As we pack this morning and prepare to trek the Cabot trail, the song: “On the Road Again” is playing through my mind. Today we are fifteen minutes quicker in pulling down and packing the van than we were yesterday. This is no mean feat but after ten days we are definitely becoming more efficient at the task. Apart from shopping for essential supplies in New Glasgow, not much else happened today. The only real photo opportunity arose at a small hamlet not far outside Cheticamp where we came across a field of scarecrows. These assorted and colourful figures litter the field and are a great attraction for passing motorists. Naturally, we availed ourselves of an unusual photo opportunity. The kids travelled quite well today amply equipped as they were with an array of electrical devices, most of which lasted the duration of the trip. Evenings seem preoccupied with recharging these in time for the following day.
Day 12: 22.07.09
Today was the day we set out to tackle the Cabot Trail. Awaking (again) to constant and steady rain, we adeptly packed the van, nimbly avoiding saturation and set off for what is reputedly Canada’s most scenic drive. It was unfortunate that we did not really get to see much of this trail. Shrouded in mist and fog and beset with steady rainfall, we pushed through without stopping at any of the numerous lookouts along the trail. Having said that, I must admit, a cloudy, misty, rainy day presents its own beauty. We were on the lookout for black bear and moose but to no avail. John nursed the Montana up and down several very mountainous sections of the trail. It was when we had to stop to allow a wide load to pass the other way that we ran into trouble. The Montana failed to gain traction and the van began to slide off backward down the mountain. We were somewhat concerned at this point. How were we going to start the car and get it over the last few kilometres of steep mountainous terrain? A park employee came and for a few moments we considered the necessity of towing. Not really wanting to wait for at least an hour for the CAA, we decided to give the Montana one last chance. Slowly gaining traction, the van edged its way up the slope – the engine complained and was very close to an angry red but pulled through. It was with a huge sigh of relief that we pulled to Broad Cove Campground to set up camp for the next three days. After setting up the van in the rain, we settled down for a quiet evening. What else is there to do but eat, drink and play electronic games? Let’s hope for a better day tomorrow so we can explore the Cape Breton trails. The kids are dying to hike and hike and hike!
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