Nature Archives - Page 7 of 7

The Stunning Iguazu Falls – Which Side is the Best?

Posted on July 22, 2020

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

Iguazu Falls. There is a debate among travellers as to which side to visit. Which side is the best? This question is answered with very mixed responses. Argentina some say. Brazil the others pop up with. We toyed with which side to go to. Argentina’s side had more to offer. Brazil is more landscape. The responses seemed all down to personal preference. With all opinions in mind, we had our decision.

We managed to easily access both sides by public transport but for those who would like a tour, there are many available with a much more comfortable bus ride!!

A Day at the Argentina Side of Iguazu Falls

Water rushing over the devils throat of Iguazu Falls — The Power Surge of The Devil Throat

Arriving early by bus and getting tickets at the gate was easy. However, crowds do quickly form hence the early start. I was excited, who doesn’t love a good waterfall? I love nature. If you have read any of my other blogs you will know being outdoors is where I like to be.

The weather was on our side today. Bonus. We opted to take the train all the way to the top as most people start at the first stop. The top of the waterfall is known as the devil’s throat and once in view, you understand why. This powerful surge of water fell in tremendous volume over the ledge at an impressive speed. All I could do was look on in awe.

The Easy to Follow Walkways

The metal boardwalk with a tree canopy at Iguazu Falls — The Walkways on The Argentina Side

There is a network of walkways taking you to different viewpoints throughout the park. Easy walks. Nothing too crazy. Well, the views are, that’s for sure. You are surrounded by spectacular views no matter which way you look. I can see why people say this side is best for them. Whilst maneuvering the walkways, we reached the upper part which came with views of many smaller waterfalls. The lower part took you right next to a smaller waterfall. Don’t be fooled by the word smaller they still raged and the spray hit you as you approached the end.

Summary of the Argentina Side of Iguazu Falls

The crowds were getting busier as the day went on. Nature is amazing and this is simply a masterpiece. I feel that you get a good feel for this waterfall because there are different perspectives throughout the park. I can see why people pick this as their favourite, it’s a really good day out. You get to see and hear the falls as well as spot wildlife.

A Day Trip to The Brazilian Side of Iguazu Falls

Me over-looking the Iguazu Falls on the Brazilian side — Enjoying the Brazilian Side

Yes, we chose both sides due to varying opinions. Also, we are only going to visit it once in our lifetime. Missing out wasn’t an option. I prefer ticking off the bucket list first before going back to places. This wasn’t as well put together as the Argentinian side. There was less walking and not so much wildlife. This doesn’t mean that the Brazilian side can’t stand up and make a name for itself because it does. This site offers something that you don’t get from the Argentina side. The panoramic view. Yes. All of the waterfalls in one eyeshot. Here, you see how big and expansive these waterfalls really are. As well as the amount of land that they cover and the size of the river that they flow into.

A full rainbow over the falls on the Brazilian side with trees as the backdrop — Perfection

Also, there is a little walking platform out to the devil’s throat. However, on this side of the Iguazu Falls, you get drenched from the fast-paced water pouring over. The shine from the sun and moisture from the water made for a beautiful rainbow. Perfect.

Summary of the Two Sides of Iguazu Waterfall

Overall, all the opinions we gathered were valid. The Argentina side had more on offer but the Brazil side had more panoramic. I, personally cannot pick between the two sides. My breath was taken away by both; due to both offering different perspectives of what is truly one magnificent waterfall. It is in the top three to see in the world and it’s very easy to see why. Whichever side you choose you will be speechless. If I did it all over again, I would still choose both.

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.

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 7^th 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.

Stanley Park – An Epic Day Out in Downtown Vancouver

Posted on June 25, 2020

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

I am taking you back to my Summer Road Trip 2019 with a friend from home. The trip started out on the West Coast of Canada; Vancouver. The city combines city life and nature, with the Mountains in the North. Firstly, was a ride around Stanley Park.

Stanley Park. Bicycles. What Could Happen?

The bridge walkway to the entrance of Stanley Park surrounded by greenery — Eager To Explore Stanley Park

I’m joking, all we had to do was ride our bikes around the beautiful Stanley Park. Stanley Park is outlined by an 8 km seawall and covers over 400 hectares. This incredible rainforest on the west coast located in Downtown Vancouver is simply breathtaking. We rented our bicycles from a shop across from the park yet there are many stores that do rentals, so I would recommend visiting a couple to find the best deal. It was the beginning of our self-made tour. We were excited and eager to start so we didn’t listen to the briefing about how to use them… all bicycles are the same right?!

Two cute bikes next to a body of water in Stanley Park — Bicycles for Our Ride Around Stanley Park

There are various things to see throughout the 27 kilometres network of trails that Stanley Park has to offer. Yet we didn’t cover them all… we aren’t athletes after all. Nevertheless, this was about a leisurely ride to enjoy the sun, take in some fresh air and see what nature had to offer. Firstly, we rode to the Second and Third Beaches. These weren’t the cleanest and the sea didn’t look all that inviting which was a shame. Off we headed into the trees.

Lion’s Gate Bridge, Vancouver

The view of Lions Gate Bridge over the sea with a mountain in the background — The Lions Gate Bridge into Downtown Vancouver

Somehow, not quite sure how but we ended up at the Lion’s Gate Bridge. This bridge connects Northern Vancouver with the core of Downtown. We cycled along the path for a bit until a view back across Stanley Park was visible. Besides, the ride was into a strong headwind and uphill slightly making this the least favourite moment of the day. Also, this was less enjoyable as the heavy traffic noise replaced the birds singing. Although, the suspension bridge is impressive in itself. However, in my opinion, the best view of it is from the other side of Stanley Park.

Beaver Lake, Stanley Park

Me standing in front of one of the oldest giant cedar trees in Stanley Park — One of the Giant Cedar Trees

We pedalled along the vast network of trails over the three hours that we hired the bikes. As we explored, we came across a variety of gigantic trees including Western Red Cedar, Western Hemlock and Douglas Fir to name a few. Whilst enjoying what nature had to offer, we made our way to Beaver Lake. Beaver Lake is a small lake situated in the middle of Stanley Park. For the most part, one can only assume it got its name from the animal. However, I’m not sure as there wasn’t any about that morning. Also, there is no swimming or boats allowed but you can enjoy a nice stroll around it.

The Totem Poles in Stanley Park

On our way to the Totem Poles at Brockton Point, we paid a visit to the famous Hollow Tree. It was exactly that, a large hollow tree, pretty impressive. There are 9 totem poles in Stanley Park from different British Colombia First Nations. They are easier enough to find when following the seawall for around 10-15 minutes. Also, the herds of people will show you have found what you are looking for.

The Stanley Park Seawall View

Finally, we made it out of the trees onto the water’s edge (who knew Stanley Park seawall was a one-way system for bikes). Yes, we were going the wrong way. Funny enough we seemed to be the only people who made this mistake. Subsequently, my advice would be to go the right way, Canadians are very particular about this. Undoubtedly, the view back across the city will never get old. This wasn’t the first time I was seeing it but it was still as amazing as the first. The skyscraper skyline along with the sun shining and the water glistening is perfection. Towards the end, I found the brakes, a backwards pedal… who knew! Strange and awkward to get used to, fortunately only one tree got in my way! Success.

Me riding the bike down a paved seawall at Stanley Park — A Successful Day on the Bicycles

‘Meet’ – A Gastown Vancouver Restaurant

Well, after a long ride and an even longer walk to get to one of my favourites restaurants in Vancouver. I certainly had an appetite. This restaurant was introduced to me by some fellow travellers. The boys went on about how good the burgers were… yet they didn’t know it was actually meatless!! It was indeed a vegan restaurant with two locations in Downtown Vancouver; Gas Town and Main Street. Another, meal that didn’t disappoint and to top it off I can enjoy a dessert. The lemon tart was my choice this time. Without a doubt, I highly recommend this place if you are looking for food.