The Road Less Traveled

So it’s been a few months since I went to visit some friends up in Vancouver BC, but let me just say – WOW.  Olympics or not, what a wonderful place to vacation.   I’d been to Vancouver a few times in the past, but it must have been overcast, because I certainly don’t remember it being as amazingly beautiful as it was this time.   The views from town down practically every street corridor look out over water and mountains.   But it was getting out of town where I took some of my favorite shots.

One of my friends and I took a trip up the Sea to Sky highway as far as Squamish, a small town half way to the ski fields of Whistler.  They have clearly been investing in this highway, as it was spiffy new with great rest stops and photo ops all along the way in both directions.

First we followed the signs to their local skatepark.  While not a skater myself, I’m quite involved in Portland’s growing skatepark system at my day job for Portland Parks & Recreation.   So, I have gotten into the habit of going to see skateparks when I tour around places.

The little town of Squamish has a skatepark tucked away in the back of beyond (which from a siting perspective, is not a great idea for many reasons, but that’s a topic for another time on a different blog).  But the location is stunning.  Not many skateparks can boast such beautiful surrounds as this one.

Who wouldn't be inspired by this backdrop?

Squamish as a town simply sits in one of the most beautiful locations imaginable.  After some wonderful homemade coffee cake at one of the groovy coffee shops, I wandered across the railroad tracks to check out the evening light reflecting off the granite mountains that loom over town.

You get a feel for the industrial flavor of this rugged town from this riverfront view.

This was a town that invites one to stop and linger.   Who needs to get to Whistler anyhow.  Just wander down one of the side streets, or stop and enjoy a cuppa with a fresh pastry.  The slopes will be there when you’re done.