Leaving the icefield we once again deliberate our route. The forecast is still cold and snow is possible, so we decide not to chance a trip north to Jasper and the northern route to Vancouver. Instead we backtrack to take the southern route and plan to stay in Osoyoos for a week, to see if we can find some warmer weather and get in some golf.
Our friend Moe had recommended a stay at Movie Lake Provincial Park near Cranbrook so we head that way. This drive takes us along Hwy 95 or The Crowsnest Hwy. which goes through Kootenay National Park. The Hwy. has many ‘passes’ along which put our trailer brakes to the test.
The highway passes through Radium Hot Springs where we decide to take a break and a mineral soak before continuing on. The spa is not crowded at all and it is lightly raining as we enter the pool, so we have a nice relaxing couple of hours, a quick bite to eat, then head on down the highway. We go through several towns along the way that cater to both summer and winter activities, that triple in population during peak periods. Invermere, Cranbrook, Kimberley.
Past Cranbrook, we find Moyie Lake, our destination for the night. Arriving at the park, we find a note at the gatehouse, once again, to tell us that we are to find a site, and someone will come around to collect the fee. We do a drive around and at first think that the park is closed, but then we see 2 trailers and a couple park staff. We find a nice wide site and pull in and set up. The place is deserted. The camp ambassador comes around and explains that after the Sep. long weekend, the attendance drops off. Although we have no hookups, the comfort station is well equipped and clean, with a dish washing station.
A nice quiet sleep with the occasional distant sound of a train.