Tofino, BC to Campbell River, BC
August 13, 2007

 

This morning we ride from Tofino back accross to Parksville and then up to Campbell River.  We will take our time and retrace the scenic highway to Port Alberni.  But before we hit the road, we'll enjoy a breakfast at the lodge and the sunrise on the beach. 

As we loaded up our bikes, we noticed the guests' rain gear hanging near the lobby.  It is a reminder that our time here in the sunshine was something rare and we were lucky.   Next to the rain gear was a genuine Hudson Bay Company point blanket.   During the fur trade era of North America, the Hudson Bay Company would trade these blankets to fur traders for their beaver pelts.  The black stripes are called "points" and represent how many pelts the blanket is worth.  This blanket is worth three and a half beaver pelts. 

The Tofino area is also known for its surfing beaches.  So I had to take a little time to stop and check out a local surf shop. 

I noticed this tree just on the outskirts of Tofino.  At first I thought this was a way that Canada protects all of its trees, and was worried California would follow suit.   But it was explained to me that this tree was a land mark that they were trying to save without relocating it. 

There was only one section of the highway between Tofino and Port Alberni that was under construction.  It was only a one-mile stretch but the loose gravel was a bit tricky.  Remote areas are the last place one wants to lose control and dump a motorcycle. 

Back in Port Alberni we had to stop for lunch and sample some more poutine.  Across the street was a little city park and in it were some larger-than-life wood carvings of the natives whale hunting. 

We rode through dense Douglas Fir parks and by beautiful lakes before reaching the city of Campbell River.  Campbell River is located on the east side of Vancouver Island about half way up the coast.  It is known as the Salmon capital of the world.   That title was earned a century ago and we took it as a challenge to eat as much salmon, and in as many different ways, as we could.  Down on the harbor we noticed a floating eatery called "Dick's".   That was all I needed and so that's where I found the best salmon and chips that I've ever had. 

If you look closely you'll see five inch holes cut in the table.   Dick's serves their fish and chips in the traditional paper wrapped style.   If you want to sit and eat it can be a problem to have to sit and hold your fish and chips.   So you just place your paper-wrapped cone of fish and chips in the hole and it is held in perfect position leaving your hands free.