A day off from driving allowed them time to breathe – they got out the camping chairs, strolled at the lake’s edge, and drove up and down the highway (without trailer) looking for wildlife to photograph.

They were lucky – the intermittent rain never occurred while they were hiking or taking photos and they were able to hike the Mineral Licks trail and the Stone Sheep drainage during their all-too-short visit. The rewards were opportunities to photograph a foraging bear, mama and baby caribou, Stone sheep – and a porcupine.

The extraordinary splendor of the Canadian Rockies is at its peak in this area. A huge glacial lake that glows a brilliant light blue surrounded by great mountain ranges makes this area comparable to Lake Louise but without the tourists. Peaceful, relaxing. They had never heard of this place but will never forget it.

[Featured image by Cliff VanCott; inserted photo by Mary VanCott]