There is so much to love about the West Coast of Canada and as wonderful as the sights (and beer) have been, the best part for me is the people. Friends, family and family of friends, it didn’t matter. Whether it was planned or, like most of the trip, spur of the moment, we were welcomed with open arms to each place we visited. Everyone knew we were coming out but not exactly when. A day or two before arriving I would message to let them know we were going to be in their area soon.

YAHK

Our first stop was, Yahk (pronounced Yack), a tiny town close to the US border. Coming from the states it was a natural initial destination. Here we stayed at my long lost cousin and her husband’s place. Though their handsome German shepherd-husky, Remi, and Harley did not hit it off as well as hoped we had an absolutely great time.

We enjoyed a show by the Northern Lights (sorry, no pictures) while sitting around the fire on a Saturday night. We went, unsuccessfully, panning for gold and learned a great deal about the BC claims. We also took a hike out to Perry Creek. It swung by an old mining shaft, rich with history. The real sight, however, was the waterfall at the end of the trail. My cousin and I, always adventurers, wanted a view from the top. The incline was steep, the branches were dead, the rocks were loose and the rope was worn. After reaching the top, (as far as we decided to go) with absolutely no view whatsoever, we quickly realized that getting up was the easy part. The decline ended in a mini-rock slide, initiated by a poor footing choice on my part, resulting in a boulder launching itself towards Matt. His lightning fast reflexes allowed him to lift up his foot with precision as the rock rolled under and into the river. I will add this to my list of poor life decisions.

SQUAMISH

Next stop… Squamish! For a couple of nights we lived the dream! One of my best friend’s Aunt and Uncle have the most beautiful home and property on a hill overlooking the mountains. There were spectacular walking trails, literally, in their backyard. We were absolutely grateful for our stay with them and even hit up some suggested day trips while we were there. We checked out the Wonderland Hiking/Mountain Biking Trail and Anderson Beach on the Squamish River. Just a small sample of what the area has to offer. Their sweetheart of a dog, Maggie, kept the cougars and bears away while we all had a campfire. Harley pretended that he was being useful by following her lead. We were able to make it out to our first puppy free dinner and even dropped $10 at the casino. I know… I know… big spenders! The star lit hot tub topped it of. Life goals! Definitely could have just spent the rest of our trip here but, alas, we needed to move on. Our trailer stayed in the driveway and we headed over to Vancouver Island where we were greeted with more outstanding hospitality.

COWICHAN BAY

Our next host was the daughter of a good family friend. Her paintings graced the walls of a B&B that is very close to my heart. Having seen many photos and hearing warming stories of her personality it was as if we had already met. I was excited for the chance to finally do so. We visited her and her husband at their organic farm on Vancouver Island. As an artist and activist she and her partner have been creating an environment and gallery display to encourage native bee conservation. Their acreage was a habitat blooming with flowers, herbs, and trees with a greater purpose to bring the bees back to the island. They are truly talking the talk and walking the walk. It was absolutely inspiring. Not to mention the amazing woodworking projects on the go! Dinner out at Craig Street Brewing Co. in Duncan had the best burger. Red Hot and Blue for the win! (Matt’s meal… but I had a bite, and it really was fantastic.) We spent the night in a two-bedroom trailer with pull-outs! – A nice upgrade from our bachelor. Spoiled with a patio-top pancake breakfast, garden grown strawberries included, we were sad to leave so soon and have promised to be back again!

COMOX VALLEY

Our last stop before heading out to Tofino was in the Comox Valley. And old friend from Sea Cadets has found himself in Courtney. We were grateful to have someone share all the local places with us on our short visit. It’s hard to say what the best was. We strolled through Stotan Falls and had delicious pizza at a local brew-pub. Enjoyed the Ripple Rock trail in Campbell River and desperately found lunch at the only place open on a Sunday. With great food and drinks, the White Whale did not disappoint. The patio weather was spot on and I even found a pearl in my raw oyster. Three cheers to a tasty, thirst-quenching, wheat beer, Forest Fog, by Cumberland Brewing Co. On our way back through (from Tofino) he met us for a stroll though Cathedral Grove and a visit to Goats on Roof, market in Coombs. There was a goat… however… he was not on the roof.

A huge, heartfelt, thank you to those who helped make our trip amazing!