debandbartravels: Haida Gwaii

It is raining today. All day. The good thing about this is that we had the BEST cinnamon buns with raisins I've ever had in the cutest, coziest, warmest cafe one might ever find in the midst of a forest. We are learning that being open is what travelling is all about. We are currently camped on gorgeous Agate Beach on the northern-most shore of Haida Gwaii just outside of Masset. Camping here is cheap - 16$ per night. Generally this gets one access to a great beach, drinking water, and pit toilets. At this particular campground there is also an enclosed shelter with a wood stove, which we envision using once we return to our no doubt soggy site. Recently we've come to the conclusion that we need to stay at least 2 nights in one place, because tear down and set-up of camping gear can be a pain. Weather for tomorrow looks fair enough that we can hike this huge stretch of beach... so we think we'll be here 3 nights!

Ferry Prince Rupert to Queen Charlotte Island. Saw orcas and humpback whales!

Hiking into Spirit Lake - just outside of Skidegate.

Spirit Lake was pretty small, but very peaceful. We spent a fair bit of time just sitting by the lake watching 3 marvelous eagles.

We were pretty close to this beautiful bird

Big trees - there are lots of them. In a way our photos can't do them justice. The phrase "formidable forest" comes to mind. There is also lots of green and moss, moss, and more moss.

Log stairs hiking into Yakoun Lake.

Yakoun Lake near Queen Charlotte City.

Same lake - enough said.

Community Potlatch/Feast to celebrate raising of Legacy Pole on Lyell Island. At least 1000 people were fed: soups, fresh crab, salmon, halibut, crab cakes and octopus fritters. Desserts, veggies and dip, and fruit. In addition, people were invited to take food home. For all those who stayed until the end (we got there at 3, left at 9:30, end at 1:30am) as witnesses, gifts were given out.

The Pesuta shipwreck of 1928 in Naikoon Provincial Park.

Naikoon Provincial Park beach looking into Hecate Strait.

Barry having fun with some bull kelp.

Our lovely new friend Mary on her Harley. We spent 2 nights with her and hiked together to see the Pesuta. I will forever remember her quote: "you gotta' ride your ride".