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One of the best things a visitor to
Whistler can find is a local who will take them off the beaten path and
uncover what lies invisible to the eye of the uninformed. Everyone
hears stories of local ski gurus leading lucky tourists to secret powder
stashes in the winter, but there is a similar phenomenon that takes place
in the summer.
There are places a person can visit in the Whistler area that are beautiful beyond description or historically intriguing, and surprisingly unvisited because of their remote locations. These places, with the dedication of a full day, can make memorable and inspiring hikes. As Whistler locals, we enjoy spending time in the big mossy forests that surround Whistler. However, last summer, we ventured to a place we heard about though word of mouth that stands out from all other wooded areas in Whistler. High on top of any kind of civilization, traffic or pollution, lies a small but majestic pocket of ancient cedar trees. For some unknown reason, these trees were spared by the loggers who virtually ravished the entire surrounding area many years ago. Now, they stand as giants in a forest of second growth mediocrity. You may want to start your day relatively early, because depending on the condition of the logging road, you may have to walk for up to two hours to get to the path that leads to the ancient cedars. If it's a hot summer day, make sure you bring sunscreen and a hat, and in any case, bring a lunch and plenty of water. Drive north on Highway 99, past Emerald Estates and Emerald Park. If you watch on the left-hand side of the road you will come upon the entrance to a logging road. As you drive in you will notice a small sign that says "Ancient Cedars." You are on the right road. Now, drive up the road as far as your car will make it, or park right away if you want to walk. Once you get to the top of the road there will be another sign that says "Ancient Cedars." This is the path. Follow it into the forest and remember: "take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints." If you are in the mood for a historical
and scenic venture, you may want to consider taking the train up the "Whistler
Explorer" route. The Explorer is a day trip that departs Whistler
at 8:30 a.m. and travels by scenic Anderson and Seton Lakes, the Fraser
Canyon and arrives four hours later at Kelly Lake in the heart of the historic
Cariboo region. The famous Gold Rush Trail passed within 100 yards
of the flag stop where you may explore for a little over an hour before
the train departs back to Whistler. This route is in operation from
the end of May through to the end of September. Call B.C. Rail at
604-932-2134 for more information.
And last but not least, there is an interesting canoe trip you can take for some history and beauty. The best place to start is Wayside Park on the south end of Alta Lake where you can launch your own canoe or rent one for the day. If you paddle across the lake and down the River of Golden Dreams you will eventually find yourself in the wide-open Green Lake. What many people don't know is if you paddle to the other side there is a secret garden and a ghost town to explore. We would be pleased to give you further instructions and directions once you have settled in at the Wildwood Lodge. Our front desk staff are long time Whistler residents and are usually bursting with information. Hiking Tours Explore the vast beauty of whistler with an experienced guide leading the way.
Wildwood
Lodge on Blackcomb Mountain [ Home | Accommodations | Rates | Facilities | Reservations | Driving Directions | FAQ | Contact Us ]
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