Day 1 – the adventure began with a 3 PM ferry ride to Christian Island, bikes and gear in tow. We had some bike trouble on the way over, but a kind stranger helped us out. After arriving, we accidentally overshot our turn but eventually found our way to West Beach. The trailer was heavy and the barrel pack added to the challenge, but we made it. After setting up camp, cooking rice and eggs, and cooling off with a swim, we realized we were on a site reserved for First Nations families. We happily gave it up for two women who had come for the powwow, and they invited us to their campfire that evening. We moved into the woods where the mosquitoes replaced the biting flies, and settled in for a breezy night.

Day 2 started quietly with a solo beach walk before biking into town for breakfast at Tangibles. There, we met Angela—someone I’d unknowingly corresponded with before the trip—who serves on the Economic Development Board and helped fund the campground. After a great meal made by Brooke, we explored town and then headed to the powwow grounds just outside of it. There were vendors selling honey, syrups, and handmade goods, and Parks Canada staff sharing about local wildlife. The Grand Entry of the powwow was powerful—men, women, and children in full regalia, with a clear respect for tradition. As the day got hotter, we headed back for a swim and some rest.

Day 3 was the grind. We packed up and began the uphill 3 km trek back to the ferry—what had been an easy coast in now felt like a mountain. The heat was intense, the road was rough, and the weight was real. I had to walk the trailer up steep sections, with Jeremy shouting encouragement from behind. We got barked at by a dog (caught it on video), and Jeremy had a standoff with it and a car in the middle of the road. Eventually, we reached the top and coasted into town, tired but relieved. At the ferry terminal, we waited about 35 minutes, reflecting on everything we’d experienced. The ferry ride back felt like a deep breath.