Riverside Trail - Whistler, BC, Canada

The weatherman was wrong ... it was supposed to be a sunny, warm day ... instead, it is cool with solid overcast.

Early on, I decided to take advantage of the soft light, and head into the forest to practise some long-exposure photography. I specifically wanted to try to capture that "smooth, silky water" look.

Our neighbourhood creek, the Cheakamus River, is rather rowdy even at low water, so I wasn't sure how it'd work out. But practice makes perfect, eh?

I was out for a couple of hours and only did about 1/4 of the Riverside Trail. Thoroughly enjoyable stroll with a lot of stopping (blame the camera), only saw 1 other person the whole time I was in the forest! I donated a pint of blood to the local mosquito squadron, too.

Here are a few of my fav's from the morning:

Not perfect technically, but I have a good idea what I'll do to improve next time!

Also, I was excited to spot what I think was a belted kingfisher! I had no idea that kingfishers frequent our area! Of course, having the wide-angle lens instead of the zoom, and the camera set for long exposures, meant that there is no way I can prove that I saw this gorgeous blue-grey creature! Next time!

ABOUT THE TRAIL: Both sides of the creek are flanked by the Riverside Trail, which is frequented by both walkers and bikers, so keep your head up. 

It is a there-and-back walk on one/either side of the river or, if you go all the way up to the suspension bridge (///persist. rowdy.birthrate), you can walk back on the other side of the river. 

There are no restrooms at the trailhead or along the trail. The closest public facility is at the interpretive forest parking lot (///snowflakes.coach.permitted) which is 10-15 minutes' walk from the bridge towards Highway 99.

The trail itself is an easy walk with comfortable packed earth and pine needles underfoot, without a great deal of elevation gain, though there are lots of ups and downs.

This is a V-shaped canyon so you'll often find steep uphill on one side, and steep drop-offs towards the river on the other. Rocks and roots are slippery even when dry - keep a firm grip on the little ones.

Bring bug spray!

ACCESS & PARKING: Online maps and google earth haven't been updated in years. They show two logging roads, but there's actually just one turnoff that accesses this trail network.

About 500m after turning south off Highway 99 (///hikers.longstanding.quickest), take the dirt logging road to the left (if you cross the two-lane bridge, you've gone too far). 

Immediately after turning onto the dirt, bear right across the single-lane bridge. You will find a few parking areas along this road but space is very limited. More parking is available at the interpretive forest parking lot (///snowflakes.coach.permitted). This is 10-15 minutes' walk from the trailhead and features the added bonus of a restroom (there are no restrooms on the trail).

The west side trailhead is off the first parking lot (///oiled.grasp.coastal).

Be aware that these dirt roads are active logging and construction routes so do not block the road, and know that the road could be closed/gated at any time due to movement of heavy machinery.

More photos from this walk have been put in my Whistler gallery.

Map reference points are on the www.what3words.com website. Try it ... its a fun and different way of navigating our world!

Here in BC we're ever so close to "opening up" after the pandemic ... so hold the line, stay safe and well until next time!

Cheers!
Tanya

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Train Wreck Hike - Whistler, BC, Canada

I'm ashamed to admit that I've lived in the Sea To Sky Corridor for over 20 years, and have never done this short hike!

A few days ago, I decided to give it a go. I didn't even know I was going to do it until after I'd left the house for my early morning walk. The difference that day was that I had my camera with me ... I'm famous for being lead around by that little piece of equipment!

The trail head is located at ///alienated.residency.logistical . *Update June 25, 2021* A garbage bin as been provided at this spot - thank you, RMOW!

Train Wreck is a short there-and-back hike. It took me about 2 hours but can doubtless be done much quicker by those in better shape than I, and without photo stops! 

The trail itself is about 1m wide and has a firm surface of small gravel, so good for any sensible, closed footwear. There are ups and downs, but nothing too daunting. It is forested so expect it to be cool.

Mountain bikers, as well as walkers, frequent this route so keep your head up, and share the trail.

Cheakamus Creek - Rugged & Fast Flowing!

The parking lot and trail head are on Jane Lakes Road. Get there early if you're visiting on a weekend or during a holiday period. Don't be tempted to park somewhere that your vehicle might block either lane of the road as it is used by large trucks serving the nearby rock quarry. 

The Moss On The Forest Floor - Please Stay On The Trail

The trail name came from a derailment that occurred in 1956. A train loaded with lumber that was southbound from Lillooet was running late and, after attempting a tight turn at well over the speed limit, had several cars jump the tracks. The valuable wood and any parts of the carriages that could be salvaged were taken away, but 7 cars deemed as not having any value were dragged away from the tracks and left behind.

Before you reach the wreck site, you must cross the rushing Cheakamus Creek by way of a 50m suspension bridge. The bridge's action can get lively, so keep your dogs on leash and a firm hand on little people!

These days, the rail cars are brightly coloured with graffiti tags. Unfortunately, the rocks, trees, parking bollards, even the suspension bridge, have not escaped the attention of these "artists". Makes me wonder ... who brings rattle-cans of paint and permanent markers with them when they visit Whistler, a place renowned for its wonderful natural setting?!

A couple of things to be aware of:

Important Bear Info!

There are NO TOILET FACILITIES either at the parking lot or along the trail. The closest loo is a short 3 minute drive from the trail head, at the Interpretive Forest parking lot located immediately on your left as you turn off Highway 99 to enter this residential subdivision (///deadening.defends.frying). 

*Update June 25, 2021* A garbage bin as been provided at ///alienated.residency.logistical - thank you, RMOW! Litter is a huge problem here so please be considerate and bring a plastic bag to pack out what you pack in - snack wrappers, drink containers, diapers, etc. Do remember that toilet paper and kleenex are not bio-degradable, so if you have to use them be prepared to pick them up and take them with you.

This is a rain forest so there are MOSQUITOES! Cover up or have repellent handy.

I've posted a few of my photos here ... if you'd like to view all 50 images from this lovely rain forest walk, visit my Whistler gallery.

Until next time, stay safe!
Tanya

Pet Photographer
Outdoor Sports Photographer
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