Janet’s cycling trip 2006 ….
In late August of 2006, Janet travelled into northern Idaho, Washington and British Columbia to enjoy the scenery, sunshine and cycling.
The weather was fantastic- hot and sunny every day, so the numerous lakes and waterways proved a refreshing treat.
Around Sandpoint and Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, there are several miles of trails for all abilities. 
We prefer pavement, so the converted railway lines were a delight. A paved trail runs along Lake Coeur d’Alene through the city, so it is a terrific way to enjoy the water views, see the city and get some exercise. 
There are several small cafes downtown when it is time for a break, and the large public park at the beach was a perfect place to cool. Lots of shade on the grass, or tons of sun on the sandy beach. The water was clear and refreshing. Hard to leave!
Heading west, we discovered Ellensburg, a charming university town. A portion of the Iron Horse State Park runs through the town. This is a haven for cyclists who dislike roads and want to enjoy rural scenery right outside the town limits.
A scenic drive westward took us into Seattle. Follow the Interstate and you will end up right downtown across from Pike’s Market. Outdoor paid parking lots offer the security of an attendant on site so we were not worried about our bikes locked on the back of the car while we strolled through town. A word of advice:leave before or after rush hour- several downtown streets are designated “transit bus only” during rush hour, making exiting the core a challenge!
Pike’s Market is a lively, colourful semi-outdoor market . Food, flowers, hand crafted goods, flowers, art, flowers ( do you get the idea?) and, of course, the fish market. If you haven’t heard about this fish market, you are in for a surprise. 
Puchase your fish and be prepared to catch it- literally. The singing staff will wrap your fish in newspaper and throw it at you. All part of the show, and the crowd loves it. Pictures and words don’t do the scene justice- you have to be there!
If you have ever been on a plane, the Boeing assembly plant in Everett, just north of Washington, is a must see. Reservations are recommended for the one-hour tour, although if you arrive by 830 or so on a weekday morning you could probably join either the 9am or 10am tour without much problem. The tour includes a time-lapse video illustrating the assembly of an aircraft, then you are bussed to the largest building in the world for a tour. Overlooking the immense assembly area, you will be awed – the Boeing 777 aircraft below you in various stages of assembly appear too small to be the jets you know they are.
Part of the main building is the Museum of Flight. 
Children and adults alike will enjoy this area. Design your own aircraft, ride a simulator, board the new 787 Dreamliner, and learn about jet engines.
Heading north and west to Anacortes for the ferry to Sidney, BC is a relaxing rural drive. Cornfields and cows are your constant companions.
We spent over a week on scenic Vancouver Island, primarily exploring the Saanich Peninsula, and Victoria. Cycling paths, cycling routes and considerate drivers make this an ideal area to explore on a bicycle. The ocean, the city and the countryside all offer a different scenic vista to enjoy.
Next stop was the Okanagan Valley in BC. If you like to swim, golf, cycle, stroll, drink wine, savour fruit you have plucked from the tree, this is the place for you. Hot, sunny and uncrowded at the end of August, Penticton is one of our favourites.
The transformed Kettle Valley Railway trails continue north of the city through vineyards, orchards and countryside.
The last stop was Morraine Lake. This is a gruelling 12 km climb on your bike but the scenery at the lake is spectacular. 
Northern Idaho and Washington and many parts of British Columbia are ideal vacation playgrounds – for a weekend, a week or longer. If you need more inforrmation on the trails or places to stay, or have ideas to share with other reades, contact Janet McKelvie.