180 clicks of nothing...

The hike up the glacier made us wanting to eat something. I visioned a steak, French fries and a coleslaw. At the Saskatchewan Crossing (Highway 11 and Icefields Parkway) we knew a place to eat. As we got out of the car both of our legs felt like rubber, we did not feel very fit. We went inside to find out we were too early for a steak. Only burgers and sandwiches available, I ordered a chicken-burger as in a low-fat burger, Joka the real deal. Indeed it came with French fries and some coleslaw. But my burger was thrown in the with the French fries, so ridiculously fat, felt like a brick. The pop always comes with a refill, we were thirsty too. We took a look at the tourist-shop before we went out on our way to Rocky Mountain House, 180 km to the east. If you want to experience loneliness, come over and drive that highway. Halfway you can pull over into the town of Nordegg, after that there is nothing as in absolutely nothing. "No service for the next 92 km" is the last sign of life after passing Nordegg. This Highway 11 is nicknamed "The Road Less Travelled", and we know now that is actually correct. Abraham Lake stretches for 35 km along HWY 11, with absolutely no sign of life on or alongside of it whatsoever. No tents, RV's or boats in sight. I actually enjoy driving it, although I admit seeing the outskirts of Rocky Mountain House was a pleasant sight. Lets go to Timmie Ho for a coffee before turning north onto HWY 22; easier said than done, it is the last building on your right on the south side of town. But a Cappucino English Toffee tastes very good and is tooth-cracking sweet. After 180 clicks its worth the drive.