Coquihalla - Guanaco Hike, Aug 13

Time to go for a hike and do some more exploring in the Coquihalla ... On our scramble up Lama/Alpaca last year two granite spires just around the corner caught our interest: Vicuna and Guanaco. Especially since we watched three paragliders take off from the shoulder of Guanaco. Although we were not keen to carry our wings up for a short sled ride (in uncertain valley winds) it seemed like a neat place to check out.


Thar, Nak, Yak, Zopkios and Jim Kelly and Coquihalla in the back row


The trail was better then the one to Lama/Alpaca and the views did not disappoint. I'm always amazed about these spectacular places just a little off the beaten track. And always thinking: if this would be in Europe, it would be a major tourist attraction. Maybe better the way it is. Great destination for a medium length day trip from Vancouver. Due to the late start we only bagged Guanaco. Have to come back for Vicuna another time (with some climbing gear?).


Indian Paintbrush and Bog Orchids

Lots of snow still lingering in the niches and crannies for this time of year. Nice wildflowers and a black bear on the drive back to the highway. Exploring some more we drove up one of the logging roads close to Hope and ended up camping on a ridge way above the highway.