Myra. Canyon, near Kelowna BC, 18kms, 11C, drizzle

Today we had the opportunity to walk the. Myra Canyon, something we have wanted to do for many years, although we originally planned to ride it. It's part of the trail system which includes the Trans Canada Trail and the Kettle Valley Trail...in this area due to distances, typically cycled, but also walked in parts. 

In 2003, a number of the trestles were destroyed in a major fire which also claimed many homes in the Kelowna area...quite a disaster which took days to bring under control. There was a feeling of great loss following the destruction of the trestles, but generous contributions from the Province and others allowed reconstruction to proceed. A couple of years ago the work was finally completed and the traIl reopened. 

The trail follows a rail bed dating back to the early 1900's and there are 18 trestles over it's 12 km length. We decided to walk 9kms out and 9 kms back, due to the weather and as Annemarie hasn't been walking distance of late...so in reality we actually crossed 36 trestles:-) Walking there and back gave us some unique views and stayed fresh the whole way because of course the return walk looks completely different than the outbound leg.

There are also two rather long, dark tunnels to go through...quite amazing!

The rain came along when we were half way through our journey, but no fear, we had wet gear with us and of course I had my Camino hat on too...so all worked out well. 

I must say that the trestles were very high and because they were situated on the side of a canyon the height was accentuated. Unlike our walk over the high bridge leading into Portomorin on the Camino Frances, I had my head in the right place today and found that the heights didn't bother me at all. A great relief as the views were stunning! I found myself hanging over the side taking photos of the trestles and the valley colors...

If you look to the right and below the trestle, the burned, fire destroyed wood from the 2003 fire are clearly visible.

As we walked back, the clouds descended and enveloped us...it was a beautiful moment and brought back Camino memories for both of us from O'Cebreiro...clouds all around us as we decended from the high pass, and then suddenly the clouds parted and the day was stunning. Today the skies didn't open for us, but it nonetheless it was stunning at 1,300 meters elevation.

A great start to our vacation...more walking ahead:-)