116km +839m↑

Mission, BC to Hope, BC

The morning I left Mission, Colin was generous enough to drive me out to do some sight seeing for a bit! We went to the Deroche General Store, which has Chester’s chicken (supposedly world famous). Also visited the Sasquatch Inn, which is renowned in the area. Finally, he took me up to his favorite local lake. Absolutely gorgeous. I was already feeling immersed in the BC landscape and culture. So grateful.

The night before, my mattress had punctured. Didn’t inflate even after patching it, so I detoured down into Abbotsford to an outfitters to pick up an ultra-lite one! Decided on the Big Agnes Rapide SL, which seemed to have a decent R-value considering the price. This was my first time buying gear “impulsively” at full price! Crazy difference in size and weight now, compared to my much older Thermarest.

This had me passing through Chilliwack too. Around 20km outside of Hope, I met Tyson who is actually walking across Canada! After finishing his time with the marines, he needed a new adventure. Ultimate kudos!

Rode through until Hope. Turns out that’s where they filmed Rambo (which I’ve never seen)! Got setup at Coquihalla Campground, and learnt quickly to not leave food out for crows. I met an older guy who worked at the place, who had toured all around the world! Giving me advice, and how his trips shaped his life. Former sergeant for the army too I believe.