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We took our very first family (of 5) trip, and it was to Whistler, British Columbia,
in southwest BC, Canada. This is a very mountainous area with active glaciers
and a huge skiing community and infrastructure. We're not skiers, but
the resorts are improving their summer activities and rates to attract people year-round.
I was amazed at the off-road bikes - hundreds of kids and families go up the mountain
on the gondola, then bike back down. They all had serious protective gear
and bikes which were covered in mud - a good sign.
Our weather was excellent, with clear skies all but 1 day, and temperatures in the
upper 70's. Even atop the snowy mountains it was around 50 degrees or
so.
We spent 4 days total - 1 driving (total) and 3 at the resort or sites along the
way. This was also the first trip for our new family hauler
minivan, and it did great even in the mountains with heavy throttle and 87
octane gas! We got over 21mpg across the entire trip, including driving up
mountains and sitting in traffic and Customs lines.
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At the
Peace Arch Memorial Park, at the Canadian border in Blaine, WA |
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The Family, half-way to Whistler!
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At Whistler - The kids' first wooden covered bridge |
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Blackcomb base had some attractions for the little kids |
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Ciara catches air! |
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Brendan loved the slide too |
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Ciara's first-ever horse ride |
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View from our hotel room in Whistler |
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Our hotel, front-center
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The mountain-top gondola landing and shops / restaurants
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This little building houses explosives, which they use to induce avalanches via
rocket launchers. |
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A view down from the very top, another 30 minute hike above the gondola |
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I could look at this scene all day
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I've always liked pictures of people in snow, with summer clothes! |
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Atop Whistler Mountain |
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Going back down the mountain, 6030 feet altitude |
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An interesting playground. Can you see Ciara and Brendan?
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A park we visited on the way out of town, beginning the journey home. |
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The next 4 shots are on highway 99 on the ride back towards Vancouver, BC. |
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As you can see, the sights are breathtaking! |
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This is the region where Porsche made their "Holy Schmoly" Boxster TV
ad. |
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