They The North


I visited Canada during the historic time when the Toronto Raptors were playing in the NBA Finals and won it all. The first non-American basketball team to have ever won the title. It was an indescribable experience to finish a day of hiking or paddling in the Rockies, then sit down for dinner to watch the games. Supporting the Canadian team alongside locals and fellow fans created an unforgettable atmosphere. ("We The North" [16] is the slogan of the Toronto Raptors.)

I traveled with a good buddy of mine, but this was my first major long-distance trip that I planned mostly by myself. While I had ventured far before and had already gotten a taste of what it means to find balance and the serenity of nature, looking back, I think this was the first time I truly felt freedom within me, not just around me. Here are a few milestones:

  • I first experienced this at Niagara Falls on the "Voyage to the Falls" boat attraction. It was so refreshing when the cool spray of the falls soaked me. Being so close to the powerful rush of water in the sunshine, looking up at the massive wall of water, I was mesmerized and just shouted towards the falls in joy. Overwhelming.
  • ...or when driving through the breathtaking Rockies, listening to favorite songs. Just the open road, the surrounding snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, and sunshine. With the music playing and no doubts or problems, I was just living in the moment and looking forward to the adventures ahead. Priceless.
  • Kayaking alone to a remote island was the moment I realized I could achieve important goals of mine by myself in a completely foreign world of pure nature too. It gave me a deep sense of confidence. Majestic.
  • Observing wild animals from a safe distance in their natural habitat with no guides: quiet encounters. Soulful.
  • Taking a ferry and driving all the way to the edge of Vancouver Island, where the Pacific Ocean's breeze brushed my face. Touching (literally).

I felt as if this were an endless journey that would last forever. It prepared me to feel no boundaries ever again in my life. Truly, this Canadian journey set me on the path I have been following ever since. I made a decision, and it was the best one I could have ever made. And from that moment, when the path is calling...I must go. [17]

 

Let's see some great moments:

Always amazing to see wildlife, especially a black bear. Captured from a safe spot. Despite their name, black bears can actually be cinnamon, blond, or even grey - this was a classic dark coat!
You've probably seen a thousand photos of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. They are truly stunning, and I loved them both. However, there are other hidden gems nearby - like Consolation Lakes.
Met this funny-looking creature at Consolation Lakes. This marmot definitely knows how to pose.
Mount Robson (3,954 m / 12,972 ft). The highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. As usual, hiding its summit behind the clouds. To me, this sight says two things: truly getting to know something must be earned - but it's not always about a single part; you have to see the whole picture.
Maligne Lake gave me so many awesome moments while kayaking. One of them was this sight: just the calm water, the endless evergreen forest, and the mountains under the clouds.
Bears usually get all the attention, but these two were just as special to watch.
The classic Canadian view: ancient forest, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear turquoise water. To get this one, a full day hike is a must.
Sometimes a tree blocks the "perfect" shot, and there's nowhere else to stand. You just realize that nature has the last word. But that's what makes the picture real. This is what the Pacific Ocean looks like from Vancouver Island.
When we approached Niagara Falls by boat, I didn't take any photos. Back then, I didn't have a waterproof device, and I didn't want to risk my phone. My buddy had a GoPro, but I only use my own photos on this website. This picture, taken from above, shows a different perspective, but you can imagine how incredible it is from your point of view when you are down there on the water. Even if this website mostly is about the moments I'm spellbound by, I also wanted to bring you closer to this experience and this view is amazing anyway.

 

 

 

 

 
 

And...just some interesting things you can find in Canada:

 

bear-warning

Arrived in Banff in early June, and by the next morning, the car was covered in snow. We headed to Grassi Lakes, where this sign welcomed us. Sadly (or luckily?), we never met the bear.

typical

In bear country, you often see beautiful wood carvings like this one of a cub and its winged companion.

run-like-hell

Entering a tsunami hazard zone on Vancouver Island. Here's what you need to know to stay safe.

niagara-apartment

In the Canadian city of Niagara Falls, things might be unusual.

 

Canada is a place that everyone should see at least once in their life.