Vancouver (part 1, Sea to Sky Highway)

West Vancouver, actually. (Vancouver's Stanley Park is seen across Lion's Gate Bridge)

Lions Gate Bridge (you can't see it here, but it's a truly gorgeous bridge)

Sunset from West Vancouver

Sunset from West Vancouver

Canada is a lot more different than the United States than one might think. Yes, to someone south of the border (how do you like being referred to that way? :p ), the people really do have a funny accent. People are less brash and warning signs are a lot less commanding and appear to be more like suggestions to the US citizen used to the extreme safety precautions that only our country is obsessed with due to the lawsuit culture and general promotion of lack of common sense. They also use the English language a lot better, especially on signage. And use the metric system.

Further inland a bit, in Pemberton. There's a lot of contrast like this in BC—flat to sudden shrouded mountains.

One debatable item is BC maximum speeds…they're on the slow side, even compared to WA's low speed limits.

Most government signs are worded like this.

Rather than post a link, I will describe Nairn Falls Provincial Park a little more. There is a nice trail along the river that leads to an interesting slick rocky area. Rather than build a hulking metal raised staircase and platform to protect people from falling, the tourist must actually be careful and exercise judgement when placing their steps on the surface. I was pleasantly surprised not to be treated like an idiot. It's a lot more fun, anyway, to clamber like a mountain goat. (and remember, children should probably be accompanied by an adult, maybe, if you think that's prudent) The waterfall itself I can't even describe. The pictures tell nothing of it's complexity and wonder.

Some day this tree will crack...

the largest rock I have ever seen.

Rocks are slippery when wet, and dry—though they are rarely dry.

I didn't really get pictures on the Sea to Sky Highway due to the rain. I expect that if the weather is any good, next year I'll get to show you some!

Regarding the wildness and natural splendor of the northwest, think of it like this—you can have all of the Colorado wild you want, except (to somebody acclimated to a more moderate climate) you don't have to put on chapstick every time you go outside and the temperature is actually comfortable. I do love it here. I am head over heels in love with the northwest and for a great number of reasons, moving here was my best life-choice.

Sent from my Montgomery-Ward Escort 55