87. Evan Thomas

 Distance: about 10 km.

Elevation: about 400m

On March 11 2021, we hiked the Evan Thomas Trail to see the much talked about ice falls along the creek. Although you can go up and down the creek, we took a loop trip based on oral directions.

We started up the X country ski trail on a beautiful, sunny winter day.

We turned left at a Y and continued up a gradual incline. Time for a snack.

Some of the area had been burnt over and that let in some welcome sunlight.

We got to the edge of the creek bank and looked over before scrambling down another route.

The ice falls were varied and gorgeous.

 

To get to the most amazing falls we had to use ropes to scramble along the creek bank. Safe but a touch stressful. Good that we were wearing ice grippers because parts were icy.

We crossed the creek many times on ice bridges and marveled at the beautiful colours of running water, white snow, blue sky and brilliant sunshine. The American dipper and rosy finch also enriched our day.

We found a sunny spot against some rocks for a lunch and the testimonial picture.

The walk back home along the creek was open sunshine and had better views than our approach through the forest. It was a fantastic day.

 

86. Elk Falls

 Distance:  4 km

Elevation: a little

We did a short hike to various falls along the Campbell River on Vancouver Island in October, 2020 just before heading back to Calgary after a visit to Esther.

It is a beautiful, wide river, probably lots of fish. Esther watches the salmon run around Thanksgiving and swims with them. We started the hike along the shore to see 3 falls. The trail was developed by an electrical power plant at the beginning.

Herm thoroughly enjoys the size of these trees. Here a nurse log is part of the life cycle.

A long, metal suspension bridge goes over the gorge to give a good view of Elk Falls.

Elk Falls

Then we hiked down to the bottom of the gorge for another view.

The bridge from below.

Continuing along the trail, we came to gentle Deer Falls.

Then Moose Falls marked the end of the trail.

The big trees laying down in a dip were irresistible as a challenge to test my balance.

Big leaf maples!