Another recent day-trip showing off some more bits of Alberta to the visiting relatives.
This time we headed to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park - take a drive from Calgary eastwards towards the Rockies and about half an hour later hang a left up Highway 40. Wave at Nakiska Ski Resort which is taking it's well-earned summer break, and keep going - all the while keeping an eye open for grizzly bears.
Absolutely delighted to see my first ever moose - I have lived here for three and a half years and begun to think these were elusive mythical creatures!
What a large and handsome young fellow - snuffling and snorting loudly as he bent down on his front forelegs to slurp a delicious Muddy Puddle
(not my favourite cocktail, it must be said).
I was so happy to see him, I could have just turned around and gone home after that!
But we carried on driving through the rocky valley - the grey clouds coming and going and the rain threatening.
Stunning formations through the mountains...and it is so lovely to see so much greenery - Alberta in August can often start drying out with the colour brown - but we have not had a great summer really, so the frequent rain keeps it all gorgeous.
The sun trying its best to illuminate Upper Lake.
Peek-a-Boo.
OMG - another Moose!
All my Christmas' have come at once!
Another very young one ...
Also with a penchant for the Muddy Puddle Cocktail.
Another Peek-a-Boo !
...and then time to head home.
This is a bear behind. Honest.
Yes - we actually found the grizzly bear too - casually munching his way through some undergrowth until the noise of a motorbike exhaust frightened him - and then he took off at a fearsome pace.
What a great day to see some wildlife.
