boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
thanks brother!
holla at me next time you come out west. we can see if we can make a trip!
5thGenRams Forums
Register a free account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members through your own private inbox!
Boogielander Build
- Thread starter boogielander
- Start date
holla at me next time you come out west. we can see if we can make a trip!
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
east coast is on my list to visit too.
perhaps when I make the move out to TN or somewhere that'll be easier!
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
So I sold the LP6s with Dark Dunes bumper bracket to a customer/ shop friend, and upgraded from LP6 to LP9.
The primary reason for me to upgrade was actually not the lights themselves, but the brackets. Previously, I had Dark Dunes brackets on and they worked fine for on-pavement driving, but wobbles too much for offroad use especially with heavier lights like LP6 and larger. I always had plans to reinforce those or swapped them out, but BD wanted $300 for the brackets alone, and I didn't have time to mess with making reinforcement pieces.
So, when my customer wanted to copy my build, I just sold mine to him and paid additional $200 out of my pocket to upgrade. Win, Win, and Win!
LP9 Low Beam Only (head lights off):
LP9 High and Low Beams (head lights off):
LP9 High and Low with XL Racers (head lights off)
Now, do I think it's worth the $1600 MSRP? Yes it is! The brackets are sturdy and definitely not the build quality and construction of those cheap knock-offs that can be found on internet. The preloaded support and the main brackets are made with thick metals and therefore, sturdy. These brackets blew the last ones out of water by miles!
How does the output compare? Honestly, these are bright. BUT I can't say how much brighter because I had amber lenses on the LP6 and went with clear lenses this time around. Amber lenses reduce output by about 15%, so in addition to color temperature, amber is less stressful to the eyes. Because of that, I can't really say how much in comparison.
Why amber lens? Well, usually I run tail gunner in the convoy since I'm one of the few fully equipped trucks in our group (with comms, lights, and most importantly, trail map), so I am usually dealing with a lot of dust kicked up by vehicles in front. Amber penetrates through dust, snow, rain, fog, etc a lot better than white, so I went with amber on LP6s. This time around, since I'll be soloing this time for the big trip and will not be eating dust, I figured white will help me see further at night (well, IF I have to drive after dark, that is). For my tail gunner duty, I also have a pair of amber covers that I can just throw on when needed, making these a true dual-color, switch-on-the-fly solution.
These are driving combo lens pattern. When mounting lights, the location of lights dictates which pattern lenses should be used. Here is a cheat sheet:
Lowest: fog lights - SAE Fog to retain on-pavement usability
Bumper or below bumper - Driving Combo - to touch close and mid distance, while spot pattern included gives you a glimpse of what's further down ahead.
A-Pillar - Wide Cornering if used as ditch lights to spread the output more
or
Spot/ Racer spot to touch distances way further ahead.
*Never mount spots on bumpers or down low, because your output spread is limited and you won't be able to see as far.
Finally, comparing to my friend's Diode Dynamics SS5 Pro, these are similar in output but cost ~$200 more per light. HOWEVER, I've got a customer whose SS5 overheated and burned down the wiring harness, so there's that.
The primary reason for me to upgrade was actually not the lights themselves, but the brackets. Previously, I had Dark Dunes brackets on and they worked fine for on-pavement driving, but wobbles too much for offroad use especially with heavier lights like LP6 and larger. I always had plans to reinforce those or swapped them out, but BD wanted $300 for the brackets alone, and I didn't have time to mess with making reinforcement pieces.
So, when my customer wanted to copy my build, I just sold mine to him and paid additional $200 out of my pocket to upgrade. Win, Win, and Win!
LP9 Low Beam Only (head lights off):
LP9 High and Low Beams (head lights off):
LP9 High and Low with XL Racers (head lights off)
Now, do I think it's worth the $1600 MSRP? Yes it is! The brackets are sturdy and definitely not the build quality and construction of those cheap knock-offs that can be found on internet. The preloaded support and the main brackets are made with thick metals and therefore, sturdy. These brackets blew the last ones out of water by miles!
How does the output compare? Honestly, these are bright. BUT I can't say how much brighter because I had amber lenses on the LP6 and went with clear lenses this time around. Amber lenses reduce output by about 15%, so in addition to color temperature, amber is less stressful to the eyes. Because of that, I can't really say how much in comparison.
Why amber lens? Well, usually I run tail gunner in the convoy since I'm one of the few fully equipped trucks in our group (with comms, lights, and most importantly, trail map), so I am usually dealing with a lot of dust kicked up by vehicles in front. Amber penetrates through dust, snow, rain, fog, etc a lot better than white, so I went with amber on LP6s. This time around, since I'll be soloing this time for the big trip and will not be eating dust, I figured white will help me see further at night (well, IF I have to drive after dark, that is). For my tail gunner duty, I also have a pair of amber covers that I can just throw on when needed, making these a true dual-color, switch-on-the-fly solution.
These are driving combo lens pattern. When mounting lights, the location of lights dictates which pattern lenses should be used. Here is a cheat sheet:
Lowest: fog lights - SAE Fog to retain on-pavement usability
Bumper or below bumper - Driving Combo - to touch close and mid distance, while spot pattern included gives you a glimpse of what's further down ahead.
A-Pillar - Wide Cornering if used as ditch lights to spread the output more
or
Spot/ Racer spot to touch distances way further ahead.
*Never mount spots on bumpers or down low, because your output spread is limited and you won't be able to see as far.
Finally, comparing to my friend's Diode Dynamics SS5 Pro, these are similar in output but cost ~$200 more per light. HOWEVER, I've got a customer whose SS5 overheated and burned down the wiring harness, so there's that.
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Checked "Camping at the edge of the cliff at Grand Canyon North" off my bucket list this Memorial Day Weekend.
Drive in was an easy 60 miles of high speed dirt road followed by 10 miles of bumpy road. It actually put the platform I built to elevate my fridge to test. Glad nothing shook loose though lol
Interesting thing is I visited the South side a year ago for the exact same weekend.
Some big changes made within a year!
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Today (8/4) marked the first day of my 2 months long, once-in-a-life-time journey to Deadhorse, AK and Tuktoyaktuk, NWT.
Going to the end of the road in Continental North America has been an ongoing dream of me. As previously mentioned in the beginning of my build thread, my goal was to do this trip in 2023 but got delayed. That delay actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as I had more time to put more delicate finishing touches (LP6 became LP9, BD Squadron became XL Racer), purchase the GFC, and build TWO separate electrical systems for overlanding use.
This is not only a trip of lifetime, but also the ultimate test to see if my build theory can stand up to the real world abuse for 2 months.
To be honest, as I type this up at campsite, part of me really want to turn around and go home. I don't know if I can do this by myself, but at the same time, I am also excited on what's going to happen in the next 2 months.
Stay tuned.
Going to the end of the road in Continental North America has been an ongoing dream of me. As previously mentioned in the beginning of my build thread, my goal was to do this trip in 2023 but got delayed. That delay actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as I had more time to put more delicate finishing touches (LP6 became LP9, BD Squadron became XL Racer), purchase the GFC, and build TWO separate electrical systems for overlanding use.
This is not only a trip of lifetime, but also the ultimate test to see if my build theory can stand up to the real world abuse for 2 months.
To be honest, as I type this up at campsite, part of me really want to turn around and go home. I don't know if I can do this by myself, but at the same time, I am also excited on what's going to happen in the next 2 months.
Stay tuned.
1BADRAMLIMITED
Ram Guru
Sounds like a great 1st day my man. Im rooting for you, you can do this ! Please continue to share this awesome trip with the forum, i have no doubt from seeing your attention to detail and knowledge displayed here your rig is more than ready for this adventure.
Ready Go
Ram Guru
I'm imagine having Marty along would've made for more stops, but would've also been welcomed company on your long journey!
Enjoy your adventure, and make tons of new friends and memories!
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
thank you!
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
oh yes! i thought about borrowing Marty for the trip but with the new pet regulation/ paperwork at the border i decided not to ask.
new rules sound so much more complicated
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Day 2 of the trip:
Left Carson City, NV in the AM and took 395 north.
This is the lowest gas price I've seen this trip so far
Open road
First casualty of the trip. I have no idea how or when this happened.
Drove through Lassen NF with the wild fire going on.
It cleared up when I left Lassen NF and entered Shasta NF.
I tried to look for a spot to take photo of Shasta but couldn't find a spot with the composition I was looking for: long straight road with tall pine trees on both sides leading to Shasta in the distance. Only spots I found were on heavily travelled roadway.
So this is the only shot of Shasta I got.
Dirt therapy while looking for the spot that I can get the composition I want.
Campsite for the night in Southern Oregon.
Few reflections today:
1. I kinda messed up this morning by leaving campground too late, and miscalculated the driving time needed and overestimated my resistance to random distractions. I should've left CG 2 hours earlier. I got to tonight's CG at almost 9PM, so I picked up some McDonald's on the way in.
2. Today's drive time was over 8hrs long, with one flagged section. Same as yesterday, but today's flagged section took longer.
3. I am getting used to doing this, and am looking forward to the following nights.
4. I entered OR at about 5PM. So far OR has been great. People are friendly, food's quite cheap, and no sales tax! That's a weird experience but i can get used to this.
5. Electrical systems are working great. The Ecoflow's supplying power for Starlink and the run time has been extended to 30+ hours after I turned off the self-heating/ snow-melt function. It's drawing between 30-50w depending on if the actuator/ dishy motor is turning. The camper LIFEPO4, running camper lights up and downstairs, and laptop for the past 3 hours still has 22 hours of run time left. This is confidence boosting as I have no doubt with the 400w of solar on the roof I will have no problem when establishing base camp mode.
Left Carson City, NV in the AM and took 395 north.
This is the lowest gas price I've seen this trip so far
Open road
First casualty of the trip. I have no idea how or when this happened.
Drove through Lassen NF with the wild fire going on.
It cleared up when I left Lassen NF and entered Shasta NF.
I tried to look for a spot to take photo of Shasta but couldn't find a spot with the composition I was looking for: long straight road with tall pine trees on both sides leading to Shasta in the distance. Only spots I found were on heavily travelled roadway.
So this is the only shot of Shasta I got.
Dirt therapy while looking for the spot that I can get the composition I want.
Campsite for the night in Southern Oregon.
Few reflections today:
1. I kinda messed up this morning by leaving campground too late, and miscalculated the driving time needed and overestimated my resistance to random distractions. I should've left CG 2 hours earlier. I got to tonight's CG at almost 9PM, so I picked up some McDonald's on the way in.
2. Today's drive time was over 8hrs long, with one flagged section. Same as yesterday, but today's flagged section took longer.
3. I am getting used to doing this, and am looking forward to the following nights.
4. I entered OR at about 5PM. So far OR has been great. People are friendly, food's quite cheap, and no sales tax! That's a weird experience but i can get used to this.
5. Electrical systems are working great. The Ecoflow's supplying power for Starlink and the run time has been extended to 30+ hours after I turned off the self-heating/ snow-melt function. It's drawing between 30-50w depending on if the actuator/ dishy motor is turning. The camper LIFEPO4, running camper lights up and downstairs, and laptop for the past 3 hours still has 22 hours of run time left. This is confidence boosting as I have no doubt with the 400w of solar on the roof I will have no problem when establishing base camp mode.
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Day 3 - Late update
Left CG at around 9AM and started to head north.
Goal was to go to Columbia River Gorge with a few "must sees" that I want to hit. Overestimated my driving speed and underestimated how much time needed, so didn't leave the region and begin a 3hr drive to the destination for the night until past 6pm.
Man, i must really work on getting my timing right lol
FIrst stop was Horse Tail Fall
Little nice roadside attraction. Plenty of people there.
Visited Bradford Island to see the Locks
Then went to see the power station/ generator. This is a functioning/ working/ operating site so federal guard asked me to open my camper to check. Dude just took a glance and said i'm good lol
Then went to visit Bridge of the Gods. Great photograph location.
I didn't know that to see Multnomah Falls a reservation is required. Didn't know till I got there so I thought that spot was a bust. But luckily I was able to snag a reservation for 5PM last minute, so I made it happen.
It turned out perfect because the lighting was just perfect. Crowded though. I'm slowly working on getting rid of all the people but it is a slow progress, especially after a full day of driving at night I just want to relax....
After I was done with the fall, it was past 6PM already. I still had 2 locations on my list, but I couldn't make it: it'd be an hour drive just to get where I wanted to go. So... save them for next time and I started my 3hr drive to Bellevue, WA where I spent the night.
Left CG at around 9AM and started to head north.
Goal was to go to Columbia River Gorge with a few "must sees" that I want to hit. Overestimated my driving speed and underestimated how much time needed, so didn't leave the region and begin a 3hr drive to the destination for the night until past 6pm.
Man, i must really work on getting my timing right lol
FIrst stop was Horse Tail Fall
Little nice roadside attraction. Plenty of people there.
Visited Bradford Island to see the Locks
Then went to see the power station/ generator. This is a functioning/ working/ operating site so federal guard asked me to open my camper to check. Dude just took a glance and said i'm good lol
Then went to visit Bridge of the Gods. Great photograph location.
I didn't know that to see Multnomah Falls a reservation is required. Didn't know till I got there so I thought that spot was a bust. But luckily I was able to snag a reservation for 5PM last minute, so I made it happen.
It turned out perfect because the lighting was just perfect. Crowded though. I'm slowly working on getting rid of all the people but it is a slow progress, especially after a full day of driving at night I just want to relax....
After I was done with the fall, it was past 6PM already. I still had 2 locations on my list, but I couldn't make it: it'd be an hour drive just to get where I wanted to go. So... save them for next time and I started my 3hr drive to Bellevue, WA where I spent the night.
Attachments
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Day 4 - Welcome to Canada!
Today's the least amount of mileage driven so far: only 294 miles driven.
Left Bellevue, WA in the morning and started to head north. Gas price was a lot higher than expected, so I pushed all the way to Bellingham to fill up before crossing the border. Filled up the main tank, the 5 gallon Rotopax, and the Diesel tank. Was still around/ over $4/ gallon. No good
I ate a bit too much for breakfast at the hotel, so I had to go before getting to Bellingham. After I was done, a Filipino older couple took interest in my setup. I gave him a full tour at the rest area and explained everything. He was really impressed.
Border line was about 20 minutes before I crossed. The agent asked me the basic info:
Where you going? -Alaska
Where you coming from? - SoCal
What's in the back of the truck? - Camera gears and camping gears. Fridge is empty other than cold drinks. I planned on stopping at grocery store after this sir. Do you have any recs?
*Looked at me like im an idiot* We have Walmart here you know. -Oh I didn't know where it is. Internet not working properly on my phone.
*Realized im not a clueless Yankee* Just off the exit. - Thank you sir.
Your first time in Canada? - No, sir. I visited when I was like 5 years old. So depends on how you see it, it can be yes and no.
You know your route? -Yes sir, I'm going through Cassiar and then Alcan to get to Alaska.
You bringing any guns, ammos, firearms, pepper sprays? -No sir. I did my research.
*handed me the passport back* Enjoy! -Thank you sir. Have a great day.
And off I went.
I appreciate the M/ KM built in system on the truck... I converted it right before I crossed so I don't go 100MPH when the sign says 100KMH lol
Original plan was to go to Richmond for some last bit of authentic Taiwanese food. That plan fell apart. Got to Richmond at 1PM and still no parking. Then went around, finally found a spot in the plaza right next to it. Walked over, opened the door, and line was at the door waiting to be seated. No thank you, I don't wait in line for food, period. So I left and went to an Asian market to pick up some Asian beer. Got to the plaza, couldn't find an open spot that can fit more than a Camry. Circled the lot twice, said F it, and left. So basically spent an hour in the city for nothing.
But when I got on Trans-Canada Highway, the stunning view took over.
2 hours later, I was at the campsite. This is a privately owned campsite that's part of the farm, and it's about 14KM off the main road. Going through a graded gravel road is a must, and I had fun without airing down.
Got there with enough time to pop open the tent and use the solar to run the Starlink.
In a campground full of #vanlifer and RV people, my truck stood out. Everyone came and asked about it. So I gave the full tour again, explaining what each light is for, why I built it this way, and stuff. A few guys asked how much, and I told them I built this myself since this is what I do professionally, but this is a $100k+ package if a customer wants the exact thing (including the truck). They were shocked but I asked them how their experiences were when driving in. Then they understood why. #boogierated
Part of the new decal package we cut before I left home. We have multiple boogielanders in my group of guys, and 2 CAFE. It's a CAFE because... that's where the kitchen is lol
Dinner time.
Having a plot of land is so good... that's one thing I need in my life!
Today's the least amount of mileage driven so far: only 294 miles driven.
Left Bellevue, WA in the morning and started to head north. Gas price was a lot higher than expected, so I pushed all the way to Bellingham to fill up before crossing the border. Filled up the main tank, the 5 gallon Rotopax, and the Diesel tank. Was still around/ over $4/ gallon. No good
I ate a bit too much for breakfast at the hotel, so I had to go before getting to Bellingham. After I was done, a Filipino older couple took interest in my setup. I gave him a full tour at the rest area and explained everything. He was really impressed.
Border line was about 20 minutes before I crossed. The agent asked me the basic info:
Where you going? -Alaska
Where you coming from? - SoCal
What's in the back of the truck? - Camera gears and camping gears. Fridge is empty other than cold drinks. I planned on stopping at grocery store after this sir. Do you have any recs?
*Looked at me like im an idiot* We have Walmart here you know. -Oh I didn't know where it is. Internet not working properly on my phone.
*Realized im not a clueless Yankee* Just off the exit. - Thank you sir.
Your first time in Canada? - No, sir. I visited when I was like 5 years old. So depends on how you see it, it can be yes and no.
You know your route? -Yes sir, I'm going through Cassiar and then Alcan to get to Alaska.
You bringing any guns, ammos, firearms, pepper sprays? -No sir. I did my research.
*handed me the passport back* Enjoy! -Thank you sir. Have a great day.
And off I went.
I appreciate the M/ KM built in system on the truck... I converted it right before I crossed so I don't go 100MPH when the sign says 100KMH lol
Original plan was to go to Richmond for some last bit of authentic Taiwanese food. That plan fell apart. Got to Richmond at 1PM and still no parking. Then went around, finally found a spot in the plaza right next to it. Walked over, opened the door, and line was at the door waiting to be seated. No thank you, I don't wait in line for food, period. So I left and went to an Asian market to pick up some Asian beer. Got to the plaza, couldn't find an open spot that can fit more than a Camry. Circled the lot twice, said F it, and left. So basically spent an hour in the city for nothing.
But when I got on Trans-Canada Highway, the stunning view took over.
2 hours later, I was at the campsite. This is a privately owned campsite that's part of the farm, and it's about 14KM off the main road. Going through a graded gravel road is a must, and I had fun without airing down.
Got there with enough time to pop open the tent and use the solar to run the Starlink.
In a campground full of #vanlifer and RV people, my truck stood out. Everyone came and asked about it. So I gave the full tour again, explaining what each light is for, why I built it this way, and stuff. A few guys asked how much, and I told them I built this myself since this is what I do professionally, but this is a $100k+ package if a customer wants the exact thing (including the truck). They were shocked but I asked them how their experiences were when driving in. Then they understood why. #boogierated
Part of the new decal package we cut before I left home. We have multiple boogielanders in my group of guys, and 2 CAFE. It's a CAFE because... that's where the kitchen is lol
Dinner time.
Having a plot of land is so good... that's one thing I need in my life!
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Day 5 - Late Post, as usual
Today I left the campsite and continued north on the Trans Canada Highway.
Left the campground later than expected because I met the host just as I finished packing everything, and we started talking. Host was a great guy and I supported his business by buying 2 pieces of ribeyes off him. Him and his family runs the farm down the street from the campground, and uses that part of their farm as CG to bring in extra income. We talked about homesteading and stuff, and he resonated deeply when i said "the more you make, the more they take."
The way out went a lot faster than going in, and I had to pull over to let a local pass me because I was doing speed limit. I was still getting used to driving in Canada anyways.
Summer is construction season for snow-zone Canada. The road followed this river the whole time, but it was until I got stopped at a traffic controlled construction zone when I could roll down my window to take a picture of this valley. Beautiful river and view.
My first stop was an ecological conservation area. To get in, I had to go on dirt trail for about 10km and pass through this farm.
Went through a few shallow puddles, only to find the gate closed and locked. So... all that for nothing.
So I said, why not? perfect spot for some photos!
Featuring some decals I put on right before leaving home
Well graded dirt road. Them Canadians do know how to grade dirt roads lol
Stopped by Centennial Park in 100 Miles House to see waterfall.
And home for the night. This CG is owned and operated by a fellow Taiwanese couple, so I made it a must-stop. The owner was so happy to see someone who shares the same language and culture and we talked for a good half an hour before he had to go greet other guests.
You might be wondering where all that mud came from. Let me tell you.
So on the way to CG right after the waterfall, there was a big car crash on the highway. I sat there for good half an hour before I realized that we were not moving any time soon, so I started to look at Gaia GPS for alternative route to go around from the iPad. Found a "dirt road" so I went for it. Turned out many others had the same idea, both coming from my side and the other side, including some CUV and some sedans.
The dirt road turned into a narrow trail through a forest half way through. Not only was it narrow, it had lots of dips and mud pits and water crossings. Then, about 1/4 way in, everyone in front of me pulled over to the side, so I did too. It was a frigging LOG HAULER coming from the other side. (Log Haulers: semi truck sized trucks that are used to haul logs) I thought to myself: if that thing came through, this trail is gonna be easy.
Then after that was a few HD trucks with trailers. Seeing those gave me more confidence boost. Then, off we went. The trail got more narrow and more wet. Then I started to see sedans and small CUVs pulled over to the side with hood up. Looked like they hydrolocked. After a bumpy and slow ride, we finally got out of the forest and it turned into grassland. However, the trail itself was full of very find silt, so everyone was going real slow. No one has chase lights other than me, but I was all the way in the back. I couldn't see the guy in front of me so I slowed down even more to basically let it idle out. At the end, there was an Audi small SUV trying to go that way with 2 girls in the front seat. I rolled down my window and told them it's not a good idea because it does get deep inside, and there are cars inside with hood up and drivers trying to mend it. The girls thanked me for telling them that, and said they saw the wet mud on my truck and they are turning around to wait in traffic.
Overall, a fun day despite I couldn't make it to all the stops but the waterfall due to traffic.
Today I left the campsite and continued north on the Trans Canada Highway.
Left the campground later than expected because I met the host just as I finished packing everything, and we started talking. Host was a great guy and I supported his business by buying 2 pieces of ribeyes off him. Him and his family runs the farm down the street from the campground, and uses that part of their farm as CG to bring in extra income. We talked about homesteading and stuff, and he resonated deeply when i said "the more you make, the more they take."
The way out went a lot faster than going in, and I had to pull over to let a local pass me because I was doing speed limit. I was still getting used to driving in Canada anyways.
Summer is construction season for snow-zone Canada. The road followed this river the whole time, but it was until I got stopped at a traffic controlled construction zone when I could roll down my window to take a picture of this valley. Beautiful river and view.
My first stop was an ecological conservation area. To get in, I had to go on dirt trail for about 10km and pass through this farm.
Went through a few shallow puddles, only to find the gate closed and locked. So... all that for nothing.
So I said, why not? perfect spot for some photos!
Featuring some decals I put on right before leaving home
Well graded dirt road. Them Canadians do know how to grade dirt roads lol
Stopped by Centennial Park in 100 Miles House to see waterfall.
And home for the night. This CG is owned and operated by a fellow Taiwanese couple, so I made it a must-stop. The owner was so happy to see someone who shares the same language and culture and we talked for a good half an hour before he had to go greet other guests.
You might be wondering where all that mud came from. Let me tell you.
So on the way to CG right after the waterfall, there was a big car crash on the highway. I sat there for good half an hour before I realized that we were not moving any time soon, so I started to look at Gaia GPS for alternative route to go around from the iPad. Found a "dirt road" so I went for it. Turned out many others had the same idea, both coming from my side and the other side, including some CUV and some sedans.
The dirt road turned into a narrow trail through a forest half way through. Not only was it narrow, it had lots of dips and mud pits and water crossings. Then, about 1/4 way in, everyone in front of me pulled over to the side, so I did too. It was a frigging LOG HAULER coming from the other side. (Log Haulers: semi truck sized trucks that are used to haul logs) I thought to myself: if that thing came through, this trail is gonna be easy.
Then after that was a few HD trucks with trailers. Seeing those gave me more confidence boost. Then, off we went. The trail got more narrow and more wet. Then I started to see sedans and small CUVs pulled over to the side with hood up. Looked like they hydrolocked. After a bumpy and slow ride, we finally got out of the forest and it turned into grassland. However, the trail itself was full of very find silt, so everyone was going real slow. No one has chase lights other than me, but I was all the way in the back. I couldn't see the guy in front of me so I slowed down even more to basically let it idle out. At the end, there was an Audi small SUV trying to go that way with 2 girls in the front seat. I rolled down my window and told them it's not a good idea because it does get deep inside, and there are cars inside with hood up and drivers trying to mend it. The girls thanked me for telling them that, and said they saw the wet mud on my truck and they are turning around to wait in traffic.
Overall, a fun day despite I couldn't make it to all the stops but the waterfall due to traffic.
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Day 6
Left the CG in late morning, knowing that I didn't have a lot of stops for the day. Basically today was to pick up some degreaser so I can clean my tailgate after cooking, get some snacks for the road, stock up on the energy drinks, and so on. So I wasn't in a rush to leave.
Byebye!
While in town, I found this Vietnamese restaurant so I had to go get my fix of Pho. I was going to get Chinese but Pho is much better.
Plenty of these log haulers.
Stopped by road side rest area to stretch my legs and use the bathroom. Also took the chance to read a bit about the area.
Then back on road. It's been like this the whole day. I had to switch to podcast because music simply didn't cut it for me anymore.
Got to camp. The guy behind me is a local and spends a lot of time fishing in different places. Gave me a lot of good information on what to expect, where to go, etc. This is why i like staying at paid CG. meet all kinds of people from all over the place and everyone's willing to share.
Finished the day with a good piece of ribeye.
Left the CG in late morning, knowing that I didn't have a lot of stops for the day. Basically today was to pick up some degreaser so I can clean my tailgate after cooking, get some snacks for the road, stock up on the energy drinks, and so on. So I wasn't in a rush to leave.
Byebye!
While in town, I found this Vietnamese restaurant so I had to go get my fix of Pho. I was going to get Chinese but Pho is much better.
Plenty of these log haulers.
Stopped by road side rest area to stretch my legs and use the bathroom. Also took the chance to read a bit about the area.
Then back on road. It's been like this the whole day. I had to switch to podcast because music simply didn't cut it for me anymore.
Got to camp. The guy behind me is a local and spends a lot of time fishing in different places. Gave me a lot of good information on what to expect, where to go, etc. This is why i like staying at paid CG. meet all kinds of people from all over the place and everyone's willing to share.
Finished the day with a good piece of ribeye.
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Day 7
Started the morning by backtracking to the beginning of Stewart-Cassiar Highway (aka, Cassiar Highway).
I filled up here as well so I can pay less later.
Drove through the day as weather changed
Then fall is starting to show in the north
Then truck and I saw glacier
Good thing I borrowed my friend's 70-200mm lens. I borrowed it for wildlife but glacier works.
Then stopped at Stewart, BC before crossing border to Hyder, AK
Took a walk at the boardwalk, then rain started to move in.
So I stopped at Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site hoping to see some bears feasting on salmons.
Didn't see any bears, but saw the salmons laying eggs. These are some big fish!
Then went offroading through a few active mines to get to the second glacier of the trip. Unfortunately the fog moved in and we couldn't see anything. Even on the drive up, visibility was not ideal and lots of trucks and cars just sneak out from the fog.
Ran my Baja Designs S2s chase lights the whole way up and turned on my LP9 low beam. Not because I couldn't see, but for others to see me through the fog from far away. Running a trail with people not running proper lights is such a terrible experience.
Then I decided to gamble and try my luck to see if the fog clears in the morning. Instead of making the hour long trail run again in the morning, I elected to camp in the cloud for the night.
Spoiler alert: I gambled and was rewarded.
Started the morning by backtracking to the beginning of Stewart-Cassiar Highway (aka, Cassiar Highway).
I filled up here as well so I can pay less later.
Drove through the day as weather changed
Then fall is starting to show in the north
Then truck and I saw glacier
Good thing I borrowed my friend's 70-200mm lens. I borrowed it for wildlife but glacier works.
Then stopped at Stewart, BC before crossing border to Hyder, AK
Took a walk at the boardwalk, then rain started to move in.
So I stopped at Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site hoping to see some bears feasting on salmons.
Didn't see any bears, but saw the salmons laying eggs. These are some big fish!
Then went offroading through a few active mines to get to the second glacier of the trip. Unfortunately the fog moved in and we couldn't see anything. Even on the drive up, visibility was not ideal and lots of trucks and cars just sneak out from the fog.
Ran my Baja Designs S2s chase lights the whole way up and turned on my LP9 low beam. Not because I couldn't see, but for others to see me through the fog from far away. Running a trail with people not running proper lights is such a terrible experience.
Then I decided to gamble and try my luck to see if the fog clears in the morning. Instead of making the hour long trail run again in the morning, I elected to camp in the cloud for the night.
Spoiler alert: I gambled and was rewarded.
Attachments
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Day 8
I took a gamble the night before, betting on the fog/ cloud would clear in the morning. Afterall, the whole point of me making that trip so out of the way was for waking up next to the glacier.
And I won. I opened the tent door in the morning and this was the view:
A pano shot to show how majestic it is.
Mission Accomplished!
Of course, gotta show that Boogielander was here
Swapped over to the big lens to see some close up of the glacier:
The trail continued, so did I. Soon, I found the next glacier.
This one is sitting much higher, and has a waterfall. Then there's a mini glacier/ ice cap under the waterfall.
Boogielander was here too.
Let's take a closer look:
After we're done, we returned to Hyder, AK and explored the town before crossing border back into BC, Canada.
Hyder, AK is "The Friendliest Ghost Town" but I like to call it "the hardest reachable town by wheels in the USA" simply because to get there you need to go through British Columbia, Canada.
continue below
I took a gamble the night before, betting on the fog/ cloud would clear in the morning. Afterall, the whole point of me making that trip so out of the way was for waking up next to the glacier.
And I won. I opened the tent door in the morning and this was the view:
A pano shot to show how majestic it is.
Mission Accomplished!
Of course, gotta show that Boogielander was here
Swapped over to the big lens to see some close up of the glacier:
The trail continued, so did I. Soon, I found the next glacier.
This one is sitting much higher, and has a waterfall. Then there's a mini glacier/ ice cap under the waterfall.
Boogielander was here too.
Let's take a closer look:
After we're done, we returned to Hyder, AK and explored the town before crossing border back into BC, Canada.
Hyder, AK is "The Friendliest Ghost Town" but I like to call it "the hardest reachable town by wheels in the USA" simply because to get there you need to go through British Columbia, Canada.
continue below
boogielander
Spends too much time on here
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2022
- Messages
- 2,386
- Reaction score
- 4,113
- Points
- 113
Day 8 - Cont'd
We spent some time at the "port"
We ended up at a lakeside campsite recommended by my neighbor at the glacier
Tucked away in the forest.
Didn't get to camp by the lake but that's fine, because the wind picked up and it'd be way too windy and chilly at night anyways.
I got a small stream right behind me.
We spent some time at the "port"We ended up at a lakeside campsite recommended by my neighbor at the glacier
Tucked away in the forest.
Didn't get to camp by the lake but that's fine, because the wind picked up and it'd be way too windy and chilly at night anyways.
I got a small stream right behind me.
1BADRAMLIMITED
Ram Guru
Man what an awesome trip!!!! Keep up the uploads I’m loving it!
Ready Go
Ram Guru
What an INCREDIBLE journey!
Those glaciers are magnificent, what a thrill to wake up to that!
Those glaciers are magnificent, what a thrill to wake up to that!
