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Rae Glacier

70AF1E9A-1098-41E8-A0C3-66372F155404We crossed into Canada a week ago with no issues and quickly settled into Peter Lougheed Provincial Park.  

Having found ourselves in south-central Alberta and nesting on the eastern edge of the Canadian Rockies, we celebrated the long and rained-soaked Canada Day weekend in a spectacularly beautiful area.

Mother Nature was not all sour grapes however.  In the windows free of rain, Kelly and I did find time to play outdoors.

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The hike to Rae Glacier was a wonder trek.  First, up and through an alpine lake campground and the free firewood pile, then onto a rock field, before a final steep ascent to the top.  The trail was nearly ours alone and lunch at the foot of the glacier, while quite chilly and windy, afforded stunning views.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t linger.  As we sat high above the tree line, we could see the next storm rapidly approaching, forcing us off the glacier.

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Kananaskis Fire Lookout

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The uphill was long and steep.

The views at the top were amazing.

The downhill was fast.

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Whitefish Bike Retreat

 

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It was love at first site.  I was smitten for the Whitefish Bike Retreat – they had me at Cold Beer.

Never-mind the fantastic network of local biking trails surrounding the venue, there is onsite communal lodging and RV/tent camping available, enabling quick and easy access to flow trails, pump tracks, and skills courses.  

What’s not to love about this place?

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Maybe my visit – a Tuesday afternoon – was not an accurate representation of the place?  I highly doubt that.  The overall vibe is very laidback which suited me just fine.

Oh, I almost forgot – the variety of cold beer available (bottles and cans) is quite stellar.  

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Enjoying Differences

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Originally our travel route had us departing Glacier National Park and arriving to Calgary (Canada) on Sunday.  However, once we saw extended rain in the forecast we ditched that plan and instead decided to take retreat in nearby Kalispell (Montana).

Exploring options we located a retired couple who allow temporary free camping on their beautiful, six-acre property conveniently located close to town.

The homeowners are great and we’ve also met a few other full-timing travelers – all of us momentarily centering our travels around the national park, but ultimately coming and going in various directions and purpose across the country.

These past fourth-eight hours have been a reminder that despite all the cable news noise highlighting the many differences that too often divide and isolate, Kelly and I are fortunate to live as we do.  The diversity of people we regularly meet on the road – regardless of differing ages, social, political, or financial situations – are generally gracious, open, and welcoming.

Free from the noise, Kelly and I are lucky to cross paths and socialize with these fellow travelers, even if only briefly.