Day 1 Whistler Recap
Sitting thirty thousand feet above the ground is a great time to reflect on the past week. It was only a week ago when we touched down in Vancouver to start our adventure. Now looking back that seems ages go. I have experienced so much in 10 short days that I feel as if my life has changed course in such a good way.
I have been on trips far from home before and have experienced many new aspects of our world. The mountains of Whistler are different. I felt different. The mountains became almost a calling for me. At first sight their sheer size is humbling. You feel as if you are nothing compared to them. This is an amazing feeling and allowed me to reset my mind. I was able to let go of the stress, judgement and frustration I brought from home. It was the perfect reset that allowed me t to take in the week with a grateful mind.
Although the mountains are massive they are gentle giants. You know they can crush you but you feel at peace around them. For me they provided the next adventure and set of challenges to level up.
The Lost Lake
Travelling between seasons in Whistler leaves little to do on the hill but all around are hidden gems to find if you’re willing to explore. A quick google search provides plenty of recommended destinations. I chose to start with something short, well travelled, and close to our condo. Lost lake is about 5 km (round trip) from the village and takes you on a paved/hard packed trail to a beautiful lake. The water is the signature greenish blue and there is a well built dock system that allows you to go out on the water for pictures or to take in the beautiful scenery. I have been told that in the summer it’s great for a quick dip as well. Being mid October I decided against the dip.
This hike is perfect for all ages and skill levels as the trail is fairly flat and well maintained. A parking lot is located near the trailhead that provides bathrooms and water filling stations. I walked from the village which added a kilometer or so. The trail is close to the village and is well populated which provides a sense of security for first time hikers or if you just want to get your bearings.
NOT the Ancient Cedars Trail
The forecast was calling for an unseasonal downpour over our weekend, so I wanted to make sure to get in as much exploring as possible the first day. Taking things up a notch I decided to try another Google recommendation and venture to the Ancient Cedars Trail. This one is a short drive from the village and located about 5km down a side road. The access road is not well maintained, and although I did see cars, I would suggest using a truck or all wheel drive vehicle.
Once I arrived at the small parking lot I grabbed my pack and took off down the road. It was similar terrain to the road in but narrowed in parts and the rocks became more pronounced. Shortly after leaving the parking lot the elevation picks up and its uphill all the way. The trail’s end is roughly 3km away with an elevation gain of 200m. At the top you are rewarded with some amazing views of the mountains and forest. After taking a few pictures and appreciating the majesty of the terrain I headed back to the car. On the way down I started to reflect on the trail and came to the conclusion that there weren’t very many “ancient cedar’ trees. I could see some old growth trees in the forest but they were too far to get to.
Back at the car and packing up my gear I noticed a small sign attached to a wooden steak on the opposite side of the parking lot. I walked over to read it hoping there would be details on the trees I missed. The sign read…. Ancient Cedars Trail (5km) and an arrows pointing in the opposite direction of my “ancient cedars” hike. Turns out I was on an ATV adventure trail and missed the whole thing. Regardless my own adventure was amazing with some wonderful views. I learned my lesson to slow down, read the signs, and make sure you are taking the right path. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to get back and hike the proper trail but at least it’s there for the next trip.
The first day of the trip was everything I wanted it to be. I was able to explore new terrain and my favourite part was being able to reach a new elevation record. The top of my second hike was at 900m (3000ft). I enjoy seeing how far I can go with new adventures and being up this high was success. My previous altitude was 750m. The rain was coming and that was ok. My first day in the mountains was a complete success.