Day 2 -- Drive to Campbell River

Summary:

• Drive from Port Renfrew to Campbell River
• Distance Travelled: 308 km
• Hours on the road:  too many (~ 5 hrs)
• Regrettable Decisions: (0)
• Wildlife Seen: (1)
• bald eagles, at several places throughout the drive

view from my cottage back deck

I managed to stay up to about 10:30 last night but still had an early wake up ... this time, thanks to the barking dog in the cottage next to mine and a bathroom fan that had a mind of its own (kept reving up like it was going to turn on only didn't ... every 10 seconds).  Oh well ... maybe tonight's the night that I'll get a good night's sleep.  The seaside cottages in Port Renfrew offer a great view but, I have to say, their coffee was disappointing.  But thanks to my friend's, Nicole's, advice I had my own grounds and french press to make up for it.  Much needed, given the unplanned early start.

heading through the trees

Botanical Beach

I started today with a beautiful hike near Port Renfrew, the Botanical Trail Loop.  While I didn't feel like I needed my bear spray for this hike, I did put an annoying bell on my back pack to let the black bears and cougars know that I was coming.  And FYI, the sign from BC Parks says to "fight back" if attacked ... none of that playing dead ... apparently.  Glad I didn't have to put that to the test.  The loop was a great way to start the day.  I can see why this beach is called "the jewel of Port Renfrew".

small sitka tree near Botany Beach

trout with eggs, yum

After a nice breakfast of trout and eggs, it was time to start the trek.  I only had 90 minutes on an active logging road (at least this one was paved) before joining an actual highway near Lake Cowichan, which was the perfect place to stop for some ice cream.  After winding my way over a small mountain, I came out on the Eastern side of the island and it was time to head North.  Driving North in the afternoon sun when it's 80 degrees out is NOT recommended.  My left arm and leg are baked through (not sunburned, at least.  Thank you sunscreen!).  At least I had pretty scenery ... the snow-capped mountains peeked at me through the tall trees that lined the highway.  I could not manage a good photo while driving.  My apologies.  I've stopped for the day and plan no more adventures for the evening.  Dinner and then off to bed.  Tomorrow is a new day with lots of driving all its own.

Botanical Beach panoramic

Campbell River is a cute town with lots of history and surrounded by mountains.  I explored a little bit but I'm feeling fairly tuckered out.