Surprisingly, it’s been nearly two years since I’ve paddled and camped solo. My intent was to spend a few nights in the Pearse Islands and conduct some site assessment work for BC Marine Trails. Once I got out on the water from Telegraph Cove, and turned the corner, conditions were less than ideal for the crossing. Instead, I decided to leisurely paddle down to Blinkhorn Peninsula. Landings are possible on either side of the peninsula, I opted for the east side as it offered broad views down Johnstone Strait, should any marine wildlife be approaching. This is a Recreation Sites and Trails BC site, equipped with a picnic table and compositing toilet. I had the entire beach to myself for the 3 nights that I visited. I didn’t get to see any Orca but I was treated to mostly good weather, some warm wind and some rain but nothing that dampened my spirits.

A highlight from the visit was likely the day that I departed. It had rained heavily overnight and a large waterfall formed near my campsite. A great deal of water was pouring down from the mountain and landing in the ocean. I made a point to paddle over and appreciate the scene. It was raining lightly but as I approached the Bauza and Wastell islets, I was treated to some of best coastal morning light that I have ever encountered.

I recall my friend John Kimantas once telling me that he camped here and had problems with Mice. Fortunately, the only thing I encountered were slugs right outside my tent.