Head south towards Lake Louise with the first stop a visit to the Icefields Centre to view the Columbia Icefield. Take Glacier Experience tour on large snowmobile of which there are only 23 in the world. Not surprising given the price tag of $1.2 million. 22 of these are owned by the Brewster which seems to monopolise the industry in these parts and one by the USA Army in the Antarctic.
The snowmobile takes us out onto the Athabasca ( alt 2000 metres ) glacier which is 300 metres deep. Other main glacier is the Double A located between the Athabasca and Andromeda Mts.
Dome Mountain above the icefield marks the unusual Triple Continental Divide with rivers dividing here to run to Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic Oceans.
Move on to yet another visit to a narrow,deep canyon, this time Mistaya Canyon. Cross Bow Summit ( the highest point on the Icefields Parkway and from there take a 600 metre walk to lookout over Peyto Lake, a truly picturesque glacial lake.
Arrive in the world famous Lake Louise to do some grocery shopping before continuing on to the Chancellor Peak Chalets midway between Lake Louise and Golden. Directions to the chalets somewhat lacking, especially in the light of some road construction work. After missing the turnoff we are forced to drive about 40 kms out of our way but eventually reach our destination before it gets dark.
Chalets in a superb location although somewhat lacking in amenities.
Highlights of the day-
Saskatchewan Cross where the Howse, Mistaya and North Saskatchewan rivers meet.
Crowfoot Glacier which used to have 3 toes but has now lost one as the glacier has receded.
Sorry for such a boring blog which simply doesn't do justice to yet another spectacular day on tour.
Cheers
The Obese Ferret.
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