Snow Shoeing in Vancouver in May!

Neil taking our photo at the top - Craig capturing it all!


At the top of Black Mountain


On our way to the Bluffs


Going up Black Mountain - myself, Marla and Liza.


Dave and Craig going up Black Mountain.


Craig going up!


Marla, myself and Liza at the top of Black Mountain


The Baden Powell markers on the trees. Easy to miss them!


Craig trying out his new camera!


The Destination - the Bluffs! Much deserved lunch break. Awesome views!

In preparation for Vancouver 100 we decided to check out the section of trail that we knew would still be covered in snow. Neil, Marla and I met Craig, Dave, Liza at Cypress Bowl. We brought our Snow shoes, Yak Traks/Kahtoolas, gaiters, poles, and an extra layer of clothing. Once on the mountain it was obvious that we were wearing our snow shoes. Our destination was the Bluffs on Black Mountain that over look Horseshoe Bay. We found the Baden Powell trail and went straight up the mountain. The snow was really deep - so deep the orange triangle markers that mark the Baden Powell trail were under snow. Fortunately for most of the trek up Black Mountain others had been there and we could follow the tracks. The views were spectacular from the top of Black Mountain with all the other snow covered peaks. We have only been here in the summer so it really was fascinating to see it in the snow. Once we left the top of Black Mtn and carried on to the bluffs the trail was not so easy to find. Dave led the way and with all our eyes in search of markers, tape and signs of human tracks we found our way. The weather was threatening to turn nasty but we only experienced the odd rain shower. Our feet were cold at times from being so wet but I found that every time they started to go numb I would pick up the pace and they would warm up again. It was a beautiful journey and I had to keep reminding myself that it was the middle of May. Remember the lack of snow here for the Olympics? Grouse Mountain announced they are staying open for weekend skiing until Canada Day - July 1st. Looks like we will have plenty more outings with our snow shoes over the next few months. I need some work on my down hill technique. ;-) I tend to lean back and fall on my butt and go for the slide down the mountain technique. We were out playing in the snow for 4 hours. Next outing we will check out more snowy sections of the route.