Abbots Ridge Trail

We arrived to Illecillewaet Campground and were greeted by warning signs about increased bear activity reported in the area. Would this finally be the wildlife encounter we’d been hoping for?! With the amount of hiking we’d done in the past month we were starting to doubt anything other than chipmunks actually exist.

The next morning we set off early with eyes and ears peeled eagerly listening for any sound in the undergrowth. By the time we reached the alpine above the trees our hopes of an encounter had faded. The consolation price was definitely the incredible views once again across mountains, valleys and glaciers. Honestly this landscape makes these hikes constantly so engaging!

The trail traversed along below the summit ridge before looping back up and along the spine to the top. Another great choice of hike. As we finished our pre-packed sandwiches a storm started to build down the valley. By the time we had come down off the ridge, the thunder and lightning had increased. We hunkered down under the awning of the weather station hut allowing the storm to pass. Thankfully it was over within about 15mins and didn’t rain too much, so we were back on the trail soon after.

Once back to the campground we decided to stay another night. Hoping for one last chance to spot the bears.

Despite setting up in the forest for the afternoon and even another morning hike the next day, no joy. I guess National Geographic will have to do for my bear encounter for now.Read more