Minds Matter Tour is Graham’s 8 day, 1,500 km, self-supported cycling tour for the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation – Child & Adolescent Mental Health and the Family Room at Victoria Hospital in Prince Albert, SK (Ronald McDonald House Charities-SK). Please consider donating to these two difference-making charities.
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What a nice camping spot at Maycroft on the shores of the Old Man River. Thanks again to Lorisa and Flash (our schnoodle) for driving the two hours there, setting up camp, making dinner, and doing everything to make Day 1 a success.
Also, thanks for cooking up a delicious breakfast while I reconfigured all the gear to get me through the next few days (downsizing included). Finally, I was packed, could barely lift my bike and gear and began the first challenge of the day – walking up the rough gravel road from the river valley.
Once I got moving, it was nice riding, and soon I was headed down Hwy 22 to Lundbreck Falls on the Crowsnest River. It was so hot at the falls, I needed to fnd some shade. Beautiful spot, and meditative to listen to the crashing water.
On next to Lundbreck for a lunch stop and a lot of water. I love the charm of these small towns.
Strong westerly headwinds and the need to get water in Lundbreck saw me on Hwy 3 to Pincher Creek instead of a scenic way. Minimal traffic, but I got a nail in my back tire. This meant a lot of unpscking and sitting in the heat. I was happy to get going again. On through Pincher Cr and the long climbs of the last 50 km to Waterton. Great road, with little traffic. Met a very nice couple who had cycled from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, and were on their way to the southern tip of Argentina! More information on their page at www alaskatoargentina.org.
The viewpoint overlooking the valley to Waterton was breathtaking. Finally, a downhill stretch to the Park boundary, although a headwind slowed progress. I was tired on what seemed like a long ride to camp after reaching the Park gate.
Had a late night eating some delicious pizza, enjoying a beer, and enjoying an open mic session with some locals.
Getting ready for day 3 on a hazy morning by Waterton Lake. Off to Writing on Stone Park today.
Tait family adventures 