October 24, 2010 | Tips from Travellers >
Dawson Creek, Sightseeing Tours
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Friends from Oregon told me that one of the things they love the best about their visit to Dawson Creek is the square block of fields that stretch from horizon to horizon. She said it reminds her of a big patchwork quilt.
I agree. Even after living here my whole life, I still admire the panoramic views of green and gold fields, separated by dirt roads and hedges of trees.
No matter the season, it does look like a patchwork quilt. The view is especially spectacular in the July Canola season. The yellow-est yellow imaginable, all set out in perfect squares as far as the eye can see.
I also appreciate the soft browns of late fall when the crops have come off and the fields are getting ready to rest for the winter. The grain left by the harvest machinery makes easy pickings for the wildlife that lives so close to us.
October 20, 2010 | Tips from Travellers >
Dawson Creek, Sightseeing Tours
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~ Do we need 10 sets of spare tires?
~ Will our windshields get smashed out by rocks?
~ How many miles of gravel will there be?
~ Is there still muskeg?
~ Do we need to carry spare gas?
These are the questions that came up around the fire with our friends who were on their way up the highway this year. They had heard horror stories from people who had traveled the Highway years and years ago.
The Alaska Highway is a fairly smooth road all the way from Dawson Creek. BC to Fairbanks, Alaska. It is pretty much paved all the way.
The ongoing issue is that every year the ground freezes and thaws and the pavement ripples and heaves and cracks in spots.
Maintenance crews are constantly repairing the road and you will have periodic waits while flag people get you through safely.
You will undoubtedly come across patches of loose gravel and occasional rough spots but as long as you are well prepared to begin with, you will be just fine.
The road is a pleasure to drive.