Comprised of mountain ranges, there is no straight route in British Columbia when going from one destination to another. Which is a good thing, gives you a reason to explore more of this beautiful country. Our road trip from Anacortes to Revelstoke, B.C. took us on a changing landscape trail of canyons, high mountains soaring toward the sky, valleys sunken in between towering peaks, wine country, desert mountains, each landscape unique and impressive.  On this particular trip we did three of the Top 5 Scenic Drives in B.C, but I would add that all the drives in B.C are scenic.

 We crossed the border at Lynden/Aldergrove, entering the charming area of Langley. A quick jaunt up Hwy 13 and we caught the Trans-Canada Hwy 1 east. We opted for the scenic route listed on the Top 5 Scenic Drives, the Trans-Canada Highway 1: Hope to Cache Creek, through Fraser Canyon. It added to our drive time, but it was worth the view. We stopped for lunch in Boston Bar, the Old Towne Inne Bar and Grill, a step back in time and the food was good and hearty.

When you leave the canyon the drive takes you into a contrasting landscape of arid and desert-like countryside. A beautiful and unique scenic drive. We stopped in Kamloops for gas and a quick bite and a quick call to our hotel letting them know we were still on our way.

The trouble with traveling when you are a photographer is it means a lot of stops. Google map said this was a 7.5 hr drive – add meals, bathroom breaks, and more importantly photo opportunities, and the drive easily expands into an additional 3 hours plus. But, what the heck, we were on travel time and when surrounded by so much beauty who can resist. We finally hit our destination, Revelstoke, around 9:30 pm, just as the sun was setting.  We had been on the road for around 11 hours at this point and a hotel room sounded divine.

Our first day after arriving, we enjoyed breakfast and walked around town a bit before hitting the road again for the next scenic drive - Revelstoke to Golden via Trans-Canada Hwy 1 (east.) We only made it as far as Canyon Hot Springs. It was a beautiful climb along Mt Revelstoke National Park into the lovely canyon, but after a long day in the car the day before and ears popping from crossing too many mountains, the climb into Glacier National Park seemed daunting, so we turned around and headed back to town, saving this drive for another day.

After a few days in Revelstoke it was time to head for the border and home. We took another scenic drive, Route 97, Revelstoke to Kelowna. The scenery was spectacular. Farmlands, mountain hills, lakes, and small towns captured our attention. I could have spent days exploring this area, we'll save that for another trip.

Getting back to Washington State took many twists and turns and various highways to get home. There was no straight route, so why not explore some of the areas. The ever-changing landscape as we changed highways added to the journey, each unique and with different characters. What was supposed to be the shortest hwy route in the journey, Highway 97 C from Kelowna to Merritt, proved to be the most challenging.  Our poor little car sputtered up the long hill. The drastic change in elevation as we climbed in the pouring rain was an adventure into itself. Over 2,000 ft in elevation change with the highest peak at 5,669 ft, it was hard on the ears, the water bottle, and the little engine that could. High in the mountains, covered in clouds, it struck me that the Canadian Highway system seemed to build most of the highways high up on the mountain ranges.

From 97C we took Hwy 5A north to catch Hwy 5 South, where we would then again catch Trans-Canada Hwy 1 (west) towards home. Hwy 5 is another highway up towards the top of the mountain range. We saw signs often that said, "High Mountain Road. Expect Sudden Weather Changes." This drive was not listed on the Top 5 Scenic Drives, but it should be. Stunning views of valleys and mountains stretched for miles. By far, this was one of the most beautiful road trips. It almost needs to done in small sections, each with time dedicated to the area. There was too much to see and explore and not enough time to really experience the true beauty of this part of British Columbia.

Until next time.

November in the Pacific Northwest means chilly rain, cold winds, and grey clouds hanging low. We hunker inside seeking warmth as we try to stay dry. But then Mother Nature will squeeze in a day or two of Fall-Like weather in between winter-like days. Such was the case the weekend before Thanksgiving.

Instead of grey skies, it was clear and BLUE. The sun lit up the earth and the last remnants of Fall shone in its light.  People escaped from their indoor winter prisons and busted a move on the trails, strolled through the parks, spent time out on the water, exercising their bodies and their spirits. Our hearts sang in tune with nature as we absorbed the golden rays of light.

We let loose on these rare days in the winter months, a reminder to live life and create new stories as we hunker down once again on a cold rainy day ,waiting for the next burst of sun and warmth.

Soon the Pacific Northwest will be shrouded in the dull color of gray. Until then, the Fall Colors this year exploded into burnt umber, rich reds, vibrant oranges, bright greens, and light greens painting the landscape with magnificent color and beauty.

The Artists Point area is a called that for a reason, it is a true natural inspiration for artists. Photographers from all over the world flock to Picture Lake hoping to capture the iconic reflection of Mt Shuksan in the lake.  Mother Nature shows off her best in the Mt Baker area and this Fall she was in FULL glory.

The lighting on this Saturday afternoon drive was anything but bright. It was more of a reminder of the winter to come, but that didn't stop the colors from shining brightly, painting the landscape with vibrancy and warm colors. This is why Fall is my favorite season — the rich, warm colors that remind us of the beauty surrounding us. Add to the color, the crisp, fresh, cool Fall air after a hot, stagnant summer and we have a season that is worth every minute.

These colors won't be here much longer, but it was well worth the Saturday afternoon drive up Hwy 542 to Mt Baker Ski Resort area, even on a rainy afternoon. The reflection in Picture Lake was beautiful mix of Fall colors and the hike around the Visitor Center in Heather Meadows made for a quiet reflection of why the world is so beautiful.
If you take the drive up, a must stop is Wake N Bakery in Glacier, the healthy snacks are to die for, my personal favorite is the Orange Frosted Cardamon Cookie. And a hot espresso is great on a chilly day. We completed our day with Pizza at Chair 9 restaurant on Hwy 542. The place was bustling on a Saturday night, they even ran out of Pizza.
It was a good way to relax, spend time communing with nature, filling the camera with photographs, and getting quality time with the hubby.

I had read somewhere about this little neighborhood called Deep Cove in North Vancouver. Located on Indian Arm off of Burrard Inlet, it is the most adorable little gem of a community with a stunning view and peaceful harbor.

After a 1 1/2 hr wait to cross the border, we asked Google Maps to take us to Panorama Park in Deep Cove. She mapped the quickest route, which took us on a different journey through New Westminster and Burnaby before crossing Burrard Inlet and taking us into North Vancouver. It was an adventure weaving through neighborhoods we normally would not venture to.

On the website it warned that on a nice summer day Deep Cove was a popular place and parking was limited. We did manage to find a spot a few blocks from town in a quiet neighborhood park. We then walked along the shoreline and strolled into town. The town is small, just a few blocks with shops and restaurants, but adorable. We stopped at the "must stop" Honey Doughnuts and Goodies shop but the line was too long and it was a 15 minute wait for them to make the doughnuts, maybe next time, because we will definitely go back to explore.

Kayaking is a popular activity in Deep Cove. The Deep Cove Canoe and Kayak Centre was bustling with activity. We didn't have time for hiking but there is some great hiking trails around the area. A hike they recommend is Quarry Rock, an easy hike with a view that makes the trip worth it.

This little community was worth the visit. Next time, I will plan it better and stay longer. I can see why it a gem of a community hidden in a beautiful location. But this quiet area is no longer a 'hidden' gem.

It was the late nineties when we first visited Tofino on Vancouver Island. All I really remember about that trip was the highway from Parksville to Tofino. I remembered being mesmerized by the beauty and the transformation of the landscape as we crossed the island from east to west. 

Now, almost twenty years later, we set on the road from Parksville to Tofino again. Flashbacks of memories hit me as we start the journey. We take Highway 4A out of Parksville and no sooner do we leave Parksville do we come to the small town of Coombs.  I remembered from years past the goats on the roof. Only this time the roof was without the goats. They are still there, just not out on this day. Oh well, time to toodle on. 

​It's 33 km to our next stop... Port Alberni.

This time we made a point to at least make a brief stop at Port Alberni. Downtown and Harbor Quay were a bit of a drive off the highway. When we got there, the wind was kicking up a bit through Alberni Inlet, making for a chilly walk along the waterfront. For a Saturday, the downtown area was sort of quiet. We did a quick stroll and then resumed our trip back on the road to Tofino. 

The trip years ago was in April and one of the things I remembered most was a river along the highway just before you descend down the mountain range to Tofino. We had stopped suddenly then to see why so many cars were pulled over, it was because the river was roaring over large boulders. It was an amazing site. This time we made a point to watch for this location, we found it, only the river was more somber since the water level was low. Still we pulled over, snapped a few photos, snacked a little, then carried on.

​Back on the road to Tofino.

Soon we are winding down the highway with Kennedy Lake on our right side. Spots of the road are narrow, the cliffs lush with vegetation and fairly close to the car. As we reach the junction of the highway where left is Ucluelet and right is Tofino, we stop at the Visitor Center for a bathroom break, a map, and a park pass for the Pacific Rim National Park. We opt for the Beach Walk Pass., after all we are only in the area for an afternoon. The Beach Walk Pass is only good for 4 hours (plenty of time for our excursion) and is only valid for parking lots at Long Beach, Kwisitis, and Wickaninnish. 

This must visit area is located on the West Coast of Vancouver Island and is a magnificent piece of Mother Nature's artistry. As you turn right on the highway to Tofino, the sides of the road are blanketed with heavy forests of tall trees, These heavily occupied rainforests have withstood time and Mother Nature's stormy abuse. You can't help but be in awe of their strength and their endurance.

We turn left on the road that leads to the entryway to Wickaninnish parking lot. From the parking lot it is a short hike through the brush, which suddenly opens up to a expansive view of the Pacific Ocean. The tide was out and the sandy beach beckoned us to stretch our legs and crashing waves called us to venture closer. With seagulls flying overhead, squawking as they flew, the waves crashing to shore, and the beauty of Mother Nature at her best, we were in heaven. You cannot help but feel at peace in these surroundings. Breathing in deeply, stress vacates the body and soul, leaving you relaxed and quiet. 

We strolled closer to the waves, attracted to the surfers trying to catch a wave worth surfing.  Camera in hand, I am mesmerized by the beauty of the area, the surfers, and the reflections in the sand. A photographer's paradise.

Finally our stomachs decided it was time for food, so reluctantly we left the beach and headed into Tofino in search of a nourishing meal. The town had grown considerably since we were there last. Surf shops and store fronts line the main street as we entered town. It was a bustling Saturday but we were lucky and found a parking spot. Before we could discover the town we needed nourishment. We stopped at the Rhino Coffee House for lunch and coffee. The food was good, the service was friendly and quick, and with our bellies full we could now walk around town. 

Businesses catering to the many visitors now swarming this small community are intermingled with its old history. ​The town had settle into a comfortable accord between maintaining its history, the fishing and marine industries that created the area, and the growing new industry – tourism. 

It was time to head back to Parksville, our time in Tofino coming to a close. But we had one more beach stop we just had to make. It was a beach recommended by a local. Located outside the Pacific Rim National Park it does not require a pass. As we drive out of town and back to the beaches, we first make a pit stop at Chocolate Tofino, after all we deserve a treat.  The place was packed with chocolate lovers. We purchased some chocolate and a Gelato, then carried on to Chesterman Beach. Located in a residential area, parking is only available on the street or a parking lot located just as you turn on the street. The parking lot is complete with restrooms and a shower for the surfers to watch off the salt and sand. The friend who recommended this beach was right, it was a great beach to visit. When visiting somewhere, always ask the locals where they would go, they always know the best spots.

Though I disliked the idea of leaving this little slice of heaven, we needed to hit the road for the  2 1/2 hr drive back to Parksville and we had one more stop to make. When you are heading on Highway 4 from Parksville to Tofino, just outside of Coombs, before Port Alberni, is Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park. On our way to Tofino, we didn't stop at Cathedral Grove because the parking lots were full. Instead, we stopped on our way back. It was evening, close to dusk, and I was glad we had waited. With less people around, it made for a more quiet and spiritual connection with the forest as we wandered through its paths. 

Cathedral Grove's network of trails take visitors on a journey through time and awe-inspiring wonder. Towered by ancient Douglas Fir trees, the oldest around 800 years, we are reminded of the amazing beauty Mother Nature offers and why it is so important to preserve it. If you quiet your mind, you can hear the quiet sounds of this majestic forest as it settles in for the night.

This was our last stop on the Road to Tofino and back again. It made for a long day, but it was worth every minute.