The Great Mud Caper - September 23, 2026
Firstly, it needs to be clearly understood that the driver (me) is 100% at fault for the situation arising and is a leading contender for "Terminally Stupid Driver od 2026".
The situation actually began at Lismore Sheep Farm Wool Shop where we were warned about a major detour on NS 6. This would have been a perfect time to find a route to Jost Vineyards that avoided route 6 between Tatamagouch and Wallace - perhaps by taking 246 through Wentworth at Tatamagouch. First opportunity missed.
We set out on 6 enjoying checking our all the changes since our last drive through. Just as we got through Tatamagouch we encountered the detour. To quote NS Public Works.
Too bad we had not looked this up back in River John.
We set off on the detour on long, poor gravel roads. At some point I must have followed Google Maps instead of a sign and ended up at another closed bridge. We backtracked a bit and took another lead from Google. This is the next missed opportinity. A smart driver would have backtracked until a proper detour sign was found the resume the public works detour.
After some more leadership from Google Maps, we were pointed onto Logan Road. This was the ultimate piece of
bad judgement. It should have been obvious that this "track" was too poor a quality for the van and there would
likely be no ready opportunity to turn around. THIS was the opportunity.
Needless to say, we went on or I would not be writing this up. It was a track, not a road. We actually made it
about 75% of the way through before getting stuck. I discovered later that, when trying to get "unstuck", the
cover to the sewage valves had fallen open and filled with mud which effectively anchored us.
The gods that guard stupid people were with us and we cell service though a bit marginal. I got in touch with 911 and after making it clear that this was NOT a life and death emergency, I explained the situation. They put us in touch with the local RCMP where a surprisingly patient and understanding constable took a report on the incident and put us in touch with someone at North Shore Towing in Wallace.
The man from North Shore discussed the situation. I was able to send him our
location
and heading (W). While we waited for him to find his way to us, we put the tow eye on the front.
We eventually spotted him backing down Logan "Road". He installed a big winch on his hitch and we managed to free the Roadtrek. Once on solid ground, we disconnected and I followed him out to Highland Road. There were more than a few challenging points on the way but I managed to get the van through without further help.
When we were settling up, he commented to Lillian on my good driving. My response is that a good driver would have never been there. We left River John at 12:41 and made it to Jost's by 15:12 so the whole incident took 2-1/2 hours. You can see other pictures in 📸Click for pictures from Day 8
This is an incident that was completely avoidable. Having great driving skills has to include problem avoidance. Many excellent pilots have been killed by flying into conditions beyond their skill or the capability of the aircraft. The best time to turn around is while you still can.
It is also important to remember that the Promaster 3500 has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 4,241 KG (9,350 lbs) and is front wheel drive so there are only 2 traction wheels. Rear wheel drive vans in this class usually have 4 traction wheels. Even with new tires (ours were) it is easy to get stuck. It's a great vehicle to drive on most roads but you have to be careful.
We were lucky to get out of this so easily. Next stupid decision may not work out so well.
We were amazed how kind, helpful and competent everybody who helped was. Nobody even hinted at the reprimand and scorn we so highly deserved.Thanks to all!