several years and we found we were in for a surprise.
Mainstreet Elbow features the cabin of yesteryear a little contrast to the new developments.
I hardly recognized the community when driving in, new cabins/homes, new streets numbering in the dozens where there were none before and empty stores now with tourist/lake business in most spaces. RV parks expanded into streets and avenues in several locations. Pulling over on main street I talked to an elderly gentleman who lives in town, I asked him if they found gold in the area that created all the growth to which he answered “no Covid did”. Since 2019 I would say the town has doubled in size, and some say Covid hurt the economy….well not in Elbow. If one is going to work from home why not the lake, it appears this is the case.
For those not familiar with Elbow it’s situated halfway between Regina and Saskatoon on Highway 19. Elbow got its name from a bend in the south Saskatchewan River that reassembled an elbow. Elbow is now situated on Lake Diefenbaker and features a first class marina, golf course, miles of beaches and the sailing club. The lake is 225 km long with 800 km of shoreline so very attractive to larger boats and sailboats. I’m told fishing is excellent. Danielson Provincial Park and Douglas Provincial Park are also located on the lake. The lake was created when the river was dammed up for the Gardner River Power Plant. This trip Charlotte and I visited and stayed at both Provincial Parks which I will feature in the next blogs.
Monument at the Elbow Marina overlooking Lake Diefenbaker. Twin Monuments made from the sacred rock on Lake Diefenbaker at Elbow Marina.
As mentioned the Marina is home to probably the biggest number of sailboats for sure on the prairies. Charlotte and I were lucky enough to visit with the owners of the Elbow Harbour Marina, Trish and Jake. Although early in the season they said the lake was the lowest it has been in 20 years. People familiar with Lake Diefenbaker know the levels vary over the season and count on the spring runoff from the mountains to refresh the lake levels every year. Well this year its appears runoff is later than normal and the lake is lower than normal. Boats that normally are going in are still on shore. One gentleman who we met and lives on his cabin cruiser in the summer and some of the other boaters remain optimistic it’s only a matter of time and the lake will rise. The lake has been known to vary by approximately 20 feet so it has a lot of water needed.
Lakeshore Harbor Marina Elbow early May 22.Lake Diefenbaker – just add water.Early in the season and low water the many slips and docking system awaits completion. The Marina now stocks RV parts for us land yacht types.
By the way for you RV types the Marina is not just for marine types, it’s also set up for those who travel and live in our land yachts. They have a very good stock of RV parts as well so if in need of parts near Elbow check them out the prices are good as well.
Just dreaming I would probably be over my GVWR anyway.This fine craft is more in my budget.My land yacht parked next to its sea worthy cousins.Got to add this to my ever expanding bucket list. Looks like it might fly.Sailboats of every make and model await launch.Waiting patiently to be launched, summer home to many.Majestic, what else can be said.Come June this will look like the starting line of the Daytona 500.A quiet breakfast overlooking the Marina and Lake Diefenbaker .The colour on the dock poles gives you an indication just how low the water is.Just liked this image.For sure the beauty of this marina is unlike anything else in Saskatchewan.For sure the beauty of this marina is unlike anything else in Saskatchewan.Always well groomed and kept when it greens up for summer, very beautiful.Harbor patrol.This makes me wonder if the Northern Lite will float. They say they are built like a boat… so peaceful.Getting ready for launch takes a lot of prep work.No shortage of beach this early in the season.A new friend and his companion spend their summer living on this cruiser, at home on the water.Also at home at the marina these Purple Martins prefer condo life. The “Martins” condos .Signs signs everywhere mark the hiking trails.For the hiker no shortage of trails here starting at Tufts Bay.
Just a little on Lake Diefenbaker and the boom community of Elbow, worth a trip to check it out just north of Number 1 highway and south of the Yellow Head highway. Highway 19 is in great shape and a nice drive from Elbow to Saskatoon right by the door of the Whitecap Casino.
Until next post on our visit to two provincial parks, take time to enjoy the beauty around us, drive safe and with these fuel prices may the wind always be on your back. Thanks to those who have taken the plunge and subscribed it gives this old guy something to write about and share some images.
Front row seat in my Northern Lite camper it was an easy commute to work as the annual Bronc riding school began its 3rd day.
I’m taking a chance using the word cowboy up in the title, as there were several young cowgirls also ready to learn what it takes to stay on the back of a horse that has been trained to put you in the dirt. But Cowboy up will have to do cause I hate to use cow person, it just looses something.
I had the privilege to once again attending if memory serves me right the 12th annual rough stock school for saddle bronc and bareback riders held each year at the Bill Gommersal Arena in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada. The school was established to help young cowboys and cowgirls get started competing in the saddle bronc and bareback riding events at the many rodeos across the province. Who best to teach but those champions who competed and are now retired from the sport.
Retired professional rodeo clown Lee Bellows is kinda a fixture around these parts in the rodeo arenas. He along with a team of professional retired riders and the best pick up men in the country volunteer their time to spend training those who want to ride and compete in the rodeo arena. Francis Rodeo Stock and Bar H Ranch and Rodeo bring a select number of appropriate horses to the school. Knowing their horses they select the horses that are safe for beginners with enough get up and buck to make it a challenge.
Going down the road and what it takes told by some rodeo legends via video.
There was a time in my life Charlotte and I spent every weekend in our truck camper at a rodeo, photographing the contestants. We were lucky to be hired by the Elbow Rodeo committee for 10 years to supply them prints for their sponsors and they treated us well. I was telling the now retired champions that I had probably more photographs of them than their mothers, they never bought many. Dwayne Detchon in his trade mark pink shirt was one of them, he said on the road he was lucky to have enough money for gas and entry money and I was charging too much. Such is the life of a cowboy going down the road entry fees and fuel and these days that fuel bill will be high.
Cowboy knowledge shared by seasoned rodeo pro’s during ground school. L-R Don Gillespie, Lee Sinclair, Ross Smith and Dwayne Detchon.
I’m not going to duplicate a lot of information regarding the school if possible as it is pretty much the same as a previous post I did in 2017 (For the Love of Rodeo) if you want to look it up in the menu. This year’s team included organizers Lee Bellows, Don Gillespie, an honou,rable mention to Kelly Brice not there due to an injury and the team of Lee Sinclair (saddle bronc), Ross Smith (bareback) Wade Rempel, Luke Ellingston, Dwight Dokken, Dwayne Detchon, Shaun Myron, Steve Glen, Dick Hutchinson, Howard Campbell, Gary Giofu and I may have missed a few. I mention them because the recognition and admiration of the students is pretty much all they will get for their efforts. Volunteers who love the sport and are willing to cowboy up and teach others the sport. Lee said it best it takes the whole village to run this event.
When Wade Rempel, one of the best pick up men in the business, speaks one should listen up, he has saved many from injuries and wrecks over the years.
For those who are not aware Rodeo is one of the only sports the cowboy and cowgirl contestants pay the winners salary. You don’t place you just donated to the winners money. Some rodeo committees that host the rodeos will throw in some extra money or prize buckles to attract the best contestants, but primarily winnings are paid by the contestants. Learning to ride and win is important for entries fees and fuel money to get down the road to the next rodeo. No other sport I know of is like this can you imagine the effort of hockey players if they only got paid when they won and had to pay to play. I admire and have nothing but respect for those who put in the hours training and travelling to compete in an original western sport of rodeo. As fans in the stands we have no idea of what it takes to be a competitor, we just see the entertainment value and that’s good too, us who watch, help the committees put on the event and all win.
A few life lessons also shared from those who have been down the road on what it takes to be successful.
As many of my blog followers probably are not familiar with the sport of rodeo I for one hear all the negative media about the livestock. Well if that media would actually get to know what they are talking about they would find rodeo stock and contestants’ horses are so important to the success of their sport and industry they are well fed and cared for. These animals from bulls to barrel racing horses are trained to do what they are expected of them and cost a lot of money so are not neglected. No different than sled dogs or competition dogs. I watched Wade Rempel after a full day of rescuing students from the horses to keep them safe well after supper hour feed and water his horses first before joining the boys for supper and visit. I have seen this constantly as we usually camped with the competitors at these events, animals fed and watered first. When your income comes from driving truck you look after that truck….well these folks are no different.
Back to cowboy up and the school I will share some of my images, I have to admit I stood in pouring rain photographing many a rodeo performance when it was a business, I did not spend a lot of time in the rain Saturday as I am down to only one camera so images of action are limited. Teresa Bellows, one of the best rodeo photographers around will have many good images on Lee Bellows Facebook page you can check out some of the action there as well.
A good turn out at this year’s school with 27 young men and women.Not just for the guys several young ladies also showed they could get the job done on the back of the rough stock.Instructor Lee Sinclair takes to the practice bronc to demonstrate riding form.A lot to learn and practice makes perfect starting with the basics.A saddle bronc rigging.A bareback rigging.Basics, basics and more basics.Lee Bellows’ board room table and story swapping area.Ground school on how to leave your ride to the safety of the pick up riders after making a successful ride.Tuck and roll demonstrated by Lee Sinclair and Ross Smith.In the chute training and getting a good start out is a big part of your success. For some this will be their first time on and others it may be a refresher as they wait for the chutes to be loaded.Bareback student sticks tight on one of Francis Rodeo’s broncs.Even after a good ride one still has to get off a horse that is not ready to quit. Just the way he was taught in school a great safe dismount.Making it look easy on his way to an 8 second rideDay three and riders show the more practice the better the ride.Learning some of the basics pays off for this saddle bronc riderGetting some good air right out of the chuteSaturday it rained but did not stop the students getting on the practice horses. These well trained horses just love to get rid of those who attempt to ride them and many times are the winners.You can always spot the amateurs they have the biggest lenses. I’m just jealous these two get great shots.Now how did they say to hit and roll during ground school? This rider gets an early dismount.This young lady looks like she may be in trouble but managed to safely get down to try again. OK now the roll we were taught to clear the hooves.Looks good so far.OK I did not see this coming appears the photographer is a little rusty.Like the riders the photographer needs a little practice this is better than the previous one.This saddle bronc wins as he practices a dismoun.tJust feeling the rush can you imagine the power this bronc will put out to see you in the dust.Got perfect form on the horse not so much on the rider my limited knowledge of the sport I think his feet are not in the right spot for spurring. In the pouring rain I’m sure the saddle was a little slippery.How many more seconds do I have to be here?
I am old school in my photography coming from photographing rodeo on film where you cannot afford to let the motor drive run at 20 frames per second. I still find it a challenge to run on single frame and try to time the shot right, bonus less time editing now on the computer however fewer images to choose from. These are a few images of tomorrow’s rodeo champions getting a good start.
Can you believe it after two days of this these young students just kept getting back on. Despite, I’m sure, some pretty sore muscles this group paid their entry and were going to get there money worth. The contractor brought a lot of horses and they did not stop till they bucked them all. Great pre-season training not only for the human contestants but the horses as well. It was great to see old friends again doing what they love and when they are too brittle to compete but help the young carry on the tradition of riding broncs in the great sport of rodeo.
Just one of the many interesting places our truck camper takes us, in my next post I will share my trip to Moose Jaw stopping to check a RV for sale for my brother-in-law and staying and visiting two provincial parks on the way. Hint of the post I took the roads less travelled drove 90 km/hour or approximately 60 miles per hour and got great mileage compared to driving 100 and over…so just slow down and you will support our gas companies and government taxes less. I’m learning it’s not the destination, the beauty is in the journey to that destination and slow and steady gets you there, you can enjoy both.
Until next post subscribe if you want to be notified when new content is posted or just keep checking back, were on the road again and hope to meet you some where down the road. Thanks for your interest it gives me incentive to keep shooting and sharing…. as always I appreciate your comments…Gerry and Charlotte. Charlotte my editor in chief and partner would make a good government redactor.
Yes we can be living small and have it all. At least all we really need to be well fed and comfortable. Those of us who have spent a lot of time living in a RV will understand and agree. We are trying to tax climate change to save the planet, ban fuel burning vehicles in favor of electric. I have yet to figure how mining for the minerals required for batteries and the production of electric cars is more environmentally friendly. How do we dispose of a billion spent batteries and how do we produce enough power when we all drive power hungry vehicles and live in power intensive homes.
Our tiny home on wheels.Our tiny stationary home at the lake.Small and comfortable the cabin we call home more than enough space for the two of us and still too much stuff.
As we love to travel and stay in our small RV (a truck camper), we totally appreciate the beauty of our natural environment and its diversity and definitely want to protect it. What it really boils down to is are we more interested in saving the economy or the planet, if so we would not have to reinvent the auto industry. All we have to do is live small with less “stuff” and eliminate 50% of our landfills.
I recently needed a micro data chip for a camera, it is approximately 1/2 inch by 1/2 inch and came in a plastic cocoon with a 8 inch by 5 inch brightly printed cardboard wrapper. Of course it was shipped protected in plastic bubble wrap and a paper envelope. That was just one of probably a billion world wide sold that day so the resources used to produce the excess packaging 99% of the item ended in the landfill.
Our home on wheels takes us to some interesting places like Flin Flon, Manitoba.Next stop BC Canada. love the front yard view and met a good neighbour.A roof top view of Bakers Narrows in northern Manitoba.
I needed that item and it added value to my life, but I am also guilty of purchasing a lot of “stuff” to make myself feel better for working so hard for something that did not add any value to my life. We all need stuff however it comes at a cost when you figure the work hours required to obtain that stuff. Stuff that is either a status symbol or desire to fill our huge home and 4 car garage with toys and appliances. If you actually get the time to enjoy and use them to add value to your life that’s great. Most however will spend their day at work to pay for it.
This would make a great camper truck for off road, Hinton Alberta.Good morning, a little sleep in the eye.Checking us out.Sharing her front yard a reminder to camp responsibly.Checking out the tourists in the tin canoe.This one decides to leave as it was kinda shy, those pelicans are beautiful in flight.
Unfortunately we are not wired that way more and bigger is better at least the marketing people want us to think that. Our landfills are filled with products and packaging that created tons of carbon a lot more than the vehicles being blamed. Excess consumer consumption is killing the planet, we cannot even keep up production in a “Me To” drive to have it all. I’m not saying do without, we all need stuff, however if we really want to get on the save the planet bandwagon perhaps just more of what we really need and will add value to our lives. The new mantra should be “save a landfill” the planet will look after itself.
Time to enjoy adds value to our lives.Enjoying the sunrises and sunsets each day.One can smell the fresh air and enjoy the quiet beauty.Experiencing another new front yard in northern Manitoba.Pisew Falls Manitoba a reminder of the power of nature.
There are a few who really work at “saving the planet” by living small. Leonardo what’s his name is not one of them, either are our governments, how could you ask people to spend less on junk. No they love our taxes collected on the Chinese “stuff” and overpriced vehicles we purchase. Large homes the bigger the better as taxes are dependent on dollars spent and size of home. It’s a great way to keep people enslaved to producing taxable revenue, buy more pay more. Want more work more.
Nature is so fragile let’s keep it clear from litter to enjoy for all.Help keep out “stuff” out of the lakes and rivers.
My doctor once asked me are you living to eat or you eating to live. I think he was saying eat what is good for improving your life, not the junk that is going to shorten it even if it tastes better. There are more who are starting to live full time in a RV or tiny home, these days 1000 square feet is considered tiny. People have often looked down on these individuals who have chosen to live with less and just what adds value to their lives. Municipalities have discouraged tiny homes as they do not add to the tax revenues as a 3,000 square foot home would, for two or three people, why? I ask.
Living in a RV has given me a sense of freedom from the stuff that ties us down in life. We are not full time but spend months traveling and camping, as we downsized you guessed it to a small tiny cabin 800 square feet and love it. I have been able to retire without a huge bank account and spend less on taxes, heating, cooling, unnecessary furnishings and no payments. We have learned and are still learning to purchase stuff that is needed for our comforts and that add value to our lives and leave the rest. Now we can spend way more time on the road in a truck camper we really paid too much for, but it has added much value and freedom and we have the time to enjoy it.
Natures amazing beauty highlighting many varieties of mushrooms.Don’t forget to take the time to watch the sunset it’s free.
In our tiny homes and RV’s we learn not to waste water, power and propane, we are very careful to pack items that will be used and needed only due to space as well. It’s OK if people feel sorry for us living small, but for us the less in the backpack the lighter the load. I have said it before the bigger the fire the more wood needed to chop. So the next time someone tells you they live in their RV or tiny home by choice thank them for doing their part in “living small and saving the planet”. If we were really serious about saving the planet and not the economy more would walk the talk. I realize not everyone can or is willing to live in a RV or tiny home, but perhaps we could consider adding less to the landfills and conserve our natural resources.
Gardner Dam Saskatchewan.Our truck camper took us down the road to many rodeos as a rodeo photographer.
These are my options and have not been peer reviewed yet so take them for what they are worth. Catch my next book how to retire on a whim and a prayer. If you are new to the site check out previous posts they are probably more entertaining. Your subscription is appreciated and thanks to all those who have given me that thumbs up it keeps me thinking and a reason for taking them photographs.
The photographs chosen are for your viewing and illustrates the beauty we are free to enjoy as we travel. Nature is fragile let’s look after it for our future generations to enjoy. Looking forward to meeting up with some real cowboys for a reunion at their annual bucking bronc school in early May…stay tuned.
As usual your comments are welcome on this or any other post….gerry RVcowboy and my trusted partner Charlotte. Hope to see you down the road look for studiowest.ca on the camper and truck and say Hi. Remember live small and have it all..
Reflections on many years of poking the fire with a stick all is good.
As I sit quietly at home planning our BIG trip this spring I thought of the amazing years I have enjoyed camping. Fifty seven in total and many different RV’s so I guess one can say I have a little experience.
Over those years many things have changed the camping experience, just about everything has become super-sized, from camper trailers, boats, motors and all the rest of the toys. Big power is required for RV’s and cell coverage is a must and generators disrupt the quiet of nature. Another change I have witnessed is the lack of respect for our environment, grassy areas being chewed up in campgrounds, backing and parking on new tree growth, damaging existing trees, leaving washrooms filthy and trash left behind in firepits, the lakes and the bush.
This is not necessary to enjoy nature, this tree will die.Campground trash left by two young people quite capable of carrying it 50 steps to the trash bin. This has to stop.
These are the disturbing changes caused by only a few but unfortunately becoming more common. The positive side of this is that many are good stewards of our land and are enjoying nature to the fullest with their family and friends and still poking that campfire with a stick. At 72 I’m praying I get many more years of experiencing this great country and its beauty, heck now retired we’re just getting started.
My first experience camping was in an army tent with only a tarp for the floor, a bag of oranges, one package of hot dogs and a package of hot dog buns. Amazingly I did not quit camping after that as it poured rain all night and I woke in the middle of a huge puddle. As I was inexperienced at camping in bear country I left my food out on the picnic table and awoke to having only one orange left with claw marks in it. That bear had ate dogs, buns and the plastic bags they were in. It’s a good thing I was sleeping during the visit or I probably would have added to the puddle in my tent. I gave up tents eventually when the mere sight of my tent up drew rain clouds overhead. There was a drought in the province at that time as well, I was thinking a good side hustle would be to charge farmers to camp on there land. Almost guaranteed rain.
Lunch break at Mackay Lake and some chill time to reflect on the beauty around us.
The best memories Charlotte and I have had is camping with our four children in a soft top tent trailer. A trip from Calgary, Alberta to Prince Albert National Park in Saskatchewan with an old Volvo pulling that tent trailer and six bikes piled on top. We now wonder what the poor campers around us thought when they seen us pull up and let four children who have been travelling for seven hours loose in the campground. And even more to their dismay when they found out we were there for two weeks. Yep that old tent trailer served us well and created some of our best memories until someone needed it more than we did and took it.
Some of the best people we have ever met was on the road in a campground somewhere, just plain good folks.
Well after that old tent trailer went away we borrowed my parents’ heavy old Scamper trailer or something like that. Single axle and their tow car, a big old Mercury Parkland with a huge V8. Well with the children loaded we left Saskatoon for our favorite spot Prince Albert National Park stopping every 40 miles to fill up that beast. I think it had a funnel for a carburetor. At today’s prices we would have only gotten 40 miles.
The story gets better, you just cannot make this stuff up. Before we got to Prince Albert we started getting headaches and could smell gas in the car so we opened all the windows wide and got to Prince Albert with wind blowing everywhere inside the car and quite chilly. The exhaust pipe had left us and was about two feet short of the back bumper of the car and we just about did ourselves in with carbon monoxide. In a hurry with four children to get to the lake we had the shop just put on a straight pipe out the back of the old Merc and it was clear sailing from there on, a little noisy and fish tailing down the highway, but fresh air in the cab. We never towed that trailer again.
This fellow reminded us we were just visitors and to keep it down.
Some of the best people we have met and have become friends with we have met on the road. It’s a lifestyle we just cannot shake, we gotta see what’s just down the road. Over the years we have done just that in a pull behind 16 foot Big Foot, many different truck campers from eight foot to 12 foot and a 35 foot fifth wheel. Some were better than others but we enjoyed them all. After the pull behind campers, truck campers appeared to suit our style and we had a number of different ones, until a jack failed and we just about laid that camper on its side and would have if I had not put a block under it. As far as Charlotte was concerned that was it for hydraulic jacks and truck campers.
We figured bigger must be better as we took to the road for a year publishing our magazine Pure Country. We could incorporate an office into our 35 foot fifth wheel and it would be home as well. The first time out we arrived at a campground and not being familiar with it failed to notice a sign that said tents only. I got a lot of stares and was real proud of my big rig until we realized the spots were small and we were big. Figured later the reason for those stares. Well that old diesel pulled that 35 feet right down to a treed in dead end, you should have seen the face on that poor girl in a tent when we pulled down the road where she was camped at the end of.
I really thought I would have to get that trailer airlifted out of there, but after 3/4 of an hour and a 96 point turn we got it back on the road out. I was impressed with the turning of the fifth wheel but have never missed a sign again. We had traded a Kodiak truck camper for that monster, the Kodiak which is not made any more was one of the best truck campers we have had. If you find one check them out, very well made and all fiberglass similar to Big Foot and our Northern Lite. We would probably still have that camper today however I made the mistake lots of people make with truck campers….too much camper not enough truck and it was always swaying and just too hard to drive comfortably.
Winter or summer and all year long it’s all good in our Northern Lite.
We can argue trucks, camper types till all the cows leave home, but over the years we have found simple is just plain better. We are back to our truck camper. Some say they are small and for those who want to square dance in the kitchen they are. For us it works. Our truck camper has everything in it our cabin back home has including a hot shower (our cabin back home is small as well). We travel to enjoy the outdoors, yes we do like our comfortable bed and our own washroom as well, but we live outdoors most of the time.
Our home is where we park it and with the TC that is just about anywhere country or city.
Yes there was a time when we needed half a day to set up camp, screen tents, BBQ’s, outdoor kitchens, rugs, loungers and sit around the fire chairs. We now see big units that have to be unhitched, leveled two different ways, generators hooked up, power cords strung 75 feet of lights strung out around multiple out buildings. I know I am old but it tires me out just watching and this was only for a weekend.
One day Char and I sat and watched a young lady and her dog set up next to us in a small camper van. She backed in, shut off the van pulled out her awning, small outdoor rug and her chair. Camp was set up about ten minutes and proceeded to enjoy the view and her book. Later she pulled out a inflatable kayak and went for a paddle and appeared to be enjoying her surroundings. When it was time to leave she dusted off her rug folded the chair deflated the kayak packed it in the camper and left, timed her ten minutes again.
We looked at each other after watching this and said WOW we thought we were simple. Since then we have downsized even more and are enjoying that extra time in our surroundings, canoeing, hiking and just sitting poking that fire with a stick.
Just sitting enjoying poking the fire with a stick.
My advice is when it comes to camping don’t overthink it, it’s not all the rig and gear you get to display, it’s really about the experience, memories and the places visited. Some of the best times we ever had was in that old three hundred dollar soft top ten trailer and just an open fire to cook on with a tarp in case it rained. The best part is… it was all paid for the camper, car and bikes not new or fancy but we had as much fun as anyone and no stress. It took us 55 years to get our first new camper and newer truck and yes it’s paid for, our gift to each other as we love to travel. But starting out we had a blast with the little or whatever we had so do with what you have and enjoy. Trust me sometimes the lack of stuff makes for some great memories.
This is not my usual post but as one can tell I’m searching for something to share as are may YouTuber’s when they are not on the road. I’m a blogger as I hate spending hours editing video so for those of you who do not mind reading I enjoy sharing some thoughts and photographs.
We are not on the road this winter as we are planning, planning being the operative word, a very extensive year of travel. Our camper is unloaded and the truck getting all it needs before we head out. As well with gas prices not dropping we have to save on the old budget where we can so our winter camping got nixed. So if all the stars align and if it’s meant to be we will be taking a few short shake down trips north this spring in preparation for the “Big One”. As most nomads know there has to be a plan B and C and that will work as well if it has to be.
Yep I really am that old….Gerry.
I hope you have enjoyed our Blog as it is great to be able to share images and thoughts with those interested. We are not going to bombard our subscribers with hot deals on “stuff” so that will NOT happen. When you subscribe it shows your interest and we appreciate that, what I would like to see is those numbers increase, I have a few quality RV dealers and suppliers I would like to share links to at the bottom of my blog. If this helps you connect with reputable people in the industry and products then it will be beneficial to us all and non invasive. Your choice to click or not click. So your free subscription helps my numbers and your email will only be used to notify when we do a new post, it will save you checking when nothing new is being uploaded. That’s it upfront….take care and we hope to see you down the road.
PS: I have learned a lot from the youtube and blog nomad community and would like to share the links of those who have helped us as well. Also some of the apps for travel and campgrounds, dump stations etc. Please feel free to comment or ask questions here on this or anything….Gerry
Keeping it simple and multi purpose boondocking table.
Boondocking usually comes with its own challenges, you pay nothing to stay you get no services in return, simple and fair. We have spent time boondocking in both winter and summer; in the summer the area we were in had nothing and in the winter the area had picnic tables under three feet of snow. Sometimes the tables are rather debatable if you want to go near them let alone cook on them.
Kitchen works great in the winter when picnic tables are buried in the snow or boondocking.Great cooking surface for a quick stop or when no table is available.
If you have been following our blog you know I like to think of myself as a photographer. Well I have a camera which is always with me, a monopod and also a tripod, so I guess I might look like a photographer. Having said that, these images are really bad as I took them in a hurry just to get the job done and I do not retouch photographs after I take them.
One of the downsides to a truck camper is the lack of storage so everything we take should either be used a lot or have multiple purposes and take as little room as possible. We tend to be like most people and need a lot of “stuff” in our lives so always pack more than we need. We cook outside of our camper as much as possible either over an open fire or with our portable stove. Packing a fold up table took extra room and weight, I needed a flat table top and came up with an idea to hook it to the camper back step and utilize my tripod or monopod (which is always with us) to add the support needed. Using the camera quick connect/disconnect attachments made the job easy and storage easy.
Monopod or tripod quick release system.Quick release available at most photography stores.More than one use of the monopod.
The connection to the camper back step can be done several ways. I had some gate latch clips lying around, these I attached to the truck and used two corner brackets fastened under the table to fit into the brackets. this made the setup very stable. When you live in the country you use what you have or it’s a drive to the city.
Hook on the back step.Hooks to the back step of the Northern Lite landing.Hook brackets on table one on each side.Very secure table top even more secure when using my tripod.
This is a very quick set up for boondocking either in a pull off parking lot or way off the grid in the bush and packs away easy.
Tray storage in the Northern Lite.
Although the set up off the back step is partially under the rear awning, it was necessary occasionally to move under our side awning in the rain or to get out of the wind or sun. I added the second quick release plate to the other bottom of my table top so I could use the monopod and tripod as legs to make it self standing and stable.
With the monopod and tripod the top can be free standing and adjusted to any height.Quick release for storage and the tripod and monopod can be used for what they were designed for…photography.
The nice thing about this is it can be adjusted easily for height depending on what you are using it for, cooking or eating at or just to put “stuff” on. Boondocking sites do not come with coffee tables or side tables and sometimes its nice to have something we can set a coffee on. Using my tripod and another quick release plate (yes I have lots of them as we used to have a studio) I made a small side table that works great and stores flat out of the way. Checkers anyone?
My side table/game table works well utilizing my under utilized tripod.A great, very sturdy, coffee table.
Being a professional photographer I know the weekend hobby photographer has way more photo equipment than I do, most people may have at least one of these stored in the RV so why not make it multi purpose. The top was shelving from Home Depot with a little wood burning.
I have had comments on my suitcase kitchen so I will share what I have done to make life simpler. I’m told that most inventors were very lazy people now I do not think I am the first to come up with this idea, but as one gets older one becomes smarter (or lazy as you please) and steps do matter.
Basic cooking supplies, stove and tools.Has saved many trips up and down the steps into the Northern Lite camper.
As mentioned before we like to cook outside a lot and as anyone who lives in a truck camper or just camping, those back steps can get to you if you make a lot of trips up and down. I made this case to include the many things I found myself needing to acquire from the camper while cooking. It includes my Jetboil stove, canister of propane, tinfoil, oven gloves, tablecloth, paper towel, grill brush, cast iron pan, cooking oil and favorite spices. Also the utensils commonly used while cooking, knives etc. This set up can be put on a picnic table or just about anywhere and has saved me many steps in and out of the camper. Especially in winter with boots full of snow and cold air every time one opened the door.
Making less steps into the camper.Compact camp kitchen.Ready to store behind the passenger seat.
It’s easy to pack away and tucked away behind the passenger seat in the truck cab and as we spend a lot of time in bear country this eliminates the invitation for them to join us by sitting out broadcasting food smells. In other areas it’s out of sight from two legged bears.
Hope my poor images explain this better than I did and perhaps inspires some thought on how you can make storage space and life in the outdoor kitchen a little easier and enjoyable. My idea was taken from the old cowboy chuckwagon cooks.
As always glad to have you to share ideas and travels with, I have left my personal face book page as well as Instagram as they were getting too political and opinionated…so you will not find political comments on this blog. We’re going to concentrate on the beauty of nature, the RV lifestyle, truck camping and just enjoying making life simpler and more enjoyable. Politics….well them political types will just have to figure it out on their own.
Since then I started another Facebook account that allows me to follow truck camping and RV groups only as I learn a lot from these groups. All my posts will now be on this blog and not Facebook so when I post those subscribers who are interested will be notified by email of the post and I will not bother those not interested with unwanted posts.
Thanks for all the new subscribers who joined on last week, it makes one want to keep telling stories and taking photographs. Some day we hope to meet you and hear your stories if you truck camp or RV, you must have a few. As always I appreciate your comments and questions.
I’m going to have to hit the road here pretty darn soon as I’m not sure what my next blog may be…. I’m not selling anything so don’t be afraid to subscribe it will only notify you when there is a new post, like, share whatever and we hope to “see you down the road”.
This time we took our camping trailer and 17 foot Grumman canoe.The still calm Baldy Lake in the Narrow Hills.
Baldy Lake, in the Narrow Hills Provincial Park, just had to be revisited once again. A very small campground with only six sites along the shoreline is a very popular campground for a reason. When we arrived we really assumed it was a first come self register site, not so as it turns out. With another truck camper and a Class C the only occupants, we chose a site and set up camp for the evening. Quiet and beautiful. The next morning sitting around the fire with our coffee we got to meet the neighbour’s dog (cannot remember its name) anyway that lead to a conversation with his master in the truck camper next to us. We were informed that the self registration we could not find did not exist at Baldy Lake and it was on line only.
This was great as we had no cell coverage so it would mean a approximately a 20 kms drive each way to register. They also informed us when they registered only one campsite was left at Baldy Lake and that was not the one we were in, it was at the far end. We were happy the ghosts of campsite number two did not mind us sharing their spot and stayed quiet and out of site. Actually the four days we were there we never did see them to thank them.
You cannot get much better campsites along the lake than these, this was campground number two.
Now although the Baldy Lake campground was occupied by only our neighbours and ourselves as the class C had left because the site was booked for the next day, we were alone but afraid everyone was going to show up and we would be out of a spot, so we headed as fast as we could 20 kms down the gravel road to the Provincial Park Office. Yep the neighbour was right we did share a spot last night the park attendant told us and only site six was left…we took it for 3 days as it was booked after that.
Site six for 3 days.
We were extremely happy as we had to share the campground for the next three days with only our truck camping neigbours and a nice older gentleman with his pull behind trailer. We saw no sign of a packed campground. I am sure others would have enjoyed it if the government site did not say they were all booked. Please people if you book and cannot make it please unbook so others can enjoy our government owned parks….such a waste of beauty.
The ghost is photographing our campsite good thing it’s registered .
We struggle with pulling a trailer with our canoe or just pack our Sea Eagle kayak. We really prefer the canoe and we can take extra “stuff” in the trailer. With the Sea Eagle behind the driver’s seat and my travel box on the back hitch we can travel much more freely and better fuel economy. Do we need the extra “stuff”, not really we got it so we pack it. It’s all about the canoe. Over the years we have definitely decided less and the more simplistic the better. So when we head out for our year travel it will be without the trailer.
Its great to be able to leave the canoe on the shore in your campsite.Life is better in a canoe.
Our cabin is on a small lake so we voted the canoe remains there when travelling any distance. I showed Charlotte the roads and lakes I had visited during my first visit (well almost some I did not want to attempt with the trailer). The trailer followed with no problem, but it’s just another thing to look after, more tires on the ground and fuel is not cheap.
I think the Gem Lakes require we bring our canoe for one trip early in the spring they are beautiful. These lakes are probably our favorite in the Narrow Hills, but there is no RV camping, backpacking tent sites only which is perfect in the beautiful quiet setting of the lakes…no generators. Made for tents but something my partner says she is past that.
The beauty and colour of the Gem Lakes.Another view of Jade Lake.The Gem Lakes hike is very worthwhile anytime of the year.All variety of mushrooms.
We did some hiking at Baldy Lake but really enjoyed our time in the canoe and watching the sunrise and sunsets all from our campsite around the fire and visiting with some great neighbours and “dog”. I will share some images of our memories and time there, hope you enjoy.
The beauty of northern Saskatchewan even if the road is a little washboard.Northern sunset while camping at Baldy Lake in the Narrow Hills.The beauty of the setting sun produces the most vivid colours.Our neighbours and fellow truck campers spending a quiet evening fishing.Picture perfect no complaints here except the fish were not biting.That canoe is getting too close, got to leave.This Eagle felt we were too close for his comfort.A Grey Jay came to visit and play hide and seek.The close of a perfect day at Baldy Lake.Just chilling around the fire.Until morning.It’s getting dark and still no fish, our truck camper neighbours.One day I will get that shot that makes Truck Camper magazine.The sky is on fire.A light through the trees as the sun goes down.Breakfast time surrounded by the beauty and quiet of nature.I really love my Jetboil stove great simmer and good high heat.My suitcase camp kitchen really saves a lot of steps in and out of the truck camper and rides behind the passenger seat in our truck when not in use.Map of the Narrow Hills Provincial Park in Northern Saskatchewan.Last parting views of Baldy Lake.We are so blessed to be able to enjoy the natural beauty around us. Let’s preserve that and not destroy it for others. Leave your campsite clean and fire pits are not garbage bins.
That’s it for now. As many of you who follow me on Facebook and Instagram I am no longer there. To distance myself from many political opinions on social media and to refrain from giving mine to those who have not asked for it, it’s best I stay off. I love sharing images and telling stories on my blog and I can spend much more time on it. As always I will be happy to give my opinion if asked and if I ask would love to hear yours. When I run across an image I want to share and some thoughts it will appear here to those who subscribe. We are planning on hitting the road for a year as we have found someone to keep tabs on our cabin while we are away. So far plan A is northern Manitoba in the spring and early summer then heading to Northwest Territories, Yukon and Alaska if time allows. As the weather turns Arizona and beyond is calling….that’s plan A.
If you can handle more of this please subscribe you will be notified when new posts are up and your emails will not be shared and let those you know who may be interested where to find us….
We really hope to meet you down the road. Who knows where we are going to show up watch for the camper and western hat….take care stay safe and may the wind always be in your back…..Gerry and Charlotte
Discovering the Narrow Hills in a solo trip that would test the Northern Lite and my trusty Ford F350. It was late July and Charlotte took a road trip to the mountains with our daughter so I was left to fend on my own. Not a problem I have a home on wheels so no sitting and sulking around the cabin. This was my chance to do some off roading, a solo trip where Char was not there to keep me out of the ruts and in check.
A quick stop in a gravel pit to make some lunch at a very quiet spot.
RVing in Saskatchewan in July if you do not have a reservation in a campground you are probably out of luck. As it happens that suited me just fine as they were too crowded and noisy. So time to check out the north down some untravelled roads. I took Highway 55 east from Prince Albert towards Nipawin turning off heading north on 106 commonly referred to as the Hanson Lake Highway. This highway is the only route to Flin Flon, Manitoba and many northern fishing lakes in Saskatchewan along the way. At one time it was just a dirt trail and a challenge. Our version of the Dempster highway. It now is paved and very easy to travel in most areas.
Travelling through the Narrow Hills Provincial Park, the main campgrounds at Lower Fishing Lake were of course booked solid. I travelled through the Park heading north and turned on a gravel highway 165 that headed west to La Ronge. After just about shaking the truck and camper to pieces on the washboard road I pulled over and let about 30 lbs of air out of my tires. This worked great to take the shake, rattle and roll out of the camper as I could not travel fast to begin with. Why rush I had no place to go and a week to get there.
The further you go the more remote and no cell coverage a BIG bonus for those of us who seek peace and quiet.
My proposed destination was to find Piprell Lake recreation site somewhere back in the hills and down this road. I travelled until the day was getting on close to 7:30 pm. Finally I saw another gravel road on my left and figured I would take it as it should lead me in the direction I had to go to get back to the main road I had passed. I really at this point had no idea where I was but no problem I was at home wherever I chose to stop.
Someone was on my side as the road ended at Piprell Lake at least that what the sign said. Some will hate me for this but I was not impressed as I drove through the campsites. When you get that feeling it’s best to sometimes just leave. I cannot say what made me feel that way except perhaps the condition of the grounds and people looking at me like I had just landed.
I was tired from a long day of driving slowly over rough roads and hungry. I just wanted a place to crash and have supper. Leaving there I headed down a trail hoping to find a spot in the bush to pull over and spend the night. The road was just about unpassable but I was determined to go on. I met a fellow coming on a quad and asked him where it led to and he said pretty much nowhere and very few spots I could even turn around, suggesting I back out. He had just come the way I was going so I believed him. He informed me a ways down the road they had just plowed in to Lost Echo Lake and there was a campground that might have a spot but could not be sure.
The last camp spot at Lost Echo Lake. The road here is an un-serviced forest road not recommended for larger RVs.
Taking his directions I headed east at this point. I decided I was done driving and took the first right trail heading into the bush. I would find a spot for the night on this forest road somewhere. After about 10 kms of rough trail I was getting less selective on where I would stay when a young couple in a car pulled up, I stopped to ask them what was up the road. I was informed they had just left a camp spot at Lost Echo Lake and if I continued it was the only spot left of the six sites. There were no signs but just take the next left for approximately 10km.
The road to lost Echo Lake as always the best road is at the beginning.Lost Echo Lake is at the end of a forest service road and is very rough and approximately 20 km from the main road.A view of Lost Echo Lak.e
OK just keep going and it was worth the drive on a road that said travel at your own discretion, not maintained. The spot was there, the last one of six sites, I made supper and crashed for the night. Lost Echo is a smaller lake and the campsite were rough but have potential. With not even a hint of a cell signal I used my Spot X satellite phone to let Char know all was OK. Pushing the wrong button I also let 12 other people in our contact list know that as well. Should read the manual more often.
Campground trash left by two young people quite capable of carrying it 50 steps to the trash bin. This has to stop,
The weather started to change with storm clouds and a bit of rain so I decided to get out while the getting was good. In hindsight I should have stayed but pushed on to explore the area. The Narrow Hills are full of smaller lakes, a few with campgrounds and some just day picnic areas. The country is beautiful but in July as expected the few campgrounds there are were booked, mind you many were empty but booked. I know, as I boondocked in a booked site before leaving the park thanks to those who picked up the tab.
Camp site at Baldy Lake in the Narrow Hills Provincial Park.Baldy Lake campsite right on the lake.The way to Stickley Lake, careful not for large RVs .
I put that old Ford and the Northern Lite down some roads Charlotte would not have approved of but now I know how far I can go without using the winch. Just a few scratches on the camper windows. Checking out many lakes and forest roads I knew I would be back when it was off season. This is starting to get close to being a novel so I will post some photographs of my trip in the Narrow hills and try to finish this post off.
Made it to Baldy Lake in the Narrow Hills Provincial Park in northern Saskatchewan.Baldy Lake is actually a lot larger than it looks from the campsite. A photographers dream, I will be back.Another view from the campsite of Baldy Lake. A site we would occupy later when I returned with Charlotte.The view from the campsite at Baldy Lake, I have to return with Charlotte to stay here in the near future.Fishing or picnics only no camping.A rest stop at Summit Lake in the Narrow Hills, only one there very quiet and peaceful.Help from our friends, a popular fishing spot I would think as there is no camping here.Sharing the wild and the peace and quiet we both enjoyed Summit Lake.Not sure how Big Summit Lake is as this was all I could see from the dock.Summit Lake’s welcoming committee. Finally made it to the Gem Lakes.A trail along the beautiful Gem Lakes in the Narrow Hills, yes I would return, Charlotte has to see this.A campsite off the Gem Lakes, tenting only on these lakes. Now if I could only get Char to stay in a tent.Jade Lake is one of the Gem lakes set in the Narrow Hills, hike in only and no power boats a bonus.Gem Lake campsite tenting only but complete with fire wood.The wild roses seen everywhere are beautiful in the natural surroundings of the Gem Lakes.Peaceful and quie,t probably only during the off season times as these lakes are beautiful and waiting to be photographed and hiked.Another native flower, not sure what these are called but wild and beautiful.Simple beauty in the natural forest. I do not know my flowers well so remains a no name.Gem Lakes clear and peaceful, love the reflection.Follow the trail to discover the beauty of the Gem Lakes in the Narrow Hills.The trail to Jade Lake, the first of the Gem Lakes.Wild flowers thrive at the Gem Lakes, this one caught my eye.Another natural beauty painted by pixels in my Olympus camera.I just could not resist stopping along the roadway to check out these beauties.
With the parks booked I decided to slowly travel back towards home, maybe there was a campsite available at the Narrows north of Prince Albert in the Prince Albert National Park. No reservations required first come first served, my kinda campground. If not I know a spot I can boondock for the night. I took highway 120 from the Narrow Hills to Candle Lake, a gravel well-maintained road but in July very washboard. Air down tires really works great at keeping your rig in one piece. I stopped in Candle Lake Provincial Park to air up and on to PANP. A few photos along the way.
Lunch at McDougal Creek, now you are in bear country. a pretty rest stop off Highway 106.Along the road in the Narrow Hills.White Gull Creek just off Highway 120 north of Candle Lake.White Gull Creek from the highway in Northern Saskatchewan.White Gull Creek after a short hike from the highway.White Gull Creek after a short hike from the highway, beautiful clear water and a quiet forest.
Well this novel should be winding down, yes I made it to the Narrows and it was packed except for one small campsite that most could not fit their condos on wheels into. It was home for three days, but the noise, the generators, the huge boats and people everywhere, this is not camping this is Walmart on steroids. The people across from me must have slept all day as they finally went quiet at 6 am. two days in a row. Another evening I was sitting around the fire and was startled by yelling and screaming and banging of pots and pans. Some inexperienced camper left food on the table outside his camper and a bear thought he was invited for a free lunch. I found out later he had actually filleted fish on his picnic table. When in bear country and you leave food out just be prepared for them to accept your invitation for lunch as many live in this park. Don’t get me wrong I have been to this campground for over 40 years and never have experienced this, it is normally a very quiet respectful and peaceful campground. But then I stay away on long weekend’s and July and August, now I know for sure not to be there. I phoned my son in Calgary and said I would be there for supper the next day. And so it was Calgary…my home parked on the driveway in peace and quiet…. that’s why I like my truck camper it fits anywhere and it’s home.
Home at my son’s residence in Calgary.
Charlotte and I returned to the Narrow Hills and Baldy Lake later in the season, that and a camp kitchen idea coming in future blogs. We may get a chance to test our DC to DC charger for some winter camping which I will share. Thanks for getting through this one. If you got to this point I can probably count on you to sign up and subscribe, it’s the only way I know I got you hooked. I am working on not posting notices on Facebook and Instagram to concentrate on my blog, so if you know someone who might like long winded novels and a bit of RV travel please share. It really helps motivate me to learn this blogging thing. Questions and comments are always welcome.
Take care, be safe and may the wind always be behind you…see you down the road.
