Canada Land Trip 2

All too soon, we were off to Jasper via the amazingly scenic road called Icefields Parkway. Short stops along the way gave us the opportunity to photograph breathtaking vistas such as: 

Herbert Lake

Crowfoot Glacier

Bowfoot Summit and Peyto Lake

Peyto Glacier

Tangle Falls

Looking south from the top of a pass

Athabasca Falls

On arrival at Jasper, we checked into the Maligne Lodge for two nights. The helpful staff at the Visitor Centre told us about the Sulphur Skyline Trail on the east side of Jasper National Park. We drove about 25 kilometres and parked near the Hot Sulphur Springs. I was slightly uneasy about the hike, which was described as difficult and had an elevation of 600 metres. Sure enough, once we found the start of the trail, it was uphill all the way. 

Lunch at the top

We had been warned to look out for black bears and to make a noise as we were walking. We sang many of the songs we knew as we walked and no bears were seen along the way. 

The trail passed through a brief snow field once we were above the treeline and became very steep for the last, short haul to the summit. All our efforts were forgotten and we were silent as we stared at the amazing 360 degree view from the top.

Stunning view from the top of the Sulphur Skyline Trail

I had my knee supports with me and needed them on the steep walk down. 

The next day we boarded a VIA train to take us on the northern route across the Rocky Mountains.