Sea to Sky Adventures in Squamish, BC

I have to be honest.  When I first heard of the proposal to build the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish, I was a doubter and really not thrilled with the thought of paving paradise to put in a parking lot.  Sometimes in life you have to earn the view, and to me hiking is one of those activities that rewards hard work and perseverance.  I also believe strongly in no impact camping and preserving nature for future generations.

Sea to Sky Gondola Parking Area - Squamish, BC

However, I was convinced to try the Sea to Sky gondola to see for myself.  Opened in 2014, the Gondola transports visitors from the parking lot adjacent to the Sea to Sky highway to the lodge at 885 meters.

Base Facilities - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish BC

We purchased our tickets, hopped in line and joined a young family in the Gondola car.  We were quickly whisked up the mountain.  The views from the Gondola were absolutely spectacular!  Unfortunately, we missed most of them, as we were completely taken with the young 'uns who shared our Gondola.  The kids were ages 2 and 4, and mom was pregnant with her 3rd baby.  They were dressed in muddy buddies, boots and toques and their excitement was contagious!  Hurrah for a young family connecting their kids to nature!  The little man, excitedly exclaimed GABOLA every time we passed another Gondola car.....it's the small things in life isn't it?

Summit Lodge - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish, BC

We soon arrived at the top, bid farewell to our newest "favourite" family and stopped in at the lodge.  Magnificent!  The Summit Lodge featured a restaurant, bar, tea house, gift shop and a sheltered place to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.  After reviewing the trail maps, we began our hike by crossing the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge.  This bridge is 100 metres long and a definite crowd favourite. Having said that, we were surprised at how many people were truly fearful of crossing the suspension bridge.  It seemed a shame for them to miss out on the trails that beckoned from the other side.

Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish, BC

Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish, BC

The area is extremely well maintained.  In fact, we both commented that if felt a bit like visiting Tom Sawyer Island in Disneyland.  The trails and viewing platforms are well planned, well marked and feature signage highlighting the natural features along the way.

View of Sky Pilot - Squamish, BC

We enjoyed the views, and then decided to follow the trail leading out to the back country access.  We chose the Skyline Pilot trail hoping to take in views of Pilot and Copilot along the way.  It was an easy hike, with relatively little elevation gain and before we knew it, we were feasting on a picnic lunch at the end of the marked trail.  We joked that although the sign said end of the trail, we felt like it was only the beginning.  Despite the lodge and gondola being very busy, we did not encounter a single soul on the back country access trail.  I must confess...that is how we like it.

End of the line...Sky Pilot Valley Trail

We made our way back to the Lodge and decided to pop in for a coffee.  The lodge is a fantastic place to people watch.  It is a strange mixture of seasoned hikers (the ones covered in mud who refused to take the gondola up, and instead climbed and grunted their way to the top), tourists from all over the world and some of the best dressed hikers I have ever seen.  I could barely believe my eyes as a group of ladies in high heels made their way to the bar, purchased a couple of bottles of wine and settled in on the outdoor deck beside the roaring fire.  In truth, I still can't quite believe there was a bar up there!  Time passed quickly as we enjoyed the views...both those of nature and the people!

I left with mixed emotions.  We had definitely passed many people who physically would not have been able to visit this area had they been required to hike up on their own.  The demands of the hike would have been too much.  The Gondola has opened up an area of the mountain that many would not have the opportunity to visit.  Sea to Sky adventures appears to be attempting to blend education into the mountain experience and have created a wonderful opportunity for many to learn more about the mountain vegetation, wildlife and natural history.  Additionally, easy access to the back country provides hikers opportunities for expanded hiking options in the area.  Admittedly, we enjoyed a great day of hiking and yet there still is a part of me worried that we paved paradise to put in a parking lot.

Selfie Props - Sea to Sky Gondola - Squamish, BC

Giggle of the day:

We had the pleasure of riding the Gondola down the mountain with a couple of Aussies (it seems every fun story also begins with a couple of Aussies ) and a couple of gentlemen from Israel.  One of the Israelis was valiantly trying to share a story with us in English when his cell phone rang.  His ring tone was the theme song from the old western "The Good, The Bad and the Ugly".  We all broke out into laughter and then Rob asked the question we were all thinking....which one are you?  Without missing a beat, he replied, in perfect English...I am good.  It left us pondering which gondola the bad and ugly might be on.


Map and route tips

Fees

Gondola download is available for those hardy souls who hike up and want to relax on the way down.  There is a charge to download.

Trail maps available at the kiosk.

Interactive Map

#explorebc #SeaToSky #Squamish #yvr #vancouver #discoveroutdoors

Paddle Forward - Voyageur Canoes & Reckies Storm the Beach

We were invited to join Paddle Forward - a beach cleanup event in North Vancouver hosted by the "Reckies" - Outdoor Recreation students from Capilano University.  How could we resist a day on the water paddling a voyageur canoe in search of marine debris?  It seemed like a perfect outing for us!

Our day began at Cates Park in North Vancouver.  This beautiful seaside park offers 6 km of waterfront trails with spectacular views of Indian Arm to the north and the Burrard Inlet to the south.

Welcome sign to Cates Park

Swimming Area with view north to Indian Arm

The boat launch is open year round and well used by paddlers, power-boaters and anglers.  We were excited at the opportunity to paddle a Voyageur.  We learned that the larger canoe we were going to use for the day was called a Montreal canoe.  The canoes were graciously donated for use during the event by Ridge Wilderness.

These boats are beasts!  They can hold up to 22 people and all of their gear - a bit roomier than our sea-kayaks.  Although our boat quickly filled with garbage, we tried to remind ourselves of the earlier days when the fur traders would load their canoes with furs and goods to trade.  It is unimaginable to think of portaging these monsters!

Getting ready to launch the canoes

It was nerve racking to watch the team reverse the trailer with those huge canoes down the boat ramp.  I know for sure that I would not want to drive the truck and trailer.  However, our team, led by guides from Ridge Wilderness handled it like pros and made it look easy.  A very smooth start to our day.

Micro-biologist looks downward as the Marine biologist looks out

Safety talk and trip prep

After a brief safety talk, we donned our life jackets and loaded up the canoe.  Again, we were amazed at the size of these boats and I wondered if we had a strong enough team to paddle across the inlet.  Within a few strokes it became apparent that the boats were surprisingly maneuverable - credit to our guides of course.  We quickly crossed the inlet and were out and on the beach in search of garbage before we knew it.

All aboard

When does marine debris become habitat?

Event organizers take a bow

Garbage barge

I am saddened to say that it only take a short amount of time before we had filled the canoe with garbage.  The team was forced to decide whether to continue with garbage collection, meaning several of us would have to swim back, OR, call it a day and paddle back.  For a moment I was nervous that this dedicated and energetic group of students weren't joking and would ask us to swim.

Although we were very upset by the amount of garbage, on the bright side, it was inspiring to see that a few people, a big canoe and a little bit of time can make such a substantial difference.  As Dr. Seuss pointed out in the Lorax, "UNLESS someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better, It's not."

  As we celebrated during the post cleanup BBQ, we felt inspired by these "Reckies" and that they did care a lot.  We felt confident that these students would continue to advocate for the care of these waters and the amazing BC coastline.

Celebration Picnic

To the dump

Giggle of the day:

It would be impossible to load up a canoe with University students on a long weekend and not giggle.  There were countless bad garbage jokes and lots of teasing, however, my favourite was our early morning paddling lesson.  We all sat patiently in the canoe as we were taught a forward stroke, a back stroke and how to rest.  I giggled as the "resting" stroke quickly became our favourite and the one that the group mastered the quickest!

How do you do the rest stroke again?

...and here is a video of the action from the uneqivocal Cap OREC team....enjoy!

Map and Route Tips:

There is a boat launch and parking fee.

Cates Park offers a picnic shelter, concession area and washrooms.

We tested our Strava mapping tool while paddling the inlet....it appears that we must have entered the Bermuda triangle for the first section of the paddle.

Kayak Burrard Inlet from Barnet Marine Park

Our day paddle took us to Barnet Marine Park  a popular picnic and swimming area in Burnaby, BC.

5 minute loading area at Barnet Marine Park - short walk to the beach to launch

Sandy beach at Barnet Marine Park

We planned to launch from the sandy beach at Barnet Marine Park and paddle up the inlet toward Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.  To describe this paddle as a nature escape would be a mistake as the inlet is a busy commercial, industrial and residential area.  However, the paddle is very interesting as you pass by the Burrard thermal electric generating station, an Imperial Oil plant, the Pacific Coast terminal where you can see huge mounds of sulphur waiting to be shipped, a sawmill, log booms, marinas, railway lines and numerous waterfront homes.

Industry lines the water front

Boat houses

Marinas

As we paddled and floated, we spent time reflecting on the impact of industry and development on the environment.  It is interesting to note that the area is designated as an Important Bird Area.  This IBA is designated for three species at the global level: Western Grebe, Barrow's Goldeneye and Surf Scoter; and one species at the national level: Great Blue Heron.

We were treated to yet another spectacular day on the water, although in all honesty, is there ever a bad day if you are in your kayak on the water?

Water was like glass

We were impressed once again how Mother Nature adapts.  We noticed Cormorants making use of docks to rest, seagulls taking advantage of the calm waters behind the oil containment booms and seals using the log booms as haul out areas.

Cormorants perch on the docks

Seagulls make use of the oil containment booms 

Seals haul out on the log booms.  Notice the sulphur mountains in the background

It isn't just the seals who pop their heads up

It was a leisurely paddle to say the least.  As we neared Rocky Point Park the number of SUPpers (Stand Up Paddle boarders) increased and we chatted away as we passed each other.  Many struggled with the wake as the motor boat traffic was increasing.

Inlet narrows near Barnet Marine Park

Iron Workers Memorial Bridge in the distance

Being a long weekend, the boat traffic was really increasing, so we decided it was a good time to paddle back and get our feet on solid ground.....maybe some of the picnickers will be interested in sharing their feasts?


Giggle of the day:

I was busy loading up the boats, while Rob went to park the car.  I noticed an older gentleman watching me quite intently.  He finally found the courage to approach and in broken English told me that he really loved my rowboat!  He then asked if it was hollow inside.

We were also amused and impressed by the "picnic logistics!"  I must confess, we are grab and go picnickers.  Basically, water and whatever scraps are in the fridge will do, or failing that a quick stop a Subway along the route will suffice.  However, the picnic area at Barnet Marine Park is the place to go to observe full scale picnic operations.  We stood in amazement, as we watched a family in front of us unload their van...tables, chairs, coolers, tents, BBQ's, kites, buckets, shovels, blankets....  The van reminded me of Mary Poppins magic handbag!

Map and Route tips:

Arrive early, especially in summer as the parking lots get extremely busy.  There are 5 minute loading zones available near the beach - unload your gear and then move your vehicle to the upper parking areas.

There is no overnight parking available.

This is a very busy section of Burrard Inlet.  Paddlers must always have an eye open for motor boats!

Tri Cities Loop by Bike

The Tri Cities loop is part of the Trans Canada Trail but be forewarned - it is definitely NOT for road bikes. There is a lot of variety - paved trail, roads, crushed gravel, forest trail and dyke riding as you wind your way along this route connecting Coquitlam, Port Moody, and Port Coquitlam.  Not a great choice if you are looking for speed and distance, but if you are interested in amazing views and exploring, this is a winner!

Salmon stream along Hoy Creek Trail

As we step up our training for our West Coast tour, we have been trying to get in a few longer rides on the weekend.  The forecast was good, so we began our trek to the trailhead at Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam Centre park.  Despite a good forecast, the day turned out to be quite "humid"  We were glad to have come equipped with our heavy duty rain gear.

Cue sheet a little worse for wear due to the "humidity"

The route had lots of variety!  We rode past Rocky Point Park in Port Moody, Barnet Marine Park and enjoyed city riding along the Burnaby Urban trail and the Central Valley Greenway.  Near the end of the ride we enjoyed a section in Colony Farm Regional Park before making our way back along the Poco Traboulay Trail.

Forests come to life - spring is in the air

Bears also coming to life!  

Section along the Trans Canada Trail after leaving Rocky Point

Bummer....we were climbing up!

I think it is clearing up!

Are you sure this is the right trail?

Giggle of the Day

When I found this great route on trailsbc.ca, I excitedly shared it with Rob.  He took a look, agreed that it looked both amazing and challenging and promptly declared, "we are going to get lost".....and we did!  Not once, not twice, but numerous times.  On the bright side we discovered a fabulous kayak launch site at Barnett marine park.

We have also been playing with a web app called stravos.  This tool allows us to time and map our rides  through our cell phone and provides data on speeds, elevations etc. etc.  Today we decided to join the 21st century and go high tech for our ride.  No maps, no compasses...just all the technology an Iphone can provide.  Everything was great until the four hour 27 minute mark...after following a wonderful trail along river and through woods we arrived in a little town called Maillardville and realized we had no idea where we were and also realized we weren't even in the right city.  Not to worry, our handy iphone and stravos would set us straight.  A great plan...except the cell phone battery was dead.  No worries, we had marked our parking spot with a gps tag....our only problem...the gps tag was stored in the dead cell phone.  We went old school and asked for directions...they were sketchy at best, but definitely better than what our iphone was offering.

Here is our Stravos map.....

Breathtaking blossoms along the way.

Map and route tips:

Our finished map!

Cycling the BC Parkway to Central Valley - Graffitti, cowboys and spawning salmon!

Exploring the lower mainland by bike is always a treat, and today was no exception.  We decided to begin our trip at the New Westminster Quay and head into Vancouver via the BC Parkway.  This multi-use urban trail is 26 kilometers long and follows the Expo Skytrain line from Surrey, to New West, South Burnaby and into Vancouver.

 The heavy fog that had blanketed the lower mainland for days magically lifted and we were treated to a bright, crisp, sunny fall day.  The colours of the leaves were magnificent and we enjoyed the sound of them crunching beneath our tires as we pedaled along.

View of the Fraser River near New Westminster Quay

Signs on dedicated bike paths....AWESOME!

It was another day of contrasts - industry along the river and rail lines, graffiti, high end condos and homelessness, yachts, shopping malls, sports fields, restaurants, bars and people, people, people!  We saw it all.  It truly is remarkable that in a few short kilometres a cyclist travelling along the urban trails can pass through numerous municipalities and experience both the highs and the lows of our communities.

Anything in a size seven?

Brilliant Fall colours

Approaching downtown Vancouver

Was there a George Clooney sighting here?

We cycled along the waterfront to English Bay and Stanley Park enjoying the Sunday morning sights and sounds.  As we approached Canada Place, Rob noticed DeDutch Pannekoek House conveniently located right on the seawall.  The breakfast menu seemed to have his name on it so we had to stop.  Rob simply could not MASH one inch further.  It was such a warm day that we were able to sit outside on the patio and enjoy our breakfast as we watched the float planes take off and land.

We decided to experiment and try a new route out of downtown.  We followed the Dunsmuir bike lane to Adanac and then began the climb out of Vancouver toward Simon Fraser University.  We were confident that we would be able to find our way back to the Central Valley Greenway....and after a few stops and starts that's exactly what we did!

Heading uphill towards Simon Fraser on the Frances Union Bikeway

The highlight of the day was on the Central Valley Greenway. As we entered the park there was a sign warning folk to be cautious as there was a bear in the area.  We thought that was a bit unusual...after all we were in the middle of Burnaby.  However,  as we pedaled along we could hear splashing coming from the stream below and quickly deduced why bears might be hanging out!  The salmon were putting on a show.  We hopped off our bikes and made our way down to the stream to watch the epic battle.  Salmon were coming up the stream in waves as they fought their way against the current.  It was inspiring to watch.  Credit to the restoration crew who has been working to restore the habitat!

Salmon fighting their way up Still Creek to spawn

Steps to help the salmon along their way

As usual the day ended far too quickly!  To celebrate the salmon sightings we stopped for a gelato....chocolate of course!  Another perfect day and perfect ride.

Guilt free Gelato break....life is good!

Giggle of the day:

As we came to a red light on Main Street near Science World, a young gentleman pulled up beside us and exclaimed "HOWDY PARTNER!".  He was dressed in full cowboy gear....boots, hat, jeans, vest and sheriff's badge.  (in fairness, we were in downtown Vancouver AND it was the weekend before Halloween).  The young man pulled a 26 ounce bottle of scotch out of his bike basket and asked if we would like a swig.  How generous!  We did notice that half the bottle was missing. We weren't sure if he was on his way to or from the party....or just keeping the party going.  Before we could ask, he gave a hoot and a yippee and was back on his way.  

Map and Route tips:

City of Vancouver  http://vancouver.ca/streets-transportation/cycling-routes-maps-and-trip-planner.aspx

BC Parkway  http://www.translink.ca/en/Getting-Around/Cycling/BC-Parkway.aspx

Central Valley Greenway   http://www.translink.ca/en/Getting-Around/Cycling/Central-Valley-Greenway.aspx

Burnaby bike Routes  http://www.burnaby.ca/Page386.aspx