Fires, Tires, 'n Bears Eh? Ooh YeyyaahhH!!- Trip Report
- Thread starter Blackdawg
- Start date
prerunner221
Adventurer
Usually wordy is a bad thing, but your trip report is great. You're a natural story teller. Again,great photos and trip.
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
Thanks for reading!
Well thats always nice to here haha I never really like it myself when its wordy but enjoy telling the little details because in truth, thats what makes the trips so fun and special. So glad they aren't overly boring!
Thanks for reading!
Started reading your threads on TW years ago, good to see you guys over here.
How wide is the outside of tire measurement on Frankenstein? Total Chaos lists 3.5" per side as their widest kit, but your tires come way out, even with aftermarket fenders.
Great pics man, saved a few for the desktop wallpaper
:beer:
How wide is the outside of tire measurement on Frankenstein? Total Chaos lists 3.5" per side as their widest kit, but your tires come way out, even with aftermarket fenders.
Great pics man, saved a few for the desktop wallpaper
:beer:
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
Thanks for reading! Always great to hear it is inspiring.
Yea I started posting them here too since i figured the people here would enjoy it as well.
All LT kits for 1st gen tacomas are 3.5'' wider per side, my MCM kit included. Only the XLT kit by Solo is 4.5'' and still 4wd anyways. Otherwise there are race kits and stuff for prerunners and things.
Frank is wide though, partly due to the 3.75'' BS wheels and 12.5'' wide tires. The Fiberwerx 4.5'' fenders..dont..really..work though haha as you mentioned. He is a wide truck. But never has stopped me yet, went through some places this august in Alberta that i thought would be an issue but was fine. Usually if width is an issue Frank just drives over it..lol
Thanks! We love taking photos of the trips. Makes it fun to enjoy later.
Will have the next chapter up tomorrow!
Climberclimb
Observer
Looking forward to the next chapter. You are a great story teller, keep it up! Cheers
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
Fires, Tires, n Bears eh?
Chapter 4: A Towfer!
Chapter 4: A Towfer!
We awoke the next morning all wanting to stay in bed. It was still raining and hadn't stopped for a minute once since starting up 15 hours ago. Everything was soaked and we postponed as long as possible with having to deal with our soaked tents.
We said a fond farewell to our Canadian companions. And hit the trail, the rain putting a dismal mood on the trek.
FTnBE?-43.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrAfter a short drive, we finally found Falcon hill. One of the obstacles our camp mates had talked up all night long as being pretty hard.
The only thing that made it hard was the damn rain. Grip was hard to lock down and I had to back down for a second attempt before finding and making it up the right line.
IMG_0021 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0023 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0024 by mike digirat, on FlickrNow granted, photos don't do this small hill justice but it really wasn't awful and rather fun. Once the correct line had been found. Timmy and mike popped right over it.
FTnBE?-37.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0028 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE?-39.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrAs you can see, it is quite wet. We all took it as a small victory and knew that this trail would not be hard at all after doing that. But it would be very fun!
FTnBE?-40.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0030 by mike digirat, on FlickrThe rain was still coming down but the rate and slowed enough that we could now at least enjoy taking some photos of the large washed out areas of the trail that make for fun driving and photo posting.
IMG_0033 by mike digirat, on FlickrEwww...gooey.. haha
IMG_0037 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0040 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0043 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0046 by mike digirat, on FlickrI particularly enjoyed the washouts. Not very common to experience stuff like this in the rocky desert trails I'm used too.
Plus who doesn't love a good flex out?
FTnBE?-46.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-47.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-50.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-51.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWe really started to enjoy this fun trail. Even with the constant drizzle of rain.
I quite liked this hill, was curious to see how my front end looked after watching Mike and Timmy three wheel pretty hard in this spot. Mike even had to get on the skinny pedal to get out of the muddy bottom.
FTnBE?-52.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-54.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-57.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-58.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
The rain had finally slowed to a slow dribble and the temp was rising enough to only have one jacket on. But I still was amazed at the water. 18Ish hours of rain. Incredible.
FTnBE?-60.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
By now it was time for lunch and we happened to make it to Loadstone lake right them. Which luckily had a nice picnic table. Shame it was wet. But we made do and enjoyed the view of the lake while we ate.
IMG_0076 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE?-60.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-64.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0072 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0074 by mike digirat, on Flickr
By now though the rain had finally let up. Only an occasional misting. This was a relief to me, rain can be such a debby downer! From the lake, we wound our way through the trees heading down a mountain towards Coalmont. A while later, the tree broke. Or rather where logged! Despite that, though, it was a pretty scene that we all wanted to capture.
FTnBE?-66.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-68.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0083 by mike digirat, on Flickr
And then it was over, we were back on a maintained logging road. What a fun trail though. It was obvious why it was so popular and on everyone's list to run. I can only echo all those recommendations! Even in the monsoon that we drove through while on it, the trail was still fun and rewarding. Even with the storm's aftermath, the scene the clouds painted with the overcast lighting was worth it.
FTnBE?-69.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
From there we bombed down the smooth road encountering only a jeep on the way out. When the dirt ran out, tires had to be aired up. Where I realized something not so good about my OBA. My 20lb CO2 bottle was running low, which I found odd as I had just filled it and not used it as much.
Needless to say, my air compressor friends didn't let that one slide by without a snide remark or two.
FTnBE-3.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
We now set off to continue our plan we had made around the camp fire with our new Canadian friends to head to Molybdenite Peak. But first, we had to drive the Rail bed which was leftover from the Nicola, Kamloops and Similkameen Railway.
Apparently, this railroad track system was meant for easy transport of coal and people. The tracks were drawn up and funding passed in 1891. Construction didn't start until 1905 though as the original charters never followed through, but coal revived the charter and in 1907 the first train shipments started. But it pretty much went downhill from there. The mountainous area meant horrible weather and steep grades and plowing through areas with 39' of snow average meant lots of lines were frequently closed. The Coquihalla line came to a close in 1959 and was abandoned in 1961. With the completion of the Hope-Princeton Highway in 1949 meant fewer passengers to ride and the KVR line's last train made it's last trip in 1964 and in 1973 all trains were just abandoned.
In 1991, a hundred years later, all the tracks were pulled up in the area.
Which leads to the Rail beds we had been recommended to drive on and after some hunting we found it.
FTnBE-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Now, this is a spot I really wish we had taken more time on to photograph. I mean, how often do you get to drive on a rail bed over a hundred years old?
We didn't though. It was smooth and straight and just down right fun! I could not contain myself and floored it. It was awesome, there was nothing but beautiful wild Canada landscape in a large canyon and there we were on a flattish road that was 10' above the ground from all its surroundings.
It was surreal.
“Holy **** dude,” said Mike over the radio, “I'm at 65mph trying to keep up with you and you're still pulling on me.”
“YAAAHOOOO!!!!” I yelled.
There were also pot holes filled with water which just added to the fun. And according to Mike he would have given anything to get a photo of what he was about to witness.
I was bombing along when the potholes became one large hole and thought what the hell.
KABLOOOSH!!!!!
A tsunami was suddenly surrounding me and I quckly tapped the brakes and slapped on the wipers.
Devin and I exploded into laughter and soon Mike came over the raido, laughing himself.
“Holy crap man. That wave was completely over the top of your entire rig” he said histarically.
But then..
It ended.
We where suddenly in the town of Tulameen and driving though it.
On the rail bed.
How cool is that. We stopped at an old water fill station to snap some photos, the only evidence of my dunking.
FTnBE-6.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-9.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Still enjoying the fact wewhere in a town on an old rail bed we continued down the..bed.
Which crossed the main highway and then things changed. It wasn't very bed looking and there was a down tree..
FTnBE-10.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Not wanting to get on the highway, I jumped out and got enough of the tree out of the way for us to squeeze by.
Only to find yet another obstacle in our way.
FTnBE-13.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-14.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0090 by mike digirat, on Flickr
Hmm..something tells me that my chainsaw isn't going to cut that down. And maybe we aren't even supposed to be on here.
Which meant we had to turn around and get on the highways.
Easier said than done, though, as it was kind of a tight section.
FTnBE-12.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Luckily there was a sort of wider spot a bit further back and after performing the classic art of the 100 point turn, we retreated to the highway.
FTnBE-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
We jumped onto the highway and after a while, we had to air up again. Devin even caught a glimpse of another black bear while we looked for a spot to pull into.
FTnBE-15.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Then we hit the road and headed north to Merrit. We then hopped onto the Nicola highway, or the Merrit-Spences bridge highway, with our destination of Lytton nearing.
FTnBE-16.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-60.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrBy now it was time for lunch and we happened to make it to Loadstone lake right them. Which luckily had a nice picnic table. Shame it was wet. But we made do and enjoyed the view of the lake while we ate.
IMG_0076 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE?-60.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-64.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0072 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0074 by mike digirat, on FlickrBy now though the rain had finally let up. Only an occasional misting. This was a relief to me, rain can be such a debby downer! From the lake, we wound our way through the trees heading down a mountain towards Coalmont. A while later, the tree broke. Or rather where logged! Despite that, though, it was a pretty scene that we all wanted to capture.
FTnBE?-66.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE?-68.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0083 by mike digirat, on FlickrAnd then it was over, we were back on a maintained logging road. What a fun trail though. It was obvious why it was so popular and on everyone's list to run. I can only echo all those recommendations! Even in the monsoon that we drove through while on it, the trail was still fun and rewarding. Even with the storm's aftermath, the scene the clouds painted with the overcast lighting was worth it.
FTnBE?-69.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrFrom there we bombed down the smooth road encountering only a jeep on the way out. When the dirt ran out, tires had to be aired up. Where I realized something not so good about my OBA. My 20lb CO2 bottle was running low, which I found odd as I had just filled it and not used it as much.
Needless to say, my air compressor friends didn't let that one slide by without a snide remark or two.
FTnBE-3.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWe now set off to continue our plan we had made around the camp fire with our new Canadian friends to head to Molybdenite Peak. But first, we had to drive the Rail bed which was leftover from the Nicola, Kamloops and Similkameen Railway.
Apparently, this railroad track system was meant for easy transport of coal and people. The tracks were drawn up and funding passed in 1891. Construction didn't start until 1905 though as the original charters never followed through, but coal revived the charter and in 1907 the first train shipments started. But it pretty much went downhill from there. The mountainous area meant horrible weather and steep grades and plowing through areas with 39' of snow average meant lots of lines were frequently closed. The Coquihalla line came to a close in 1959 and was abandoned in 1961. With the completion of the Hope-Princeton Highway in 1949 meant fewer passengers to ride and the KVR line's last train made it's last trip in 1964 and in 1973 all trains were just abandoned.
In 1991, a hundred years later, all the tracks were pulled up in the area.
Which leads to the Rail beds we had been recommended to drive on and after some hunting we found it.
FTnBE-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrNow, this is a spot I really wish we had taken more time on to photograph. I mean, how often do you get to drive on a rail bed over a hundred years old?
We didn't though. It was smooth and straight and just down right fun! I could not contain myself and floored it. It was awesome, there was nothing but beautiful wild Canada landscape in a large canyon and there we were on a flattish road that was 10' above the ground from all its surroundings.
It was surreal.
“Holy **** dude,” said Mike over the radio, “I'm at 65mph trying to keep up with you and you're still pulling on me.”
“YAAAHOOOO!!!!” I yelled.
There were also pot holes filled with water which just added to the fun. And according to Mike he would have given anything to get a photo of what he was about to witness.
I was bombing along when the potholes became one large hole and thought what the hell.
KABLOOOSH!!!!!
A tsunami was suddenly surrounding me and I quckly tapped the brakes and slapped on the wipers.
Devin and I exploded into laughter and soon Mike came over the raido, laughing himself.
“Holy crap man. That wave was completely over the top of your entire rig” he said histarically.
But then..
It ended.
We where suddenly in the town of Tulameen and driving though it.
On the rail bed.
How cool is that. We stopped at an old water fill station to snap some photos, the only evidence of my dunking.
FTnBE-6.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-9.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrStill enjoying the fact wewhere in a town on an old rail bed we continued down the..bed.
Which crossed the main highway and then things changed. It wasn't very bed looking and there was a down tree..
FTnBE-10.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrNot wanting to get on the highway, I jumped out and got enough of the tree out of the way for us to squeeze by.
Only to find yet another obstacle in our way.
FTnBE-13.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-14.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0090 by mike digirat, on FlickrHmm..something tells me that my chainsaw isn't going to cut that down. And maybe we aren't even supposed to be on here.
Which meant we had to turn around and get on the highways.
Easier said than done, though, as it was kind of a tight section.
FTnBE-12.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrLuckily there was a sort of wider spot a bit further back and after performing the classic art of the 100 point turn, we retreated to the highway.
FTnBE-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWe jumped onto the highway and after a while, we had to air up again. Devin even caught a glimpse of another black bear while we looked for a spot to pull into.
FTnBE-15.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrThen we hit the road and headed north to Merrit. We then hopped onto the Nicola highway, or the Merrit-Spences bridge highway, with our destination of Lytton nearing.
FTnBE-16.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
But not soon enough.
It was apparent that we would need to camp before getting there and we were not going to make it to Moly. Should be easy enough to find a spot I figured as we were along a river which had a lot of access roads or so it seemed.
Turns out they weren't exactly public.
A lot was marked as private and come to find a lot was land owned by the First Peoples of Canada tribes.
As evening approached though we were getting slightly desperate and began driving down a few roads only to realize they were roads to houses.
Finally, I spotted what looked like the rail bed we had been on earlier. And indeed it was. I figured, what the hell, we could camp on it? So we pulled off on the next road to go look.
Sadly, the rail bed looked to go right through some people's driveway it appeared. There was a woman holding a young child and a young girl on the porch of the house, they looked to be cooking dinner.
Mike and Timmy decided to go down the road but we knew it was a futile effort.
“Why not just ask them if we can go over there?” I asked.
“Go for it” replied Mike. He wasn't the most approaching person in most situations.
But screw it. I got out of the truck and approached the lady.
“Excuse me, we are looking for a place to camp and are wondering if we can drive down the old rail bed to look for a spot?” I asked her.
She said she would ask her husband and went into the house to get him.
A man came back out as well a few other children and he walked off the porch to come talk to me.
“Hello, my name is Landon,” he said with a smile.
“Pleasure to meet you, I'm Monte” I replied.
We went on to have a lovely conversation. I explained where we were from, by now Timmy and Mike's had both pulled up by my truck, and what we were doing. Once again I asked if we could go camp over in the small area the rail bed led too.
Landon graciously allowed us to drive over there and camp along the river.
“I'll just call the neighbor down the river to let him know you'll be there for the night,” he said.
He also was full of suggestions of place to go check out if we had the time. And told us of a nice little clearing in the field of sagebrush off the rail bed where his kids play.
I promised we would keep the spot clean and not leave any trash or cut any trees or anything. He smiled and shook my hand and wished us a nice night and trip.
“Well, that worked out great, follow me guys,” I said over the CB.
The spot was awesome.
With sagebrush almost as tall as our trucks in places, it was a jungle nearly with plenty of privacy. The spot we found fit our truck perfectly and setup camp for the night.
FTnBE-17.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0093x by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0095x by mike digirat, on Flickr.
IMG_0099 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0103 by mike digirat, on Flickr
It was here I felt a tad reminiscent of my home. The river valley was very similar to several areas around Wyoming. The colors and ecosystem seemed identical. Felt right at home for me.
After eating dinner, we enjoyed the quiet area eternally grateful to Landon and his gracious act to allow us to stay here. Sometimes it's not about the places you go so much as it is the people you meet. And we had met some fantastic people on this trip so far.
We went to bed with the northern lights peaking out over the mountain top. Ready to tackle Moly the next day.
FTnBE-18.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
We awoke the next morning, still enjoying our surroundings of the river valley.
Tents on top of sagebrush
IMG_0104 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0106x by mike digirat, on Flickr
We packed up and made sure we left nothing behind. As we passed the house we gave a friendly wave and shouted our thanks from the trucks. The family responded with waves.
IMG_0109 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0107 by mike digirat, on Flickr
Still a ways to go yet, we set off down the highway till we hit the Trans Canada Highway and took it south. The highway parallels the huge Thompson River. I can't imagine what this thing looks like in the spring with all the run off in full swing. Needless to say, this valley blew us away and we stopped frequently to snap photos. We saw many places where you could go rafting and I imagine it would be a blast.
FTnBE-20.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-21.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-22.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0116 by mike digirat, on Flickr
We made it to Lytton though and stopped to refuel and restock food supplies. Timmy found free Wifi and found a GPS track to Moly to ensure we wouldn't get lost. With that, we set off to the ferry to cross the mighty Frasier River, which the Thompson flowed into. It was huge.
The ferry, however, was not huge.
FTnBE-24.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
It was a simple cable guided two car river ferry. But still looked fun! Plus, thanks to the gasoline taxes, or petrol, all ferry where free in Canada. Considering all the lakes and rivers that run throughout the region, I'm sure everyone is thankful for that.
Mike and Timmy went first as I stayed and watched them cross.
FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-3.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0123 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0125 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0128 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
It was apparent that we would need to camp before getting there and we were not going to make it to Moly. Should be easy enough to find a spot I figured as we were along a river which had a lot of access roads or so it seemed.
Turns out they weren't exactly public.
A lot was marked as private and come to find a lot was land owned by the First Peoples of Canada tribes.
As evening approached though we were getting slightly desperate and began driving down a few roads only to realize they were roads to houses.
Finally, I spotted what looked like the rail bed we had been on earlier. And indeed it was. I figured, what the hell, we could camp on it? So we pulled off on the next road to go look.
Sadly, the rail bed looked to go right through some people's driveway it appeared. There was a woman holding a young child and a young girl on the porch of the house, they looked to be cooking dinner.
Mike and Timmy decided to go down the road but we knew it was a futile effort.
“Why not just ask them if we can go over there?” I asked.
“Go for it” replied Mike. He wasn't the most approaching person in most situations.
But screw it. I got out of the truck and approached the lady.
“Excuse me, we are looking for a place to camp and are wondering if we can drive down the old rail bed to look for a spot?” I asked her.
She said she would ask her husband and went into the house to get him.
A man came back out as well a few other children and he walked off the porch to come talk to me.
“Hello, my name is Landon,” he said with a smile.
“Pleasure to meet you, I'm Monte” I replied.
We went on to have a lovely conversation. I explained where we were from, by now Timmy and Mike's had both pulled up by my truck, and what we were doing. Once again I asked if we could go camp over in the small area the rail bed led too.
Landon graciously allowed us to drive over there and camp along the river.
“I'll just call the neighbor down the river to let him know you'll be there for the night,” he said.
He also was full of suggestions of place to go check out if we had the time. And told us of a nice little clearing in the field of sagebrush off the rail bed where his kids play.
I promised we would keep the spot clean and not leave any trash or cut any trees or anything. He smiled and shook my hand and wished us a nice night and trip.
“Well, that worked out great, follow me guys,” I said over the CB.
The spot was awesome.
With sagebrush almost as tall as our trucks in places, it was a jungle nearly with plenty of privacy. The spot we found fit our truck perfectly and setup camp for the night.
FTnBE-17.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0093x by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0095x by mike digirat, on Flickr.
IMG_0099 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0103 by mike digirat, on FlickrIt was here I felt a tad reminiscent of my home. The river valley was very similar to several areas around Wyoming. The colors and ecosystem seemed identical. Felt right at home for me.
After eating dinner, we enjoyed the quiet area eternally grateful to Landon and his gracious act to allow us to stay here. Sometimes it's not about the places you go so much as it is the people you meet. And we had met some fantastic people on this trip so far.
We went to bed with the northern lights peaking out over the mountain top. Ready to tackle Moly the next day.
FTnBE-18.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWe awoke the next morning, still enjoying our surroundings of the river valley.
Tents on top of sagebrush
IMG_0104 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0106x by mike digirat, on FlickrWe packed up and made sure we left nothing behind. As we passed the house we gave a friendly wave and shouted our thanks from the trucks. The family responded with waves.
IMG_0109 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0107 by mike digirat, on FlickrStill a ways to go yet, we set off down the highway till we hit the Trans Canada Highway and took it south. The highway parallels the huge Thompson River. I can't imagine what this thing looks like in the spring with all the run off in full swing. Needless to say, this valley blew us away and we stopped frequently to snap photos. We saw many places where you could go rafting and I imagine it would be a blast.
FTnBE-20.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-21.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-22.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0116 by mike digirat, on FlickrWe made it to Lytton though and stopped to refuel and restock food supplies. Timmy found free Wifi and found a GPS track to Moly to ensure we wouldn't get lost. With that, we set off to the ferry to cross the mighty Frasier River, which the Thompson flowed into. It was huge.
The ferry, however, was not huge.
FTnBE-24.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrIt was a simple cable guided two car river ferry. But still looked fun! Plus, thanks to the gasoline taxes, or petrol, all ferry where free in Canada. Considering all the lakes and rivers that run throughout the region, I'm sure everyone is thankful for that.
Mike and Timmy went first as I stayed and watched them cross.
FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-3.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0123 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0125 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0128 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
Exciting! I ran back to Frankenstein ready to jump on!
FTnBE-29.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
But nothing happened.
The ferry just stayed over there.
“What the hell are they going to come get me?” I radioed.
“Haha! Was nice knowing ya buddy!” jeer Timmy.
The I ready the sign.
FTnBE-30.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
12:45-1:00 Pm – Coffee break
Well, I'm no coffee drinker myself and I don't know who drinks coffee at 12:45pm but whatever.
Devin and I broke out the sandwiches while we waited as did Mike and Timmy.
1pm came, the ferry loaded up two more cars and came to get me.
IMG_0130 by mike digirat, on Flickr
I went solo across, though.
IMG_0137 by mike digirat, on Flickr
Whoo! Such a tourist!
IMG_0144 by mike digirat, on Flickr
Thank you ferry men! They worked like a fine oiled machine
IMG_0149 by mike digirat, on Flickr
And with that, once again on dirt roads, we set off up the Frasier River valley on Spencer Road. It was spectacular.
IMG_0156 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-31.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-32.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0157 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-33.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-34.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
We drove by many houses in the part, what a great place to live. I'm sure winter is harsh but wow. What a place.
Eventually, Timmy GPS told us to leave the main road and we squeezed up a small canyon where some of the best-looking water flowed from a creek. And started to climb.
The road is very easy to aside from being just a tad rough. Although at one point it tried to swallow us up.
FTnBE-5.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-6.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
We broke through and area though which I can only think was logged at one point due to all of the small trees. It made for quite a lovely scene, though.
FTnBE-7.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Around here I had already started think of a title for our trip. Which is not normal for me. I usually wait until it's done so the main features can inspire some sort of name.
“Hey guys, how about 'Fires, Tires, n Bears' for a title?” I said to Mike and Timmy.
“TireSSSS?? ****** man, you trying to jinx us? Only had one tire go this trip. Let's not make it more” Timmy said.
“True, just thought it was a good play on Lions, Tigers, and Bears” I grinned.
We continued to climb, the mountains becoming more and more breathtaking by the minute. This place was unreal.
FTnBE-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-7.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-29.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrBut nothing happened.
The ferry just stayed over there.
“What the hell are they going to come get me?” I radioed.
“Haha! Was nice knowing ya buddy!” jeer Timmy.
The I ready the sign.
FTnBE-30.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr12:45-1:00 Pm – Coffee break
Well, I'm no coffee drinker myself and I don't know who drinks coffee at 12:45pm but whatever.
Devin and I broke out the sandwiches while we waited as did Mike and Timmy.
1pm came, the ferry loaded up two more cars and came to get me.
IMG_0130 by mike digirat, on FlickrI went solo across, though.
IMG_0137 by mike digirat, on FlickrWhoo! Such a tourist!
IMG_0144 by mike digirat, on FlickrThank you ferry men! They worked like a fine oiled machine
IMG_0149 by mike digirat, on FlickrAnd with that, once again on dirt roads, we set off up the Frasier River valley on Spencer Road. It was spectacular.
IMG_0156 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-31.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-32.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0157 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-33.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-34.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-4.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWe drove by many houses in the part, what a great place to live. I'm sure winter is harsh but wow. What a place.
Eventually, Timmy GPS told us to leave the main road and we squeezed up a small canyon where some of the best-looking water flowed from a creek. And started to climb.
The road is very easy to aside from being just a tad rough. Although at one point it tried to swallow us up.
FTnBE-5.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-6.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWe broke through and area though which I can only think was logged at one point due to all of the small trees. It made for quite a lovely scene, though.
FTnBE-7.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrAround here I had already started think of a title for our trip. Which is not normal for me. I usually wait until it's done so the main features can inspire some sort of name.
“Hey guys, how about 'Fires, Tires, n Bears' for a title?” I said to Mike and Timmy.
“TireSSSS?? ****** man, you trying to jinx us? Only had one tire go this trip. Let's not make it more” Timmy said.
“True, just thought it was a good play on Lions, Tigers, and Bears” I grinned.
We continued to climb, the mountains becoming more and more breathtaking by the minute. This place was unreal.
FTnBE-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-2.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-7.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
Summer was starting to retreat here already and the colors just added to the beauty.
FTnBE-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0172x by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0178 by mike digirat, on Flickr
It was around here that Timmy, who was leading, saw some rigs up at the top heading down.
The road turns into a single lane shelf road that hugs the steep shale cliff. Not wanting to cause drama of someone having to back up or down a long ways. We pulled off to wait for them to come down. After about 20-30 minutes they finally passed us. Though did not stop to tell us if there were more coming.
We hadn't seen any other vehicles all day and we hadn't seen any other than the 4 that just passed us.
It's always a gamble on these kinds of roads but one I was willing to take and took the lead to get to the top.
The views just got better and better.
IMG_0181 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0186 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-9.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-10.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
This road didn't really have switchbacks like most peak top roads. It only had two really. The sections between the two turns where very very long though with lots of blind sections. Which meant no room if we encountered another vehicle going down.
But we quickly forgot about that. I mean, wouldn't you?
FTnBE-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Even seeing the rigs we just passed far down below in the distance didn't keep the thought present.
IMG_0189 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0193 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-13.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
This was the only sharp corner on the whole road. So very doable for basic 4x4 rigs.
FTnBE-14.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0195 by mike digirat, on Flickr
Shortly after that, we rise up above the tree line and really, anything green line. Not much grows up here this high. And we finally got our first glimpse of the other side.
IMG_0198 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0200 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0201 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0209 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-15.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-17.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
The road eventually dead ends. And it's a short climb on foot to the top. And well worth it.
IMG_0227 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-18.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-19.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-20.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0220 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-21.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-8.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0172x by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0178 by mike digirat, on FlickrIt was around here that Timmy, who was leading, saw some rigs up at the top heading down.
The road turns into a single lane shelf road that hugs the steep shale cliff. Not wanting to cause drama of someone having to back up or down a long ways. We pulled off to wait for them to come down. After about 20-30 minutes they finally passed us. Though did not stop to tell us if there were more coming.
We hadn't seen any other vehicles all day and we hadn't seen any other than the 4 that just passed us.
It's always a gamble on these kinds of roads but one I was willing to take and took the lead to get to the top.
The views just got better and better.
IMG_0181 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0186 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-9.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-10.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrThis road didn't really have switchbacks like most peak top roads. It only had two really. The sections between the two turns where very very long though with lots of blind sections. Which meant no room if we encountered another vehicle going down.
But we quickly forgot about that. I mean, wouldn't you?
FTnBE-11.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrEven seeing the rigs we just passed far down below in the distance didn't keep the thought present.
IMG_0189 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0193 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-13.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrThis was the only sharp corner on the whole road. So very doable for basic 4x4 rigs.
FTnBE-14.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0195 by mike digirat, on FlickrShortly after that, we rise up above the tree line and really, anything green line. Not much grows up here this high. And we finally got our first glimpse of the other side.
IMG_0198 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0200 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0201 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0209 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-15.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-17.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrThe road eventually dead ends. And it's a short climb on foot to the top. And well worth it.
IMG_0227 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-18.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-19.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-20.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0220 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-21.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
We could have stayed for quite a while up there. But knew that camping up there would not be a wise choice. Timmy's GPS track had a second track where there had been the only Y in the trail and it said it went up to a lake. Hoping the others we saw that day hadn't taken to the small camp spot we decided to head for the lake for the night.
After orchestrating turning around in the one spot up there that allows you the space to do so. We set off down the mountain, Timmy in front followed by me than Mike.
FTnBE-22.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0246 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-23.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0251 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0253x by mike digirat, on Flickr
We were all taking our time enjoying the sights as well as keeping a close eye on where we were going, not wanting to drive off the steep mountain. Timmy decided to make things more interesting, though.
“**** guys, I just put a hole in my front tire.” He said.
Well, damn it. Maybe I did jinx us.
I caught up to Timmy and he was already in fix it mode.
FTnBE-24.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-25.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
The tire had a small pin hole in the side wall.
“Must have been hugging the inside too much” Timmy muttered.
“What's a matter? Afraid of heights?” I teased
FTnBE-26.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
The tire was slowly dying and we all looked on the bright side again thankful it was just a tire and not something worse.
FTnBE-27.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0255 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0257 by mike digirat, on Flickr
This time Timmy was even prepared for his spare tire as last time we had changed his front passenger tire his spare rim had rubbed the caliper. Had a ¼'' spacer to deal with that now.
IMG_0258 by mike digirat, on Flickr
Nothing like jacking a truck up with a hilift so it tips down the mountain right?
FTnBE-29.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
We were making quick progress with it, though. Again, thankful it was just a tire swap.
IMG_0264 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-30.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
But as I wrestled the new tire onto the front and Timmy was packing his blow front into the back of the truck. He noticed something...
IMG_0268 by mike digirat, on Flickr
sssssssssssssss
“Oh you have got to be freaking kidding me!” he yelled.
Double ****..jinx complete.
FTnBE-32.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-31.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Must have really been hugging the inside because the same fate had happened to his rear passenger tire.
This posed an interesting scenario. But one that worked out rather well. Timmy ran 33x10.5r15s KM2s.
I run 35x12.5r15s so loaning my spare wasn't really an option.
Mike, however, ran 33x10.5r15s.
Major crisis averted with that alone. We knew we had enough tires to get Timmy down at least, and him being the lead truck, that was important considering we couldn't even go around him.
Mike set off to take off his spare while Timmy and I tried to deal with getting the rear tire off. Using the Hi-Lift off the side was not going to be an option as the rear suspension flexed too much that the truck would probably roll down the mountain before letting us put on another tire.
Jacking from the back just made the truck want to swing down the mountain, and as much as id like to think I could hold it. That wasn't happening either.
FTnBE-33.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0271 by mike digirat, on Flickr
Then Timmy had an idea to strap the axle to the frame and jacking from the side. This would keep the axle from drooping out and maybe letting us get a tire on it.
IMG_0273 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0277 by mike digirat, on Flickr
After orchestrating turning around in the one spot up there that allows you the space to do so. We set off down the mountain, Timmy in front followed by me than Mike.
FTnBE-22.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0246 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-23.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0251 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0253x by mike digirat, on FlickrWe were all taking our time enjoying the sights as well as keeping a close eye on where we were going, not wanting to drive off the steep mountain. Timmy decided to make things more interesting, though.
“**** guys, I just put a hole in my front tire.” He said.
Well, damn it. Maybe I did jinx us.
I caught up to Timmy and he was already in fix it mode.
FTnBE-24.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-25.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrThe tire had a small pin hole in the side wall.
“Must have been hugging the inside too much” Timmy muttered.
“What's a matter? Afraid of heights?” I teased
FTnBE-26.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrThe tire was slowly dying and we all looked on the bright side again thankful it was just a tire and not something worse.
FTnBE-27.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0255 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0257 by mike digirat, on FlickrThis time Timmy was even prepared for his spare tire as last time we had changed his front passenger tire his spare rim had rubbed the caliper. Had a ¼'' spacer to deal with that now.
IMG_0258 by mike digirat, on FlickrNothing like jacking a truck up with a hilift so it tips down the mountain right?
FTnBE-29.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWe were making quick progress with it, though. Again, thankful it was just a tire swap.
IMG_0264 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-30.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrBut as I wrestled the new tire onto the front and Timmy was packing his blow front into the back of the truck. He noticed something...
IMG_0268 by mike digirat, on Flickrsssssssssssssss
“Oh you have got to be freaking kidding me!” he yelled.
Double ****..jinx complete.
FTnBE-32.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-31.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrMust have really been hugging the inside because the same fate had happened to his rear passenger tire.
This posed an interesting scenario. But one that worked out rather well. Timmy ran 33x10.5r15s KM2s.
I run 35x12.5r15s so loaning my spare wasn't really an option.
Mike, however, ran 33x10.5r15s.
Major crisis averted with that alone. We knew we had enough tires to get Timmy down at least, and him being the lead truck, that was important considering we couldn't even go around him.
Mike set off to take off his spare while Timmy and I tried to deal with getting the rear tire off. Using the Hi-Lift off the side was not going to be an option as the rear suspension flexed too much that the truck would probably roll down the mountain before letting us put on another tire.
Jacking from the back just made the truck want to swing down the mountain, and as much as id like to think I could hold it. That wasn't happening either.
FTnBE-33.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
IMG_0271 by mike digirat, on FlickrThen Timmy had an idea to strap the axle to the frame and jacking from the side. This would keep the axle from drooping out and maybe letting us get a tire on it.
IMG_0273 by mike digirat, on Flickr
IMG_0277 by mike digirat, on Flickr
Blackdawg
Dr. Frankenstein
We ended up having to use a beefier strap but it did work!
FTnBE-34.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
Since we were using Mike's spare, and for the second year in the row Timmy has having to borrow it we put Mike's spare up front since we wouldn't have to use the spacer and Timmy's went on the rear.
He now had 3 different wheels and tires on his truck haha!
FTnBE-35.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
With the sunlight fading, we set off down the mountain thankful that we had been able to make things work and that no one had decided to drive up while we were stranded on the road.
FTnBE-36.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
We came to the junction to head up to the lake where Timmy then stopped to bring up a thought.
He did not like the fact that if either he or Mike go another flat, we were seriously screwed. And voted to no go up to the lake as we didn't know the condition of the road.
I disagreed. I did not want to camp on the main road. I wanted to go to the lake. Yes, it was a risk, but considering the condition of the roads in the area I knew we would be fine. We could make it work if one of the rigs needed to be left behind for a day.
Timmy didn't like that but reluctantly decided to follow me up to the lake with Mike in tow.
So
worth
it.
The road was easy and the lake was pristine. And I mean PRESTINE.
IMG_0283 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-37.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-38.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
With the fading light though we setup camp and made dinner. As well as some friendly banter. The spot was small but we were all able to squeeze in.
IMG_0281 by mike digirat, on Flickr
What an amazing day it had been. The beauty alone was hard to believe. Heck, the place we were camped at right now was unmatched by almost any other location we had ever been save for Goose Lake in Montana.
But we still had a large problem.
Tires.
Timmy had to get his tires replaced before we could do any more exploring. So out came the maps to figure our best guess for a place that would stock the right size.
Pickings were slim with anything nearby as we were in a fairly isolated region. Mike suggested continuing north up the Frasier River valley to Lillooet. If we were unlucky there, we could shoot over towards Kamloops which would be our best bet for finding tires.
Game plan set. We enjoyed the rest of our evening around our propane fire once again fueled by the fact we had survived yet another sticky situation. Little did we know our lucky was really going to change tomorrow.
FTnBE-34.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrSince we were using Mike's spare, and for the second year in the row Timmy has having to borrow it
we put Mike's spare up front since we wouldn't have to use the spacer and Timmy's went on the rear. He now had 3 different wheels and tires on his truck haha!
FTnBE-35.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWith the sunlight fading, we set off down the mountain thankful that we had been able to make things work and that no one had decided to drive up while we were stranded on the road.
FTnBE-36.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWe came to the junction to head up to the lake where Timmy then stopped to bring up a thought.
He did not like the fact that if either he or Mike go another flat, we were seriously screwed. And voted to no go up to the lake as we didn't know the condition of the road.
I disagreed. I did not want to camp on the main road. I wanted to go to the lake. Yes, it was a risk, but considering the condition of the roads in the area I knew we would be fine. We could make it work if one of the rigs needed to be left behind for a day.
Timmy didn't like that but reluctantly decided to follow me up to the lake with Mike in tow.
So
worth
it.
The road was easy and the lake was pristine. And I mean PRESTINE.
IMG_0283 by mike digirat, on Flickr
FTnBE-37.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on Flickr
FTnBE-38.jpg by Monte Nickles Photos, on FlickrWith the fading light though we setup camp and made dinner. As well as some friendly banter. The spot was small but we were all able to squeeze in.
IMG_0281 by mike digirat, on FlickrWhat an amazing day it had been. The beauty alone was hard to believe. Heck, the place we were camped at right now was unmatched by almost any other location we had ever been save for Goose Lake in Montana.
But we still had a large problem.
Tires.
Timmy had to get his tires replaced before we could do any more exploring. So out came the maps to figure our best guess for a place that would stock the right size.
Pickings were slim with anything nearby as we were in a fairly isolated region. Mike suggested continuing north up the Frasier River valley to Lillooet. If we were unlucky there, we could shoot over towards Kamloops which would be our best bet for finding tires.
Game plan set. We enjoyed the rest of our evening around our propane fire once again fueled by the fact we had survived yet another sticky situation. Little did we know our lucky was really going to change tomorrow.