A getaway was necessary after weeks of being surrounded by smoke and fires. Our destination? The breathtaking Whistler, British Columbia. At the last minute, we were able to find a camping spot and hotel room. With our car packed and spirits high, we embarked on a journey that promised adventure, relaxation, and a much-needed breath of fresh air.
Taking the stunning Highway 99, which magically transforms into Duffey Lake Road at Lillooet, we marveled at the changing landscapes. A spontaneous stop at Seton Lake was the perfect beginning. Its serene beauty was a welcome contrast to the chaos we left behind.
Arriving at Nairn Falls Provincial Park, we quickly set up our camp. The sense of peace in the air was almost tangible. Surrounded by towering trees and the sound of the nearby falls, we knew we had made the right choice…We could have gone without the mosquitos when the sun went down, but bug spray fixed that.
Our first-day trip took us to the fascinating Train Wreck site south of Whistler. Following Cheakamus Lakes Road to Legacy Way, then a right onto Jane Lakes Road, we found the trailhead at the bottom. The trail was put in to prevent crossing the train tracks. The site was pretty cool; the cars were covered in neat graffiti and appeared to have been turned into mountain bike obstacles and jumps. The suspension bridge on the way to the cars was incredible and offered stunning river views between the rock walls.
Afterwards, we headed towards Whistler Olympic Park. A stop at Alexander Falls Viewpoint was mandatory. The falls were majestic, providing a perfect backdrop for photos. Moments like these made the trip unforgettable.
The next day was dedicated to exploring Whistler itself. The quaint shops, vibrant atmosphere, and beautiful scenery entertained us for hours. On our way back to the campsite, we felt a bit ripe and decided to refresh ourselves with a dip in Green Lake. According to watertemperature.org, the water was around 16°C (69°F), but it felt more like minus a million! Braving the icy plunge for 15 minutes, we had a blast while the girls watched from the shore, likely laughing at our shivering antics.
With our camping adventure ending, we packed up and headed for downtown Vancouver, where a comfy hotel awaited. Arriving late, we opted for a low-key evening of snacks and TV—sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the best. The following day, the girls dove into the hotel pool. Surprisingly, only one other girl was there, so they practically had the pool. Their laughter and joy were infectious.
Before heading home, we made a detour to White Rock Beach in Surrey. The stunning coastline, with its iconic white rock and scenic pier, was a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. The tide was out, so we went down to the extended beach, took off our sandals, and walked barefoot.
Our journey home included a stop at the Othello Tunnels, which had just reopened. The timing was perfect. The tunnels, carved through solid granite, offered awe-inspiring views of the canyon and a fascinating glimpse into the area’s railway history.
Our trip to Whistler and beyond was everything we needed and more. Each moment was a cherished memory, from the scenic drives and historical sites to the icy dips. As we headed home, we felt rejuvenated and grateful for the adventures and the time spent together. Until next time, Whistler!
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