Birthday in the Mountains

July 14 to July 21, 2026 · Yoho National Park, Blue River, Helmcken Falls, Victoria

Rocky river with mountains and coniferous forest under clear blue sky.

We’d zig-zagged nearly 9,000 kilometres across Canada before reaching BC on July 16, Chey’s birthday. We played in the snow that morning, then cruised through mountain views all day.

At Blue River the next day, we took a river boat trip and got to see a bear. As we posted: “BC is so beautiful!” Helmcken Falls followed. Then Merritt, then Chilliwack, then the ferry to Vancouver Island.

Victoria brought us to 2% Jazz Coffee, where the ladies delivered what they promised: “stellar javas and great service.” We walked Old Chinatown and ended at Fisherman’s Wharf.

View from van window of mountains, forest, and alpine lake.

Waterfall cascading into pool in forested canyon with cliff walls.

Decorative lanterns hanging over street with historic building and shopfronts.