Kootenay Adventure!

This summer Erin and I were able to sneak away for a few days for another mountain adventure. This time our destination was Kootenay National Park, BC. Click to enlarge any of the photos below, and enjoy!

Mount Rundle, Banff National Park on a cloudy day

Whenever we are out this way, Erin and I make the drive up Mt. Norquay for the view. This year they added some Bright red Muskoka Chairs.

Since the chairs were taken, we sat in the grass. No regrets!

Ground squirrels are a common sight in the mountains.

They can be quite noisy and territorial.

Judging by the hood of my car, this must be one of the only butterflies that escaped a highway death.

Much of Kootenay Park burned in 2003, in one of the largest fires ever to scorch the Rockies

Despite the $1 Billion price tag on firefighting efforts, this wildfire led to positive and natural changes in the ecosystem.

Tiny, but oh so delicious! These little strawberries thrive in the undergrowth.

This is Marble Canyon. An impressive sight, easily accessible a short distance from the highway.

More red chairs! A nice spot to stop for lunch and watch the chipmunks scamper around.

This fellow was particularly photogenic. 

Unfortunately she/he is probably accustomed to people and associates them with tasty snacks.

After sitting quietly for awhile, I spotted these two patiently waiting for mom to return with some food.

Adorable!

After lunch I double up my polarized filter to play around with longer exposures during full day light.

When completely zoomed out, the second filter distorts the image slightly as can be seen here.

I don't think that's the right way...

This is somewhere near Dog Lake, Kootenay National Park

Suspension Bridges lead the way across the river.

The complete silence in this part of the park was astounding.

Quick rest by the river!

I distinctly heard a 'hopping' sound in the undergrowth, and found this little rodent.

With some patience I was able to get very close without spooking him. Probably my favourite shot of the trip!

Even right by the highway across from the lodge where we stayed, it was incredibly peaceful and scenic.

We made our own inuksuk as the sun disappeared behind the mountains.

The dramatic highway entrance into the south end of the park, from Radium Hotsprings.

Selfie time :-)
We hope you enjoyed the photos!