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Old 06-19-10, 09:34 AM
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aroundoz
More Energy than Sense
 
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Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Seattle
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If you are open to other options, you might also consider starting in Victoria and going north up the Island and either catching the ferry to Bella Coola or Prince Rupert. I have done all three routes (including Vancouver) and they certainly all have their merits. I found the highway 20 from Bella Coola to be the most rewarding: very little traffic, great scenery but a lot of bear poop on the highway. But yes, there will be a lot more rain up north. Starting in Victoria would also allow you to check out the Gulf Islands and ease into your trip.

You might also want to pick up the following guide/s:

http://www.tctrail.ca/shopthetrail.php

http://www.kettlevalleyrailway.ca/

They give options for getting off of the pavement. It's not as bad as it may sound as far as comfort. You follow a lot of rails to trails which means the distance may be greater between two points but since it's a rail grade, you will avoid big climbs. For example, you have the Blueberry Paulson between Christina Lake and Castlegar BC. You can avoid this climb by riding the Columbia Western Railway which gives you great views of Christina and Arrow Lakes, long tunnels, high trestles and no cars (but unfortunately the occasional ATV). I can't say enough about it.

Here are some photos from last years trip if you are bored and have the time:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bc-ride...7622797957790/

I did not read all of the above but I bet Machka already mentioned the Icefields Parkway.

Have fun planning and if pass through Nelson and have the time, PM me.
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