Tuesday, August 25, 2009 – Day 44

We had a lot to squeeze into our last day on our Cross Canada Adventure. It all started with a stop at the Nk'Mip Native Cultural Centre. An amazing centre in the middle of the desert lands of Osoyoos. Our visit started with an interpretive hike along a desert trail in the blazing sun. Right from the beginning we knew it would be interesting as the kids were warned to stay off of the rocks that lined the path. It was a possible location for the many rattlers and other snakes that can become part of the tour. Although a hot day it was not unbearable and we learned a great deal of the First Nation's history of the region. We learned about the topography, geography and plants of the region before...

Victoria, British Columbia


Day 1
Mile 0 is a popular first or last stop for any adventure that is set to cross Canada. Our adventure was no different as we parked in front of the Trans-Canada Highway's “Mile 0” marker across from the Pacific Ocean.




A visit to Victoria is not complete without a visit to the beautiful public Beacon Hill Gardens. As always our kids are drawn to the water ponds. I don't know what it is about water and kids but the water is like a magnet that draws the kids to its shores... sometimes a little too close......

The Victoria, BC to Port Angeles, Washington ferry known as the Coho or Blackball ferry has been running now for 48 years. Although it is not the most beautiful ship, it has a long history some of which include famous hit songs, of sailing into the Victoria harbour.

The ferry makes its way year-round (except for two weeks of drydock in the winter) between the two cities anywhere from two to three roundtrips daily. The Coho ferry now accepts vehicle reservations which alleviates the question as to weather or not you will make it onto the boat in the busy summer months. If you miss this ferry, it is a long 8 hours to Victoria on the only alternate route using the BC Ferries.

The ride on the Coho is comforable, complete...