41.1 miles, 3609’ climbing, grouse
We started the morning with breakfast at the gas station and a ride on a rail trail. Soon we turned up the long, beautiful ascent to Beaver Lake followed by Little Wilson Lake and then Big Wilson Lake.
At Big Wilson Lake, there was a 2.8 mile steep climb, then descend to the other side of the lake and the town of Nakusp. The climb was so steep that we pushed our bikes up parts of it. When we were only 0.4 miles to the top, we saw something in the road. A stick? Leaves? A bird? … it was a grouse. As Ed pedaled slowly towards it, it put up its tail, clucked, flapped its wings, and headed right for him. We walked our bikes as we passed the agitated birds, then we finally saw three small, puff-ball chicks. There were probably more in the adjacent bushes. Thankfully the hen didn’t fly at Ed or try to scratch him, though that would have made some great footage.
We proceeded to the top of the climb as calmly as possibly, then had a long descent to Nakusp, including more rail trail. We booked a hotel room and proceeded with our chores: laundry, groceries, showers. Later we had an awesome dinner at the Arrow and Anchor Pizza Restaurant. We are all ready for at least 3 days off the grid.
Great to see your pics! I hope the next few days while you are out of range, things go well. No cold or wind or rain or steep hills. I guess that’s asking for too much. You guys are doing well. Amazing scenery. Xo
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