List of items we're bringing

From the pic from the previous post, it's hard to believe what we can fit in all these bags. Here's a list of everything we're bringing:

- 2 man tent (yes it's going to be cozy)
- Small hatchet
- Waterproof matches
- Tarp (8' x 10')
- Raingear x 2 (his/hers)
- Jeans x 2 (his/hers)
- T-shirts x 2 (his/hers)
- Underwear/socks x 2 (his/hers)
- Toothbrushes, toothpaste, deoderant x 2 (his/hers)
- Contacts/solutions/holder (for the mrs.)
- Sunglasses
- Neck warmers x 2 (his/hers)
- Hair dryer (for the mrs.)
- Makeup (for the mrs.)
- Flattening iron (for the mrs.)
- Hiking sandles x 2 (his/hers)
- Ear Plugs
- Glass Cleaner (for visors/windshield)
- Toilet Paper (you just never know when you have to go)
- Pillows x 2
- Sleeping bags x 2
- Swimming suits x 2 (his/hers)
- Towels x 2 (his/hers)
- Full Face Helmets x 2 (his/hers)
- Leather Jackets x 2 (his/hers)
- Riding Boots x 2 (his/hers)
- Small Backpacks x 2 (his/hers)
- Cellphones x 2 (his/hers)
- Cell phone charger
- Cable and lock to secure jackets/helmets when riding
- OFF bug spray (can be used as fire starter if necessary)
- Knife

That's about it (Whew!!!). I konw it's a lot but it all packs nicely into the Tour Pak and saddlebags (except for the sleeping bags which are tied down. We plan to eat meals out but would like a fire to keep warm. Always a treat.

New trip to the mountains

I'm going on my second trip to the mountains on a Harley. Two major changes to this trip. 1) I'm bringing my wife to share in the experience. And 2) I'm bringing a new Harley (2010 Road King Classic).

Last years trip taught me many valuable lessons. The biggest lesson was to make sure you're comfortable. Which in this case means better seat, windshield, heated grips and most importantly to spread this trip over 3 days and 2 nights.

In order to accomplish this we need to pack enough things to camp for 2 nights. So this evening we did a dry run of packing all our stuff on the bike and went for a short scoot. Here's a pic of our bike packed up. The trip doesn't start until next Friday but we're ready to roll. Can't wait!!

Trip to the mountains

Here's our entire trip. With the extra little bit of driving we cleared just over 1,000 kms. in one day spanning around 20 hours on a motorcycle. It was one looooong trip but we seen some spectatuclar views and gained some invaluable riding experience including (loose gravel, twisties, torrential downpours, averting wildlife and night driving),

Would I do it again. If you asked my yesterday (maybe not). But this morning after a few sore parts I definitely would but make a few changes for comfort.

Hehe

When u got to go u got to go!!

Rained out at Lake Louise

So man it's thundershowers at Moraine Lake this afternoon which would make it unbearable. I think we're going to drive around banff a bit and then head back.

So far though the experience of riding in the mountains has been breathtaking.

In Canmore!

Man the 1A coming into the mountains was incredible. Totally awesome.

Few drops of rain.

On the 1A

Ghost Lake is beautiful. Looks like we could be headed into rain. Really enjoying this ride!!!

Arrived in Cochrane

Can now see mountain tops. Eating our lunch in a nice park.

Beisker

Stopped at a campground in Beisker for a bathroom break.

We're close to Airdrie. I hit a bird with my foot, travelled through a few miles of really loose gravel during construction but we're in good payment now.

Going a little slower than anticipated, but fun nonetheless. Slowly getting warmer.

No change

We're in Drumheller. Couldn't resist the badlands. It's really cool here almost cold. Going to timmys for something warm.

Detour

So we're not going through Drumheller but heading toward innisfail. Stopped through Big Valley. Beautiful church on top of hill.

Pee Break

Good 'ol A&W

Quick check on the bikes

Just a quick stop after 20 minutes and both bikes look great. Onward!

My bro has arrived

We're to hit the highway. On to Stettler

Meeting place

This is where Tom and I are to meet. (Legacy Junction) I'm a few minutes early so I'll hang out here for a bit.

Me ready for the road

All geared up and ready to roll. Can't wait.

G

The time has come...

Well I've been waiting for this moment for years. The chance to ride through the mountains on a motorcycle. I'm not sure what part of me wanted this adventure so bad. Part of it is the open road, the long journey and the majestic views.

Right now I'm 80% excited, 10% nervous and 10% CRAZY. But to make dreams come true, I believe a person should be a little nervous and crazy. So here I go.

This journey will be with Tom (my brother) - his first venture into the mountains as well. I'll be posting pictures from my iPhone from time to time along with tidbits of our journey.

The packrat in me decided to prepare for some uncessary stops so I brought a small tent, sleeping bag, pillow, extra oil and a few incidentals. All fit into my backpack. I hope I don't need them but better to be safe than sorry.

Forecast looks ok - little cloudy for my liking. I decided to go even if it rains. (which shouldn't amount to much anyway).

Signing off for now - will post pics in a bit.

My trustee steed

My trip to the mountains is coming up quick. This will be my ride for the tour - 2009 Harley Davidson XL1200 Custom cruiser.

Can't wait for the big day!

Horfrost in Camrose

"By the breath of God frost is given..." - Job 37:10

My Favorite Place on Earth

If I could choose one place of serenity and peace, it would have to be
Morraine Lake. Somewhat secluded on a road climbing up from Lake
Louise, Morraine Lake is a place of unmatched natural beauty and
majestic landscapes.