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The sea-to-sky highway is one of the most beautiful scenic drives. I have stopped by many of the places along the Sea to Sky Highway. However, at different times during my time in Whistler. Driving up this road excites me as I know it is the way to Whistler. I spent the winter there in 2018-19 and it couldn’t feel more like home even if it tried. Starting at sea level and rising 670 metres above in the mountains. The smooth road has many twists and turns as you make your way up. If you are West in Canada then this drive is a must.
Sea to Sky – Cypress Mountain
Cypress Mountain is another Mountain in Vancouver. It was highly recommended to me by a family member so it was a must-stop. We got there early as we planned to hike to the top. Yes, I hiked in flip-flops and this time they didn’t break. My favourite flip-flops are Effie’s Lookout. A Nice Lunch Spot in the Sun
We weren’t tired or experiencing achy legs at the top so decided to hike on to Effie’s Lookout. What a good decision that was. The views over the whole of the bay were incredible. To top it off the sun was shining and not many clouds in the sky. Another winning view for lunch. Lastly, we stopped by Cabin Lake for a quick dip, very cold. Jumping straight in was definitely a shock to the system!!
The Stawamus Provincial Park – Shannon Falls
Shannon Falls at Squamish
As you continue up the beautiful Sea to Sky corridor you reach Shannon Falls. This can be a quick stop if you don’t do any of the hikes on offer. Shannon Falls is the third highest waterfall standing at 335 metres. The waterfall wasn’t full yet but it was still impressive.
The Stawamus Chief, Squamish
Squamish Chief hike is very well-known with locals and tourists alike. So being a resident in Whistler it was only fitting to attempt to get to the top. I was scared to complete this hike. Rumour has it, that you have to climb a ladder for a bit of it. This is a very tough hike; luckily we weren’t in a rush so that we could take our time. Time was definitely needed to complete this.
The View From Stawamus Chief
Stawamus Chief is 700m tall and divided into Frist Peak, Second Peak, and Third Peak. The trail starts at Shannon Falls.
The stairs at the start of the trial were the hardest part as well as coming back down. On the way back down I was trying not to slip and fall. We found ourselves scramming back down. As tough as this hike was, I am glad I conquered it. The views over the Howe Sound were amazing, it was a clear day so we could see well into the distance. If you are up for a challenge then this hike is for you!
Sea to Sky Gondola, Squamish
The View Coming Down the Sea to Sky Gondola
If you don’t fancy the hike up The Chief, you can always ride up in the Sea to Sky Gondola. You do need a ticket, unlike the hike. A quick ride up which takes you to a different viewpoint from the hike. There are many different trails to stroll along and the views of the snow-capped mountains made this perfect.
Brandywine Falls, Whistler
The Rainbow Over The Falls
Brandywine Falls is a clean 70m drop into Brandywine Creek. This stop is a short one as it’s about a 15-minute walk from the car park. People just stop at the Falls but if you walk about 200m more you reach another viewpoint. If it’s a clear day you get an amazing view down into the valley.
The Cheakamus Train Wreck, Whistler
Some of the Many Boxcars Left Behind
The train wreck dates back to 1956 when a speeding train raced through the valley, attempting the bend too fast. This crash left 7 train carriages in the forest at Cheakamus. These boxcars are along the Cheakamus River. Again, the first 5 are easy to find but walking further into the forest you will find the other two. It is well worth a stop.
Garibaldi Lake, Whistler, BC
The Impressive Garibaldi Lake
The Garibaldi Lake hike was an 18 km there and back hike. I was not ready for this in the slightest. I decided to go last minute with a hostel friend. The hike itself didn’t offer many views as I struggled uphill for 810 metres. This was my first lake experience in Canada. I was so happy. It didn’t disappoint and was bigger than any expectations I had. It was cold as Winter was drawing in. Yet that didn’t matter as I sat looking at the blue lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This is what I came to Canada for… well, snowboarding too.
Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain, Whistler
The Snow Wall on Whistler Mountain
What can I say about this small mountain town? I’ll be very biased as this place feels like home. I came for the Winter Season but I had to see this place in Summer too. Oh my, how a mountain can change so much between seasons.
Conquering My Fear of Heights
The mountains (Whistler and Blackcomb) offer many hiking trails in the summer months. Whistler Mountain has a bike park for downhill riders. The suspension bridge tested my fear of heights. Viewing the snow walls was insane as you can see how deep the snow gets. That was amazing as I just spent the Winter snowboarding on it.
Over on Blackcomb, you can still make your way to 7th heaven and take in the breathtaking views on offer. Also, you can watch some glacier skiing/snowboarding.
It was well worth the summer day trip up the mountain.
Sea to Sky Highway – Nairn Falls
Nairn Falls
Nairn Falls is a waterfall north of Whistler. It sits 60 metres high. The smallest of three the along the Sea to Sky Highway. It is a short 1.5 km to the viewpoint. Just because it was the smallest it doesn’t mean that you should avoid it. All three waterfalls are different types so stopping by all is a real treat.
Joffre Lakes, Highway 99
The excitement for this hike boiled over as I had waited so long to check out Joffre Lakes. I had only heard good things. 3 lakes to see and a total of 8 km there and back trip. The lower lake was only 5 minutes from the car park. The middle lake is around the 3.5 km mark. We set off, all uphill, and at quite a pace.
The Middle Lake at Joffre
As we ascended the middle lake, we only had been hiking for 50 minutes. When we came across Middle Lake, I wasn’t expecting to see it just yet. I moved my gaze from the ground to head height. There it was. The crystal-clear blue glacier-fed lake. Also, the best out of the three, in my opinion. This was a ‘WOW’ moment. We hiked a further 20 minutes to Upper Lake, in this section you had to mind your footing. Scrambled over some rocks to find a spot for a snack. The view for this mealtime was impressive. Nature is simply the best in my eyes.
In conclusion, this highway was one of the best to drive with 360 views as you climb from sea level to ‘the sky’. This should be on your Canadian bucket list, for sure!! A real delight.
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After a couple of days in the city, we headed North to Grouse Mountain. I was more than ready to get back into the mountains; this time hiking up. An early morning was in order to avoid the crowds as we geared up to hike the Grouse Grind. The sun was out, the sky was blue, and it was a perfect day for 2800 steps. These aren’t any old steps; these are 2800 steps up a side of a Mountain.
Starting the Grouse Grind
Hiking Grouse Mountain
The steps stretched 1.8 miles, pretty much vertical. The challenge awaited us. This was the first hike of the trip and we hoped it wouldn’t put us off hiking. I am in no way a seasoned hiker, I would classify myself as a beginner. I just have a love for the adrenaline rush and the amazing views you see after putting in the hard work.
We set off with water and some snacks, we weren’t really that prepared for the task ahead of us. Also, I had a great deal of determination to complete it within a good time. The guideline is an hour and a half to climb to the top according to the Grouse Mountain website. The trail is visible and marked, you can’t go wrong. The trees sheltered us from the sun’s strong rays.
This wasn’t too bad. Slowly making our way up the first quarter was enjoyable (although this would change later on). I quite enjoy early morning exercise as I feel it is a good way to start the day. That coupled with the fact we will have great views was all the motivation I needed to keep on climbing. This section was not steep more like a casual climb.
The higher we got the tougher the hike became. It was still manageable at this stage. Halfway.
Hitting the Half Way Mark on The Grouse Grind
It started to increase in steepness but taking a steady pace worked well to keep us moving. Before we knew it, we made it to the last quarter. The last quarter was a vertical climb. With tired legs, this was the time I had to dig deep. This was the toughest part and I did start to wonder… can I make it?
Finished!!!
The answer was YES with determination and gritted teeth we made it to the top. This was a challenging yet rewarding hike to start off our trip. When I said I was a beginner I wasn’t lying; this hike only continued because of its constant water breaks and moments to catch my breath.
Hike one…Completed.
It is crazy to think that locals from this area complete the trail barefoot in under 20 minutes. We did it in 2 hours. This was a huge accomplishment for us. We were so proud and so knackered when we reached the top.
What a morning!!!
Exploring Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain has more to explore than the hike up in Summertime and that’s what we planned to do for the day. In winter, this mountain is a popular ski or snowboard Mountain with day and night access available to guests and season ticket holders.
The Grizzly Bears at Grouse
Once recovered, re-hydrated, and refueled we explored what the mountain had to offer. The most important and the first stop was to see the two resident Grizzly Bears that call Grouse Mountain home. The size of these two adult male bears (Grinder and Coola) was insane, arguably much larger than Black Bears. I had already seen Black Bears in Whistler, Canada.
One of the Male Grizzly’s at Grouse Mountain
The Grizzly’s both lost their mother and ended up orphaned. Grinder was alone with no mother in sight. Coola’s mother and her two other cubs were unfortunately hit by a truck. They both came to Grouse in 2001 to start their new life.
In an ideal world, these would be wild and free. It was quite distressing to watch the tourists race to either side of the pen depending on the bear’s movement. This caused one of them to charge towards a child, luckily, they are safely behind a fence. I heard that these Bears aren’t always out so it may be potluck if you see them.
Riding up to The Peak
There were two options to get us to the peak of the Mountain: hike up or the chair lift. Well after this morning I think you can guess which we opted for. The chair lift ride was a strange one as I didn’t have a snowboard attached to my foot (I did a ski season in Whistler).
Coming Back Down To The Warmth of The Sun
Peak was very windy, with clouds filling up most of the sky. Making it much cooler up there. Therefore, a quick snap of the camera and an even quicker moment to take it all in before going back to the warmth of the sun. The views weren’t as magnificent as we expected but you could still make out some of Vancouver.
The Bird Show at Grouse Mountain
Bald Eagle at the Free Bird Show
Among other attractions on Grouse Mountain, there are free shows. One of these was a bird show which we stopped and watched. The information provided by the Falconry staff was engaging and very detailed. The show showcased some of the best birds including a bald eagle, a red hawk, and a falcon. This was a welcome rest, muscle soreness was starting to set in!
The World-Famous Lumber Jack Show
Another free show is the World-Famous Lumber Jack show. The show was well written and even better acted. These types of shows are normally way too cringe for me to enjoy but I must say I was pleasantly surprised. This was incredible and actually a laugh-out-loud show. Also, the all-important danger factor had you on the edge of your seat (well bench).
The Blue and Red Teams competed in classic lumberjack challenges. Also, there was a 60ft wooden pole involved somehow. I won’t go into any more detail just in case you get to witness the show. However, I highly recommend this free show if you are there during the summer.
The Sky Train Ride at Grouse Mountain
The sky train we took back down only takes 4 minutes. However, it was like a sardine tin with everyone squashed in. The Grouse Grind is a one-way system so the hike down would have been a different route but energy levels were low so the sky train it was. What a tough yet rewarding morning followed by a great afternoon.
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Part 2
Saturday 13th July 2019 – Calgary Stampede Rodeo
After day one came the day I have been waiting for, for so long! I was going to witness my first rodeo. The excitement was insane. Maybe I like it because of the adrenaline factor. Also, I feel you have to be a bit crazy to sit on a bucking horse. As for sitting on a bucking bull, well, that’s screw loose material. But first, we still had a morning to explore other events on offer.
Calgary Rodeo – The Auctioneer Competition
Firstly, was the auctioneer competition. I thought it was a bit strange. And I clearly do not speak auction house, I couldn’t understand a thing. In conclusion, I need to brush up on my country speaking. It was good to witness to see how auctions work. The prize cattle on offer were magnificent and ranch owners were actually bidding on them.
Pigeon Racing at Calgary Stampede
Pigeon Racing
As I said Calgary Stampede is full of many different events. In short, I personally love learning and seeing what others love to do. However, I was shocked to find out there is a serious league and prizes for a winning pigeon. This shows how impressive a pigeon can find his or her way home. The training and patience that goes into this sport are mind-blowing and admirable. Without a doubt, this was quite scary as the pigeons flew fast towards us before turning left to head back home. Plus, no poo when they took flight. Result in my eyes. Didn’t fancy being caked in poo for the rest of the day.
Calgary Stampede – The Rodeo
This was it, the moment I had been waiting for as we headed to the Grandstand, excitement reaching boiling point. The Show I wanted to see the most. They had an action-packed show with 6 events. Each and everyone was thrilling in their own way. Wildcard Saturday as it’s known. The last-ditch attempt for the riders to make the finals. And have their chance at the $100,000 prize money!!!
The First Event – Roping
Steer Wrestling
This was against the clock the quickest to rope the steer went on through to the final. To see this skill in action was intense but this event doesn’t have the danger factor like so many others do but this puts skill at the front line. These cowboys were so quick, if you blinked you missed out. Personally, I have the worst aim in history so I would never be able to rope that steer.
The Second Event – Steer Wrestling
This event was more exciting as the cowboys had to jump on the steer’s back, get them to the ground, and tie them up all against the clock. One cowboy knew he wasn’t going to win, so instead of throwing the steer down pointlessly he just gave up. Again, another sign of the good sportsmanship that runs through the sport.
The Third Event – Bareback Riding
Riding a Bucking Horse
Now we were hitting the crazier events in my opinion. As the audience, you sat on the edge of your seat engrossed in the action. The cowboys had to stay on a bucking horse with no saddle for 8 seconds as well as get judged for points out of 50. One horse looked so good, the rhythm he had as bucked and bucked was insane.
The Fourth Event – Saddle Broncs
The same principle as the event above but the horses have saddles on. Again, you couldn’t turn away, these horses bucking were very impressive. Let’s say this wouldn’t be something I would like to try. All cowboys have a lot of guts and talent.
The Fifth Event – Barrell Racing
This time it was over to the cowgirls to take centre stage. Barrell racing is where the rider has to complete the course by riding around all barrels in the fastest time. This was a nail-biting competition as the top three cowgirls were very close. As a result, one rider took the top spot by the slightest of margins.
The Final Event – Bull Riding
Finally, the event I had been waiting for. The craziest event out of them all, these cowboys had to stay on a bucking bull for 8 seconds. Riding for their lives to have a chance at the prize money in Sunday’s Final. The riders were all very talented and the size and the bucks of the bulls were impressive and aggressive. All riders gave it a good go, I was biting my nails as the bulls bucked hoping for a safe landing for the cowboys. Unfortunately, one did suffer a kick to the head. I can’t even imagine receiving a kick from a bull let alone walking away as that one cowboy did. The guards were quick to get the cowboy to safety as well.
Nashville North Music Stage
After queuing for an hour, we were finally in. Yes, this is a popular stage and once inside you will see why. The music was good and non-stop with many different acts. Just like being at a festival. And when the acts were changing, they filled the time with something in my eyes that is so country… line dancing. We attempted this; my dancing skills are limiting but we had so much fun trying. The final singer I enjoyed most was Ryan Lindsay. He was so good and entertaining. He has blue eyes so that is always a plus.
Summary of The Rodeo
Wow, I have covered what the six events are and given snippets as to what happened. I just have to say I admire all the cowboys and cowgirls who took part and have nothing but respect for them. They put their lives on the line to entertain the crowds. The sheer sportsmanship between all shines on through. The cowboys and cowgirls always put the animals first.
Showing off The Next Rodeo Legends
The animals aren’t forced to do it if they aren’t up to performing then that’s it for the day. The competition is over for them. Yes, sometimes it isn’t pretty and it does go wrong for them, I witnessed this first hand. Some may be against events like these. However, these animals, in particular, the horses are born to do the events they take part in. It is in their blood. And in my eyes, they are well cared for and well and truly loved by all.
To read about my final day at the stampede click here
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Part 3
Sunday 14th July 2019 – The Final Grand Show
Finally, is it the last day of the Calgary Stampede and the final Grand Show, well for 2019 anyway. ‘The greatest outdoor show on earth’; is a statement I agree with now having witnessed so many different events. It didn’t disappoint and I was kind of sad for this to be the last day. I didn’t want this experience to end. I was fully entertained throughout the three days that my friend and I spent on the grounds in Calgary. We fully submerged ourselves in all the Calgary Stampede had to offer. I felt like a tourist the whole time as this was the first time experiencing what I call ‘real country’. Yes, country music is my favourite.
The German Light Show
This incredible piece of art by a very talented German group of people. As a member of the audience, the slow movement of the light as it travelled across the stage draws you in. There was a giant and a star as the main characters in the story that it was telling. In addition, you really got the feeling that this particular giant was friendly and had compassion for the star. The show was very well put together leaving you unable to look away. A real masterpiece.
The Calgary Stampede Fair Ground
There are many rides and games on offer to keep you entertained between competitions. Although, we only went on the Cable Car to get a bird’s eye view of the grounds. I personally didn’t enjoy this because the wind picked up making the cable car sway and stopping it every 3 seconds.
In amongst the fairground was the Freestyle Motor-Cross Show. Dirt bikes put on a show consisting of high-flying flips and daring tricks. The danger factor shone on through and left the audience gasping as the rider tried a variety of tricks.
The Heavy Horse Pull Competition
Heavy Horse Pull
I think this event gripped me the most. This was all about the power of this breed of horse. They look great and the size of them! Quite unbelievable. The arena was dead silent. You could feel the anticipation throughout the crowd as everyone silently watched the competition. As the weight was attached the horses settled, and on commend, they pulled.
The beauty of these horses was impressive, however, the amount of weight that they can pull was even more impressive. The winner won because they moved 13,000 lbs. Yes, you read that right 13,000 lbs. The winners tried for the recorded but just fell short… the attempt was 13,400 lbs.
Yet, what struck me more was the unity between competitors. The united front no matter what. This is a theme throughout the Rodeo. The equipment from one team snapped as the horses attempted to pull the weight. Everyone’s reaction was quick, horses checked over, all good. Another team lent their expensive equipment so the team could try to attempt the record again. No hesitation in the choice they made. Great sportsmanship.
The Final Grand Show
Our final event in what has been an action-packed weekend. Also, I would love to come back every year to witness ‘the greatest outdoor show on earth’. The Grand Show was packed with the last rodeo event, a show by the Trailblazers, and a firework display.
The Chuck-Wagon Race Competition
Chuck Wagon Racing
Chuck-Wagon racing is where four thoroughbreds pull a wagon around the racetrack. The wagon has two flankers (2 single horses and riders) who also race around the track. Before heading around the track, they have to go around a barrel. It was exciting to watch as everyone cheered as they made their way around.
As the last race got underway the four teams were neck and neck as they came around the third corner. The race was so intense you couldn’t take your eyes off the pack as they came along the home straight. That’s where you noticed it, one team was missing. All the flankers for each team raced back to that third corner where the crash happened.
The back-room staff was quick to cover the area so the public could no longer see. Unfortunately, as quick as they were, you only saw one horse get up. It is with great sadness that three horses passed away during that race. For this reason, it reminded me of The Grand National Horse Race from England, and not in a positive way. The Grand National sometimes ends up with an injured horse being put down.
This time it was under the worst circumstance that the compassion and sportsmanship were again on display. The theme throughout the rodeo. No horse or man was left behind.
The Trail Blazers Grand Show
After, all the events of the weekend the 132 young Canadians take to the stage every night to wow the audience with their show. The show was full of energy from start to finish. It was amazing to watch and I’m sure many of those young Canadians have good careers in front of them.
The Final Firework Show
The last hooray to what has been an incredible last three days of ‘the greatest outdoor show on earth’. I have been left with a thirst for The Rodeo, it is something I could go and see every weekend. This incredible experience ended with a simply beautiful firework display. A fantastic grand show finishes a great weekend.
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Part 1
I was so excited, ever since I saw the Calgary Stampede advertised and knew I was going to Canada; this event had to be on my schedule. Yes, I love anything to do with country. Expect horse riding. We had this booked before we set off on the road trip to guarantee seats to the events. Unfortunately, I got sick just before so the past week we had been resting and taking it easy. So, by the time we got to the stampede I was ready to throw myself into all, there was to see and do.
Three Days at The Calgary Stampede
I’m A Little Bit Country…
The stampede didn’t disappoint, there was so much to see. The grounds were huge and lots of different areas to explore throughout our three days here. I wanted to see as much as possible. All the events except the Rodeo and The Grand Show were on a day ticket. You do have to purchase the two main events separately. However, these did include the day pass into all of the grounds. Luckily the Rodeo and Grand Show are on every single day of the event. So, you shouldn’t miss out.
Friday 12th July 2019 – Calgary Stampede
Our first day at the stampede was a last-minute decision because we arrived in Calgary early and the excitement was just too much to wait another day, so we went on Friday as well. Yes, I know sad!
Wow! The grounds are so big, colourful and full of things to explore. There are many different areas; the fairground, food stalls, Cola-Cola music stage, Western Event Centre, and Elbow River Camp to name a few.
Miniature Horse Competition
This was our first stop for the weekend. The miniature horses attached to a small cart had an obstacle course to complete. Miniature being a keyword… had me thinking that this would be a children’s event. But no full-grown adults were instructing the horses. It was kind of funny seeing them sitting in their small carts.
Nonetheless, the concretion and seriousness of the competitors were strong. Everyone wanted to win instead of enjoying it. However, the pressure got too much for one of the finalists and she ended up missing half the course. She took this competition so serious that she even questioned the judges. This event built up the excitement for many more.
Sheep Sheering Competition
This was such a frill; I would never be able to hold a sheep still and give it a perfect haircut. Yet, these competitors did just that, not only do the sheep have to look good but time was a factor. The time factor added intensity to the competition. The men and women who took part were very talented at what they do.
A Football Dog Show
I am not a big dog lover (don’t hate me) but give me a dog show as entertaining as this and you might be able to covert me. All the dogs involved were rescues and very talented. They had to conquer many different obstacles. The show was well thought out and full of entertainment; we were definitely not bored. One act that stood out was a girl dancing with not 1 but 3 dogs. I can’t even control one on a walk so to dance with three impressed me. This was a fantastic show.
The Western Oasis Stage
The place that played old-school country music. My favourite type of music. Yes, country is what I choose to play. I am not ashamed of this. I’m okay with people knowing. However, the band that was on stage when we got there was bad and not all that enjoyable. Luckily there was amazing photography and artwork on display.
The Elbow River Camp
One of the Many Tee-Pee’s at Elbow River
This area was for the indigenous people of Canadian. There are 7 First Nations all from the Treaty 7 Nations that display their traditions and culture. On show to the public were the pretty tipi’s, jewellery, bannock and traditional dancing as well as much much more. I enjoy learning and diving into new cultures, one of the many reasons why I travel.
The Calgary Stampede Talent Search
The talent show was in the semi-final round and full of young talent. They give extraordinary prizes to the winner. The competition was sharp and tough. We got to vote for our favourite, this is a difficult choice as all deserved to win. You do have to queue a little ahead of the start time to be able to get a seat. It was a popular show.
Agriculture Area – Full of Amazing Animals
Wow, what can I say? All animals are so well cared for. The areas were clean and spacious. The condition of each and every animal was insane. None were neglected only pumped full of love. You have every farm animal so there is something for everyone.
What a first day at the Calgary Stampede, read here about day two.
