Kananaskis Dreams: Streams, Olympic Teams, Banff and Lake Louise Gleams
The day had finally arrived for our much-anticipated departure to Kananaskis, and it was clear from the start that this would be an adventure to remember! The morning kicked off with a hearty breakfast that set the tone for an action-packed day. We indulged in golden Eggo waffles, crunchy cereal, sizzling bacon, fluffy eggs, and fresh orange juice and milk. Fuelled and excited, we gathered around as our teachers outlined the day’s itinerary and got straight to packing up for our camping trip.
By late morning, we were ready for a delicious lunch, offering an array of choices that included savory chicken soup, crispy chicken cutlet, tender fillet of sole Florentine, and flavourful beef Korma. Accompanied by sides of potatoes and vibrant vegetable medleys, it was a feast that left everyone satisfied and energized for the activities ahead.
Next up was our “Bear Lesson,” an informative and engaging session where students learned about the various bears that inhabit the mountainous regions and essential survival tips. With newfound knowledge and an adventurous spirit, we set off for our campsite. Arriving at the breathtaking Poca Terra campsite was like stepping into a postcard. Surrounded by majestic mountains on all sides, the natural beauty was nothing short of stunning. We wasted no time setting up our tents and then got to work preparing a scrumptious dinner. Our menu featured Greek salad, cheese, crackers, and vegetable appetizers, followed by juicy watermelon, crispy garlic bread, and mouthwatering chicken kebabs. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we embraced the evening with a fun-filled session of sports. Volleyball, badminton, and soccer kept everyone active and entertained. The day concluded with a serene stargazing session, where the night sky dazzled with stars, adding a magical end to our first day in the great outdoors.
The following morning, we enjoyed a delightful breakfast of croissants, Nutella, bananas, and a variety of fresh fruits, paired with warm tea. Energized and ready, we embarked on a beautiful hike to Robertson Glacier. The hike was invigorating, and our lakeside lunch with panoramic mountain views was the perfect reward. A refreshing dip in Canyon Lake followed; the icy waters were a brisk but invigorating respite after our hike. Our next day was dedicated to Olympic-themed sports, a hit among everyone. Students rotated between plastic axe throwing, volleyball, badminton, slacklining, and soccer. The day was full of laughter and friendly competition, culminating in a delicious stir fry with jasmine rice, red and yellow peppers, onions, and tender chicken. The following day began with a true breakfast of champions: French toast, fresh fruit, granola bars, and warm tea. We then headed to Lower Kananaskis Lake for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. Despite a brief spell of rain, our spirits remained high, singing in the rain. The barbecue medley that followed, featuring chicken and bacon burgers, chicken nuggets, watermelon, and an assortment of snacks, was the perfect, albeit slightly rainy way to conclude the afternoon. After a few sports in the evening a dinner of delicious chicken beef and turkey sausage tacos, Wynchemna turned in for the night. We then woke up to another beautiful sunrise in the mountains, enjoying a delicious breakfast to fuel our fun-packed day. We enjoyed a lovely lunch of ramen and accompanying snacks in Canmore, and finally embarked on an amazing and relaxing day at the pool, where students splashed around in the pool waters and hot tub or had the choice of mountain biking. It was an exhilarating ride through some of the most picturesque scenery and panoramic views of the mountains the students had ever encountered.
What a day it was for our camp’s final adventure! The students set off bright and early, buzzing with excitement as we headed to the stunning landscapes of Banff and Canmore. With a packed itinerary, we had a day full of thrills and unforgettable experiences. Our journey began in Canmore, a gem of the Rockies, where we explored the area's vibrant culture and scenic beauty. The town’s welcoming atmosphere and stunning views provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxed afternoon. Whether strolling through local markets or enjoying the fresh mountain air, students were immersed in the charm of this picturesque town. Our next stop was the picturesque Lake Louise, renowned for its turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Here, students embarked on a horseback riding adventure that offered a unique perspective of the pristine wilderness. As they rode along the scenic trails, the beauty of the lake shimmered beneath them, and the majestic peaks loomed overhead. The campers of Wynchemna also enjoyed a shopping trip to the souvenir shops of Banff, taking in the breathtaking mountain panoramas whilst purchasing souvenirs, trinkets and Banff memorabilia.
As the day drew to a close, we reflected on the myriad of experiences we had enjoyed over out camping trip. From the thrill of horseback riding around Lake Louise to the meals prepared and sports played in the stunning scenery of Kananaskis, the trip was a whirlwind of adventure and discovery. We will always remember this trip in our hearts!
