Saturday, 24 July 2010

Canada Trip Day 5: Shannon Falls, Squamish

17 June 2010 - The Shannon Falls is located along the Sea to Sky Highway, also known as Highway 99. Driving along the highway, we could see the spectacular view of Howe Sound.

Shannon Falls is a horse tail waterfall and is the third highest in British Columbia. The Shannon Falls Provincial Park is a popular hiking and picnic spot. There is a trail that leads into the jungle and perhaps to a higher spot for a better view of the waterfall. We stopped at the main viewing area before returning back to the car.
"The falls were named after Shannon who in 1890-1900 owned the falls and surrounding area and used the clay deposits to make bricks. He then sold the land to Brittania Copper Mines in 1900. In the 1930's, the area was used as a relief camp for the workers building Highway 99. In 1976 the area was purchased by Carling O'Keefe Brewery, who used the pure mountain water to brew their beer, and made the area a logging show park. In 1982 O'Keefe donated the land to BC Parks. Throughout the park area there is evidence of logging activity that occurred here roughly 90 years ago. A number of excellent spring board notches on old stumps are scattered throughout the forested area and much of the deadfall also exhibits evidence of the logging techniques of this period." - http://www.shannonfalls.com/
I was worried about my stamina when we at the parking lot since I hadn't done any workout for ages then. But it turned out, the walk to the waterfall was a brief one. The park was populated with mostly tourists and some hikers. Watching the clear river water freshens me up from fatigue due our lengthy car ride. The forest air was light, fresh and cool and has a rejuvenating effect on me.

Automated parking ticket booth


Trees in the park


A little tunnel at the foot of the tree


Interesting tree with a tunnel at its base


View of Shannon Falls and mist from the walking trail


Close-up view of Shannon Falls from the walking trail


Shannon Falls Provincial Park building, viewing platform and trails upgrade that cost CAN$325,000


The clear water of Shannon Creek flowing swiftly


Water gushing down from the falls


Clear waters of the stream


Several mini cascading waterfalls


Water cascading down along steps of rocks and boulders


Man walking on the rocks


Although the low water level may not pose any danger, the rocks may be extremely slippery.


Shannon Falls viewing area


At the top of Shannon Falls


Mist of the Shannon Falls


Shannon Fall Provincial Park area


Pine tree leaves


White froth on leaves, maybe caused by spittlebugs?


Tree with moss-covered bark


Park entrance leading to the Shannon Falls


Shannon Falls souvenir shop


Young raspberry fruit


Young raspberry fruits, some green and one yellow


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