Halfway to Heaven — An Unexpected Trek, a Flat Tire, and a Whole Lot of Gratitude

Today’s journey reminded us that sometimes, the road less traveled is… full of potholes, ice, and the kind of slopes that make your palms sweat. But also? Absolutely worth it.

After a travel-heavy day yesterday—where we faced some of the steepest, windiest roads we've ever driven (truly, I don’t think I’ve ever been that scared going downhill)—we set our sights on Halfway Hot Springs in Nakusp, BC. The plan: relax and soak after two days of movement and momentum. The reality? Well, it came with a twist.

The gravel forest service road leading to the springs was rough, filled with deep potholes and slick patches of ice and snow. After some careful consideration (and gripping the wheel tighter than necessary), we decided to park the Pink Sloth a couple of kilometers before the entrance. We just didn’t want to take the chance—especially not with the van and our little crew in tow. And in hindsight? Great call.

So, the five of us—yes, even Kuna—bundled up and hit the trail on foot. I had actually hoped we’d squeeze in a walk or bike ride today… and well, the universe delivered. Our unexpected hike turned into something pretty special: a peaceful trek through towering green cedars and ancient hemlock, the forest quiet except for our laughter and the crunch of snow beneath our boots.

By the time we reached the hot springs, it truly felt like we’d earned it. Surrounded by wilderness and warmed by the natural mineral water, we were reminded once again why we chose this journey in the first place. Not just for the destinations—but for the unexpected paths, the bonding, the moments where challenge turns into memory.

And then… the day kept unfolding.

We needed to take the ferry to Revelstoke, and just as we were boarding, someone kindly pointed out that we had a flat tire. We were incredibly lucky they noticed—it could have gone very differently, especially since we had no cell reception. The ferry crew let us use their phone to call CAA (thank you, Shelter Bay angels!), and we made a plan to be picked up right at the entrance.

We ended up spending the entire afternoon waiting for the tow truck, but honestly? It turned into one of those strangely sweet moments. We pulled out the camping chairs, soaked up the sunshine, and made grilled cheese sandwiches with the last of our cheese while Elyssa showed off her jump rope skills. We were definitely low on groceries, but high on gratitude.

When Mike, our tow truck driver, arrived around 6:30 PM, we instantly felt in good hands. He was calm, experienced, and clearly knew what he was doing—this wasn’t his first rodeo. Watching him work brought a huge wave of relief.

The Pink Sloth’s unexpected nap break… thank you, Mike the tow truck hero!

After everything, we decided we deserved a treat. Mike was dropping us off for the night near a tire center, and thankfully, there was a pub restaurant close by. But when the girls and I arrived… a sign on the door: Closed for a private event.

Plan B. We called a taxi and asked our driver where we should go. He suggested Emo’s Restaurant in downtown Revelstoke—and what a great call.

Here’s what we jotted down during dinner (because yes, it was that good):

“The food is amazing. Burger well plated, bacon cooked to perfection, the meat nicely seasoned and tasty. The fries? Crispy, almost like McDonald’s… but better. Pizza had this soft, fluffy dough. Service was super friendly, and they gave the kids activity supplies right as we walked in. Plus, comfy seats and a cozy vibe.”

Cheers to flat tires, forest hikes, ferry rides, and finding joy in the detours.Adventure tastes even better when shared. 🥂🍔❤️

It felt like the perfect ending to a wildly unpredictable day.

This trip continues to teach us that even when things don’t go as planned (and honestly, especially when they don’t), there’s so much joy to be found in the detours, the kindness of strangers, and the shared grilled cheese moments on the side of the road.