Coach journey to #Jasper stopping at #ColumbiaIcefield and #GlacierSkywalk

​After an early start we were off on our travels again. This time an organised tour on the way to Jasper. There were three stunning stops on the way.

The first was a beautiful vantage point to view a bright blue lake. After that we went for a lunch with a view of our second adventure; a drive up to the Columbia Ice-field in a giant tractor motor vehicle.  The tyres alone cost $5000 each! I'm glad we didn't get a puncture.

The Glacier was impressive but it seemed a shame that this was shrinking at an alarming rate and future visitors won't have the same opportunity to view it in the same way. We had a chance to step out onto the Glacier and have a short walk to take in the experience.

Our next stop was the Glacier Sky-walk overlooking the Sunwapta Valley. I'm not fond of heights but this was fine and the scenery was breathtaking.

The last stop was to view an impressive waterfall; another chance to see the power of nature. We were able to walk so close to it that we were sprayed with icy water!

The last highlight of the day was when we were lucky enough to see our first full sighting of a Canadian Brown  bear after a few near misses earlier in the day. The only frightening thing was the people getting out of the cars to take pictures. If the bear had taken a swing at any of them, it would have  had to be put down  which would have been a shame when it was the stupidity of the people who had caused it.
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​An excellent day and well worth taking the coach. Unfortunately no chance to do any drawings on such a busy day.

​ Again the hotel in Jasper was a little way out of town but a pleasant walk this time. Jasper was a nice surprise after the busy few days already on our tour. It was quite laid back and gave us a chance to relax before the next leg of our journey.

We explored the town, enjoying the space and interesting buildings. After visiting an excellent Ice cream parlour,  I decided that the old fire hall would make an excellent subject matter. 

The next day would give us a chance to see more of the town.