With the weather finally changing we took advantage of the warm weekend and went kayaking in Deep Cove, north-east of downtown Vancouver.

All kayaks were rented out but luckily we had reserved our kayaks in advance. Two doubles and two singles.

 

The single kayaks were much more exposed to the waves and felt less stable but they were also faster.

On the double kayaks the person in the back was controlling the rudder. That way it wasn’t necessary to steer with the paddles.

The bigger boats in the cove created a few waves which were great fun to chase and paddle into. We almost got run over by a big ferry which we noticed a little too late.

This hike up Grouse mountain is often timed by it’s hikers because it is relatively short but very intense. The average time is about one and a half hours, the record is 25 minutes.

We knew it would be strenuous but I was still surprised. We powered on from the beginning and soon realized that a slower pace is the only way for us to get there.

We overtook quite a few people and made it to the top in one hour three minutes. Next goal: under one hour.

The Grouse view was a good reward.

After a good rest we took a little walk at the plateau at the top.

And saw a few Canadians like this bald eagle probably getting ready to be released again.

Or this vulture.

Or these brown bears.

The gondola brought us back down again.

Early morning.

Jurassic Park painted 4×4 on the road towards Whistler.

Meeting up with Burger. And her humans.

Safe crossing to the trail head.

First view point.

Burger always leading the way.

Break time.

Still frozen Petgill lake.

We made it.

Shelter.

Breathtaking view.

Burger zeroing in.

Back at home before ice cream and board games.