Y2K C2C

days since departure!

As my departure day draws near I will use this page to post my plans and activities.
Once on the road, I intend to post regular updates on my travels to this page. By doing this, I hope I can keep people aware of my location and allow you to join me.

In the meantime...Did You Know?

Victoria, BC, Canada to St. John's Newfoundland, Canada is 1,464 km's (915 miles) further than the distance from Newport, Oregon to Boston, Massachusetts?
Canada is 6,292 km's wide and the US is 4,828 km's wide by the shortest highway route between these cities.

Source "Tripmaker '99"

May 01 Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Odometer: 672 km on my pearl white 2000 Goldwing SE, and riding . . .

Welcome to this exciting web page. We are very happy you choose to read about our exciting millennium motorcycle tour which will take us across the US and Canada. It has been in the planning for more than two years. Over the past 7 months of working with the folks at Infoharvest (Mark and Marilyn) on the web site and the material for it, I have become even more impressed with the talent and creativity of these folks. I recommend them highly should you be looking for anything services related to the web. We have been getting a very good response to the site and many hits.

The closer we get to the departure date the more the anticipation and excitement rises, and we three are already very excited. The three of us doing the whole tour are Kathryn, Doris and myself.

This is a welcome message so stay tuned as the three of us doing the full tour from the Atlantic to the Pacific and back will be updating our schedule and locations daily. We will be relating our overall and individual experiences and observations as our tour progresses.

Welcome and happy and safe traveling with us as our millennium MC tour adventure is soon to out . . .

Cliff Wulff

May 10 Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Odometer: 2178 km on the 2000 Goldwing SE and riding - 9 days to the start of theY2K C2C tour

To see some pictures go to the following site:

http://ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c/

Two of these first three pictures are the graphics used for our t-shirts and the one of the '00 SE was taken in the Honda Extreme shop while it was still 20 below zero Celsius here in Edmonton in late November '99.

Hope to see you during our tour . . .

Cliff

May 30 Lebanon, OR Odometer: 4095 km since leaving the house on Friday, May 19, 2000

Day 0ne, Friday, May 19, 2000

Y2K C2C Motorcycle tour started from Edmonton as planned on May 19th. The group of 6 met at Mr. John's in South Edmonton. The 6 were Doris, Marlene, Gail, Bryan, Gordon and I, at 3 PM. Good friends of mine, Dave and Leslie paid us a surprise visit and took the pictures that will be posted on our web site. Two others left at 11:00 AM ( Dave ad Eric) so there were 8 of us who made it to Banff that Friday evening. We went down highway 2 to Olds and west to highway 22 and south to Cochrane and west to Banff on 1 A. We stayed at Doris' daughter and son in law and we were very grateful good place to stay.

We started off in plus 20 degrees Celsius, bright sun and a gorgeous spring day in Alberta.

Day Two, Saturday, May 20, 2000

We (8) left Banff west and then north on the Banff Parkway (1 A) to Lake Louise. We stopped at the International Hostel for Breakfast ($3.99 for bacon and eggs). Very good place to stop and relax. It was very cool and cloudy but no rain. Heading west we stopped to take a picture of 'Entering BC' and from there west it remained cloudy and cool.

We arrived at the UMCI North Meets South Camp out , where 173 motorcyclists gathered to have fun. There were four couples from Edmonton there already. Delicious food (Myrna made home made bread) and great people. David was there and he had gone across Canada and wrote articles for the UMCI newsletter - he was full of information about places to see and we had a great discussion about places in NFLD.

Day Three, Sunday, May 21, 2000

Dave and Gordon headed back to Edmonton for work on Tuesday. Marlene, Gail Kathryn. Eric,.Doris and Cliff headed to Richmond, stopping at Spences Bridge where Marlene and Gail headed for Merritt and Princeton and home via Crowsnest pass. The C2C group headed down the Fraser Canyon where we met one of the fiercest windstorms any of us had ridden in. From Hope we took the scenic route down Hwy. 7 on the N. side of the Fraser to the Harrison Hot Springs turnoff where we stopped for lunch at Giggleberry Station where it started to rain heavily till we reached Bobs place where we were staying. We went on to Howard's for a fabulous BBG

Kathryn's friend Leroy joined us from part way down the Fraser Canyon to near Richmond.

Day four, Monday (Victoria Day) May 22, 2000

The C2C group rode up the sunshine coast (absolutely wonderful motorcycle road and to have our own two local guides and with CB radios it was most enjoyable) and after two ferries arrived at Howard's family cottage. Brother Bob had electrical problems so he and Howard exchanged batteries every two hours of riding for the next three days (an alternator problem). Met Howard's (Bryan) brother and wife (Willy) who with Howard provide a gourmet meal of clams in curry, scampi, etc. before the main meal. See picture of C2C crew at Howard's family cottage - http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

By the way as I write this I am sitting at a 6 place table facing the west (bay) with light waves lapping on the shore line some 300 feet away. The diffuse light from the sun at 2:30 PM and at about 40 degrees is dancing on the water and through the leaves of the near by trees. Eric, Doris and Kathryn are examining the map - planning, dreaming and mostly reminiscing about rides past 'great roads, great rides, and great friends they had gotten to know', i.e. Boulder to Escalante. All the while the white capped mountains of Vancouver Island sparkle in the distance some 22 miles away. To the left are the sand beaches to the south.

We rode the few kilometers to Lund mile zero of highway #101 which goes from Lund, BC to Chile some 15,020 kilometers to the south.

Day five, Tuesday May 23, 2000

After a tour of the town of Powell River by Howard who did not have his headset plugged in so we heard nothing of the great description, we headed down to the ferry. At Comox we headed north to Port McNeill where we all had a hearty lunch and to Port Hardy. At Powell river we met the Editor (Jay Latkoczky)of the Gazette who took some pictures of us and took some notes of our millennium MC tour. See picture of Cliff's bike @ Port Hardy - http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

We returned to Campbell River to the Parkside Campground. A most enjoyable day.

Day six, Wednesday May 24, 2000.

Eric, Doris, Howard and I took the trip to Gold River. A great motorcycle road even when it is very cold. We had lunch with the local folk at the Mohawk station in Gold River we went out to the 'closed' pulp factory - a local calamity. On the return trip I learned you need to ride with in your and your motorcycle capabilities - no serious consequences so an easy lesson.

We the were rejoined by Kathryn and Bob (still having charging problems on his '96 wing with approx. 50.000 km (37,000 miles). Murray (long time friend of Kathryn's) and his friend Eric joined us for the ride to Coombs, BC. There we had a delightful lunch and took some pictures. See picture of C2C crew at Coombs, BC - http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

From there we were off to Bella Pacifica Campground in Tofino, BC. Another great road for motorcycling. We took the pictures of 'We 3" and of 'Cliffy in the Pacific' on the western end to the Trans-Canada Highway #1. See picture of Tofino Pacific Coast Cliff @ feet in the Pacific - http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

Two wonderful young people were our neighbors (Karen and Kevin). They were celebrating their second anniversary.

Day seven, Thursday May 25, 2000.

Up we were and off to Tofino for breakfast. Then to Ucluelet for a tour and gas before heading to Port Alberni, BC. We saw a very large black bear on the very edge of the road very near a SUV. We did not stop as it is very unsafe to be that near them especially on a motorcycle. He/she was a large marvelously coated, with a very shiny black coat.

We stopped in Chemainus, BC which is now a real tourist town with the great murals in the buildings. It was from there that I phone a number if dealers to see in they could service my bike the next morning. Yes was the answer from S G Power, a Honda dealer in Victoria

We went on to Victoria and camped at Gold Stream Campground - our first night of rain on the tents.

Day eight, Friday May 26, 2000.

I was off early to go to S G Power, a Honda dealer in Victoria for my 6,400 km oil change and check up. It was a heavy rain in rush hour but I made it virtually on time. The rest of the tour group met me and off to breakfast.

We later went the BCMA office for medical insurance, to mile zero of the Trans Canada Highway and a picture or two http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

Then off the Sydney (still in a good downpour remember) to catch the 11:50 ferry to San Juan Island, Friday Harbour for the Rose City MC camp out. We made the ferry but were the last ones on.

We arrived to a drizzle and did a bit of a tour of the island prior checking in and setting up the tents. I was disappointed to learn one group was not arriving till the next day. In preparation for going to town for laundry I went to change - on leaving the change room I found that the first group and many of my friends had in fact arrived. I was elated to see so many old friends - many hugs of joy and friendship.

We went and did laundry and later the whole 19 of us went out for a nice dinner (Angie's Cannery House). The Canadian group of 5 agreed to purchase the breakfast provisions but the store was already closed. Howard convinced them that if we only took 5 minutes it would be OK.. So off the five of us went each with some items to gather. We then met in the middle and some went running for what was missing and the others ent for the till. All was done in less than five minutes.

Later long and animated conversations lingered well into the night around the camp fire.

Day nine, Saturday May 27, 2000.

We were up late 8:30 AM. Char and her crew make a scrumptious breakfast for all. About 11:30 AM the whole group went off the Roach Harbour, English Camp, American camp and ended up in Friday Harbour before returning to the Lake Dale camp Eric and Matt are owed a great deal of thanks by Kathryn and out whole group as she had a broken spark plug wire on her '84 Venture in addition to a missing vacuum plug. No wonder she was having trouble with the idle and the power. She was one happy girl when all that was fixed.

Car and crew did again have a great meal. The Canadians (4) did the clean up. See picture RCMC camp out - dishwashers. http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

Not only did they do the clean up - they were the entertainment for the evening. Great mis of people and great fun. More vast friendships across borders were made.

In spite of the third day and night of rain my tent was dry, although everything was very damp from being all stuck in a saddle bag.

Day ten, Sunday May 28, 2000.

We were up at 6:00 AM and were at the ferry terminal at 7:00 AM for an 8:10 AM departure. A nice trip to Annacordes after stopping a Lopez Island (I had camped there last year - a very nice Island). We in the rain ad cold were off tot the next ferry - Port Townsend - we drove right on - out luck for catching ferries was still with us. This was our sixth ferry so far on this trip - we are becoming seasoned ferny goers. We went on to Port Angeles for lunch. It was still cold and with rainy spells. After lunch we headed west ad south on highway # 101 around the Olympic Park it was very low cloud, rain and cool. But as we got to Astoria it was getting a lot better. We put up our tents in the State Park 'Fort Stevens's' in sunshine - our luck was changing. But, not to be as it rained most of the night. We got the last site - luckily we paid the $6.00 for the reservation as we'd have been out of luck otherwise.

Day eleven, Monday (Memorial Day) May 29, 2000.

We are still on course of our planned itinerary, although we only got to Lebanon, OR today instead of Bend, but oh well we are only on day 11 of 46, and besides we are on holidays. We are at the Shanico Inn in Lebanon, out first motel night although we have had three private residence nights - much appreciated.

As for our travels to day we were welcomed by the day with sunshine even though this were wet from the rain. We stopped at Cannon Beach and went straight for the Cannon Bakery - coffee and goodies to get our sugar and caffeine levels up.

We rode failry steady arriving in Newport about 1:40 PM. We went to the apponted spot of Moe's Chowder house. There as planned we met Steve and Will who had ridden up from Redding, CA t join us on the C2C trip for a couple of days. We did try the chowder and the marion berry crisp. All was as good as we had been told.

Off for gas, and then to the beach for pictures. Two are included: one of the group less Howard who took the picture wut including Steve and Will. The second is of me with my feet in the Pacific Ocean at Newport Oregon. http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

We seven then rode to Lebanon, OR.

Cliff

May 30 Boise, ID Odometer: 7713 km on the 2000 SE

We plan to have the oil changed in Kathryn's bike at 9:00 AM and then take off on Highway 20 east but to do a diversion through Idaho Falls, Jackson Wyoming, into Yellowstone and east on #20 to Cody

Please note the changes,

Cliff

May 31 Parma, Idaho - on time as per the April 12, 2000 itinerary Odometer: 4,703 km since leaving home in Edmonton

Day 12, May 30, 2000

We stayed in Lebanon and were greeted with rain and very cool temperatures in the morning - there had been snow at higher elevations. We got gas at Sweet Home prior to entering the Pass into Bend, Oregon. We had a cold and wet ride and as we proceeded we got closer and close to the clouds and soon we were riding in them. At the summit we hit snow staying on the trees and in the ditch at the side of the road. We rode in two groups with Will and Steve following Cliff. At one point snow covered our windshields - what an experience for the two Californians accustomed to 80 degrees following the crazy Canucks over the mountain pass. They were not prepared for the weather we encountered. Just over the summit we stopped - Will had no protection at all so he wrapped a garbage around each leg to help keep him dry. Several of our group had their boots soaked through. We stopped in Bend to change socks and prepare for the next leg. It had at least stopped raining by this point but was still extremely cold. As we progressed into the desert we encountered a new phenomenon, steam coming from the road which like driving through dense fog. The sky brightened after all that and the wind was at our back as we rode into Burns. Her we parted company with Steve and Will whom we would never have met had it not been for the Internet. A very enjoyable pair and we were very glad for the opportunity to ride with them. We rode on to Parma, mostly in the sunshine, with the wind at our back, dodging massive rainstorms.

More later

Kathryn and Cliff.

May 31 Jackson Hole, Wyoming Odometer: 5,358 km

We left Parma at 8:00 AM for the Snake River Yamaha shop on 2957 E Fairview Ave, Meridian, ID (208) 888-6565 where Kathryn had the Venture's oil changed and the front brakes done. This a great shop who gave great service and they have lots of accessories. You can find them on the Web at http://www.snakeriveryamaha.com We left at 11:00 AM on I84 to Mountain Home, ID where US 20 headed E. to Idaho Falls. While the skies were sunny the air was cold and the wind was at our backs the majority of the time. We were rather tenuous on some of the curves in the passes because of the gusty winds. We had the opportunity to get up to some "interesting speeds" on one particular open stretch. Rather than following #20 and our original plans because of weather , etc. we decided to go E. on #26 and headed for Jackson Hole, Wyoming. We ran into some extensive road construction.

PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGES: we do not intend to go through Yellowstone but rather continue E. on #26 where we will again rejoin #20 at Shoshone, Wyoming and proceed to Casper, Wyoming, keeping us on time and on course according to the April 12th schedule posted on this website.

Kathryn and Cliff

Jun 01 Douglas, Wyoming Odometer: All is well and the bikes are working fine.

Great ride in sun and cool (47 when we left 58 at noon and about 70 in Douglas when we arrived) but great biking weather. We are about an hour east of Casper was our destination so we are doing just great. Saw a young moose and lots of antelope mostly singles.

It was so nice we even had a chance to was the bikes after we ate. Doing laundry in the local KOA.

Met Spence and Marlene on a '99 Goldwing SE from Minnesota in the campground and we had a nice visit. They have friends who bike in Winnipeg and we hope to have a chance to met them as Winnipeg is one of our over night destinations.

Doris and Cliff

Jun 02 Moville, Iowa (just east of Sioux City, Iowa) Odometer: 6,908 km in Douglas, WY, yesterday and 6,784 km to Moville, IA

We had a good day on good roads (one small detour) in sunshine and in 70 degree weather. We did we one state parol but he was busy. The day before we must have seen about 6.

We did Nebraska (some great scenery) and into Iowa adding both these states to my list of states in which I have ridden my motorcycle.

We have been signing the notes by the people who have been making input.

Cliff

Jun 03 Moville, IA Odometer: Plans for stops - updated

Our expected destination for tomorrow is Rockford, IL, Geneva State Park campground.

Sunday is Femont, OH

Monday is likely a KOA in Buffalo or Niagara Falls.

Cliff

Jun 04 Moville, IA Odometer: 6,794

This is 17 of 47 days.

It was a sunny day, cool with very high cirrus cloud torn to shreds and scattered by a high speed jet stream. We left at 7:50 AM as per our target of 8:00 AM each morning. We started out with rolling, terraced hills of grass and corn, which gradually gave away to rolling with more corn and eventually to quite level farm land with corn and soybeans.

The farmsteads impressed me as they were all consistently neat and very well kept - a sign of a good and prosperous farming community.

We crossed the Mississippi at 4:00 PM.

We decided to see General and President Grant's house in Gelena, where we met a very nice family with some good family friends. We discussed the bikes and where we were going and with all had an extremely good visit with pictures take all around. the girls in particular wanted their picture taken with these "Canadian Motorcyclists" One or two of the pictures will be posted at: http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

We ended the day by camping at The Cut Rock State Park in Rockford with clouds building in the west - yes it rained all night and the kids (very nice family of Michael, Harley and dad "tomcat") decided to get up at 4:00 AM to leave to go fishing.

All for now

Cliff

Jun 04 Wauseon, Ohio Odometer: 8,048 km or 5,030 miles

Even though it rained all night it was light showers to just cloud for most of the day.

We received several pieces of good advice as to how to get to and through Chicago. Some of which we took. Basically we headed South and caught a short cut out of Rockford to US 20 east and stopped at the Arrow Truck Stop at Hampshire, as we were warned to keep a full tank of gas for traffic jams, construction which was every where, etc. We were also warned to gas up before Chicago as gas prices were higher than Hawaiiin Illinois - well they were right and we were wrong in our timing as we paid $1.99 US/gal the highest to date. $1.69/gallon had seemed to be the most common price to date.

We had a very nice ride to Chicago through farming country and small towns - only construction was because they had taken the grinder to the road and that did not phase the 120 km/hr Doris did as our leader. We got into Chicago and decided to continue on US 20 right to the water front and to get onto the I 90 there which we did. We saw some wonderful areas and some industrial areas too - all very enjoyable and a very positive experience. The I 90 a toll road ($.50) and in another spot $.45 for a shorter distance lead us to the Indiana Dunes Lakeshore Park (where we had originally planned to camp) where we took some pictures - - see the at http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

We later went to Long Beach and had lunch in a wonderful Mexican restaurant, and then driving along the SE shore of Lake Michigan among some very large and most wonderfully landscaped homes (pardon me - cottages), then to New Buffalo in Michigan and on east then South to Elkort, Indiana and east into Ohio to the town of Wauseon, Ohio. New and clean motel "Chief Wauseon Motel" for $29.00 plus tax for one or two people.

As I mentioned a great day (another) and we hope to be in Niagara Falls KOA Monday night and in Mt Kenyon campground in Lake George for the following two nights at the "Americade".

Cliff

Jun 11 Hilden, Nova Scotia (near Truro) Odometer: 10,542 km's since leaving Edmonton

Sunday, June 4 - We left Rockford at 8:15 a.m. in the rain and it was 57 degrees as we went through Chicago. We followed U.S. #20 from Rockford through farmland and small communities and continued on U.S. 20 all the way through Chicago to Lake Michigan. We were concerned about getting through Chicago but this was a very positive experience in our case as we went through some wonderful neighborhoods and light industrial areas but overall were really impressed with what we saw. We then headed south on I-90 which took us south and east where we spent some time in Indiana Dune Shoreline State Park where we took a couple of pictures and saw "Smoking Baldy", one of the larger active sand dunes. After a great Mexican lunch, we took the shoreline drive north into Michigan where we saw some fabulous cottages (homes). From New Buffalo we went east on 12, south on 205, to Elkart, finally coming to a motel in Wauseon, Ohio.

I knew Ohio had a lot of agriculture but the size of the farms were considerably larger than I thought and seemed to be fewer people and farmsteads than I expected. We saw at least 20 horse and buggies (both two wheel and four wheel) with Amish man and/or families in them. All in all, a pretty good day for the off and on rain we were riding through.

Monday, June 5 - It was raining hard when we left around 9:00 a.m. with me in the lead doing "moderate speeds". We went east on 20 for a time but because of the weather and 57 degrees we took I-90 just before we got to Cleveland and it continued to rain real hard until we arrived in Erie, PA. We were cold and wet and decided to take a motel which was disappointing because some classmates from University who live in Toronto were going to meet us in Buffalo, so regretfully, we had to cancel. Doris had her birthday today so even though wet and cool, we went out for a little celebration.

Tuesday, June 6 - We left Erie, PA, heading for Lake George, New York (Americade). We continued on I-90 in the rain with lots of fog and again cool temperatures. By late morning, we were still on I-90 but we were out of the fog and the rain had given away to high cloud. We had breakfast in Hamburg, New York, and because a bridge was out, we did a detour after entering U.S. 20. By the time we arrived at Utica, New York, we had caught up to the rain again and decided to take I-90 east since US 20 was so slow as it went through so many small towns besides we were getting cold and wet again. We rode east to exit 27 and took highway 67 to I-87 which is just north of Albany, New York and south of Lake George. By this time, several of us thought about staying the night but we continued north on I-87 to Lake George. The heat in one of Kathryn's glove was not working and besides they were soaked, the connection to Doris' heated jacket had again given out so she had no heat, so both the gals were cold. On arriving at the Holiday Inn in Lake George, Doris decided to take a room but Kathryn and I decided to tent even in the pouring rain. As it turned out it continued to rain hard all night but it was not cold so were warm and the only moisture that got in the tent was what we brought with our gear and rain suits. Setting up the tent in heavy rain and trying to keep the cover over top of the tent turned out to be quite a task but one that worked quite well because we were basically dry inside. The only problem was that Kathryn's sleeping bag was soaked along with all her other gear including the stuff that was in her trunk as it leaked badly.

Wednesday, June 7 - We got up at 8:00 A.M. to clear skies, bright sunshine but relatively cool temperatures. We went to the Holiday Inn and registered for Americade, met Doris, and spent a marvelous day touring all of the exhibits. Great exhibition. At 5:00, all three of us were booked for the Dunlop Lake cruise, which was a neat experience. The sun was out and it had warmed up with wonderful food and with more motorcyclists that you could ever meet meant that it was a wonderful evening. We enjoyed the beautiful sunny day and the 70 degree temperatures and went back to Mount Kenyon campground and spent a quiet evening.

Thursday, June 8 - I left Mt. Kenyon at 7:45 AM in partial cloud. After traveling south on I-87 to Troy, New York, east on #2 to #7 and north into Mass., I went east after entering Vermont. Great roads, fun to ride on but with mixed weather, mostly sunny. I stopped in Battledore, VT for breakfast at the Royal Chelsa diner, they made a great omelet. I continued east on #9 to Dover on good curvy roads with very little traffic with some 10% grades as the temperature gradually rose to 75 degrees by 3:30 p.m. Stopped at Beswick and a young man gave me directions to the beach following 386 to 91 and on to hwy #1. I was on the beach in 20 minutes and took a picture of York Beach Harbour and York Beach itself. I traveled north on 1-A through towns and along the beach and from Portland, Maine, I took the freeway (cost me $2.25 in tolls) to Bangor, Maine from there I continued on 1-A to the Bar Harbour/Nova Scotia ferry terminal. While Bar Harbour appears to be a wealthy community, I was able to find a motel for $20.00. Stopped for a nice haddock dinner at the Chart Room Restaurant which I would highly recommend. It is right on the beach so it has good food and a good view.

Friday, June 9 - I was up at 5:45 a.m. and on the ferry "The Cat" at 7:30 a.m. What a wonderful ferry ride but it was a bit dear at $98.00 US. The Cat is a catamaran that travels at 42 knots (55 miles per hour). It was a bit rough with 3+ meter swells and they will not run when over 4 meters.

Two best of buddies, Jim and Ed, from Middleton were on their way back from Americade on their Harleys and I spent a very interesting and enjoyable morning with the two of them. Also met Patrick and his wife from Minnesota, who were going over and right back the same day. They like many aboard were feeling nauseous and seasick. I thought it was a relatively smooth crossing, but apparently not as many aboard were seasick. The ferry was traveling with the wind, and while there were many white caps, the bikes never moved, as the lower deck was very stable. Upon arriving in Yarmouth, I started checking for Honda Motorcycle shops as I needed to get my 12,000 km's check-up. Procycle in Dartmouth couldn't service my bike until Thursday but they suggested a good Honda dealer in Comeau, N.S. I called them at 12:15 and at 1:00 p.m., my bike was in their shop. Alain did the work and he was very nice, very thorough and seemingly very confident. He was very helpful and did a number of extra things. I proceeded north and made several stops at Wolfville and Grand Pre, where I took a picture of Evangeline. When you see the picture, "do you see a young or old Evangeline?" I went on to Halifax, got my moutil oil and later proceeded to Hilden to see my very good friends, the Maynards. Of course, we didn't stay up late, or have any drinks, or tell many stories as you would expect when good friends get together after not having seen each other for a number of years.

Saturday, June 10 - Was very pleased to be asked to take their son, Stephen, and Helene for a motorcycle ride and, of course, we found some wonderful Nova Scotia roads. Both were great passengers and it was indeed a pleasure to offer Stephen his first ride on a motorcycle. This was after Helene served us a fantastic breakfast with pancakes, sausages, toast, fruit and "real" maple syrup . Ernie and I changed the oil in the bike, put it in the garage as I am off on business for four days returning later in the evening of Tuesday, the 13th.

Update on the other tour members: The gals, Kathryn and Doris, both spent Thursday at Americade, will do the east coast near Boston, Cape Cod and explore other wonderful experiences during my absence. It is intended that we will meet in Hilden on Tuesday the 13th and perhaps take a day tour on Wednesday in this area proceeding to PEI on Thursday.

In the meantime, I will be posting some pictures which won't be up for a day or two that relate to all the travel in this note. You can see them at http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

This note was prepared with great assistance from my very good friend Helene

Cliff

Jun 13 Hilden, NS (but really Edmonton - my bike is in Hilden) Odometer: Wanting to get riding

We three are delayed on day in arriving in PEI. We will not be arriving Wednesday, June 14, 2000 but will not be arriving on Thursday June 15, 2000.

We still plan to spend two full days on the Island which will now be Friday June 16 and Sunday June 17, 2000.

Doris and Kathryn will be meeting up with me tonight on my return to NS. Apparently they are having a great time. "K" is going to have her bike serviced in Dartmouth today. Mine was fully serviced before I left for my meetings in Calgary, Alberta.

Cliff

Jun 19 Bra d'Or, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia Odometer: 12,456

Sorry folks for not having updated recently.

We stayed in Nova Scotia, after my return from Calgary, and the gals getting to Nova Scotia, till the 15th when we went via the NS east shore of NS and on to Charlottetown, PEI, where we did Anne of Green Gables, Province House, the Harbour, North Cape, West Point and East Point. Great weather and on day it was 28 degrees Celsius.

Left yesterday and went over the Confederation Bridge - neat experience and reasonable $14.50 for bike and rider - along the north shore of New Brunswick back into Nova Scotia and on to Cape Breton. We catch the ferry to Newfoundland at 11:30 this morning.

Cliff

Jun 21 Gander, Nfld. Odometer: 13,579 km since leaving Edmonton, AB

All is well and we are right on time - well almost. We took an extra day in Nova Scotia so when we left PEI we came directly to Nfld. by passing the Cabot Trail, which we plan to do on the 25th of June on return from Nfld. Thus please note that the total balance of the trip will be delayed by one day. So for instance those BMW fellows in NB expecting us at the biker campground in Sheffield, we will not be there a day later than planned and similarly for Ottawa.

June 14, 2000, the day after I got back from Calgary, we went to Helene's office and convinced Greg to lead "we 3" on a day ride on some of his favorite roads. Greg said he rode a '75 Honda. We never thought much of it till we saw the bike and realized it was really the first "GoldWing" He lead us west from Truro on #2 to Adrian's for the BEST ever clams lunch. On to Passboro where we saw the beach (and where the tide reaches up to 50 feet) , we also saw the museum with Mr. E George who discovered the smallest dinosaur tracks, etc. a very interesting fellow - a museum of knowledge in his own right. We went through miles of blueberry fields - no wonder this area is known as the blueberry capital of North America. They only grow about foot high, are very small and DELICIOUS. Kathryn tried to take off the arm of the toll booth on the highway back to Truro - good thing it was made of foam. Wonderful sunny and warm day in the mid 20's Celsius

On June 15, 2000 we left our dear friends in Hilden and went to the east shore of Nova Scotia, to Sheet Harbour, Spry Harbour and New Glasgow, and on to the ferry to PEI where we arrived at 5:45 PM. We visited with long time friends Marion and Wendal before making our way to Clarke and Louise place where we stayed the next three nights - fantastic hosts under very difficult circumstances as Louise had just lost a brother.

June 16, 2000 we did some errands in Charlottetown, saw the Harbour, Lt. Governor residence, Province House where the Fathers of Confederation had their first meeting in 1864 and where in 1969 I had an office for a short time. This is the Legislative Assembly for PEI and when I lived in PEI I spent a number of occasions on the floor of the legislature in "Committee of the Whole" - the only provincial legislature in Canada where civil servants can sit on the floor and even answer opposition questions at the pleasure of the Minister and the Speaker. We then proceeded to Anne of Green Gables in Cavendish From there to the very north point on PEI, North Cape on # 12, on to West Point on # 14 (when through Skinners Pond where Stompn' Tom Connors come from - another big load of potatoes) back to New Glasgow on # 2 where we when to the St. Ann church lobster supper. We were back to the house about 10:00 PM. Temperature was great as we got to 28 degrees Celsius in bright sun.

June 17, 2000 we set out for East Point of PEI, via Murray Harbour, St. Peter's (tried to get to see the new national park but it was closed for construction and environmental review), to Ship Wreak Harbour where we had our picture taken, and on to East point where of course we took some more pictures. Cable Head Beach, where the sand "squeaks" or sings, which was a very special stop for me as it was one of our favorite beaches when we lived in PEI from 1969 to late 1974. We had a lovely lunch at Souris "Blue Fin" restaurant. We then "after missing the turn off to Montaque and Georgetown" made our way back to Charlottetown where we washed the bikes and spent a nice evening with a fantastic meal with Clarke, Loiuse, and Bradley - see picture. I spend a couple of hours too with a very good friend from my work time in PEI, Elizabeth. Another great warm and sunny day - we are starting to get accustom to this.

June 18, 2000 found us leaving Charlottetown traveling west - wrong it was not the start of the trip home nor the wrong direction - we were on a quest of going over the Confederation Bridge (14 km or 9 miles). $14.50 for bike and rider. See some pictures. Great as on the se big bikes we could see over the barricades. We then traveled east along the north shore of NB and back into NS to New Glasgow where we continued east on #1 into Cape Breton, from where we sent the last short message.

June 19, 2000 found us of the M.V. Caribou ferry to Nfld. $51.00 for bike and rider one way. The smoothest 6.5 hour ferry ride in history, I'd say. We made it to Stephenville, Nfld. before stopping. So many people warned us about the Nfld. speed bumps - moose. Very nice scenery as we came up the trans-canada #1 but we were surprised t see so much snow still in so many places on the upper areas of the mountains "very large hills". We stayed at the Zenville camp ground ($11.50) and had a very good night sleep - the tents dried out as we had rain in Cape Breton over night.

June 20 found us going north found us in Cornerbrook where Kathryn had her kick stand switch disconnected as it was cutting out on her - very dangerous, so she was feeling better. We met three fellows from Virginia one on a '99 wing, another on a '91 Harley Classic and the other on a 350cc trail bike. Interesting crew. We saw them three more time before we headed east and they back south - two had CB's so we talked with them each time we met. We went on to Steady Brook where Ken and Cheryl live - they were away but I took a picture anyhow - their house is right on the Humber River (famous if not the most famous Atlantic Salmon river anywhere). We went to the restaurant across the street at the base of Marble Mountain ski downhill area and met Sherri and Perry - both bikers, Perry owns the complex in which the restaurant is located. When on to Gros Morane National Park and stayed at the Berry Hill National Park Campground ($15.00 for the two tents) with about a million "no see-um's" little black flies who take a hunk right out of you. We dined at the restaurant in Rocky Harbour which is right on the Harbour.

June 21, 2000 found us traveling north to Cow Harbour where we had bkfst at the Shallow Bay Motel - our table looked over the ocean. We had been warned of the moose (11 per square mile in the park - established by survey) but had not seen one till we left town and were at the stop sign turning on to the high way - a yearling cow but still big enough to cause major damage - thank goodness the only moose we have see to this writing. We continued north then to Portland Creek stopping at the "Arches Provincial Park" An interesting stop but not really spectacular. From there we dead headed back to Deer Lake and on to Gander, Nfld. We stopped at Beaver Junction and the six folks in there with us were all very interesting - a long distance truck driver with a local of crab for the main land, two bus company staff, and two local who wanted to sell Doris a retirement home - 100 ft by 200 feet lot on a lake, with a 30 by 50 house for $12,000, and the other fellow had a lot on a lake for $5,000. We continued on in the sun and 20 degree Celsius temps to Gander where we are now in the Country Inn RV and motel, camping - one site for the tents for $16.10 tax included. Gas is a bit high as it is 91.9 cents for regular unleaded. We plan to be in St. John's by mid afternoon tomorrow, spending the next day there too (or in the area), catching the ferry to Cape Breton on Saturday 8:00 AM June 24th. We plan to do Cape Breton on the 25th. Hope to go via Rita McNiels tea house, at Big Pond, Cape Breton, NS.

All is very good, weather is great, and we are on 34 day of 46.

all for now and happy as a clam.

Cliff

Jun 23 St. John's, Nfld. Odometer: 13,999 km since leaving home

We had a wonderful day on the Trans-Canada from Gander to St. John's. First we stopped at Clarenville for breakfast, and ask about a place to get my hair cut - the one advertised and the response was "Oh my, you do not want to go there.". The one at the end of the strip mall was recommended so as Doris went to the post office Kathryn and I went to the hair cut place. We both had wonderful cuts for $10.15 tax in. The attractive young gal who cut my hair recommended we go out to Random Island a few km's to see whales. Of course we agreed and off we went to a great ride, good views of the Harbour, nice little villages, when we came to Random Harbour near the end of the road (had to return the same way as we came in). We stopped took some pictures, watched the unloading of cod and crab, while keeping an eye on the bay for ice burgs and whales. The water was, one of the fellows told us, was warning up - it was now 4 degrees Celsius - the bay is 700 feet deep and at 60 feet is one degree.. Enroute to St. John's we had a stretch of high wind, ten miles of construction which was very dusty and a seeming "rain storm of bugs". They were like suicide dive bombers, you could see them coming from 20 feet, those that cleared the wind screen came whizzing by some hitting the helmets. When it came time to clean the screen I found out these we in fact "special" bugs - I was 30 minutes getting them off - each spot had to be scrubbed and rescubbed. Reminded me of the may flies at Klamath Falls Oregon - where the truckers have to stop to clean the windows as the wipers and spray would not touch the bug debris

We went on #231 a bit further to Petty Harbour, toured a museum and talked to the dad of the fellow we'd met earlier - wealth if information.

Then we were off back over the 27 km to Clarenville for gas and the 162 km to St. John's. We did not stop at Terre Nova National park. We arrived in the center of St. John's to a wonderful park and campground "Petty Campground". After getting settled $16.10 for each of he two sites Doris called some friends, who she had not met. She called Marie who is the sister of her sister's (Flo's) boy friend Pat. Fred (Marie's husband) came and picked us up. He is very knowledgeable about the city as he acted as a PR person for a cab/Limo company during the Cabot 500 celebrations in '97. We toured the downtown, the Harbour, Signal Hill, saw the French versus English battles and tactical areas, the Harbour from far above from Signal Hill, the former US air force base, and some various residential areas. Then, off to the house and a great "home made" steak dinner. Then off to me Kathryn's author friend and toured "George Street". To bed at about 1:00 AM.

This morning we were picked up by Fred, fed a fantastic bkfst, got our laundry done and will have a personal tour of St. John's, mile zero of the Trans-Canada Spear Point, and etc. etc. etc. - there is so much to see and learn about we contemplated staying longer but the choice of riding back the length of the "Rock" or staying for three more days to get the Argentia ferry, caused us to decide to leave in the morning on the Argentia ferry as planned. We will have to be up so we can leave at 5:00 AM however - - the choices in life . . . .

Cliff

Jun 25 Near Antiginish Nova Scotia Odometer: 14,667 since leaving home in Edmonton.

Yesterday we left at 6:00 AM for the ferry at Argentia which is a 90 minute drive to catch the 8:00 AM. We were very worried about missing the ferry and having to ride the 928 km back across to the other end of the "rock". We were the last of 6 vehicles on board - then to relax..

A fabulous time on Nfld. was held by all but what a great trip across back to Nova Scotia. Leaving at 8:00 AM and arriving at 11:15 PM meant there needed to be something to do besides watching the whales and porpoises as we departed the Harbour. Well there was - -the two guys who called themselves "Shanty" - provided fantastic entertainment in the lounge. Besides that we were sitting with Paul, Gerald, Marjorie and Paula - all Newfoundlanders and what a great group to get to know and to befriend. Like long lost really good friends - - we learned a few new expressions and practiced out accents.

We motelled it at Bras d'Or, near where we camped on the way over to Nfld.

This morning we had bkfst at the next door "Country Classic" restaurant again and it is always great. Then we went of to do the Cabot Trail. We went to Englishtown and crossed a 200 metre ferry for $3.00 but what an interesting time again today. We stopped at Ingonish and took a picture of the spot a friend (Muriel and I - our spouses would not come in for a swim) swam at in 1967 as we toured the east after Expo in Montreal. The Keltic Lodge is still a gorgeous as I remembered. Proceeding on around the Cabot Trail in 25 degree Celsius with bright blue sky got us to believe that this was probably the best road to date on the tour. On returning to Baddeck we headed back to Sydney as I had to go the Big Pond to have tea at "Ritia's" Rita McNiel that is - -and all three of us were glad we did.

We are now some where between Port Hawkesberry and Antiginish both in Nova Scotia at the Hyclass Campground - recommended to us by several people - -they have been so kind as to lend me a phone line for a few minutes.

Tomorrow it is our plan to meet so New Brunswick bikers at the River Valley Campground, #2435 Rte 2, Sheffield, NB.

We are running one day late so if you are checking our itinerary on the web just add one day for the total balance of our motorcycle Tour.

Cliff

Jun 28 Auberge Motel, St-John-Port-Joli, Quebec Odometer: 16,556 km and riding (total on the bike is 19,566 km

What a fabulous day.

I started by riding east in bright sunshine and warm temperatures after a night of rain. Soon the road turned northward and then over a rise there it was, Perce Rock with the very well noted hole. Very overwhelming to see it in person and so close. After a few pictures at various locations I lavished over a breakfast on a balcony of the Surcouf Cafe opposite the shore and looking at the "the rock", in sunny 20 + degrees Celsius. What a thrill to be here in person to see the fishing boats coming in with there haul, the tourist boats going out to the bird sanctuary, and the number of tourists who stopped to talk.

Then north and west on #132 on what I can only call a "bikers road." Up and downs, curves, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence on the right, with wind whipping up numerous white caps. The road goes up and down the large hills, then back on along the beach, etc. etc. Later on (several hours) the road virtually becomes part of the St. Lawrence as it is built on the break water. Watch for falling rocks from the huge hills on the left and watch for the waves washing over you (see pic.) http//www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

As #132 goes on to St. Anne Monts the landscape continues to change - - as I rode the 701 km today I kept imaging which is the best road - - the Cabot Trail or the Gaspe of Quebec?????? The Cabot trail is shorter and is an easy day. The #132 around the Gaspe is a much longer ride and one gets at least twice as much "Cabot Tail" like roads and scenery. So which is best - well they are different and BOTH are absolutely great and are "a must."

Tonight I am in St-John-Port-Joli, Quebec. This one of the target locations for the tour and is an absolutely and every interesting and enchanting town on the St. Lawrence river.

Cliff

PS: I have not gotten into my e-mail for at least the last two weeks - sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused - - hope to have the problem rectified by the 30th.

Jun 28 Grande-Riviere, Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec Odometer: 15,855 and riding

Be sure to look up pictures of our adventures by clicking on http://www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

JUNE 25 - After I signed off on this date, Edgar came to visit us at the Hyclass Campground in Havre Bouch, Nova Scotia. Edgar is a fellow biker that Doris and we met on the MV Smallwood Ferry enroute back to Nova Scotia. As it turned out this campground was the one Edgar recommended and from our tents we could see his house and his very large yard (acres) across the lake. We had a good night and in spite of some rain the tents were dry in the morning.

June 26 - We headed for the "Bikers Campground" at Sheffield, New Brunswick (NB), which was recommended to us by the members of the NB BMW club. It is about 50 km east of Fredericton on the Trans-Canada. We had a great ride in bright sunshine with 19 degrees Celsius at the start and 29 by the time we arrived at the campground. In spite of the heat the mosquito's were large, plentiful and hungry. We booked in and called Bob the President of the BMW club. Richard a member too, had e-mailed us. We had expected to see one both or more but unfortunately something happened and we did not see any of them, so we did not get to meet any of them. Really to bad as we had been anticipating a get together for some very long time now. Not sure of what happened? The camp ground folks were great - Lewis and Brenda (owners) and Gary and Linda all came over for a visit and we very much enjoyed them all. Lewis (Harley with over 100,000 km on it) and Gary (Honda Ace) ride together a lot. I got talking with Lewis about the Gaspe Peninsula and how to Perce (please excuse the lack of accents on the French words) and how on route @ 8, on to #11 and on #132 on PQ, which Lewis said gets you from Fredericton to Perce in about 6 hours. This is a route I had never been on even though I had lived in PEI for almost 6 years and had been through NB and PQ many times. Lewis has done it and found it a great ride. Discussed it with the gals and they decided not to ride it - see notes below.

Changed plans:

The gals - Doris and Kathryn both decided to ride together and to continue to head for Quebec City today the 27th of June and to probably spend a second day in the area. Doris will likely start heading home to Edmonton from there and to take the Yellowhead highway #5 from Winnipeg. She needs to be in Edmonton on time to prepare for a family reunion and an upcoming International Women in the Wind tour later in the summer. Doris will likely arrive in Edmonton on July 2 or 3, 2000. Kathryn has some very dear friends in Toronto and is planning to "dead head" (8 hour ride with no stops) it from Quebec City to Toronto. We'll stay in touch via a common friend in Ottawa and will try to meet up in Sault Saint Marie on July 2nd (another 8 hours for Toronto) at one of the campgrounds listed in the "Nights and Sights" on the web page. My plans are to ride the Gaspe arriving in Quebec City (or near too) probably on the 28th, to spend the 29th in the area arriving in Ottawa on the 30th, spending July 1st, Canada's birthday, in our nations capital, leaving for Sault Saint Marie on July 2nd, and home to Edmonton from there.

June 27 - Be sure to look up pictures of our adventures by clicking on http:/www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c for instance the Cape Breton, Cabot Trail pictures and we three at breakfast this morning.

I left Fredericton at 10:00 AM and arrived at Grande-Riviere at about 6:15 PM. Had the oil changed in the bike at SportsBG in New Richmond, PQ. Steeve the service manager and Alain to fellow who did the work could not have been better to deal with, so I recommend these folks to you all - (418) 392-5017. Interesting on a long and continuos ride where you get the bike serviced - had the bike serviced in Edmonton before I left, in Victoria, BC, Commeauville, Nova Scotia, and New Richmond on the Gaspe of Quebec. You will note that as it worked out all of these locations are in Canada - WHY - Honda USA and Honda Canada do NOT honour each other s warranty. - STRANGE, eh!!!!

Well what about the ride to the Gaspe region of Quebec? Fantastic!!!! I rode in warm temperatures of mid 20's Celsius, from bright sunshine to overcast to some threatening of rain - but it never did, so great riding weather. Very good roads mostly which have been recently redone and because of this I encountered only two short stretches of construction. A very beautiful ride in Quebec mostly right along the shore so great scenery, many lovely small French communities all of which are very well done and obviously very proudly kept up and maintained Kathryn wanted to stick to the original plan and agreed to head on the Trans-Canada for Quebec City arriving today June 27) and staying a second day (28th). I decided to do the Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec route so am writing this from Grande-Riviere, Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec. Doris needed to be home to prepare for a family reunion and an International Women in the /Wind bike tour so will essentially leave to go directly to Edmonton from Ottawa probably taking the Yellow Head (route #5 from Winnipeg). Doris will likely arrive Edmonton on July 2 or 3 as planned. Kathryn has some very dear friends in Toronto and is planning to go direct to Toronto from Quebec City. We will stay in touch via a common friend in Ottawa and may meet at Sault Saint Marie, ON, on July 2nd at one or other of the camp sites on the "Nights and Sites" posted on this web site. As for me I will continue around the Gaspe to Quebec City on route #132 hopefully arriving there some time later today. I plan to spend a day in the area and going on to Ottawa on June 30, spending July 1, 2000 in the Capital of Canada, leaving for Sault Saint Marie on July 2nd.

Jun 30 Grande-Riviere, Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec Odometer: 15,855 and riding

Be sure to look up pictures of our adventures by clicking on http:/www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

Changed plans:

June 27 - Be sure to look up pictures of our adventures by clicking on http:/www.ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c for instance the Cape Breton, Cabot Trail pictures and we three at breakfast this morning.

Jun 30 Auberge Motel, St-John-Port-Joli, Quebec Odometer: 16,556 km and riding (total on the bike is 19,566 km

What a fabulous day.

Tonight I am in St-John-Port-Joli, Quebec. This one of the target locations for the tour and is an absolutely and every interesting and enchanting town on the St. Lawrence river.

Cliff

PS: I have not gotten into my e-mail for at least the last two weeks - sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused - - hope to have the problem rectified by the 30th.

Jun 30 Ottawa Odometer: 17,089 km to date

I left St-Jean-Port-Jolie after visiting with 8 bikers from Quebec - - various bikes, with 6 of the 8 being Quebec police (active and retired). They are returning home after 10 days in the Maritimes. They had a great tip too and we had covered a number of the same places. After swapping stories - tough with my very limited french - - but a very good visit in any case.

I rode for a time to a village by the name of Beaumont same name as a village 10 km from my house in Edmonton) - where I had truly a great Quebec bkfst. - two eggs, four slices of bacon, a sausage, potatoes, toast, tomato and bit of lettuce, pork pate, meat pie, and coffee all for just over $5.00 Cdn. Had to leave a $2.00 tip.

Went on to Quebec City - where I actually bought some cheaper gas $.749/litre - have been paying over $.809/litre. An older fellow - 80's+ was using the pump as I arrived, he had a problem finding the pump handle, getting it to the car, getting it to start, finding the step to the station, etc., so when he left the station and turned left I was quite relieved as I was heading east or right. I did not wish to be to close to him - however he was very friendly and uttered several sentences to me in french, which I am sorry to say I did not understand.

When on to Vieux (Old) Quebec City and to the Chateau Frontenac - grand old castle hotel - I have actually stayed in it years ago - and on to the boardwalk - yes it is actually boards and is a fantastic view of the St. Lawrence River, Levee, the city on the south shore, etc. The great view had nothing to with the fantastic good looking young french people strolling on the boardwalk. A great place to spend several hours. Also, this part of Quebec city had been largely restored and is a fantastic place for shops, small friendly bars, food, arts and crafts, and all kinds of cultural experiences etc. See pictures at http://ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c

On I went to Montreal, passing through at about 3:30 PM, and though traffic was stop and go through the tunnel and to the Ottawa/Hull turn off, it was an uneventful trip. The thing that impressed me as I approached Montreal was the skyscrapers with My. Royal as a back drop. If you are ever in the area of Montreal, as with Quebec City, you owe it to your self to spend "some time" as they are my two favorite Canadian cities, and rank in my mind ahead of San Francisco, CA. I have been in each, all three, on at least 3 or 4 occasions.

Stayed in Ottawa (arrived in a bit of a shower) and will be here for the next two, attending a party with some university class mates, and attending part of the July 1, 2000 Canada Day celebrations. Then off to Sault Saint Marie on July 2nd.

Cliff (excited and having a great motorcycle tour)

Jul 03 Sault Saint Marie, Ontario Odometer: over 18,000 km to date

For the pictures from Ottawa on June 30 and on Canada Day (Canada's birthday on July 1, 2000) see the site http://ecn.ab.ca/y2kc2c/

The last day of June found me doing domestic things in the morning like laundry, washing the bike but most of the time was doing my 141 e-mails (I could not get into my personal e-mails for over two weeks).

Later in the afternoon in high 20 degree Celsius weather we met at a class mates (University of Alberta) cottage at Constance Bay on the Ottawa river NW of Ottawa. Fantastic spot. We visited, swapped stories, had a BBQ, and drank some home made wine and beer. We even celebrated Gerry's retirement - we actually thought he was never going to stop working.

On Canada's birthday it is quite something to be in the nations capital for the celebration - "ground zero for the celebrations" - great entertainers on the stage in front of the Parliament Buildings, and may other festivities on the street - many, many people are dressed in the flag, or have painted faces (etc.). Loads of people and lots of festivities. it was hot but cooled with a thunder shower late in the afternoon but cleared for the evening show. In the afternoon the Prime Minister spoke as did the Governor General. The snow birds, our acrobatic jet flyers, flew by three times. I found it to be quite emotional and good fun - lots of people however.

Today I left in the sun but soon found my self in clouds, then rain. All in all a good trip to Sault Saint Marie. Since I have not heard from Kathryn (she is either still in Toronto or she "dead headed" it to Alberta with Doris), I'll likely go via the US (south from here and west on Highway #28) on the way home picking up the states of Wisconsin and Minnesota that we flew by on the way across he US, coming back up into Manitoba and then home.

Cliff

Jul 03 Grand Rapids, MN Odometer: After a day from Sault Ste. Marie to Grand Rapids, MN of 806 km, for a total of 18,851 km to date

Left Sault Ste. Marie in the sunshine at 14 degrees Celsius I headed across the bridge into Michigan and soon turned right onto #M28 and headed our. Beautiful route that I had never been on before. Cool day however with the high being 68 degrees F.

Saw lots of Michigan State Troopers (as many as OPP I saw in Ontario west of Sudbury). Some deer even in the day time - one doe and fawn - nice to see - however I hated to see the pair on the side of the road as a traffic casualty. First stop was at Marquette, MI for gas and a break. Second stop was in Ashland, WI. Had a great talk with a Goldwing 1200 owner - no helmet - he has relatives in Alberta and did trucking to and from Winnipeg - very nice visit but I forgot to give him a business card with the web address.

Third stop was in Grand Rapids, MN. Two "Venture" riders from Ottawa, ON were checking into the same motel. Both are very enthusiastic "Yamaha Venture" owners - '84 and a '99.

Tomorrow I will head west on #2, north on #75 into Manitoba, Canada

All for now - no new pictures from today - although there is excellent scenery along the south shore of Lake Superior and I especially liked Superior/Duluth.

Cliff

Jul 04 Killarney, Manitoba Odometer: 19,485 km (12,178 miles) and 1700 km to go

Another great day.

Happy Independence Day to all of you in the US, enjoy . . .

I left Grand Rapids, MN under the weather threat of that big low and storm coming east into North Dakota and into Manitoba - if one listens to the weather channel on TV one would never venture out - there are always "things" happening . . . After the sun burned off the fog I realized there was very little cloud and the weather was very quickly warming from the 47 degrees F. to 79 degrees F. (26 degrees Celsius) by 2:30 PM, which put me in Manitoba, heading west on highway 201.

I was impressed with the way the landscape changed. The glaciated area around Grand Rapids and the whole NE of Minnesota is all rock, trees, muskeg, and lakes. It gives away to a very flat and rich agricultural prairie, which is also as a result of glaciation - - it is an old clay lake bottom - making it a high management but very productive agriculture area. As the trees disappeared familiar crops appeared, as sugar beets, beans (pulses), barley, and canola - a very important and high quality edible oil source (one area was a mass of the yellow flower of the canola in full bloom, on an area that had to exceed 160 acres (one square mile).

I had stopped in Fossen, MN at the Palubicki's grocery and deli and had one of the best omelets I have ever enjoyed. At the next stop in Warren, MN (I went west on #3 and had turned north on # 75 - again thanks to the fellow in Asland for suggesting # 75), I met a couple of fellows and friends on two Harley's. Very nice visit and they were very intrigued with my 47 day venture. They promised that they will be in touch via e-mail. I would have trouble riding in a tank top and without a helmet, as they were - must be my traditional up bringing.

As I headed west I realized I was dodging thunder storms. I came to a 12 km (7 mile) stretch of repaving and with a dirt and gravel base - do I or don't I go on - well I did and it did not start to rain till I was just passed the construction area - good luck. Well, then the weather did make up for the other storms I had missed - so by the time I arrived here I was soaked - thought I could outsmart the weather, so I had not put on my rain gear. I arrived at 4:30 PM and by 7:30 PM the sun was out again - so typical of prairie thunderstorms. This one is part of that huge low and storm doing so much damage in the Dakotas and /Southern Saskatchewan (one Saskatchewan town got their whole year rain fall in about three hours - tremendous damage.)

In any case I am now dried out, fed and making plans to travel in the morning. For those of you familiar with the Canadian prairies, you will not be surprised to recall that there is a Chinese restaurant in every small rural town - - these are descendants of those folks brought over to build the Canadian Pacific Railway. These restaurant establishments are normally plain in appearance but I always frequent them as much as possible, as they normally have great food. The "Wu" Chinese restaurant here in Killarney is no exception.

Tomorrow, I plan to go west on # 3 to # 13 which takes me across southern Manitoba and Southern Saskatchewan via the Short Grass National Park, and to Ft. Walsh in the Cyprus Hills (the only area in Canada not to get glaciated in the ice age)

I'll be two days getting home yet as it is still over 1500 KM (the total of my last two days travel).

Cliff

Jul 06 Shaunavon, Saskatchewan Odometer: Well over 20,000 km and the final day ride

Leaving Shaunavon SK this morning in mixed weather,

Very good ride yesterday in bright sun, little wind and through new country. When I get home tonight I'll report in more detail. I took # 3 west in Manitoba, # 83 to Estevan SK, and # 18 to the end of pavement before turning north and arriving at Shaunavon, SK. Today I head for Trans-Canada # 1, via Medicine Hat, Calgary and north n # 2 to Edmonton.

Sad to know I have been away 49 days and did not get to do it all - I keep remembering, however that this is/has been a dream of a life time,

Later

Cliff

Jul 06 Edmonton, Alberta, Canada - home base of the tour of a life time. Odometer: 21,171 km total (13,226 miles). Total on the 2000 Goldwing SE is now 24,171 km

WOW! It certainly does not seem to be 7 weeks ago 8 of us left Edmonton at 3:00 PM on this adventure of a life time - but yes it was 7 weeks.

Today started in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan in fog, dark cloud and a threat of rain - yes it had rained overnight. The drunk next door in the motel came out and had a headache. The construction/oil patch workers were all interested in the bike and where I was going. The drunk wanted a ride "anywhere" I'd take him - "How much do you want?" "I can pay you!" "Do you want some rye or beer, I have both."

Point of interest - As I left and was riding north I went through a stretch of where earlier in the week they had gotten 133% of their total annual precipitation in a matter of a few hours - this was evident in the fields, the lack of any crops left and the debris on the edge of the road where water had run over top.

A new hazard emerged and it was all the mud and huge amounts of same the trucks entering the highway brought on from farm steads and side roads. They were able to deliver mud in great gobs, sometimes lasting for 300 or 400 metres up the road, causing one to be mighty careful and dictating that you followed in one track or the other and did not deviate.

I headed north through a long stretch of this devestation on highway # 37 to Gull Lake, SK. The closer I got to the Trans-Canada the wetter the road and the more water laying on it - thank goodness I reached the Trans-Canada and headed west into what appeared to be a lighter spot in the clouds before I ran into the storm. Again I had refused to put on my rain gear before leaving, well one is very well protected on the Goldwing (just as I had experienced on the Yamaha Venture). The Cypress Hills (Ft. Walsh, etc.) to the southwest were, it appeared, getting another dose of heavy black clouds and what ever it brought with it. I was traveling west between the two storms. It was quite nice as I entered Alberta and I stopped and took a picture in front of the "Welcome" sign. In fact when I stopped in Medicine Hat for gas and to make a couple of phone calls to friends, it was a bit sunny and had warmed to about 14 degrees Celsius. As I headed for Brooks to the west all that changed. It had started to rain - at 115 km I was hoping it shorted lived and that with it moving east and me west, that I could out last it - true, and I did. By the time I got to Brooks it had stopped raining. Later and by the time I got to Strahmore just east of Calgary it was promising sun - in fact it was clearing in the west and there was a bit of a hint of the famous "chinook arch" were the strong westerly winds coming through the Crows Nest Pass of the Canadian Rockies literally blowing the clouds eastward forming an ache where the westerly sky is cloudless and the easterly in full of the clouds being moved along forming the famous "Chinook Arch". Turning north on the Deer Foot Trail # 2 north, that which I just described, was the case. I was still in the shade and the temperature at 1:00 PM was still only 14 degrees calculus.

It slowly stared to warm, fewer clouds and thus more sun - by the time I arrived at my daughters and sons house in Edmonton it was 19 degrees Celsius and mostly sunny.

I parked the bike (dust, dirt, bugs and all) in the garage, changed my cloths, had a pepsi and phoned my folks (who in their 80's were "totally relieved" that I was home and had not killed my self), my brother, my cousin and then started in on my e-mail (turns out to be oldest to latest and I made the mistake of answering as I went to fine updates, etc. later on) and now to do this update note of the last day of the Y2K C2C on the web site. Later I hope to do a note with a bit of an overview, impressions, experiences, what I'd do different (not at all, more of, or other things not done this time).

I must however at this juncture say thanks to all those who traveled with us for an hour or a day or two, or for two weeks - thank you. And to the two gals, Kathryn and Doris, who brought a lot of biking experience to the tour, much enthusiasm and much fun - a great thanks - my friends who met you very much were invigorated by getting to know you. When people saw the two of you on "big bikes" I know there were a lot of heads turned and comments like "if they can ride a bike like that, then so can I". To all of you who thought this or said it out loud "just do it". To those who hosted us, also a huge thank you - very much appreciated - more than you can know - it was a break, a pleasure to get to know you or to know you better and to share good times. To those whom we met and who, to a person offered enthusiasm, thank you. To those we did not met but by ciber space, thank you too for the encouragement and best wishes - to bad we could not have met you all. To those who followed along on the web but whom we have not met, I hope you enjoyed the adventure.

T all of you, I do hope you have followed along and enjoyed the experience. As Tommy Hunter says in his songs we were "gathern' memories.", we hope by us touching your life in what ever manner you gathered some memories but more importantly perhaps you now have a "dream or wish" to look forward too.

Cliff signing off on the last day of the Y2K C2C

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