Banff, Alberta, Canada, day one

We went to bed at 9:30 pm local time, so we woke early as well - 5:45 am. I opened my boxes and started to get things organized. Then we did some research on places to visit and then headed off to breakfast at EI Toro. Lorraine had raspberry crepes, coffee and some water. I had a Spanish omelet, sausage and a glass of orange juice.

We drove up Route 1A until we came to Johnston Canyon. We hiked along the river which flowed through a deep channel.  We came to the lower falls and followed the path through a tunnel. We were close enough to feel the spray.

On the way out we came across two rangers with a table with a grizzly pelt on it, so we stopped talk to them. They told us this grizzly (which looked to be a small one) was killed on the TransCanada Highway. He said it is important to drive the speed limit to reduce these types of tragedies. I asked him about the land bridges that I had heard about. He said they were very helpful in reducing animal deaths on the highway - 95% reduction for ungulates and 80% overall. He recommended bear spray to be used with a bear that is stalking. He also recommended talking to the bear because their prey do not speak to them. They do not see us as a food source, but talking reinforces that view. Also very important is to make noise in bear country so as to not startle the bear. He also said at 100 meters you can take pictures, 30 meters if you are in a car. Problems occur when you are within 10 meters. Then you need to be careful. Back up slowly and don't run. If the bear stalks you need to stand your ground and be ready with bear spray.

We stopped to see Castle Mountain and Cliffs and then we made our way to Lake Louise. The lake was beautiful with a monster glacier as backdrop. We gave some money to a couple who were singing a cappella to support their trip around the world.

When we got back to the hotel, we met some of the crew for the trip. We met Gordon, Allen and Marka. We then went out to Chili's for dinner. We shard chili for an appetizer and I had a strip steak, broccoli, and cole slaw. Lorraine had a shrimp bowl.

When we came back the hotel, Sean, one of the organizers suggested that I bring my bike outside to put back together.  I was relieved to see that all the parts were there and the bike was in good shape. Gordon put my Bike together. He is from London by way of Aspen Colorado.

After the bike was assembled, we went downtown to pick up some bear spray and check out the stores as well as other dining possibilities.