Tantalus and Cheakamus

Whistler is something of a second home to me, which is great. The resort provides all kinds of wonderful activities. Skiing, of course, and mountain biking. But also, swimming, canoeing, hiking, snow shoeing. Having a pint or four at the Dubh Linn Gate pub while Ruckus Deluxe takes the stage.

I also have family there. Aunt and uncle, cousins, sister, brother-in-law, niece and nephew.

It’s always wonderful to be there.

Almost as wonderful is the drive. There and back again, from Vancouver to Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway, Highway 99. It’s a road easily among the top 10 drives in Canada, and I get to drive it several times a month.

Now, most people who’ve driven the highway will tell you the section along Howe Sound, between Horseshoe Bay and Squamish, is the most beautiful. And I can understand that. But, for me, the main attraction is the Tantalus mountain range, and while it’s visible from several locations along the highway, this viewpoint — as you’re entering the Cheakamus Canyon travelling Southbound — is the best.

Below, the Cheakamus (check uh muss) River begins to run a little ragged in the narrowing chasm. While beyond, the tantalizing Tantalus rise above the Squamish Valley, ragged as a saw blade, encrusted in glacial ice.

I often just pull aside at this unofficial viewpoint to sit for a while and gaze… and snap a few photos.

So far, this is the best photo I’ve managed to capture here. It can be a difficult shot, with the deep, dark canyon below and the brightly lit clouds and ice above. But this day, the dynamic range was just manageable for my Canon.

So, a treat for me. And a treat for you.

Even better for you would be a visit for yourself.