This week I went back to school, went from employee to boss, and became overwhelmingly stressed out in the process. My head seems to be a whirlwind of thoughts and feelings, and with an unforeseen day off it only made sense to answer the call of the mountains.
With a LOT of bear activity right now, I decided a solo hike was probably not the best option so I chose to explore Highway 40. Below I have added a photo that outlines the route I took, having driven almost 400 kms.
I packed up a lunch, grabbed a coffee, gassed up my car and headed to Elbow Falls.
Elbow Falls is a beautiful, easily accessed day use area that contains a set of waterfalls along the Elbow River. It is just West of Bragg Creek, about a 45 minute drive from the condo.
Elbow Falls has beautiful walking trails along the river, leading up to the falls. It was a gorgeous day, so I took my sweet time getting to the viewpoint.
Stopping along the way I sat by the river and listened to the water.
The popular photo angle made possible by the viewpoint.
After a short visit, I got back into the car and headed for Highway 40. I got on at the very beginning, right off of Highway 1.
My first stop on the highway was Mt. Lorette Ponds.
Turning right at the pond entrance, you come across a observation deck shortly after crossing a bridge. There is a bench that boasts a beautiful plaque commemorating Aaron Browne who died climbing Mt. Lorette in 2006.
The view from his bench.
Continuing on, you wrap around the ponds and are offered beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Mt. Lorette Ponds is very popular for day picnics and campfires. Each site is first come, first served and conservation officers enforce a strict "leave no trace" policy.
The view from the other side of the pond, opposite Aaron's bench.
Love was in the air today.
After enjoying the ponds, I hopped back into the car and headed towards one of my favorite spots along the highway, Wedge Pond.
Wedge Pond also has beautiful trails around the whole pond. There are also picnic sites available (see below).
Views from my picnic site.
Fall is coming to this part of the mountains, as the snow has not quite reached this area yet!!
Above and below are photos taken from the western side of the pond.
Photos from the eastern side:
A popular bike trail also wraps around the pond.
After I left Wedge, I continued along Highway 40 through Highwood Pass, into Longview and all the way back home. Needing some time to connect with the mountains, I only have a couple photos of the last couple hours of my drive back home.
The mountains have this beautiful way of healing my heart and head when I feel out of whack. These last couple months have been an emotional roller coaster and some serious mountain therapy was needed.
Although this small day drive helped my head, my heart is already craving another visit and summit climb before winter really sets in.
Who knows where my wandering heart will take me next.
stay safe friends
xoxo
char hazzard
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