Got Goat?

Driving into Jasper was like entering a postcard with no paper cuts. My goodness, what an experience! The rough and gorgeous Rockies of the north, jutting straight into the sky without apology, the white effervescent clouds breaking the stratosphere, and an amazing chance for us mere mortals to feel close to creation not to be missed. If you haven’t been, here’s the thing… Go! It’ll be a moment in life you will forever cherish. The cozy hotels and town with a pioneer feel make the elk filled expanse a place you will marvel at from sun up ‘til sun down.

Lisa, C.J., the Aroma Muchacho and I (‘say cheese, A.M.!’) had the most incredible time seeing the sights and the natural wildlife standing and grazing at the road’s edge. Elk, deer, long-horned goat, coyote, and bear continually appeared as we followed paved and discovered paths through the mountains. See Pyramid Mountain with its phenomenal island of great fame, as well as Lake Maligne and all the wonders it provides. (SEE OUR GOAT FILM FOR MORE)

The residents of Jasper, obviously comfortable with travelers for more than a hundred years, offer visitors a multitude of restaurants and shops to engage the hearty of spirit, while the national park that surrounds the town leaves you breathless.

Take the day and see the Whistlers Mountain gondola and get to the "top of the world" or trek on one of the "best driving highways in the world" to see Athabasca Glacier where you can wind your way up the time-worn paths or take the tram right onto the icy expanse itself!

Stay at the beautiful Maligne Lodge (take a look at room 200 for the best views and remodeling!), and you won’t want to go home if you don’t have to. If that is the case, we are told by the locals, you would join hundreds who have felt the same way and done the same thing.

Coming back to Edmonton after this incredible destination may seem a let down for some, but for Lisa and I it meant a great chance to start more connections with those wishing to come to beautiful Costa Rica… it’s all about the weather and places one has never seen before. If you are reading this blog and thinking, "You’re right, Ryan, maybe I should see the goats of Jasper or THE OAKS in Costa Rica." Do it. Get out, get active, see it all… the world affords us so many gifts. Enjoy them!