Do you know Nomade Magazine? It's a web platform that offers relevant content on travel and discoveries. Marie-Pier Leduc, Claudia Trudeau, and Jessica Gallant inspire dreams by sharing their experiences on outdoor and adventure getaways around the globe. We love this magazine for its inspiring advice and magnificent photos. At the last minute, we have a soft spot for their "Explore Quebec" section, which gives us different and original ideas for discovering our own backyard.
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It is with excitement that we present to you today Jessica's article on her favorite hikes in Western Canada. Visit their Facebook page to enter the contest and get a chance to win the same headband model that accompanied her on her trip.
Happy reading!
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Because the weather there is very changeable, it was with my faux leather boots, my OmniHeat coat and especially accompanied by my beautiful and soft Gibou headband that I ventured on several small hikes through Alberta and British Columbia during the month of October. Whether it's terribly cold or the breeze is pleasant, the majestic presence of the Rockies undeniably makes anyone venturing into these provinces with impressive landscapes dream, and, in any case, everyone knows, if you cover your head well, a good part of the problem is already solved... Thanks Gibou!
There is obviously a plethora of hiking trails accessible to outdoor enthusiasts in this beautiful part of Canada. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will undoubtedly find that forest expedition that will make you want to explore more of the different mountains and verdant forests of Western Canada. I therefore propose 6 hikes accessible to all that absolutely charmed me and allowed me to discover truly inspiring places.
Grassi Lake - Alberta
Located just a few minutes from the town of Canmore, Grassi Lake is a hike that I really enjoyed for its accessibility and the beauty emanating from the mountains present throughout the ascent. It is a very popular place for families and anyone wishing to share a special moment with their dog, as the trail is very pleasant to walk. The splendor of the lake is absolutely breathtaking thanks to the harmony of the different shades of blue and green reflecting among an abundant vegetation of fir trees and the sun's rays filtering through their branches.
Once past the lake, it is possible to continue climbing towards the summit of the mountain without reaching it to finally obtain a magnificent panoramic view.
Peyto Lake - Alberta
Because the road to get there is absolutely dreamy and the view of this lake is, as one might say, the cherry on top, the hike and the dazzling spectacle that Peyto Lake offers are absolutely worth the stop. Located along the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park, it only takes about fifteen minutes to walk to a viewpoint offering a high view overlooking this beauty of nature. For the more adventurous, other trails are also available to reach a higher viewpoint or, even better, to reach the lake and touch its unreal turquoise blue water.
Lake Louise - Alberta
I strongly invite you to experience a day of peace by treating yourself to a wonderful hike at Lake Louise. Whether it's for a short, flat stroll around this sapphire of the Rockies, to reach the glacier resting at the foot of the lake, or to reach the summit of the mountain rising with all its charm covered in a carpet of fir trees, you will forever remember this treasure of Banff National Park. I especially loved going to the top of the mountain for the spectacle of the panorama over the lake and the fabulous Fairmont Chateau. The hike takes approximately 6 hours round trip and offers stunning views, as well as the discovery of other lakes and diverse, impressive vegetation.
Brandywine Falls – British Columbia
It was on my way to the adorable village of Whistler that I saw the sign for Brandywine Falls, located in Brandywine Falls Provincial Park. This 70-meter high waterfall was one of my favorite discoveries of my trip. First, you have to hike for about twenty minutes through a lush forest and cross a railway track that blends perfectly with the surrounding wild vegetation, to finally discover the splendor of a waterfall that seems to appear out of nowhere. The place is absolutely magical and the hike is truly captivating. It is also possible to extend your adventure to an incredible suspension bridge and, at the same time, bungee jump from a platform above the Cheakamus River.
Capilano Suspension Bridge - British Columbia
As one of British Columbia's most popular attractions, it seemed essential to visit this highly coveted Vancouver tourist site. Compared to the other hikes I've shared with you, you have to pay to enter the site, but I assure you that the experience is worth it. You'll find everything in one place! Whether for the centuries-old conifers, for the sublime suspension bridge above a torrent, or for the different trails and platforms allowing you to walk from tree to tree, Capilano is a very rejuvenating place where it's good to enjoy the outdoors. The place is perfect for a hike through a humid forest full of natural wonders, to learn more about the evolution of our environment, and to savor delicious Canadian products in the heart of nature.
Cathedral Grove - British Columbia
A hike among the trees of Cathedral Grove in MacMillan National Park is comparable to a moment spent in one of those enchanted forests imagined in our childhood. I found myself walking along damp trails where trees reach the sky and where lichen seems to carpet the ground with an infinite green. In addition to boasting a large number of different conifers, this heavenly place is home to ancient Douglas firs, unique and magnificent trees. When I ventured among all this magnificence, I found myself encountering trees over 800 years old with a circumference of over 9 meters. This incredibly pure place is simply magical and sublime and reminds us how tiny we are in this vast world.
I wish you the most beautiful outdoor adventures on your next trip to the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. Know that this side of Canada is full of astonishing places that will steal your heart and inspire you to discover more of our country's different treasures. Bundle up comfortably with Gibou and set off on an adventure now on the different trails of Western Canada!
Jessica from Nomade Magazine
