Wapta Heck?

We awoke to a torrential down pour. Buckets. Lashings. Cats and Dogs. A deluge that I would happily redirect to the interior of BC, if I could.

Our Plan B for Lake Louise (rain rain rain) is a lodge where sister Laurie (those of you following along are by now very clear that she is an actual sister, not a nun) worked summers during University. Wapta Lodge is now part of a larger concern called The Great Divide Lodge, just over the BC border in Yoho National Park where we camped as wee kiddies. Can you spell Takaka Falls? (Apparently not, because Google spells it Takakkaw).

After an excellent catch up and world-problem-solving session over morning coffee with soon-to-be Doctor of Psychology Sarah, we struck off for Banff on the TCH. First stop Canmore.

Canmore is hopping! Mega developments, all designed with mountain vibes, and the city centre was mobbed, even on a grey wet Tuesday. There were maddening hints of mountains behind the clouds.

           

But Canmore seemed staid and sane compared to Banff, which was a zoo. I have been lucky to stay there several times and didn't feel the need to wander the streets. One iconic photo of the grand old lady seemed enough.






Likewise with Lake Louise. The Lake proper was being serviced by shuttle buses from 5 km out of town, because the lots were full. Traffic was being directed at several intersections. Not reminiscent of some lovely times I have spent there over the years, especially visiting Skoki Lodge with Carol and later with Joe.

We crossed into BC and sadly, the smell of forest fires was evident, and along with the haze behind the sign in this picture, persisted for the rest of the day.







Wapta Lodge is on the TCH. I do mean on the TCH. From our room I would say the traffic is whizzing by about 30 meters away. Might not be such a great sleep tonight and another very early start tomorrow.

Took a little hike behind the lodge up to Sherbrooke Lake before checking in. Some sweet specimens along the steepish wooded trail.



                                                       


The original Wapta Lodge building has been relegated to pet-friendly status and the room is fine, with a lovely view of the lake and mountains beyond. Nothing like the elegance of a Comfort Inn, mind you, but far better than a soggy tent, dog and human.

     

  

Here's the view I have of Hailey in the 'Ru, using the small lower mirror so I don't have to crank my head around while driving. Always comforting to know that she's still there in her nest.

Also pictured is the Canada 150 Free Parks Canada Pass. Score!



Not sure of our destination tomorrow. Had planned to camp at Martha's Creek, further along the TCH, but I need to do some research into best routes to avoid fires. Will keep y'all posted.