Crossing the border
I've traveled east from Seattle several times over the years, but I’m always surprised by how completely different the ecosystem is on the other side of the Cascade mountains. Eastern Washington has some pretty stunning views, but it's virtually the opposite of the coastal region.
It took us about 6 hours to cross all the way to Idaho, where we stopped in Coeur d'Alane for the night. We arrived just before sunset and met a friend for a quick hike (and a quick dip in the lake for G and Wile E) 🥶
The following day we headed north on a route my friend recommended to Waterton National Park in Alberta, Canada. It was such a beautiful drive!
We drove along one lake for nearly an hour…I looked it up to find that it is 90 miles long!
We also came across an area of huge rocks piled everywhere…the site of the Frank Slide, where a landslide buried the town of Frank in 110 million tons of limestone rock in 1903.
We even took a mid-day break to check out a waterfall and suspension bridge. It was very cool (but Wile E wasn't so sure…until he got to actually get in the water!)
On night two, we stayed in the National Park — no, not camping — there is actually a little town with hotels, restaurants, and even private homes. I heard about this park for the first time a few weeks ago, and when I showed it to E we immediately added it to our itinerary. It's basically the Canadian side of Glacier National Park in the U.S., but less crowded and more dog-friendly.
We spent the better part of a day hiking, playing in the glacial water, and trying to keep Wile E a safe distance from the deer (they are almost as bold here as they are on Miyajima). From the car we also spotted a couple of black bears (one had two cubs!) and a moose! 🦌🐻🫎
The park also has a bison range, so we got to see them up close. (Wile E missed the bison because he was too busy looking for chipmunks 😂)
Next stop: Montana!
➡️ 2465 miles to DC ➡️
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The funniest part of the trip so far was E trying to answer really difficult question at the border, like “Where do you live?” 🤔
Hi Guys;
If you take the Northern route across country, be sure to stop in Deer Isle for at least an overnight! Before you stop and see your Gram. The island is very special. I know Wiley E would love it. There is plenty of room in the loft, and cottage. Kristian and I are here and would LOVE to see you. Safe travels.
Love Kristian and Linda
I love your adventure! The photos are beautiful!