Upon returning from Australia in February, we enjoyed the remainder of the Canadian winter and all the fluffy snow it had to offer. We skied in all our usual places, and some which we visit less often – like Mount Shark.

The skiing was also very good at Ribbon Creek.

Jan’s mother Hana came for her annual spring skiing trip, and conditions did not dissapoint!

Between ski days, we worked on completing the 3000 piece puzzle we started over Christmas. A major time commitment, and not something that should be undertaken without lots of table space, magnifying glasses, and many cups of tea. In the end, we discovered that we were missing 1 piece – can you find the empty space in the picture below?

Late season skiing was fantastic as always at the Canmore Nordic Centre.

When the snow melted, it was time to get out hiking, and planning new orienteering race routes.

Over the Easter break, we drove 4hrs east to the Cypress Hills interprovincial park area.

We didn’t see any other people exploring the backcountry terrain (temperatures were barely above freezing).

We did some off trail route finding, and were well prepared with lots of layers and socks to stay warm and dry.

Staying in cozy cabins made dealing with the tricky weather much more enjoyable.

Walking out on the last day of our trip.

We even spotted a flock (family?) of pelicans!

In May, we took a brief trip to Vancouver and further North to the Sunshine Coast.

We took a series of ferries which got us to the northern terminus of Highway 101 (sections of which I cycled in California and Oregon all the way back in 2009!) – at the village of Lund.

It’s always calming and beautiful to be by the sea.

Exploring the intertidal area on Savary Island.

Beautiful forest light.

Lots of bridges and boardwalks to keep the feet dry in the rainforest.

Lush green canopy.

Gorse on Savary Island.

Uncurling fern.

The local deer seem to lead a peaceful life.

Arbutus tree.

Abandoned steel cable.

One of the tiny cabins we stayed in (Roberts Creek).

Saltery Bay Ferry terminal on a rainy day.

Sea Kayaking in the Sechelt Inlet area.

There were lots of starfish and sea cucumbers to spot in the shallow areas of the inlet.

Nothing better than finishing the day with a dinner of Fish and Chips on the beach!

Farewell Sunshine Coast – thanks for not raining on us too much!