We were set to meet in Vernon, BC in June and we had several keen women needing a break from their COVID routines. As we all know, COVID has had a way of interrupting most of our “PLAN A’s” and we have had to pivot to accommodate alternate plan(s) – yes, sometimes these have come in multiples.
Irrespective of the location – three Princesses – Erin, Sandy and M.C. were keen to break free and get some alone time in the great outdoors. Plan B became 2 days in the Badlands (or Honeys’ in the Hoodoo’s) and 2 days in the Mountains (Mama’s on a Mission).
Day 1 included a slightly later start but we managed to make it worth our while. We rode, got overheated and sunburned, had lunch at a Saloon and finished the day, tired but happy.
Day 2 was to be a loop, normally accomplished in the Badlands Gran Fondo but the group’s fearless (and sometimes directionally challenged) leader got the group a little lost. I know. Don’t say it. HOW CAN YOU GET LOST WHEN THERE IS ONLY ONE ROAD OUT OF TOWN?? Didn’t I say, don’t say it? Anyway – the ride was cut a bit short because we experienced some rather scary cross-winds and in the interest of not becoming road kill, we turned around and came back to Drumheller. We tested Princess M.C.’s downhill skills (and wits) and clocked some pretty impressive downhill speeds (nothing like a good tail wind). To add a little pizzazz to the morning, Princess Sandy decided to demonstrate her unwavering flat-tire changing skills while the rest of us looked on. Coffee at the Black Mountain Roasters (excellent) before heading to the hotel for a little freshening up. This lead to a terrific lunch, and some retail therapy. Ka-ching.
Day 3 was transition day and a beautiful drive from Drumheller to Canmore. We headed out through Beiseker, Irricana, Airdrie, Cochrane and then Exshaw to arrive in Canmore. A lovely meander through the backroads of this region. Spectacular, really. A little shopping to kill some time before we could check into our hotel proved that we could be successful in propping up the economy in Canmore too!
Day 4 was our trip up the Bow Valley Parkway (1A) where we didn’t encounter any bears (as seems to be the thing to do) but did happen upon some mountain goats, an eagle and several regular and e-bikes. There are so many people taking advantage of the 1A again this year as the road is closed to vehicular traffic for a nice long stretch. Young, old, in shape, in A shape – you name it, people are enjoying their bicycles on this otherwise quiet roadway. We commented many times on how lucky we are to be able to enjoy these great outdoors of our. Another reminder of how great it is to be in Canada. Princess Erin, ever the keen eye – caught a great many photos for our collection. She found herself charging up hills to get ahead or barreling from behind after taking a moment to snap a photo. The girl who tried to tell us that she wasn’t a strong cyclist has certainly proven that proclamation incorrect!
Day 5 started with a clear sky and light winds. We exited the hotel and immediately took advantage of a multiuse pathway that lead us to the Legacy Trail. Some minor bike adjustments and we were on our way. We managed to get out ahead of most other riders and had a terrific ride to Lake Minnewanka and then on to do a loop over/around Tunnel Mountain. We had a wonderful day to finish our week. Another reminder that being flexible, open and easy (not cheap), can lead to some of life’s greatest experiences. There really is something to the business of making Lemonade.
So, until next time.
LiveSplendidly!
