Since we had extra time, instead of cycling straight up to Calgary, we decided to take a detour along HWY 40 through the Kananaskis. We were then told that this highway is closed during the winter until June 15. There is usually still snow on the pass (2206m) at this time of the year so the road is unpassable. Whatever, we decided to go as far as possible because the scenery would be rewarding. No big deal if we have to turn around because of the snow.
On the day in, we had crazy headwinds. I really had to work hard to keep up a 16km/hr speed. This lovely bear made a nice dash across the road not far in front of us. I am glad I was able to capture it so well.
Heading for the mountains!
It was James' birthday yesterday so we made a birthday cake out of instant pudding and bananas outside of the closed visitor info at the HWY 40 junction. The pudding was delicious!
Despite the warning of snow on the pass, we set out early in the hopes to summit and cross the pass by mid-day. Here we are cooking breakfast after about an hour ride. Since the highway was closed to traffic, we had the whole road to ourselves. No cars, no trucks!!!
We watched this moose from our breakfast spot. It was just hanging out down by the creek beside the highway.
And the scenery gets more and more magnificent!
Yes, Harry from Longview was right. There still is snow on the pass but that wont stop us. Rain booties mounted and.......go! Luckily it was partially overcast so the surface was still fairly firm. The bikes sank in to the snow a few times but other than that we were able to push them quite well.
After several km we heard an engine noise. Hm, what could that be? Then we spotted a snow blower that was making its first pass along the highway. Wow, what luck. We kept pushing the bikes until we reached it and from then on we were able to continue in the blower's track. Still not rideable conditions but the pushing was much easier.
!!!!Highwood Summit 2206 m!!!!! Highest in Canada!!!
Making our way over this closed pass, pushing the bikes through the snow and enjoying +40km on a traffic free highway was the coolest adventure for me on this trip so far. It was a very rewarding challenge!!!
Rocky Mountain Sheep beside the road at lower elevations.
This is awesome! Biking like a true Canadian through the snow!
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