July 2nd 151 miles
Elaine’s Birthday
Calli and I decided on an early start. We were on the road before seven thinking we were first away, but at the petrol station we found out that at least two cars had set off well before us!
With the hope of seeing some wildlife we drove at a fairly slow pace, but picked up the pace when the road became busy. Mike and Ardith (Morgan and MGB) joined us as we drove along the Ice Fields Parkway and became our guides for the day. We shared a very pleasant breakfast at a lake side lodge. Mike showed us where the glaciers had shrunk back to their present positions. On the way to the Glacier visitors centre we were caught in a flurry of snow! The first and last of the tour.
Our visit to Athabsaca falls in Jasper National Park was turned into a dramatic event by a Black Bear emerging from the forest and devouring a family picnic twenty-five meters away from the car park. These bears a very dangerous and are capable of very rapid attack, however, this bear was more interested in sandwiches and crisps. Bears who make a habit of confronting people are removed to a remote location, but if they persist in being a nuisance they are shot. Our bear managed to finish “his” meal and vanish back into the forest before the Park Rangers arrived.
Our hotel was set within Jasper Park. The hotel manager had organised a special parking area for us and was very helpful throughout our stay. The accommodation was in the form cabins and quite comfortable.
We celebrated Elaine’s birthday first with a champagne reception and the a meal at The Jasper Brewing Company – great fun and a great evening
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