Icefields Parkway

Left Jasper today and took the most amazing drive on the Icefields Pkwy. The first stop was Athabasca Falls. These falls are right off the highway but quite impressive as you can see from the first picture. Stop two, Lower Sunwapta Falls and too many tourists to get any good shots. Last stop on the drive was Stanley Falls. This was by far the most fun and we had the entire trail to ourselves. In fact, we almost missed it because there are no signs or markings that lead to the trail. This trail feels remote even though its not too far from the highway. The path passes a series of 8 waterfalls. We saw this little guy, a pine marten I think, in the tree on the way up. Check out those claws.
The rest of the drive, well lets just say they call it the Icefields Parkway for a reason.
Great dinner at Saltlik and a walk around the town. Night.

Ice and Sky

Our third day in Jasper and we were off to visit our first glacier up close. We followed the trail along the ridge to Angel Glacier, which got its name because it looks like an angel spreading its wings. You can also see a picture of the melt pool and yes, where we were walking was once part of this massive glacier that is feeling the effects of warming. Next, rode the gondola up Whistler’s mountain before a steep hike up to what seemed the top of the world, Whistler’s summit. Breathtaking views and strong winds and a few marmots to keep us company. This stone structure is always there to point us in the right direction. We've seen it on almost every hike. It is a traveler's symbol and will be the symbol for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
Had a relaxing day next at the hot springs.
Couldn’t resist taking a pic of Raf with Jasper the bear.