Short, challenging hike

June 7, 2017

Hi, Tracy.
Today I went on a hike that was surprisingly difficult. My traveling companion, Valerie Vessey, and I have been staying at a time share in Canmore, Alberta, Canada, and we drove to Banff National Park to see Moraine Lake. I wanted to hike there because of stunning photographs I had seen of that location, and because I wanted to build up my stamina.

Moraine Lake in Banff National Park

The hike was short, but surprisingly difficult. I had to rest along the path that lead to the headwaters of the lake. Afterward, when we climbed up on the moraine at the opposite end of the lake to get the "$20 view"  (the view that appeared on Canada's $20 bill), I climbed a staircase that just wore me out. It could not have amounted to more than 200 feet, elevation gain, but I had to stop and rest a couple times.

Later, I learned from a park employee that the lake was at an altitude of 5,000 feet, the elevation of Denver, the "mile high city," and I realized the elevation change from Seattle may have been the reason.While I didn't hike well, I believe the effort will have a positive impact on getting me back in shape.

Before we left the park, we talked with an individual who was directing traffic who told us he had just been watching a young female grizzlie bear which had just disappeared over a knoll. He shared information about the nature of the bears and how park staff co-exist with them -- including entering their dens to tag the young while the adults are away!  Afterward we drove up to look at Lake Louise before heading back home for dinner. We plan to do at least one other hike before we return to Seattle.

Addendum: June 8

At mid morning I took my pulse with amazing results: about 46 bpm. I don't get that. It's extremely slow, I'm at 5,000 feet, and I haven't exercised for months.


Love,
Dad