Waterton Lakes National Park

 

And we’re off.  After months of planning and weeks of preparing, we are beginning our four-month road trip.  

First stop Waterton National Park.

Waterton is one of our favorite mountain parks.  Even though we’ve been there many times, we seem to find something new to see and do; and the old familiar spots are always as interesting as if we’re seeing them for the first time. 

Cameron Falls were spectacular, especially after the recent rains.  As we were walking up, we could hear the roar of the water and soon could see the spray and mist.  I don’t know what it is, but falling water is so mesmerizing. 

The next day was a day of solid rain.  We were glad we could sit inside with our friends, Dennis and Irene, and have a wonderful visit, play games and do other projects.  Eventually we ventured out to check out the new Visitor Centre, art gallery and shops, still in rain slickers and boots – for those who remembered them!  The lake level was much higher than usual and the snow pack hasn’t all melted yet.

The next day we woke up to sunshine and southern Alberta wind.  It was a good day to tour around.

First stop the Buffalo Paddocks.  At the time of the Kenow Fire a few years ago, the buffalo were relocated.  Now a small herd was back and the two little calves were barely a week old.  Maybe not so little, but definitely cute.

Dave remembers the Maskinonge picnic as an overflow camping area from years ago. As we walked around we saw a raven’s nest with a couple of young birds high up in a dead tree. My photo looks just like a mess of feathers. If you look closely in this photo, a pair of swans flew just over Dennis' head. 

In the category of something new for all of us, we went on a trail ride.  It was just the four us with the guide and we were taken along muddy trails, through the forest, across the meadows, and along the lakeshore.  The highlight was coming across a momma bear and her two cubs, just a few feet away from us.  She shooed the little ones up the nearest trees and stood guard.  The little black cub was so curious peering at us from all sides of the tree.  The little cinnamon coloured one was hidden behind the mother bear, and we hardly noticed it.  The horses remained calm as we stopped for a few minutes before riding past.  What a beautiful encounter. 

    

The next morning was pack up and go. 

Next stop: Lake of the Prairies