Kamloops is surrounded by several serious wildfires, leaving the air very smoky with poor visibility and conditions far from ideal for my kind of fun flying. Still, I noticed a slight break in the haze and decided to take advantage of the opportunity for some exploration.

I chose a new route toward Agate Bay in the western, central part of Adams Lake. A sudden burst of turbulence just minutes after takeoff cast some doubt on my plan, but calmer air arrived quickly, allowing me to continue.

I flew to Agate/Squaam Bay via the Sun Peaks Ski Resort, then turned toward Chase at the start of the Adams River and followed the South Thompson River back to Kamloops. It was smoky, but still a good adventure flight.