Day 38 - Thunder Bay (Rest day)

0 km - Total so far 3,513.13 km

Unlike the last time we took a rest day that had us walking and playing tourist all day, we had a late start and only played tourist for a half-day. We still managed to put almost 25 km on the bikes. 

We located what we consider to be the best equipped laundromat of our entire trip to date. All brand new front loading washers and dryers and we got everything done in less than 45 minutes. We then hit the grocery store and bought tons of food as nothing is open tomorrow (Canada Day) and there are not that many services between Thunder Bay and Nipigon.Once we dropped the laundry and groceries at the motel, we once again headed down the the road to pick up propane cans at the other end of town.

Former waterfront train station 

Baggage building converted to an art gallery

On the way back, we stopped in the historic district and did more shopping. For the last few weeks, Hélène had been looking at purchasing a long sleeve shirt designed for sun protection but could never find one. We found a well stocked outdoors store that had everything that was needed. I bought a shirt as well since the shirt is quick drying. I had been wearing arm warmers to protect myself from the sun and I just found them too hot and uncomfortable.

We also stopped at the waterfront park where Canada Day celebrations will take place tomorrow. We thought best to do it now so that we could use the bicycles to get around on the paths. We figure tomorrow the place will be overflowing with people. It is only recently that the citizens of Thunder Bay get to access the waterfront. As you can see in some of the pictures, the waterfront was industrialized and one only got close to the water if they worked there. You can buy yourself a waterfront condo starting at $337,000 overlooking the harbour, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park and as far as one can see, Lake Superior.

Hélène relaxing

Water Garden

Spirit Circle and me showing off my chain ring grease tattoo

Victory Fountain and you can see the perpetual rainbow

Trying to align cannon without DGMS...pretty difficult

Older waterfront facility and newer grain terminals in the background

Break water and lighthouse 

Our humble digs 

Thunder Bay waterfront buildings

We have been following the weather and forest fire reports from British Columbia and the 3 Prairie provinces. We still can't get over how fortunate we were in selecting the dates of our trip. We could be trying to get up Allison Pass in 40 degree heat or trying to cycle the Prairies in the smoke. Our heart goes out to the generous people of BC, AB, SK and MB and hope that things will get back to normal for them very soon.

We leave you with this video of the Thunder Bay skate board park.

0 miles - Total so far 2,183.39 miles