06:30 Edmonton (AB)
19:30 Tetsa River Campground (100 km north of Fort Nelson, BC) 1150 km
I really wasn’t in top shape this morning. 06:00 is early for someone like me who is not a morning person at all, but I realize that you have to leave very early to cover long distances—even if it’s possible to ride late since the sun barely sets at this latitude.
The road was long and monotonous, especially in Alberta. Entering British Columbia brought a bit of variety to the landscape, and arriving in Fort Nelson coincided with the long-awaited appearance of the Rockies!
Weather: cold, obviously. Sporadic rain and 9 degrees!
I love the freedom that a motorcycle provides compared to a car, but I am wearing so many layers that the weight of my clothes hinders my movements. So much for freedom! At one point, I even had the hood of my shell on my head, UNDER my helmet! Quite a sight.
The towns I passed through are like mushrooms that sprouted from the region’s oil boom. It’s unfortunate to gaze at this beautiful nature while very clearly smelling the scent of the refineries.
18:00: My first wild bear! So cool! One tourist photo and hop, I leave him alone.
I’m ending the day in a regional campground. Site #1: quiet, isolated, clean, and for only $14! The only problem remains the intermittent rain and the cold. And when the rain stops, the mosquitoes launch their attack! Fortunately, my insect repellent (Watson) is, to my great surprise, very effective.
Between two showers, I set up the tent. When it rains too hard, I have no choice but to take refuge under the trees. I somehow manage to cook my pasta arrabbiata.
23:00, time for bed. It’s not easy because it is still so bright out!