Leaving Jasper, Kinney Lake & arriving in Clearwater

Leaving the hostel is going to be hard. It was an absolute delight to stay there to avoid the worst of the weather (actually did get to -14 last night), and made even more satisfying when we wake up to ice formed on the outside of the window while we’re warm and toasty in a 19 degree room. Saying that I’m now sitting here in the evening with an absolute stunner of a view from the camper, we did miss Kevin dearly. He made it through the night largely unscathed, although the driver side door is still frozen shut and everything has a slight sheen of ice, but other than that it all seems shipshape. 

We’re leaving Jasper today, actually leaving the national parks altogether to embark on the return leg of our loop from Vancouver. We’re headed to the Wells Gray Provincial Park via Mount Robson today. First stop being an easy hike to Kinney Lake. We were looking at hiking the Valley of the five lakes just outside of Jasper this morning, but it was still -8 degrees so gave that a miss. Following an hours driving and a refuelling stop, Kinney Lake is an easy 4km hike from the trailhead, and well worth the journey. We found a sunny lunch spot and really did feel like we were completely cut off from civilisation for a half hour or so. Bliss. 

After an uneventful return hike we jumped back in the camper and headed for Clearwater, the gateway to the Wells Gray Provincial Park. About an hour I finally decided to try and rid my door of the ice which had so impinged it. With the effective use of a fish slice (not knowing the correct name for this kitchen utensil, which I had always referred to as a spatula, Amelia kindly illuminated me to its proper term at breakfast this morning) I finally rid my door of the ice and managed to close it properly (it was slightly ajar for the entire drive so far, very noisy). 

We’re staying at the Dutch Lake RV park in Clearwater and I would highly recommend it. Especially lots 1-3 as they literally face onto an idyllic lake. You then get the bonus of not having to get out of the car to experience the view and smugly watch as others have to brave the outdoor elements to get a good view. We may get up to see the sunrise tomorrow. Strong emphasis on the ‘May’ there.