We're headed to Bell 2 today, from Stewart. The name Bell 2 refers to the fact that it is the second crossing over the Bell River. Out here it is all about the basics of transportation: rivers for crossing or canoeing, mountain passes, fjords for shipping. Many of these settlements were isolated, such as Stewart. The bridge over the Nass River that connected it to the rest of continental North America was only built in 1973. Before then there was only the ocean. More than one cultural geographer has commented on how these early settlements along the rugged west coast were really islands. Something to ponder.
The trip is relatively short. When we get up to the main highway, we stop at the intersection for gas and to walk the dog.
This is our goal for the day.
Self evident: walk dog.
Pit stop for fuel. We have to calculate carefully to make it from gas to gas.
Oh the scourge of the north! It seems to be the "in" thing to go with one of these bike touring outfits. They set people off in groups of about 6, with the aid of a support vehicle (a van pulling a trailer). These bikers move like flocks of geese, only unlike geese they never look up to see the terrain they are pedaling through. It's sad really. They miss so much, and not just the incredible scenery. We run into them at the camping spots, like the one where we are at Bell 2. They cluster together in the lobby, do not smile or interact with the rest of us "locals". Last night they bunked own behind the lodge at Bell 2 in their little pup tents with their support van close by. The sign behind them said "Beware, active bear area". We shuddered.
More of the gorgeous scenery
Human interest shot.
Barbara Rick and Flossie at Bell 2 Lodge, northern BC, Canada
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