The Road to Calgary

Last Saskatewan sunset

As we drove into Spectre, we intended on taking the cable ferry across the Red River (sadly, Google maps doesn't give it's name, but I'm assuming). Due to a small gas crisis we decided to head to the dunes and take the ferry in the morning.

Which we did. The ferry captain was amazed at our vehicle. We had just enough time to give him a tour during the tiny crossing.

Pretty quick we left Saskatchewan for Alberta. The terrain remained remarkable with beautiful farms and sprawls of lush land. To look at a map, the place has thousands of small lakes and ponds. We spotted a few irrigation contraptions, but they were as elusive as the deer.

On the ferry

One small "maybe if we come back" item -- the Dinosaur Provincial Park. It was hopping when we passed it, with lots of people walking all over the rock. The RV place across from it looked really nice, too.

Since leaving Regina, we got off the Trans-Canadian highway for lesser traveled roads. Most were paved, which didn't mean they were smooth, however. Some were gravel. Given we'd already traversed a gravel road, we were emboldened to do more. We were rewarded with better views and well maintained backroads.

Some gravel roads were smoother than paved

Calgary is a shining city. It was a windy day, which was probably why, but everything just sparkled. Our first task, as always, involved food. Russ discovered a BBQ place with rave reviews and outdoor seating, Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey. We split the brisket and turkey, with cornbread, green beans, and a watermelon salad. Wonderful food.

Calgary

Since we were near the Bow River, we took a walk, hoping to find a spot to park, set up our chairs, and hang out. No luck, but we saw a number of paddleboarders, kayakers, and tubers on the water. We started to search for points you could access the water. Once we did so, Russ started to organize for a paddle. He'd get in up river, then text me when he was out, and I'd drive to meet him. However, he realized that he no longer had a life vest. He beleived it's still in Regina, where he last paddled. We made this discovery at 6 pm, just when all the small boating businesses closed. So we took the drive to the nearest Cabella's. We'll be better prepared for the next time.

We headed west to camp in the RV lot at the Stoney Nakoda Resort and Casino. Should be a chilly night, since we've started the climb over the Canadian Rockies.