#16 Almost Heaven

The Icefields Parkway

There are many stunning views and places that Pam and I have been privileged to see. The Icefields Parkway is pretty durn close to the top of the list. Hwy 93 (The Icefields Parkway) runs south to north or north to south depending on which way you are going, between Lake Louise in Banff and Jasper, Alberta.

I never imagined a road could be so beautiful. It’s 144 miles of parkway without a billboard, a condo, a subdivision or a strip mall. So that must be boring. Maybe to some. To me, it was heaven. With every turn of my head I was treated to views of dazzling peaks that lined the roadway and framed the captivating rivers in the valleys below. Charlotte, you can’t mean the entire parkway looks like that! Oh yes I do mean exactly that.

Even Lucca was astounded.

You want to see more? We have 3 gorgeous days in Jasper.

As in any location, there are warnings. This time the warnings aren’t tornadoes, hurricanes, flood waters.

You probably can’t read that sign. It says Avalanche Area Ahead. And they aren’t kidding.

At some point, not while we were driving, that rocky rubble plunged right down to the edge of the roadway.

But alas, have no fear. That yellow sign said, “End of Avalanche Area.” Be prepared for about 50 of those Avalanche areas. What can you expect from natural peaks and mother nature? The drive is worth the risk. It’s a beautiful paved road. Some brave souls even bike it.

If you decide to unplug and enliven your spirit and I hope you do someday, you owe yourself this amazing drive. But be prepared with a full tank of gas, a lunch and a camera that’s attached to someone who isn’t driving.

Arrival In Jasper

We arrived in Jasper and set up camp at Whistlers Campground. We had reserved a 6:21 Sky Tram Ride and it was about 4:30. With that in mind, what is Charlotte doing on the floor with a flashlight and her hand in a crevice?

We set up camp and you know how we like push button everything. Well I pushed the button to the slide and it only extended a few inches. No manner of pushing or pulling would get the motors to advance the slide. Maybe you noticed how narrow the walking space is with the slide all the way in.

I got on YouTube and looked for an answer. I found one (apparently this has happened to others) and it wasn’t easy. After contorting myself into different angles and dangles I was finally able to find and push some stupid, hidden button 6 times and then hold it for 10 seconds. Did this miracle work?

No, it did not. We made it work though. The space was tight and clumsy but we were not to be provoked.

Since Pam is ready to start today’s adventure, I must leave you at this juncture and save the Jasper Sky Tram for blog #17. I do hope you’ll come along because we have some sensational Jasper sights to show you.