Day Two - Here we go! - Victoria BC - Mt Walker Washington - 92km

Sunset on Mt Walker, WA

Finally we got underway today on our great cycling adventure.  We cycled into Victoria's pretty downtown harbour, past the historic Empress hotel as the rain gently began to fall near our arrival at the ferry terminal.  We were happy to be able to take the passanger ferry to Port Angeles which is only about an hour ride but world’s apart.

Dee outside the Empress Hotel, Victoria, BC

We disembarked to rain and gray skies covering the stunning Olympic Mountain range.  Our route would find us in their shadows for much of the day and we were happy to find the rain stopped and blue sky appeared shortly into the ride. 

This part of the US 101 highway could best be described as ‘forgettable’ for the first 30 miles.  A busy four lane highway with endless traffic.  No without an opportunity to explore.  Thankfully we were able to get some respite at one popular West Coast entities -   the drive thru espresso bar.  Small, cottage like establishments catering to peoples’ caffeine fix and we decided we would give it a try, preferring to actually stop in and enjoy one for a few minutes.  In addition to a welcome rest it seemed to start a break in the weather and some sun in our face.

The 'Mocha' Drive Espresso Bar, Gardiner, WA

In place of the rain was sunshine and a nasty headwind we battled for the next 30k.  We alternated pulls at the front but for the first time I was a beneficiary of Dee’s draft as her panniers create quite a cut in the wind.  I don’t think she found the Bob trailer as generous as draft.

We arrived in Quilcene @ 3pm and after a quick search – of one restaurant -  decided on lunch.  A quick stop at the grocery store to buy dinner (2 bananas, take out salad, and can of soup) we headed up the day’s major climb of Mt. Walker arriving at the Falls View summit campground around 4:30.

We quickly made camp then bombed up the Mt Walker viewpoint hike – 2 miles and a 2000ft elevation gain.  Dee blazed trail and we found ourselves at the summit in 45’ with a beautiful view of the sunset and a look back at the days travels.  The second summit view offered spectacular (thud!) views of Seattle and 14,400ft Mount Rainier.  After lingering for some pictures we zipped back down the hill with darkness and a cougar watch impending. 

Back to camp where dinner quickly but enjoyably consumed – thanks to Kimmy for the bearclaw for dessert – dishes washed, teeth brushed and into the tent!  Did I mention no showers, for that matter no water at all at this campground.  Minimal living at its best.