July 17, 2013 Wednesday
Day 10
We explored around Jasper National Park today. Drove to Maligne Lake this morning and the scenic drive was even better than the destination. On the way, along with the usual breathtaking and awe inspiring views, mountains, topped with white, puffy clouds, rivers, lakes, forests, wild flowers, etc. we saw a small bear cub eating wild flowers right by the road. Further on we spotted several Bighorn Sheep walking along the water's edge on Medicine Lake. Next we saw a huge black bear and her cub, just up the hill near the edge of the road. This sighting was followed up by a glimpse of a huge elk & her calf in the woods beside the road. Later, we saw 3 elk (2 cows and a calf), right along the roadside. What a fantastic day for wildlife viewing! Spotting wildlife is so exciting, we can never get enough.
Once we arrived at Maligne Lake, we hiked for an hour or so along the lake, then took the trail to Moose Lake. All in all, beautiful lake, forest and mossy forest floor. I for one, was glad to NOT see any bear or elk on this hike. Sightings from the car are good enough for me, thank you very much.
We were tired & hungry after our busy morning, so we had a picnic right beside the rushing Athabasca River. It was truly a tranquil spot. It didn't take long to haul our chairs out of the car and take naps under the trees right at the edge of the water. Aaaahhhhh . . .
Our evening - Campsite dinner followed by a good night's sleep under the stars of Jasper National Park.
The weather is wonderful. We have been blessed so far, especially when we hear how hot it is in other places around the world. Sunny and 70s - we wore shorts during the day. Temps cooled down in the evening (40s); we slept with the windows open most of the night until we got cold & closed them.
We will post some more pictures once we get them off the camera and get to a good wifi area. It may be awhile; pictures take a bit of time to post. I hope the site is working well for those of you following our blog. It's a pretty good site, and hey, it's free. We sure enjoy your messages and comments. This is a trip of a lifetime for us and we are happy to share it with our loved ones.
Wildlife Sightings
Black bear cub
Mother black bear & cub
Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep
Deer
Elk mother & baby in the woods
2 female Elk (cows) & a calf by the side of the road