The Great Garibaldi
By Tara Thorne
Excited about our adventure into the Canadian wilderness I
was glad that nobody bothered to mentioned to me that the climb up to Garibaldi
Lake was 6 kilometers in length, was a hike that never gave up, was steep all
the way, and was a challenge to say the least.
Huffing and puffing we passed other hikers who were on
their way back down the mountain. I was soon to realize why their faces brimmed
with such joy and elation.
 Even
though the climb itself was not the most relaxing or easy, the scenery was
beautiful. On the odd opportunity that I had to look at my surroundings,
(without the fear of falling down the sheer drop to one side of me), I realized
just how spectacular Canadian forests can be. Tall old growth fir and cedar
trees towered over us like gatekeepers to the skies letting in little sunlight
creating a dark, mysterious atmosphere. In others parts of the forest rays of
warm, bright light illuminated the path in front of us. The air smelt fresh and
crisp and little waterfalls turned into gushing streams that we sat by whilst
trying to catch our breath.
 To
brighten up our day, alpine flowers such as Lupine, Indian Paintbrush, Snow
Lily, and Arnica lined our trail, and forest creatures including chipmunks and
mosquitoes joined us on our pilgrimage to the top; the chipmunks being the more
welcomed of the two, (be sure to bring your insect repellant).
Just when I thought I could not go on, we stumbled across
what turned out to be one of the most magnificent sights I have ever seen.
 An
amazing azure-colored lake appeared out of nowhere like a mirage of freedom and
hope! The temptation to jump straight in was large until I felt the temperature
of the freezing water.
Thinking that we had made it to the great Garibaldi Lake I
was a little daunted to hear that this in fact was not the lake, and we still
had a ways to go. A feeling of disappointment and slight fear washed over me,
but I trekked on knowing I had no other choice.
Finally we made it to the even more spectacular Garibaldi
Lake. Here we flopped down at a wooden picnic table to rest our weary bodies and
re-fuel our hungry bellies.
 Eating
lunch at Garibaldi Lake is not your every day dining experience. The stunning
lake billows out in front of you its' bright blue hue a true miracle of nature,
and snow capped mountains and a glacier on the opposite side of the lake remind
you of the mountain that you just climbed to get here; here being 1484m above
sea level.
For those interested in camping, there is a campsite at the
lake, and if fishing is more your thing both Trout and Chironomid are in
plentiful supply. We had a heap of fun watching the trout swim and jump in and
out of the water. They created quite a spectacle and gave many a tired traveler
an excuse to rest and watch.
The hike to Garibaldi Lake is definitely not for the faint
hearted. I imagine it to be somewhat like childbirth; the amazing gift at the
end helps you to forget the pain it took to get there. Until the next day of
course, when your muscles decide to remind you. |
