Final days in the Rockies

On Sunday morning I had another relaxed start before setting out for Lake Minnewanka.  I do believe they  don't pronounce the n here or maybe they don't get the joke. I caught the number 6 bus for the princely sum of $1 And arrived at the lake a half a  hour later, having called in at a couple of other lakes, en route.

When I was there a couple of black guys asked me to take a photo; they stood with their backs to the sun. I said, that's no good you look black! And they fell about laughing, then moved to a better spot. Oh dear, could have been accused of racism.
It was quite pretty with a few walks, seating areas and even bbq stations. All of the hiking trails had bear signs and warnings, which people seem to respect.!

I returned on the another bus after an hour and a half.There was no one  else on it, then I had some lunch  in Bannf. This was interesting; I had a Mediterranean pancake and asked for their yoghurt and fruit, when I was directed to a series of self service machines, with levers. I'm not sure if it was frozen yoghurt or ice cream I got but I added a selection of fruit and nuts and enjoyed it.  At these times I always hope there is someone I can watch!  Later, i chuckled as i saw otgers in a similar dilemma! I then waited for the bus to Lake Louise,  which took about an hour. So I checked in and explored the facilities. The views from the hot tub are great but it was raining and miserable so I headed for Happy hour, only to find that my wine didn't count. 

I later saw that prosecco would have done. They could have told me.  Later I went to eat and got chatting to a couple on a neighbouring table.  

Deer Lodge is quite rustic, all wood with a roaring fire.  I think it is a ski lodge. The food is quite pricey and of course we are a captive audience. There is one other rather expensive and huge hotel a few minutes away on the lakeside. But the village is some distance away. This would be a place to hole up for a few days in snowy weather with a good book!

My aspiration today was to walk, to Agnes Lake. I managed about two thirds, probably about 2.5 k, But it was all uphill and pretty tough going. I had to keep the time in mind, but having sat on a rock to recuperate,  a couple asked me if I was ok and offered water.  It was at that point I turned back. I obviously didn't look up to the challenge. As Patrick said later, we have to remember we are not getting any younger! My mind is younger than my body, quite often! 

But I had had a good walk, some good views and It was the first walk I had found with no bear warnings. 

As I walked sprightly down the mountain, I imagined others saying, well she doesn't look to have done badly. So I decided my role today was to act as encouragement to others!

I met the couple who had been concerned, on the way down and we shared holiday experiences until we parted company at the lake.

I returned to Deer lodge for lunch and to enjoy their lounge whilst I waited for my bus. I had had a good morning's exercise and had made a couple of purchases in the neighbouring hotel, including a book for my 3 day trip to Toronto starting tomorrow. ( 10 days later, I havent even started it!); So its back to Jasper to unpack my rucksack, and repack for my train journey to Toronto, and to sort out the mess the Chateau Jasper have made with my bill. They still haven't charged for my second breakfast but are holding the deposit from a week ago. They won't be getting hold of my credit card again! And I never did pay for the second breakfast!