August 6 & 7, 2024 - Kokanee Glacier Prov Park

Ron and I went on an overnighter to Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park (pictures #1 and #2).

There were lots of wildflowers on the way up: fireweed, mountain death camas (picture #3), shrubby cinquefoil, willow, fringed grass of Parnassus, St John’s wort, columbine, valerian, many others.

After walking uphill for about 4.5 kms, we got to Kokanee Lake (pictures #4-6). After that, onwards over Kokanee Pass (picture #7). There were large fields of heather, mostly the white kind with a few pink ones here and there. There were also some snow patches left, which I found surprising since it was so hot in the Kootenays in July.

We camped by Kaslo Lake. Lots of mosquitos there always, so it is very nice that they have a cooking shelter there (picture #8).

The next morning, after a mediocre night sleep (first night of backpacking is always bad for me), we walked towards Helen Deane Lake, past our favourite small lake: Kalmia (pictures #9-11). Kalmia has these old walking paths made from tree trunk rounds. I would like to make paths like that in my own garden.

Onwards from Kalmia, we got to the Slocan Chief cabin, and then Helen Deane Lakes. There we turned around to go back to the campground, get our packs, and walk out. There were some pretty, small trees on the way (picture #12).

Back by Kokanee Lake, we found some spotted saxifrage (picture #13) - I love this wildflower, it is one of my favourites!

The way back was easier and faster than walking in, but by the end of it both of us were quite tired and glad to drive home, take a good shower, have some spaghetti and meatballs, and go to sleep.

That’s it!