The Canadian Rockies... The Big Melt

Since our dog sledding adventure we have been hop skipping and jumping about the Canadian Rockies. It honestly is an outstanding setting. Every place we land is uncompromising in it's effortless beauty; unaware of it's exceptional elegance. Canmore's streets encroach upon the raggedy mountains at every turn. Their peaks dappled with recent snow. It's true we've seen many snow capped mountains whilst in Canada but each one confesses something different that we admire their summit's with fresh eyes, as though they are our first.

We spent an afternoon hiking up to Grassi Lakes. The trail was simply a sleek sheet of ice, and we tired quickly skating to the top. The undisturbed lakes lay unassuming at the end of the strenuous climb. Bright blues and bottle greens are forced together as though mixed upon an artists' palette, battling for the viewers eye. Reflecting their artistry to the sky's above.

Our trip to Canmore culminated in an evening spent inside a teepee around a crackling fire with some newly acquainted Aussie pals. We roasted marshmallows on questionable sticks above the unruly flames. Upon leaving our hide away the moon combined with our torches to light the thick falling snow as we scurried back up to the warmth of our isolated hostel. Why we were then surprised at our snow covered scene the following morning I do not know!

We are currently in the mist of 'The Big Melt'.... well, that's what Sam and I have named the Rockies transition between Winter and Spring. No where is this more highlighted than Johnston Canyon. My favourite hike to date.....

The deep canyon has etched its way through the mountain leaving a sheer drop on both sides, so naturally we scrambled along this arduous edge. The canyon looked stunning dressed in bridal white. As we neared the waterfall the white frills boarded the opaque waters running immutable every which way around the melting ice. Ominous icicles clung to the tumbling waterfall in a last ditch attempt to proclaim Winter..... but spring is thankfully triumphant!

The Big Melt was probably not the wisest time to then visit the infamous Lake Louise. A vast lake on the cusp of Spring with one foot still in Winter. For a lake this size it most certainly means..... thin ice! Which in turn probably means.... 'Do not walk upon'. (As evidenced by the many foot holes). Consequently making my next move rather foolish.... Sorry Mum.

Still, exploring our natural surroundings does not come without it's dangers....

True Story: Let me set the scene.... Belly's full from our recently devoured three egg omelet, we headed to the TV room in the basement of our Canmore hostel. Film decided, I proceeded to fight with the electrical equipment in a battle to open the DVD tray. My increasing frustration was interrupted with.... 'There's something in my hair'.... Sam sounded panicked. I felt panicked. We looked at each other, wide eyed, and without vocalising a thing we shared the same thought..... Tick! We'd spoken about them all day, been warned about them, and even mocked the newly placed poster in our hostel. Rummaging through her hair I soon found the culprit of our earlier discussions and present fears.... tick. Having our despair confirmed by an unsuspecting German couple near by we headed to the only place backpackers know where to head in times of crisis.... the hostel reception. We were met with looks of disbelief. The German girl seemed intent on removing the tick using a straw and string method. Straw and string?!? Currently not items in the first aid kit.... come to think of it we never questioned her outlandish strategy. We alternatively settled for the grab a pull method. Tick removed... foreign body executed... que the onset of creepy skin. We were freaked, we still are freaked. Full body checks are now performed somewhat ritualistically in morning showers.

Currently Reading: When God was a Rabbit by Sarah Winman - Highly Recommend!

Snow Paws

Thermal layers came out of retirement for one last outing before the end of winter. Early morning silently preparing electrical equipment marked the start of another heroic adventure. No sandwich bag safety precautions needed today, instead a steady supply of snacks and a robust pair of footwear. Ready!..... I know what you're thinking, but sadly Sam and I have not yet joined the line dancing class at weight watchers. Although we endeavour to do so at some point. Alternatively, we sought out the somewhat dicey sport of dog sledding.

Barking, howling and general yapping echoed around the frosty mountain upon our arrival, deafening the surrounding vicinity. Our chance of seeing bears this trip? Pretty minimal I'd say. Friendly faces turned to welcome us. Oodles of huskies lined the snowy trail, each one individual but just as delectable. We were encouraged to introduce ourselves to our four-legged friends; avoiding those wearing red neckerchiefs (these pups were a little shy). I was in my element! Never had I seen such a stunning variety of colours and markings. Interestingly, there were several different types of huskies; Malamute, Siberian, Alaskan, Inuit and even Indian. Each breed just as solicitous to please.

Fun Fact: Inuit huskies can sled in temperatures below -40. Making our excursion some what of a tropical vacation for these guys.

A heavily bearded man introduced himself as Bill and proceeded to relay copious amounts of information to help us master the basics. 'Hike up Puppies', bellowed firm and enthusiastic would result in your dogs departing at speed. 'Easy Puppies', (and one foot on the break) slows your team down. Most importantly, 'Woah Puppies', (with both feet on the break, thus applying your full weight onto your only stopping device), hopefully brings your sled to a smooth standstill. Leaning into corners is also pivotal if you don't want to separate from your sled.

The Golden Rule: NEVER let go of your sled or remove yourself from the break whilst stationary. Your team will take advantage of your carelessness and naivety.

Bill continued to clarify the do's and dont's with humorous tales from guests previous. Do: Keep your eye out for distractions. (If your dogs try to follow squirrels up a tree, you will subsequently find yourself up a tree). Don't: keep going if a dog is attempting to poop. His team-mates are oblivious and unconcerned and will maintain their stride, dragging him along regardless. Lesson complete, I found myself climbing into the sled. I felt like I was climbing in bed it was so cosy, it certainly rivalled a night spent in Clifford. Sam at the helm, it was time.... 'HIKE UP PUPPIES'. Snow kicked up off the ground and we were off....sharpish. Never has the sight of six bottoms looked so appealing when accompanied by a perfect winter backdrop. We zipped through the trails, over bridges, down slopes, around corners until we rather inelegantly came to an abrupt halt atop a frozen lake. We congratulated out tail wagging team. I thoroughly enjoyed soaking in the sights with our new canine companions. 

My turn to drive. Despite complying with the golden rule (both feet most definitely firmly settled on the break), upon realising the anchor was aloof the pups were dragging the sled.... and me! My attempts to command them - futile!  I jumped off the break to give them free rein, (possibly a bad decision as I would now be disembarking at speed), but I managed to hold on. From then on I successfully took command of my team as we hurtled through the rest of the trails. Warm apple cider and tasty treats awaited us around a crackling fire on our return. I gobbled up the cinnamon buns smiling at the paw prints left in the snow.

Local cuisine: So, I think it's important I share with you a delight known as Poutine. Essentially it is cheesy chips avec gravy. But this is no mere cheddar, we're talking halloumi. I am ashamed to say it is becoming a firm favourite of mine. In fact it could now be classified as a moderate addiction. I challenge you to concoct your own versions and not fall in love with this remarkable dish.