Fires, Tires, n Bears EH? OOH YEEYYAAHH!-Trip Report

Fires, Tires, n Bears eh?

Chapter 4: A Twofer!
​

We awoke the next morning all wanting to stay in bed. It was still raining and hadn't stopped for a minute once since starting up 15 hours ago. Everything was soaked and we postponed as long as possible with having to deal with our soaked tents.


We said a fond farewell to our Canadian companions. And hit the trail, the rain putting a dismal mood on the trek.


FTnBE?-43.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


After a short drive, we finally found Falcon hill. One of the obstacles our camp mates had talked up all night long as being pretty hard.


The only thing that made it hard was the damn rain. Grip was hard to lock down and I had to back down for a second attempt before finding and making it up the right line.


IMG_0021 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0023 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0024 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Now granted, photos don't do this small hill justice but it really wasn't awful and rather fun. Once the correct line had been found. Timmy and mike popped right over it.


FTnBE?-37.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0028 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE?-39.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


As you can see, it is quite wet. We all took it as a small victory and knew that this trail would not be hard at all after doing that. But it would be very fun!


FTnBE?-40.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0030 by mike digirat, on Flickr


The rain was still coming down but the rate and slowed enough that we could now at least enjoy taking some photos of the large washed out areas of the trail that make for fun driving and photo posting.


IMG_0033 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Ewww...gooey.. haha


IMG_0037 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0040 by mike digirat, on Flickr

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I particularly enjoyed the washouts. Not very common to experience stuff like this in the rocky desert trails I'm used too.


Plus who doesn't love a good flex out?


FTnBE?-46.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-47.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-50.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-51.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We really started to enjoy this fun trail. Even with the constant drizzle of rain.


I quite liked this hill, was curious to see how my front end looked after watching Mike and Timmy three wheel pretty hard in this spot. Mike even had to get on the skinny pedal to get out of the muddy bottom.


FTnBE?-52.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-54.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-57.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-58.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


The rain had finally slowed to a slow dribble and the temp was rising enough to only have one jacket on. But I still was amazed at the water. 18Ish hours of rain. Incredible.


FTnBE?-60.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


By now it was time for lunch and we happened to make it to Loadstone lake right them. Which luckily had a nice picnic table. Shame it was wet. But we made do and enjoyed the view of the lake while we ate.


IMG_0076 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE?-60.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-64.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0072 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0074 by mike digirat, on Flickr


By now though the rain had finally let up. Only an occasional misting. This was a relief to me, rain can be such a debby downer! From the lake, we wound our way through the trees heading down a mountain towards Coalmont. A while later, the tree broke. Or rather where logged! Despite that, though, it was a pretty scene that we all wanted to capture.


FTnBE?-66.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-68.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0083 by mike digirat, on Flickr


And then it was over, we were back on a maintained logging road. What a fun trail though. It was obvious why it was so popular and on everyone's list to run. I can only echo all those recommendations! Even in the monsoon that we drove through while on it, the trail was still fun and rewarding. Even with the storm's aftermath, the scene the clouds painted with the overcast lighting was worth it.


FTnBE?-69.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


From there we bombed down the smooth road encountering only a jeep on the way out. When the dirt ran out, tires had to be aired up. Where I realized something not so good about my OBA. My 20lb CO2 bottle was running low, which I found odd as I had just filled it and not used it as much.


Needless to say, my air compressor friends didn't let that one slide by without a snide remark or two.


FTnBE-3.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We now set off to continue our plan we had made around the camp fire with our new Canadian friends to head to Molybdenite Peak. But first, we had to drive the Rail bed which was leftover from the Nicola, Kamloops and Similkameen Railway.


Apparently, this railroad track system was meant for easy transport of coal and people. The tracks were drawn up and funding passed in 1891. Construction didn't start until 1905 though as the original charters never followed through, but coal revived the charter and in 1907 the first train shipments started. But it pretty much went downhill from there. The mountainous area meant horrible weather and steep grades and plowing through areas with 39' of snow average meant lots of lines were frequently closed. The Coquihalla line came to a close in 1959 and was abandoned in 1961. With the completion of the Hope-Princeton Highway in 1949 meant fewer passengers to ride and the KVR line's last train made it's last trip in 1964 and in 1973 all trains were just abandoned.


In 1991, a hundred years later, all the tracks were pulled up in the area.


Which leads to the Rail beds we had been recommended to drive on and after some hunting we found it.


FTnBE-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Now, this is a spot I really wish we had taken more time on to photograph. I mean, how often do you get to drive on a rail bed over a hundred years old?


We didn't though. It was smooth and straight and just down right fun! I could not contain myself and floored it. It was awesome, there was nothing but beautiful wild Canada landscape in a large canyon and there we were on a flattish road that was 10' above the ground from all its surroundings.


It was surreal.


“Holy shit dude,” said Mike over the radio, “I'm at 65mph trying to keep up with you and you're still pulling on me.”


“YAAAHOOOO!!!!” I yelled.


There were also pot holes filled with water which just added to the fun. And according to Mike he would have given anything to get a photo of what he was about to witness.


I was bombing along when the potholes became one large hole and thought what the hell.


KABLOOOSH!!!!!


A tsunami was suddenly surrounding me and I quckly tapped the brakes and slapped on the wipers.


Devin and I exploded into laughter and soon Mike came over the raido, laughing himself.


“Holy crap man. That wave was completely over the top of your entire rig” he said histarically.


But then..


It ended.


We where suddenly in the town of Tulameen and driving though it.


On the rail bed.


How cool is that. We stopped at an old water fill station to snap some photos, the only evidence of my dunking.


FTnBE-6.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-9.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Still enjoying the fact wewhere in a town on an old rail bed we continued down the..bed.


Which crossed the main highway and then things changed. It wasn't very bed looking and there was a down tree..


FTnBE-10.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Not wanting to get on the highway, I jumped out and got enough of the tree out of the way for us to squeeze by.


Only to find yet another obstacle in our way.


FTnBE-13.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-14.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0090 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Hmm..something tells me that my chainsaw isn't going to cut that down. And maybe we aren't even supposed to be on here.


Which meant we had to turn around and get on the highways.


Easier said than done, though, as it was kind of a tight section.


FTnBE-12.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Luckily there was a sort of wider spot a bit further back and after performing the classic art of the 100 point turn, we retreated to the highway.


FTnBE-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We jumped onto the highway and after a while, we had to air up again. Devin even caught a glimpse of another black bear while we looked for a spot to pull into.


FTnBE-15.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Then we hit the road and headed north to Merrit. We then hopped onto the Nicola highway, or the Merrit-Spences bridge highway, with our destination of Lytton nearing.


FTnBE-16.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


But not soon enough.


It was apparent that we would need to camp before getting there and we were not going to make it to Moly. Should be easy enough to find a spot I figured as we were along a river which had a lot of access roads or so it seemed.


Turns out they weren't exactly public.


A lot was marked as private and come to find a lot was land owned by the First Peoples of Canada tribes.


As evening approached though we were getting slightly desperate and began driving down a few roads only to realize they were roads to houses.


Finally, I spotted what looked like the rail bed we had been on earlier. And indeed it was. I figured, what the hell, we could camp on it? So we pulled off on the next road to go look.


Sadly, the rail bed looked to go right through some people's driveway it appeared. There was a woman holding a young child and a young girl on the porch of the house, they looked to be cooking dinner.


Mike and Timmy decided to go down the road but we knew it was a futile effort.


“Why not just ask them if we can go over there?” I asked.


“Go for it” replied Mike. He wasn't the most approaching person in most situations.


But screw it. I got out of the truck and approached the lady.


“Excuse me, we are looking for a place to camp and are wondering if we can drive down the old rail bed to look for a spot?” I asked her.


She said she would ask her husband and went into the house to get him.


A man came back out as well a few other children and he walked off the porch to come talk to me.


“Hello, my name is Landon,” he said with a smile.


“Pleasure to meet you, I'm Monte” I replied.


We went on to have a lovely conversation. I explained where we were from, by now Timmy and Mike's had both pulled up by my truck, and what we were doing. Once again I asked if we could go camp over in the small area the rail bed led too.


Landon graciously allowed us to drive over there and camp along the river.


“I'll just call the neighbor down the river to let him know you'll be there for the night,” he said.


He also was full of suggestions of place to go check out if we had the time. And told us of a nice little clearing in the field of sagebrush off the rail bed where his kids play.


I promised we would keep the spot clean and not leave any trash or cut any trees or anything. He smiled and shook my hand and wished us a nice night and trip.


“Well, that worked out great, follow me guys,” I said over the CB.


The spot was awesome.


With sagebrush almost as tall as our trucks in places, it was a jungle nearly with plenty of privacy. The spot we found fit our truck perfectly and setup camp for the night.


FTnBE-17.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0093x by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0095x by mike digirat, on Flickr.

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It was here I felt a tad reminiscent of my home. The river valley was very similar to several areas around Wyoming. The colors and ecosystem seemed identical. Felt right at home for me.


After eating dinner, we enjoyed the quiet area eternally grateful to Landon and his gracious act to allow us to stay here. Sometimes it's not about the places you go so much as it is the people you meet. And we had met some fantastic people on this trip so far.


We went to bed with the northern lights peaking out over the mountain top. Ready to tackle Moly the next day.


FTnBE-18.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We awoke the next morning, still enjoying our surroundings of the river valley.


Tents on top of sagebrush


IMG_0104 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0106x by mike digirat, on Flickr


We packed up and made sure we left nothing behind. As we passed the house we gave a friendly wave and shouted our thanks from the trucks. The family responded with waves.


IMG_0109 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0107 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Still a ways to go yet, we set off down the highway till we hit the Trans Canada Highway and took it south. The highway parallels the huge Thompson River. I can't imagine what this thing looks like in the spring with all the run off in full swing. Needless to say, this valley blew us away and we stopped frequently to snap photos. We saw many places where you could go rafting and I imagine it would be a blast.


FTnBE-20.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-21.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-22.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0116 by mike digirat, on Flickr


We made it to Lytton though and stopped to refuel and restock food supplies. Timmy found free Wifi and found a GPS track to Moly to ensure we wouldn't get lost. With that, we set off to the ferry to cross the mighty Frasier River, which the Thompson flowed into. It was huge.


The ferry, however, was not huge.


FTnBE-24.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


It was a simple cable guided two car river ferry. But still looked fun! Plus, thanks to the gasoline taxes, or petrol, all ferry where free in Canada. Considering all the lakes and rivers that run throughout the region, I'm sure everyone is thankful for that.


Mike and Timmy went first as I stayed and watched them cross.


FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-3.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0123 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0125 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0128 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Exciting! I ran back to Frankenstein ready to jump on!


FTnBE-29.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


But nothing happened.


The ferry just stayed over there.


“What the hell are they going to come get me?” I radioed.


“Haha! Was nice knowing ya buddy!” jeer Timmy.


The I ready the sign.


FTnBE-30.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


12:45-1:00 Pm – Coffee break


Well, I'm no coffee drinker myself and I don't know who drinks coffee at 12:45pm but whatever.


Devin and I broke out the sandwiches while we waited as did Mike and Timmy.


1pm came, the ferry loaded up two more cars and came to get me.


IMG_0130 by mike digirat, on Flickr


I went solo across, though.


IMG_0137 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Whoo! Such a tourist!


IMG_0144 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Thank you ferry men! They worked like a fine oiled machine


IMG_0149 by mike digirat, on Flickr


And with that, once again on dirt roads, we set off up the Frasier River valley on Spencer Road. It was spectacular.


IMG_0156 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-31.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-32.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0157 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

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FTnBE-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We drove by many houses in the part, what a great place to live. I'm sure winter is harsh but wow. What a place.


Eventually, Timmy GPS told us to leave the main road and we squeezed up a small canyon where some of the best-looking water flowed from a creek. And started to climb.


The road is very easy to aside from being just a tad rough. Although at one point it tried to swallow us up.


FTnBE-5.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-6.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We broke through and area though which I can only think was logged at one point due to all of the small trees. It made for quite a lovely scene, though.


FTnBE-7.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Around here I had already started think of a title for our trip. Which is not normal for me. I usually wait until it's done so the main features can inspire some sort of name.


“Hey guys, how about 'Fires, Tires, n Bears' for a title?” I said to Mike and Timmy.


“TireSSSS?? Wtf man, you trying to jinx us? Only had one tire go this trip. Let's not make it more” Timmy said.


“True, just thought it was a good play on Lions, Tigers, and Bears” I grinned.


We continued to climb, the mountains becoming more and more breathtaking by the minute. This place was unreal.


FTnBE-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

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Summer was starting to retreat here already and the colors just added to the beauty.


FTnBE-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0172x by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0178 by mike digirat, on Flickr


It was around here that Timmy, who was leading, saw some rigs up at the top heading down.


The road turns into a single lane shelf road that hugs the steep shale cliff. Not wanting to cause drama of someone having to back up or down a long ways. We pulled off to wait for them to come down. After about 20-30 minutes they finally passed us. Though did not stop to tell us if there were more coming.


We hadn't seen any other vehicles all day and we hadn't seen any other than the 4 that just passed us.


It's always a gamble on these kinds of roads but one I was willing to take and took the lead to get to the top.


The views just got better and better.


IMG_0181 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0186 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-9.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-10.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


This road didn't really have switchbacks like most peak top roads. It only had two really. The sections between the two turns where very very long though with lots of blind sections. Which meant no room if we encountered another vehicle going down.


But we quickly forgot about that. I mean, wouldn't you?


FTnBE-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Even seeing the rigs we just passed far down below in the distance didn't keep the thought present.


IMG_0189 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0193 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-13.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


This was the only sharp corner on the whole road. So very doable for basic 4x4 rigs.


FTnBE-14.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0195 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Shortly after that, we rise up above the tree line and really, anything green line. Not much grows up here this high. And we finally got our first glimpse of the other side.


IMG_0198 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0200 by mike digirat, on Flickr

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FTnBE-15.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

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The road eventually dead ends. And it's a short climb on foot to the top. And well worth it.


IMG_0227 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-18.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-19.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-20.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0220 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-21.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We could have stayed for quite a while up there. But knew that camping up there would not be a wise choice. Timmy's GPS track had a second track where there had been the only Y in the trail and it said it went up to a lake. Hoping the others we saw that day hadn't taken to the small camp spot we decided to head for the lake for the night.


After orchestrating turning around in the one spot up there that allows you the space to do so. We set off down the mountain, Timmy in front followed by me than Mike.


FTnBE-22.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0246 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-23.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0251 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0253x by mike digirat, on Flickr


We were all taking our time enjoying the sights as well as keeping a close eye on where we were going, not wanting to drive off the steep mountain. Timmy decided to make things more interesting, though.


“Shit guys, I just put a hole in my front tire.” He said.


Well, damn it. Maybe I did jinx us.


I caught up to Timmy and he was already in fix it mode.


FTnBE-24.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-25.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


The tire had a small pin hole in the side wall.


“Must have been hugging the inside too much” Timmy muttered.


“What's a matter? Afraid of heights?” I teased


FTnBE-26.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


The tire was slowly dying and we all looked on the bright side again thankful it was just a tire and not something worse.


FTnBE-27.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0255 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0257 by mike digirat, on Flickr


This time Timmy was even prepared for his spare tire as last time we had changed his front passenger tire his spare rim had rubbed the caliper. Had a ¼'' spacer to deal with that now.


IMG_0258 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Nothing like jacking a truck up with a hilift so it tips down the mountain right?


FTnBE-29.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We were making quick progress with it, though. Again, thankful it was just a tire swap.


IMG_0264 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-30.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


But as I wrestled the new tire onto the front and Timmy was packing his blow front into the back of the truck. He noticed something...


IMG_0268 by mike digirat, on Flickr


sssssssssssssss


“Oh you have got to be freaking kidding me!” he yelled.


Double shit..jinx complete.


FTnBE-32.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-31.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Must have really been hugging the inside because the same fate had happened to his rear passenger tire.


This posed an interesting scenario. But one that worked out rather well. Timmy ran 33x10.5r15s KM2s.


I run 35x12.5r15s so loaning my spare wasn't really an option.


Mike, however, ran 33x10.5r15s.


Major crisis averted with that alone. We knew we had enough tires to get Timmy down at least, and him being the lead truck, that was important considering we couldn't even go around him.


Mike set off to take off his spare while Timmy and I tried to deal with getting the rear tire off. Using the Hi-Lift off the side was not going to be an option as the rear suspension flexed too much that the truck would probably roll down the mountain before letting us put on another tire.


Jacking from the back just made the truck want to swing down the mountain, and as much as id like to think I could hold it. That wasn't happening either.


FTnBE-33.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0271 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Then Timmy had an idea to strap the axle to the frame and jacking from the side. This would keep the axle from drooping out and maybe letting us get a tire on it.


IMG_0273 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0277 by mike digirat, on Flickr


We ended up having to use a beefier strap but it did work!


FTnBE-34.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Since we were using Mike's spare, and for the second year in the row Timmy has having to borrow it we put Mike's spare up front since we wouldn't have to use the spacer and Timmy's went on the rear.


He now had 3 different wheels and tires on his truck haha!


FTnBE-35.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


With the sunlight fading, we set off down the mountain thankful that we had been able to make things work and that no one had decided to drive up while we were stranded on the road.


FTnBE-36.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We came to the junction to head up to the lake where Timmy then stopped to bring up a thought.


He did not like the fact that if either he or Mike go another flat, we were seriously screwed. And voted to no go up to the lake as we didn't know the condition of the road.


I disagreed. I did not want to camp on the main road. I wanted to go to the lake. Yes, it was a risk, but considering the condition of the roads in the area I knew we would be fine. We could make it work if one of the rigs needed to be left behind for a day.


Timmy didn't like that but reluctantly decided to follow me up to the lake with Mike in tow.


So


worth


it.


The road was easy and the lake was pristine. And I mean PRESTINE.


IMG_0283 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-37.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-38.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


With the fading light though we setup camp and made dinner. As well as some friendly banter. The spot was small but we were all able to squeeze in.


IMG_0281 by mike digirat, on Flickr


What an amazing day it had been. The beauty alone was hard to believe. Heck, the place we were camped at right now was unmatched by almost any other location we had ever been save for Goose Lake in Montana.


But we still had a large problem.


Tires.


Timmy had to get his tires replaced before we could do any more exploring. So out came the maps to figure our best guess for a place that would stock the right size.


Pickings were slim with anything nearby as we were in a fairly isolated region. Mike suggested continuing north up the Frasier River valley to Lillooet. If we were unlucky there, we could shoot over towards Kamloops which would be our best bet for finding tires.


Game plan set. We enjoyed the rest of our evening around our propane fire once again fueled by the fact we had survived yet another sticky situation. Little did we know our lucky was really going to change tomorrow.

To be Continued
Chapter 5: Almost Lucky ending​

 

You did! Now enjoy the new chapter first haha

This is a long one. But a good one i think. Good times.

 

As a BC boy who drives through the Thompson region pretty often on my way to the Cariboo region, I'd love the name of this trail, or coordinates, or a google map pin if you could post it or pm me.

In BC one of the most important tools in your off-road kit is the angle grinder with cutting disks.

I'm mostly joking but I did carry one when I went on a really remote hunting trip in Wells Park in BC. A long way from civilization on deactivated roads at the beginning of unpredictable winter weather. I didn't want to be worried about going through a gate only to find it locked that evening. If I had to cut something and make arrangements to replace/repair afterwards, it was a nice option to have.

Looks like an awesome trip. Appreciate the report and photos.

 

Its Moly. The trail i describe in the report

The road isn't on google.

Ive had to cut up part of my truck to get home after rolling it with a cut off wheel. But i don't pack one. could haha

 

Awesome! Looking forward to the next chapter and pictures. I've always wanted to explore Canada and Alaska.

 

Why were you running low on CO2 so fast? More air ups than usual? Altitude? Temps? I know when mine freezes up the flow gets to be real slow.

 

thanks for the read!

 

Idk really. But that fill did not last as long as my first one did.

 

Trying to get this to page 5 so we can get more pictures!

 

haha well no hurry. Haven't written the final chapter yet.

 

Good times for sure.

 

awesome storys! and fantastic pictures!!! thanks for sharing monte

 

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!

 

Damn those are some amazing pics!

 

Loving the story. Already one of my favorite trip reports of all time!

 

Was an amazing place.

Thanks! Check out the SOS one if you like this one..haha

 

NExt page..

 

At least i hope so.

 

I'll help you get there... I wanna read more...

 

Fires, Tires, n Bears eh?

Chapter 5: An Almost Lucky Ending​

The morning was quiet and beautiful. We all went on little walks to take in the beauty of the lake. Was a truly magical spot.


IMG_0290x by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-39.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE-41.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


This lake was the source of the delicious looking water we had followed up to find it. And it really did look delicious.


IMG_0297 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-42.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Was going to be hard to let this day get better with it starting like that. And considering the small problem we were caught up in it probably wasn't going to get any better. Timmy needed tires though to get home and give back Mikes spare. Which meant we had to pack up and leave this seemingly holy place.


IMG_0303 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0305 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE-43.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0312 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0313 by mike digirat, on Flickr


We made our way down the cut and back to the main road, Texas Creek, and headed north until it turned to asphalt.


IMG_0317 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Knowing we would be on the highway until we found a tire shop, we aired up. Which brought on a surprise for me.


FTnBE?.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


My CO2 had run out! Damn.


Well, what goes around comes around. Mike got his sweet revenge from three years ago when his ARB compressor died and he had to use my CO2.


This time I used his ARB.


IMG_0319 by mike digirat, on Flickr


Sweet justice. Ha


Eventually, we rolled into Lillooet and went to the tire shop after refueling to see if Timmy could score some tires. We figured that 33x10.5r15 would be a popular size and easy to find. We were wrong. The shop had some but in an odd brand nonoffroad tire.


“I'm not paying $1000 bucks for tires unless there are ones I want,” said Timmy.


Can't blame him. Tires are an important choice and unless they were KM2s or Toyos, Timmy wasn't going to buy them.


This meant we would set out sights on Kamloops where we were certain that there would be tires.


Before setting off though we pull off the highway to overlook the Frasier River and eat lunch. The looks we got from other tourists pulling off for photos was priceless.


FTnBE?-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0322 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0323 by mike digirat, on Flickr


We hit the highway hard not stopping for photos as we were running out of daylight. Kamloops was 2 hours away in a car. Took us about 2.5hours mainly due to Frankenstein's fat ass but also traffic. Something none of us really enjoyed getting back to having not had to deal with it much.


Upon hitting the outskirts of Kamloops though, we realized we had no idea where to look and Kamloops is not small and we were smartphone less.


“Keep your eyes open for any tire signs,” said Mike over the CB.


Almost instantly after he said that, I spied a very small BFG Goodrich sign on a small building up on the hill to our right.


“Got one! On the right.” I said.


We turned off the interstate, or whatever they call it there and proceeded to try and find the store. After a slightly confusing hillside entrance, we were there.


FTnBE?-5.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We walked into the store which was more shop then store. Turns out it wasn't a tire shop but a shop that builds custom 4x4 vehicles for costumers of all levels. Our rigs instantly were noticed and the guys at the shop came out to check it out.


“Well, I'll be damn! What are you guys doing here!”


We turned and looked to see who had said it.


It was Brandon from Whipsaw!


What are the odds! We laughed and instantly started chatting with him about our situation.


“Oh don't worry, we will hook you up!” said Brandon.


The guys at the desk went to work calling tire shops for us while Brandon gave us a tour of the shop and some of the rigs they were working on. About 10 mins later the guys in the office told us they had found some KM2s for Timmy at Kal Tire and they said they would stay open till we got there! Which was good as it was clear on the other side of town.


“I'll take you there guys. Just let me change,” said Brandon.


He hopped into his dark blue Raptor and we set off for Kal Tire.


20 minutes later, we were there.


FTnBE?-6.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Timmy got the paperwork in order and his truck was on a lift in no time.


“I'll be right back, going to go pick up Jason and I'll meet you back here,” Brandon said.


Not entirely sure why but we said sure thing and sat around waiting on Timmy's truck.


FTnBE?-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Didn't take too long though and before long C'Bob had some shiny new shoes!


FTnBE?-9.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-10.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Looked hilarious on the dirty truck.


“Alright! Let's go get some dirt on these babies!” Timmy said happily.


But Brandon wasn't done with us.


“You guys got a place to camp tonight?” he asked.


We didn't actually. Hadn't thought of it really.


“Come by my place and we will figure something out,” he said.


So we set off and went to Brandon's house just north of Kamloops on the edge of the golf course. There he invited us in, introduced us all to his family. Then proceeded to feed us dinner! Roasted chicken and mash potatoes.


“I've got a place you all can camp at. Just outside of town. Lot of fun stuff back in there,” he said.


Sounded great to us. We all caravaned out of town with him. Hit the dirt and aired down.


Brandon proceeded to take us through a series of very fun tight roads that wound in and out of trees. It was a hoot. Eventually, we came to a small lake with a large clearing to camp at.


Brandon and Jason stayed with us while we settled in and Timmy was sure to give them lots of his beer. We all could not believe the awesome hospitality and generosity he had shown us. We all laughed and told stories and jokes for a few hours before Brandon had to leave to go home. He told us to just follow the road and it'll take us back to the main highway where we could make our way from there.


We all once again thanked him extensively and said we would have to come back now just for him.


And with that, he left us in our nice quiet camp. What an amazing day it had been despite minimal dirt time. We went to bed high on life.


Like I said. Sometimes it's not about where you go, but the people you mean.


Thank you, Brandon.


FTnBE?-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


The next morning was a slow one, Devin took a dip in the lake and we cooked a large breakfast for everyone.


FTnBE?-12.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Our plan now was to do the Crowsnest Highway and if we had time duck south into Glacier Nat park before parting ways to get home. Though time was not on our side at this point and Glacier seem a faint hope at this point.


So we hit the dirt, the last of the trip with gusto. Mike and Timmy graciously allowed me to go first which meant I could unless the beast. Which I did. Timmy and Mike decided to savor the dirt at a slower pace. Which I can understand, but, racetrack!


The road back was short though and we were at the highway within 20 minutes. I had to wait though for Mike for his OBA though.


FTnBE?-13.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-14.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


With that, we aired up ready for a day of highway through Canada, our sights set on the town of Nelson.


IMG_0331 by mike digirat, on Flickr


We drove and drove and drove. Though I will say, even on the highway, BC is a nice place to drive though. Devin spotted her 3rd bear on this leg. Pros of being a passenger.


Finally, we reached Sheltered Bay ferry. Which was, well, bigger than the last one we got to go on. A lot bigger. The line to wait was longer too.


FTnBE?-15.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Seeing as to how we stand out, we drew a couple people in and chatted with them about our adventures. I loved out the people here were all very involved in the outdoors and love to talk about it.


We then had to load the ferry though and cross Arrow Lake.


FTnBE?-16.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-17.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0336 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0339 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0343 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE?-18.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We then headed south on highway 23 and really enjoyed the views pulling off often to gaze and the large long lake.


IMG_0353 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE?-19.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0360 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE?-20.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-21.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-22.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0363 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0364 by mike digirat, on Flickr


With the sun setting we pulled into Nelson. And at my request, found a place to eat. I can't for the life of me remember the restaurant other then it was delicious. That and our waitress was fun and tried to be helpful with finding camping. Timmy almost had her convinced to just come with us and show us a place! She, of course, came to her senses and didn't. But would have been funny.


It was now dark and we needed a place to stay. We went a ways south looking for the spot the waitress had told us about but didn't find anything other than a lake that didn't allow overnight camping. So we went north.


After many miles and hunting around in the dark. We said screw it and found a place off the highway to camp.


Turns out it was right off the highway, we were parked up on top of a hill the highway cut right through. And there were high voltage lines above us.


FTnBE?.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Worse places to camp I suppose.


We hit the road again and took another ferry that crossed Kootenay Lake. This was an even bigger ferry. Which included men shouting at people to go in certain spots.


They did not like us. And by us, I mean Mike and I.


First, they picked on Mike for having 10 gals of extra gas. Apparently, only 5 gal extra per vehicle was allowed. Well, we all had 5 gal jerry cans so Timmy and I couldn't take it for him. Luckily Mike asked a family with a truck if he could set it in the back of their truck and reclaim it on the other side. They graciously said yes.


Then it was my turn. When the guy came to look at my truck, he looked down upon the wide tires as most authoritative figures do, and then became quite upset when he saw my Co2 bottle.


It may as well have been a bomb to these guys.


“We can't have you on here with the bottle sir, it's too dangerous,” he said.


“Dangerous? There is nothing in it,” I said.


“So if I go back there and open the valve nothing will happen?” he said.


“Yep, go for it,” I said, thinking that even if it was full nothing would happen due to the regulator still on there.


He did and after chatting with a couple others allowed me to get on.


IMG_0367 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0371 by mike digirat, on Flickr

FTnBE?-3.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

IMG_0374 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0380z by mike digirat, on Flickr


At the other side, Mike got his jerry can back and we headed south to Creston stopping again to marvel at the size of the lake.


IMG_0388 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0387 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0390 by mike digirat, on Flickr


As we neared the end of the lake, we got a lovely reminder of forest fires.


IMG_0401 by mike digirat, on Flickr

IMG_0403 by mike digirat, on Flickr


After reaching Creston we turned east to Cranbrook where we had hoped to go in and towards Crowsnest.


Before rolling into town we stopped at Moyie lake for lunch. Was a popular spot for locals to enjoy the lake life.


FTnBE?-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-5.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


We rolled into Creston and I wanted to stop at a store to get a new SD card reader. It also became apparent that I would not be able to go to Crowsnest. I was out of time. Mike was too basically. Timmy had a whole addition week though. So we said our goodbyes and Timmy headed off.


FTnBE?-7.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-6.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


No sooner had Timmy left, when Mike started looking around his truck. And found this.


FTnBE?-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Great.


Mikes axle seal had failed. For the second time in a year. There was no way he would be able to drive back to Seattle with the seal like that. He needed it fixed or towed. Towing wasn't a great option due to being in Canada.


Lucky for us. There was a Toyota dealership not far down the road and Mike and I went there.


They had the parts but couldn't do anything until the next day. Luckily Mike had the time and decided to stay and let them do the work. He got a Hotel and let them get started on the truck.


And so I said my goodbye to Mike. Wishing him luck as I set off to the border crossing south of Elko.


After taking a wrong turn, we finally made it.


FTnBE?-9.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


But it wasn't all good.


I pulled up to the guard who did his thing as we handed him our passports.


“Hi guys, how we doing today?” he asked.


“Great, I replied, just spent a week offroading in Canada!” I replied.


“Nice, where did you go?” he asked.


This is where is screwed up. I told him we started on the whipsaw, went to Moly and (stupidly) told him we had been in Alberta. Why? Because I thought we were in Alberta at the time.


He eyed my truck hard as I told him this and when I finished he looked at me and said,


“Sorry man, I can't let you in.”


What?


“You'd be fine if you hadn't gone into Alberta. But because you did I can't let you in with your truck muddy like that,” he said.


“Whys that?” I asked.


He explained that there was a new noxious weed outbreak in Alberta and they were trying to stop it from coming over here.


Devin almost laughed.


But I said no problem and explained I work in a weed control district for the last two years.


He told us how to turn around and wished us luck in finding a place to wash it.


The Canadian guard was an ass about letting us back in and didn't have any info what so ever in helping find a car wash. Which was not good because the nearest town with any chance of having a car wash was Fernie.


That was an hour and a half round trip.


Desperate, I went into the Duty-Free shop and asked if they knew of any place close I could go.


“Ooh honey, those guys are assholes. Just pull around back and we can give you the hose if you want” replied the lady.


So I pulled around, they threw my the hose over the fence and got to scrubbing.


FTnBE?-10.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


20 mins later I was...done.


FTnBE?-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


Good as I could get it, I hoped it would be enough.


Thankfully, we pulled up and the guard just smiled and said, “thanks guys, have a nice trip home.”


Whew..


For a brief period, I was actually worried about getting in. But all was well and we hit the road to try and make it past Missoula for camping. We were greeted instantly with more fires. There were lots all over northern Montana and it didn't improve as we went south.


Once I got on the interstate, I cruised along at 70mph to our final camp spot. When I spotted a highway patrol car in front of me.


Now, technically nothing is illegal on Frank. He is up to code in my home state of Wy. But Montana High patrol, don't like him. I was lucky on the way up and dodge 4 of them thankfully. This time I wasn't so lucky.


I slowed down to 65 in hopes he would just go away. Didn't happen. He slowed. I slowed. Finally, I just passed him driving as casually as I could.


Didn't work.


FTnBE?-14.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


He pulled me over due to my plate still being covered by the Trasharoo. But proceeded to give me a warning about my tires and no mud flaps. Which apparently you must have even if you're passing through.


Not sure I believe that but I smiled and thanked him and went on my way.


We got to camp finally and set up the RTT one last time. In the smokey valley of Rock Creek.


FTnBE?-13.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr

FTnBE?-12.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr


It had been a great trip. And the first trip ever for me that Frankenstein hadn't broken...anything! Was a miracle. Mike and Timmy hadn't been so lucky.


Especially Timmy.


He had the worse luck of all. Because after leaving Canada he went to explore the Lake Tahoe area. And his ring gear gave out. Luckily a fellow TW forum member went a saved him.





Thank you @jberry813 and @RelentlessFab for helping Timmy out.

Gutted the rear diff and drove home in FWD.


Mike's repair went well and he got home safe and sound. The original shop that did the axle seals the first time warrantied their work and reimbursed him.


I got home and drove straight to St louis for school.


Was an interesting ending to our trip. It had been eye opening in many ways. Being prepared pays off. How to deal with being in another country, even though Canada is probably the easiest country to deal with.


We had had a blast. And wanted more.



So the plans to return began being drawn up.....

The end!
​

Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for our return trip: Alberta Bound.