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.