Glacier-Waterton: cycling Fernie to Blairmore

We decided to leave early again today to beat the traffic as well as the heat. Within a few miles, we were encountering beautiful vistas on a back road. Then, we had to get back on highway 3, Crowsnest Highway. 

We cycled steadily along the shoulder into Sparwood until we saw the massive green truck parked on the side of the road. Proudly proclaimed the largest truck on two axles, it stood as large as any other building on the street! We had to stop to read about this unique, one-off truck built for a coal mining company in the 1970s. Then, we cycled down the block to the Tim Horton's for third breakfast. (We had eaten at the hotel before leaving, at the Ingraham rest stop; and, we were still hungry!)

Today we crossed our first mountain pass, Crow's Nest Pass, at 4,457 feet. The sign overlooks Summit Lake in British Columbia. It was a tranquil view of a train stretched along the placid lake. Then, we descended into Alberta through Island Lake. That was a stunning vista!

There was no water at the "water stop" marked on today's map again. My joke is that "water stop" means a place to stop to drink water that you brought with you. We were regretting not getting additional water at Tim Horton's.

There was about a kilometer small side road that we were able to relax and enjoy the mountain views before getting back in the highway. Not much later, we stopped at a pull-out to take in the entire gorgeous scenery. On a little rocky knoll above us, four workers in their bright reflective vests were doing the same. It really is beautiful out here!

Finally making it to a gas station in Coleman, we refilled our water bottles and enjoyed some ice cream. That was enough hydration and energy to make it the rest of the way to our destination in Blairmore this evening. 

Since this was our first time arriving early without mechanical issues, we were able to explore the little town a bit. Plus, this hotel had the luxury of laundry! And, we even put our feet in the ice cold river running behind our hotel.

We stayed at the Kannata Inn in Blairmore. Highly recommend! They had free guest laundry room as well as breakfast starting at 5 am. This is more for all the mine workers that stay for multiple weeks at a time. However, it's also very beneficial for cyclists!