Clearwater

This is a curious mixture which could probably only happen in North America. The campsite lies between the well manicured fairways of a golf course and the forest where bears roam freely.  Bins are generally bear-proof and there are signs everywhere advising about self preservation in bear territory.  We understand that they wander across the road and hold up the traffic, but so far they have hidden from us.

As you drive up the valley the road changes to become a wide dirt track which goes on for about 24 miles to the end of the trail where further travel to the north is by boat. People used to farm up here, even before there was any road.

Average speed on a road like this is not high with any vehicle, and especially a 6 ton camper van and so there is plenty of time to look out for wildlife.  There is plenty of evidence of interesting wildlife as there are piles of scat of various shapes and sizes at the side of the road. Illustrating the fact that you were too late!  On the other hand there are an assortment of waterfalls and chutes where the clearwater river comes down the valley which are very dramatic.  The Helmecken Falls are one of the highest in Canada.