Tag: Canada

Beautiful Banff National Park – What is There to See?

Posted on August 17, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you.

The Canadian Rockies is the most famous landmark in Canada. Also, they are what most people come to Canada to see. I can understand why. This was simply nature, at its best. Personally, I love nature and there was just so much to see here in Banff National Park. Again, we are road tripping so, therefore, visiting places at our own pace. I highly recommend hiring a car as it is the easiest way to see everything.

Highway 1A – A Scenic Drive Through Banff National Park

There is the quick and main highway 1 that runs through Banff National Park. However, the best option for tourists is to take the more scenic Highway 1A. Highway 1A is also known as Bow Valley Parkway. The chances are higher to spot bears and wildlife. Remember to stay far away as possible and do not feed wild animals.

Lake Minnewanka, Banff National Park
Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka – A Glacier Fed Lake in Banff National Park

Arriving at Lake Minnewanka early in the morning was very pleasant. The sound of nature ringing out rather than the hustle and bustle of the tourists. Lake Minnewanka is a short 5 km drive from the town of Banff. This lake is impressive in size as it stretches over 21 km. Signs signalled that there was a bear active in the area. This meant that you are advised to travel in a group of 4. Unfortunately, we were a pair, therefore, no early morning hike for us. Plus, we left the bear spray in the van (again).

Lower Falls At Johnstone Canyon
Lower Falls

Johnstone Canyon and The Ink Pots – A Banff National Park Hike

To beat the tourists, it is best to go to all places early morning. Banff National Park is the reason why people come to Canada. Therefore, you can only imagine how busy this place gets. Our early morning hike to Johnstone Canyon only had a couple of other people. This meant no queue for the Instagram shot.

Hole View of Johnstone Falls, Banff National Park
The Hole Viewpoint
Ink Pots at Johnstone Falls, Banff National Park
The Ink Pots at Johnstone Canyon

1.2 km to the lower falls and an extra 1.2 upper falls. This is where most people turn around and go back. We didn’t we continued further to get to the ink pots. The ink pots are a further 10.8 km from the trailhead. The ink pots are the water source for the falls. They are vibrant blue in colour, round in shape, and dotted all over the field. These are pretty and worth the extra trek. It had been raining the day before therefore after the paved trail it did become muddy and slippery in places. Be careful! We managed not to fall!! Result.

The Cory Pass – A 13 km Hike in Banff National Park

This hike was definitely my favourite for many reasons. It was 13km but very hard work. This is no easy hike especially for us as we aren’t experts. Although, we had more stamina than when we did the Grouse Grind. Yet, if this was our first hike of the trip… I wouldn’t have made it. Grouse Grind was easy compared to this.

The saying is the harder the work, the greater the rewards. This was no different. We hiked hard. The reward was what I think are the best views within Banff National Park. This trail starts at the Fireside Picnic area off Highway 1A.

The starting point of the hike

The total elevation for this hike was 1075 metres. The trail quickly gained 450 metres. This section was without a doubt the steepest. There were splendid views over the Bow River and Township of Banff. Wildflowers were surrounding the trail as it started to flatten, however, it was still up and down a bit.

After this section, we reached the rocky path which took us uphill again. This was the start of the second hardest section of the hike. It looked like the trail ended at a bottom of a rock. Yet, the only way was over, we had to scale the rock. We climbed over safely and started to hike along the rocky path.

The View From the Cory Pass Hike
The View A Little Way Up on The Cory Pass

Taking in the 360 views

We took regular stops not just because we needed them; because you just have to take the time to appreciate the view.  There were spectacular views in every direction and the landscape changed so much in a short amount of time. You will not be disappointed. Nature is such a joy and Canada has so much of it.

Reaching the top of the Mountain

Top of The Cory Pass Hike, Banff National Park
The Hard Work Paid Off As We Reached The Top

At the top 2350 metres above sea level, it was cold and windy. Patches of snow left the resemblance of Winter. A gentle reminder of how cold Canadian Winter can be. The sense of accomplishment was through the roof, never would I have thought I would hike a steep mountain. A quick lunch break because the wind was strong and cold. Then, we headed around the back of the mountain on stone cairns which slipped from under us as we trod carefully. This was home to some Mountain Sheep. They have hooves designed to walk on these, we had runners on.

The Cory Pass, Banff National Park
The Hike Around The Back of The Mountain Range

Next, was a forest path and with the trees lining either side the views soon disappeared. We tried to pick up our pace as it looked like rain could fall any minute. Therefore, before we knew it, we were back at the fork where we turned left in the morning. This meant 1km to go till we were back at the car park.

The Last Surprise on the Cory Pass

This hike had already delivered so much but it had one last surprise for me. As I looked along the trail there it was a big brown fluffy behind. The only place I had seen this before was Grouse Mountain. I turned back to my friend to tell her and grab the bear spray. A WILD GRIZZLY.

Mountain Goat Hiding from The Grizzly Bear
We Didn’t Get a Snap of The Grizzly Bear so
Here’s a Mountain Sheep

In that thirty seconds, the Grizzly Bear made its way off the trail and up slightly. And all you could see was his head in amongst flowers. He was happy. He had a food source. And lucky for us hadn’t noticed us. This was unbelievable and topped off the hike perfectly. It was scary and exciting all at the same time. The adrenaline rush from completing a difficult hike and seeing an incredible Grizzly in its natural habit was mind-blowing. A must-hike in Banff National Park.

Lake Morriane – A Favourite

We visited Lake Morrianne in the evening expecting the crowds to be less. However, that was not the case. We managed to get a car parking space but only just. Luckily, someone was left as we arrived. A stroll along the shoreline to find the perfect dinner spot. Yes, dinner was glamorous tonight: ham rolls by the magnificent lake.

Lake Morriane, Banff National Park
Dinner at Lake Morriane

Lake Louise – Lake Anges to Big Beehive to Plain of 6 Glacier Hike

Sunrise Over Lake Louise, Banff National Park
What A Start To The Day A Beautiful Sunrise With Alpine-Glow

This day started with a magnificent sunrise over the most popular lake here in Banff, that’s right… Lake Louise. With snow still capping the Mountain Peaks that pink alpine glow was present as the sun rose. A treat to start the 20 km hike with. Firstly, we stopped by Lake Anges and the Teahouse. The teahouse served a good breakfast. Although it was very busy we were able to get seated straight away due to being one of the first there. So, it wasn’t long before we set off again.

Big Beehive Lookout

We slowly made our way up to the big beehive lookout. The route up was switchbacks that were steep! We made it in one piece, just with a lot of breaks. It was worth it; the wow factor was definitely here as I overlooked the incredible Lake Louise. The vibrant blue colour of this lake speaks for itself. A must-see.

Big Beehive Lookout Over Lake Louise
Big Beehive Lookout Point

Plain of 6 Glaciers

We made our way back down. It was downhill all the way. This was the moment the hike got tougher. Tougher because my sore legs had to carry me the rest of the way. Too many hikes in a short amount of time were affecting my body. I had to hobble down as my knee was too painful when doing the bending motion. This wasn’t the best situation but it wasn’t going to end my hike. Even though I had this small issue, I continued to the plain of six glaciers. This was relatively flat but still a further 4 km (roughly) there and back. Again, just like everything in Banff National Park the views were outstanding. Also, the sound of the ice breaking off the glaciers was ringing deep into the valley.

The Shoreline of Lake Louise

We could finally start to relax we were on the home straight. A nice stroll along Lake Louise shoreline. Sheltered in places away from the burning rays of the sun. The excitement and sense of accomplishment ran through us. I never thought I would ever hike over 20 km in one day but I did. I think I have found a new hobby… hiking. I am a fan; the hikes may be tough but the reward melts away all the moments that you think you can’t make it. Again, another must-hike in Banff National Park.

Summary of Banff National Park

Well, I am amazed and in awe, by all, I witnessed during my road trip through Banff National Park. I understand why the Canadian Rockies are the number one tourist attraction for people from all across the world. If the Canadian Rockies aren’t on the bucket list, add them, and you will be left speechless over and over again.

Working a Whistler Ski-Season – Best Resort in the World

Posted on August 10, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you.

I left my heart in Whistler, British Colombia (BC). There is no doubt in my mind about it. Whistler made such an amazing, long-lasting impression on me. I miss living there. It felt like home. You get sucked into the lifestyle and the surroundings which make it impossible to leave it completely behind. I know this feeling was impacted hugely by the friends I made on my incredible journey working a Whistler ski season.

Whistler is known as a small town, a two-hour drive North of Vancouver. It is home to two Mountains (Whistler and Blackcomb), side by side giving you plenty of terrains to explore.

What Whistler Ski-Season Jobs are the best to do?

Working during a Whistler ski season is fun but hard work. If it is your first season and first time away from home then I would recommend a Mountain job. I got a job before I even arrived. I applied on indeed.com and then had an interview over the phone. The only downside to this was I didn’t get staff accommodation. However, it didn’t cost me anything.

The majority of people come through a working holiday program. These companies help you get the visa and then find you a job, for a fee, of course. This option can mean that you will be offered staff accommodation. Everyone I met who used companies had staff accommodation.

A Job on Whistler Mountain…

First Day in working a whistler ski-season
Working a Mountain Job in Whistler

These jobs aren’t the most glamorous by far but I feel the perks on offer outweigh this. As a first-timer, you get cheap accommodation, a season pass, and three free ski or snowboard lessons. Also, every department has other perks. Additionally, the company can move you to different departments if you end up injured. Therefore, you aren’t out of work. Result.

Is a Second Job Worth It?

I had a second job like most people in Whistler. My Mountain pay just covered my expenses as I was renting privately. A second job is worth it unless you’re a server. Servers make good tips. Working two jobs over 4 days helped me to save money for Summer. I still had my full three days off. Second jobs are easy to come by and employers are very accommodating as the majority of resort workers do this.

How to Rent Privately in Whistler?

I would say, the housing crisis is the only downside to working a Whistler ski season. Unfortunately, there are too many workers, and not enough rooms. Therefore, it drives up rent prices to extreme levels. Landlords can be bad too. You do have to be very vigilant when room hunting. The main two ways to find a room are on Facebook (Whistlers Housing Crisis) and Craigslist.

Nordic in Working a Whistler Ski-season
Snow Day

I had to find a room to rent. I must have viewed around 10 places. The majority of the rooms are shared. One house I viewed had room for up to 24 people. People do feel pressured to take the first thing that comes along. However, if something doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to say no. Follow your gut feeling.

To be able to find a room the only option is to post an ad on Facebook and Craigslist. This is your chance to show how you can be the best housemate. Yet, don’t forget to include what you are after as well. Also, people post rooms that are available on these sites. So, message as many as you can. The reply rate is low because the person posting will receive hundreds of messages. Therefore, make yours stand out from the crowd.

Also, some landlords don’t post their rooms due to the volume of responses. Therefore, some landlords reach out directly to an advert. This was the case for my room. I got a single private room for $900 which was a steal.

There are scams out there…

When I put my ad up on Craigslist, I did get some very interesting e-mails in return as well as many scams. You will have to shift through some pointless offers from some men (if you’re female) and scams. The scams are pretty obvious and the ones that I came across all had the same storyline. The owner is out of town and can Fed Ex the keys if you deposit money. Be aware of extra-long e-mails. Never hand over any money without seeing a place in person. That is the best advice I can give on that.

What Other Winter Activities Are On Offer?

There are other activities besides skiing and snowboarding. I know people who didn’t ski or snowboard but still enjoyed working a Whistler ski season. I personally got caught up snowboarding on my 3 days off from work, therefore, I didn’t do the other activities. You could say I got a little bit obsessed. The only other activity besides partying I did was tubing.

Me snowboarding on a beginner slope on Blackcomb Mountain
Learning to Snowboard

Other winter activities include but are not limited to: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. However, they all cost money which is something that you won’t have a lot of. If you party hard or save for a summer like I was.

The Culture in a Ski Town

The culture of a ski season is partying hard and consuming whatever you fancy to enjoy your night. Clubbing is available at places like Moe Joe’s and Tommy’s. Each establishment has its own special night of the week, for example, Moe Joe’s on a Sunday. Sunday night is the Mountain staff’s night out, it even has the nickname ‘Church Night’.

I have done many nights at clubs during my late teens and early twenties. Therefore, I did keep the nights at the clubs to a minimum. Après was the place for me. Beers after a good day out on the slopes equals a win-win in my eyes. Again, Whistler had different events on different days. Tuesdays were Swedish After-Ski… by far my favourite.

The Community Feel within a Ski-Season

Sunrise In Whistler up the Mountain
A Regular Morning Sunrise at Work in Whistler

Let’s face it. You don’t do the ski season for the money. It is all about the experience. I made good friends during my time in Whistler plus I learnt to snowboard. I feel this experience is a rite of passage. Also, being in your early 20’s you will find it more enjoyable. Other resort workers are very good at helping each other out.

The community has a Facebook page called Whistler Winter. This is a good source for any questions or queries that you may have. There are enough long-term locals willing to help out newbies. Also, a buy and sell page, which is good for picking up clothes and equipment at cheap prices.

My Overall Thoughts about a Ski-Season

I had an incredible experience in Whistler and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I learnt a new sport which I will continue. Furthermore, I managed to jump the small and mediums jumps (all in my first season). In addition, I lived away from home for the first time. This was scary but the majority of people you meet are doing the same. So, before you know it, you have a family made up of friends from all over the world.

My advice is to jump into a Ski-Season and go and have the most entertaining experience possible.

The Best Stops on Scenic Sea to Sky Highway

Posted on July 10, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you

The sea-to-sky highway is one of the most beautiful scenic drives. I have stopped by many of the places along the Sea to Sky Highway. However, at different times during my time in Whistler. Driving up this road excites me as I know it is the way to Whistler. I spent the winter there in 2018-19 and it couldn’t feel more like home even if it tried. Starting at sea level and rising 670 metres above in the mountains. The smooth road has many twists and turns as you make your way up. If you are West in Canada then this drive is a must.

Sea to Sky – Cypress Mountain

Cypress Mountain is another Mountain in Vancouver. It was highly recommended to me by a family member so it was a must-stop. We got there early as we planned to hike to the top. Yes, I hiked in flip-flops and this time they didn’t break. My favourite flip-flops are

Effie's Lookout over Horseshoe Bay from the peak of Cypress Mountain
Effie’s Lookout. A Nice Lunch Spot in the Sun

We weren’t tired or experiencing achy legs at the top so decided to hike on to Effie’s Lookout. What a good decision that was. The views over the whole of the bay were incredible. To top it off the sun was shining and not many clouds in the sky. Another winning view for lunch. Lastly, we stopped by Cabin Lake for a quick dip, very cold. Jumping straight in was definitely a shock to the system!!

The Stawamus Provincial Park – Shannon Falls

Shannon Falls falling over rocks on the Sea to Sky Highway
Shannon Falls at Squamish

As you continue up the beautiful Sea to Sky corridor you reach Shannon Falls. This can be a quick stop if you don’t do any of the hikes on offer. Shannon Falls is the third highest waterfall standing at 335 metres. The waterfall wasn’t full yet but it was still impressive.

The Stawamus Chief, Squamish

Squamish Chief hike is very well-known with locals and tourists alike. So being a resident in Whistler it was only fitting to attempt to get to the top. I was scared to complete this hike. Rumour has it, that you have to climb a ladder for a bit of it. This is a very tough hike; luckily we weren’t in a rush so that we could take our time. Time was definitely needed to complete this.

The viewpoint from the chief hike over a forest and the Howe Sound
The View From Stawamus Chief

Stawamus Chief is 700m tall and divided into Frist Peak, Second Peak, and Third Peak. The trail starts at Shannon Falls.

The stairs at the start of the trial were the hardest part as well as coming back down. On the way back down I was trying not to slip and fall. We found ourselves scramming back down. As tough as this hike was, I am glad I conquered it. The views over the Howe Sound were amazing, it was a clear day so we could see well into the distance. If you are up for a challenge then this hike is for you!

Sea to Sky Gondola, Squamish

The view of a cove from the Sea to Sky Gondola
The View Coming Down the Sea to Sky Gondola

If you don’t fancy the hike up The Chief, you can always ride up in the Sea to Sky Gondola. You do need a ticket, unlike the hike. A quick ride up which takes you to a different viewpoint from the hike. There are many different trails to stroll along and the views of the snow-capped mountains made this perfect. 

Brandywine Falls, Whistler

Rainbow over Brandywine Falls in Whistler
The Rainbow Over The Falls

Brandywine Falls is a clean 70m drop into Brandywine Creek. This stop is a short one as it’s about a 15-minute walk from the car park. People just stop at the Falls but if you walk about 200m more you reach another viewpoint. If it’s a clear day you get an amazing view down into the valley.

The Cheakamus Train Wreck, Whistler

Two boxcars covered in graffiti at the train wreck in Cheakamus
Some of the Many Boxcars Left Behind

The train wreck dates back to 1956 when a speeding train raced through the valley, attempting the bend too fast. This crash left 7 train carriages in the forest at Cheakamus. These boxcars are along the Cheakamus River. Again, the first 5 are easy to find but walking further into the forest you will find the other two. It is well worth a stop.  

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Garibaldi Lake, Whistler, BC

Garibaldi Lake in Whistler with snow-capped mountains as the backdrop
The Impressive Garibaldi Lake

The Garibaldi Lake hike was an 18 km there and back hike. I was not ready for this in the slightest. I decided to go last minute with a hostel friend. The hike itself didn’t offer many views as I struggled uphill for 810 metres. This was my first lake experience in Canada. I was so happy. It didn’t disappoint and was bigger than any expectations I had. It was cold as Winter was drawing in. Yet that didn’t matter as I sat looking at the blue lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This is what I came to Canada for… well, snowboarding too.

Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain, Whistler

Me standing next to the snow walls on Whistler mountain
The Snow Wall on Whistler Mountain

What can I say about this small mountain town? I’ll be very biased as this place feels like home. I came for the Winter Season but I had to see this place in Summer too. Oh my, how a mountain can change so much between seasons.

Me at the starting point for the Whistler Suspension Bridge at Whistler Mountain
Conquering My Fear of Heights

The mountains (Whistler and Blackcomb) offer many hiking trails in the summer months. Whistler Mountain has a bike park for downhill riders. The suspension bridge tested my fear of heights. Viewing the snow walls was insane as you can see how deep the snow gets. That was amazing as I just spent the Winter snowboarding on it.

Over on Blackcomb, you can still make your way to 7th heaven and take in the breathtaking views on offer. Also, you can watch some glacier skiing/snowboarding.

It was well worth the summer day trip up the mountain.

Sea to Sky Highway – Nairn Falls

Narin Falls running through trees on the Sea to Sky Highway
Nairn Falls

Nairn Falls is a waterfall north of Whistler. It sits 60 metres high. The smallest of three the along the Sea to Sky Highway. It is a short 1.5 km to the viewpoint. Just because it was the smallest it doesn’t mean that you should avoid it. All three waterfalls are different types so stopping by all is a real treat.

Joffre Lakes, Highway 99

The excitement for this hike boiled over as I had waited so long to check out Joffre Lakes. I had only heard good things. 3 lakes to see and a total of 8 km there and back trip. The lower lake was only 5 minutes from the car park. The middle lake is around the 3.5 km mark. We set off, all uphill, and at quite a pace.

The emerald coloured middle lake at Joffre Lakes, a stop on the Sea to Sky Highway
The Middle Lake at Joffre

As we ascended the middle lake, we only had been hiking for 50 minutes. When we came across Middle Lake, I wasn’t expecting to see it just yet. I moved my gaze from the ground to head height. There it was. The crystal-clear blue glacier-fed lake. Also, the best out of the three, in my opinion. This was a ‘WOW’ moment. We hiked a further 20 minutes to Upper Lake, in this section you had to mind your footing. Scrambled over some rocks to find a spot for a snack. The view for this mealtime was impressive. Nature is simply the best in my eyes.

In conclusion, this highway was one of the best to drive with 360 views as you climb from sea level to ‘the sky’. This should be on your Canadian bucket list, for sure!! A real delight.

Grouse Mountain – How To Have The Best Day Out

Posted on July 10, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you.

After a couple of days in the city, we headed North to Grouse Mountain. I was more than ready to get back into the mountains; this time hiking up. An early morning was in order to avoid the crowds as we geared up to hike the Grouse Grind. The sun was out, the sky was blue, and it was a perfect day for 2800 steps. These aren’t any old steps; these are 2800 steps up a side of a Mountain.

The information board about the Grouse Grind hike at Grouse Mountain
Starting the Grouse Grind

Hiking Grouse Mountain

The steps stretched 1.8 miles, pretty much vertical. The challenge awaited us. This was the first hike of the trip and we hoped it wouldn’t put us off hiking. I am in no way a seasoned hiker, I would classify myself as a beginner. I just have a love for the adrenaline rush and the amazing views you see after putting in the hard work.

We set off with water and some snacks, we weren’t really that prepared for the task ahead of us. Also, I had a great deal of determination to complete it within a good time. The guideline is an hour and a half to climb to the top according to the Grouse Mountain website. The trail is visible and marked, you can’t go wrong. The trees sheltered us from the sun’s strong rays.

This wasn’t too bad. Slowly making our way up the first quarter was enjoyable (although this would change later on). I quite enjoy early morning exercise as I feel it is a good way to start the day. That coupled with the fact we will have great views was all the motivation I needed to keep on climbing. This section was not steep more like a casual climb.

The higher we got the tougher the hike became. It was still manageable at this stage. Halfway.

Hitting the Half Way Mark on The Grouse Grind

It started to increase in steepness but taking a steady pace worked well to keep us moving. Before we knew it, we made it to the last quarter. The last quarter was a vertical climb. With tired legs, this was the time I had to dig deep. This was the toughest part and I did start to wonder… can I make it?

An Instagram story screenshot clarifying that we completed the Grouse Grind
Finished!!!

The answer was YES with determination and gritted teeth we made it to the top. This was a challenging yet rewarding hike to start off our trip. When I said I was a beginner I wasn’t lying; this hike only continued because of its constant water breaks and moments to catch my breath.

Hike one…Completed.

It is crazy to think that locals from this area complete the trail barefoot in under 20 minutes. We did it in 2 hours. This was a huge accomplishment for us. We were so proud and so knackered when we reached the top.

What a morning!!!

Exploring Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain has more to explore than the hike up in Summertime and that’s what we planned to do for the day. In winter, this mountain is a popular ski or snowboard Mountain with day and night access available to guests and season ticket holders.

The Grizzly Bears at Grouse

Once recovered, re-hydrated, and refueled we explored what the mountain had to offer. The most important and the first stop was to see the two resident Grizzly Bears that call Grouse Mountain home. The size of these two adult male bears (Grinder and Coola) was insane, arguably much larger than Black Bears. I had already seen Black Bears in Whistler, Canada.

An orphaned male Grizzly Bear at Grouse Mountain standing in the grass
One of the Male Grizzly’s at Grouse Mountain

The Grizzly’s both lost their mother and ended up orphaned. Grinder was alone with no mother in sight. Coola’s mother and her two other cubs were unfortunately hit by a truck. They both came to Grouse in 2001 to start their new life.

In an ideal world, these would be wild and free. It was quite distressing to watch the tourists race to either side of the pen depending on the bear’s movement. This caused one of them to charge towards a child, luckily, they are safely behind a fence. I heard that these Bears aren’t always out so it may be potluck if you see them.

Riding up to The Peak

There were two options to get us to the peak of the Mountain: hike up or the chair lift. Well after this morning I think you can guess which we opted for. The chair lift ride was a strange one as I didn’t have a snowboard attached to my foot (I did a ski season in Whistler).

We are riding the chair lift back down from the Peak of Grouse Mountain
Coming Back Down To The Warmth of The Sun

Peak was very windy, with clouds filling up most of the sky. Making it much cooler up there. Therefore, a quick snap of the camera and an even quicker moment to take it all in before going back to the warmth of the sun. The views weren’t as magnificent as we expected but you could still make out some of Vancouver.

The Bird Show at Grouse Mountain

A bald eagle standing on a wooden pole eating at the bird show
Bald Eagle at the Free Bird Show

Among other attractions on Grouse Mountain, there are free shows. One of these was a bird show which we stopped and watched. The information provided by the Falconry staff was engaging and very detailed. The show showcased some of the best birds including a bald eagle, a red hawk, and a falcon. This was a welcome rest, muscle soreness was starting to set in!

The World-Famous Lumber Jack Show

Another free show is the World-Famous Lumber Jack show. The show was well written and even better acted. These types of shows are normally way too cringe for me to enjoy but I must say I was pleasantly surprised. This was incredible and actually a laugh-out-loud show. Also, the all-important danger factor had you on the edge of your seat (well bench).

The Blue and Red Teams competed in classic lumberjack challenges. Also, there was a 60ft wooden pole involved somehow. I won’t go into any more detail just in case you get to witness the show. However, I highly recommend this free show if you are there during the summer.

The Sky Train Ride at Grouse Mountain

The sky train we took back down only takes 4 minutes. However, it was like a sardine tin with everyone squashed in. The Grouse Grind is a one-way system so the hike down would have been a different route but energy levels were low so the sky train it was. What a tough yet rewarding morning followed by a great afternoon.

The Best Day at The Rodeo – Calgary Stampede

Posted on July 10, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you.

Part 2

Saturday 13th July 2019 – Calgary Stampede Rodeo

After day one came the day I have been waiting for, for so long! I was going to witness my first rodeo. The excitement was insane. Maybe I like it because of the adrenaline factor. Also, I feel you have to be a bit crazy to sit on a bucking horse. As for sitting on a bucking bull, well, that’s screw loose material. But first, we still had a morning to explore other events on offer.

Calgary Rodeo – The Auctioneer Competition

Firstly, was the auctioneer competition. I thought it was a bit strange. And I clearly do not speak auction house, I couldn’t understand a thing. In conclusion, I need to brush up on my country speaking. It was good to witness to see how auctions work. The prize cattle on offer were magnificent and ranch owners were actually bidding on them.

Pigeon Racing at Calgary Stampede

A group of pigeon's flying towards the camera for the rac at Calgary Stampede
Pigeon Racing

As I said Calgary Stampede is full of many different events. In short, I personally love learning and seeing what others love to do. However, I was shocked to find out there is a serious league and prizes for a winning pigeon. This shows how impressive a pigeon can find his or her way home. The training and patience that goes into this sport are mind-blowing and admirable. Without a doubt, this was quite scary as the pigeons flew fast towards us before turning left to head back home. Plus, no poo when they took flight. Result in my eyes. Didn’t fancy being caked in poo for the rest of the day.

Calgary Stampede – The Rodeo

This was it, the moment I had been waiting for as we headed to the Grandstand, excitement reaching boiling point. The Show I wanted to see the most. They had an action-packed show with 6 events. Each and everyone was thrilling in their own way. Wildcard Saturday as it’s known. The last-ditch attempt for the riders to make the finals. And have their chance at the $100,000 prize money!!!

The First Event – Roping

The steer wrestling competition at the Rodeo
Steer Wrestling

This was against the clock the quickest to rope the steer went on through to the final. To see this skill in action was intense but this event doesn’t have the danger factor like so many others do but this puts skill at the front line. These cowboys were so quick, if you blinked you missed out. Personally, I have the worst aim in history so I would never be able to rope that steer.

The Second Event – Steer Wrestling

This event was more exciting as the cowboys had to jump on the steer’s back, get them to the ground, and tie them up all against the clock. One cowboy knew he wasn’t going to win, so instead of throwing the steer down pointlessly he just gave up. Again, another sign of the good sportsmanship that runs through the sport.

The Third Event – Bareback Riding

A cowboy riding a bucking horse bareback at The Rodeo
Riding a Bucking Horse

Now we were hitting the crazier events in my opinion. As the audience, you sat on the edge of your seat engrossed in the action. The cowboys had to stay on a bucking horse with no saddle for 8 seconds as well as get judged for points out of 50. One horse looked so good, the rhythm he had as bucked and bucked was insane.

The Fourth Event – Saddle Broncs

The same principle as the event above but the horses have saddles on. Again, you couldn’t turn away, these horses bucking were very impressive. Let’s say this wouldn’t be something I would like to try. All cowboys have a lot of guts and talent.

The Fifth Event – Barrell Racing

This time it was over to the cowgirls to take centre stage. Barrell racing is where the rider has to complete the course by riding around all barrels in the fastest time. This was a nail-biting competition as the top three cowgirls were very close. As a result, one rider took the top spot by the slightest of margins.

The Final Event – Bull Riding

Finally, the event I had been waiting for. The craziest event out of them all, these cowboys had to stay on a bucking bull for 8 seconds. Riding for their lives to have a chance at the prize money in Sunday’s Final. The riders were all very talented and the size and the bucks of the bulls were impressive and aggressive. All riders gave it a good go, I was biting my nails as the bulls bucked hoping for a safe landing for the cowboys. Unfortunately, one did suffer a kick to the head. I can’t even imagine receiving a kick from a bull let alone walking away as that one cowboy did. The guards were quick to get the cowboy to safety as well.

Nashville North Music Stage

After queuing for an hour, we were finally in. Yes, this is a popular stage and once inside you will see why. The music was good and non-stop with many different acts. Just like being at a festival. And when the acts were changing, they filled the time with something in my eyes that is so country… line dancing. We attempted this; my dancing skills are limiting but we had so much fun trying. The final singer I enjoyed most was Ryan Lindsay. He was so good and entertaining. He has blue eyes so that is always a plus.

Summary of The Rodeo

Wow, I have covered what the six events are and given snippets as to what happened. I just have to say I admire all the cowboys and cowgirls who took part and have nothing but respect for them. They put their lives on the line to entertain the crowds. The sheer sportsmanship between all shines on through. The cowboys and cowgirls always put the animals first.

A group picture of the young horses at The Rodeo
Showing off The Next Rodeo Legends

The animals aren’t forced to do it if they aren’t up to performing then that’s it for the day. The competition is over for them. Yes, sometimes it isn’t pretty and it does go wrong for them, I witnessed this first hand. Some may be against events like these. However, these animals, in particular, the horses are born to do the events they take part in. It is in their blood. And in my eyes, they are well cared for and well and truly loved by all.

To read about my final day at the stampede click here