Hiking in BC: Hike to Garibaldi Lake for unique mountaintop experience

- LAS VEGAS, NV, August 31, 2005 - The Canadian Rockies offer hikers of all abilities the chance to enjoy the great outdoors. Garibaldi Provincial Park near Whistler, British Columbia is a perfect example of the variety of hiking possibilities available to hikers of any level. Travel writer Leanna Jantzi of Vancouver takes readers on her recent hike to Garibaldi Lake in the latest feature at www.Travel-Wise.com - "Where Smart Travelers Come First!"

"I pause for a moment to catch my breath and, as my heart falls from a deafening pound to a healthier pitter-patter, the sounds of West Coast solitude take over," writes Leanna. "As I trudge step after continuous step up an unrelenting incline I wonder: "Is it worth it?""

"Then, the ancient Douglas Firs and Western Red Cedars open up to an amazing sight. My question is answered. Yes, it is worth it."

Garibaldi Lake is the heart of Garibaldi Park, a British Columbian provincial park in the coastal Rocky Mountains, just 70 kilometers north of Vancouver. The park has 90 kilometers of hiking trails suitable for the first-timer to the adventure seeker. One of the most rewarding trails to climb is the nine-kilometre one that leads to the Garibaldi Lake and Black Tusk park region.

The wide trail to Garibaldi Lake begins off Highway 99, between Whistler and Squamish. It is well maintained and marked. Leanna notes that the hike to Garibaldi Lake is not technical and is appropriate for beginner-hikers. However, the 810-metre incline is unforgiving.

"Just as I think my legs will rebel, I get my first good glimpse of the Barrier, and am reminded of the strength of nature. The Barrier is a natural dam created by the volcanic explosion of Mount Price thousands of years ago," she describes.

The resulting bodies of water trapped by the moonscape of lava are a series of postcard-like waterfalls and lakes that culminate with Garibaldi Lake. Those who still have the energy and the wanderlust can use Garibaldi base camp to hike to other points in the park such as Panorama Ridge, Black Tusk or Upper Lakes. Garibaldi Lake can also be used as a stopover en route to Helm Creek and Cheakamus Lake.

As the sun sets over her tent site above the lake, Leanna rests from her three-and-a-half hike. "The best part of the evening is finding a comfortable seat on the rocks to listen to the loons call out and wish us goodnight."

For more details about Garibaldi Provincial Park, as well as other hikes and outdoor destinations around the world, visit www.Travel-Wise.com - "Where Smart Travelers Come First!" New travel reviews by professional travel writers are featured each week at this leading international travel website.

14.12.2005 - 22:04 24-7pressrelease.com | 212 X