Summary

The article recounts a memorable hike to Garibaldi Lake and the Black Tusk, reflecting on the natural beauty and personal significance of the experience.

Abstract

The narrative "A Hike to Garibaldi Lake" is a personal account of a challenging and emotionally charged journey taken by the author and his girlfriend, now wife, in the region south of Whistler, BC. The hike, which includes a demanding ascent through switchbacks and a boulder field, leads to breathtaking views of geological formations like The Barrier, a 1,000 m cliff formed by volcanic activity and glacial ice. Despite encountering impassable snow, the couple adjusts their plans and continues to explore the area, taking in the serene beauty of Garibaldi Lake, the Battleship Islands, and the surrounding landscape. The author expresses a poignant mix of awe for the natural world and a personal sense of loss, as this hike marks the last of its kind for him due to health reasons and was followed by a significant life transition—his marriage.

Opinions

The author holds The Barrier in high regard, describing it as an "awesome site to behold."
The hike is remembered fondly, despite the physical challenges it presented.
The author conveys a deep emotional connection to the hike, as it represents a pivotal moment in his life.
There is a sense of respect and caution for the natural environment, emphasizing the importance of leaving no trace.
The author expresses a mix of pride and nostalgia in reflecting on his past physical capabilities and the adventures shared with his partner.
The beauty of the region is highlighted as something to be shared and cherished.

A Hike to Garibaldi Lake

Remembering a long time ago in a faraway land.

A Communications Tower is dwarfed by the Black Tusk near Whistler, BC ©2012 Dave Scott

The Black Tusk is the basalt core of a long-extinct volcano. It towers 2,319 m (7,608 ft) tall to the south of Whistler, BC.

Way back when dinosaurs roamed the earth, my girlfriend and I decided to hike up to Taylor Meadows with the idea of climbing the Tusk one more time.

It was mid-August when we drove up Highway 99 from Vancouver.

We began the scramble up through the boulder field of Rubble Creek to the shaded section of the trail. The trail started easy, after the exposed scramble. Wide, shaded, an easy 300 m (1,000 ft) of elevation gain in the first 2 km (1.25 mi). Then it begins. We arrived at the first of twenty-plus switchbacks. Climbing 2.38 km (1.5 mi) to gain another 300 m (1,000 ft) of elevation. If the trail were to follow a straight line up the cliff, we would have come 1 km (0.6 mi). According to Komoot, the slope is better than seventeen percent at points. Exhausting.

We joined other hikers to catch our breath and gaze upon this huge basalt cliff that is The Barrier. This 1,000 m (3,280 ft) cliff was formed when lava from the surrounding volcanos was held back by the valley’s glaciers. It is truly an awesome site to behold.

We weren’t done yet, but it was easy from here. The trail took us up another 80 m (260 ft) in the next 1,000 m (0.6 mi) and we arrived at the trail junction towards Taylor Meadows and the Tusk. Except.

Except on this warm August day, there was too much snow. There was no way we would be able to achieve our goal. We adjusted.

We made our way along the trail past Barrier Lake and Lesser Garibaldi Lake

Bridge over Rubble Creek ©1974 Dave Scott

Reaching Garibaldi Lake, we crossed the torrent of Rubble Creek.

The lake was still swollen with the winter runoff. The trail was almost impassable. Almost.

Making our way around the edge of this glacier-fed lake, we arrived at the Battleship Islands.

Battleship Islands, Garibaldi Lake ©1974 Dave Scott

The islands were reflected picture-perfect in the still waters. Mount Garibaldi was lost in the fog and clouds across the lake to the south.

I get emotional thinking about this hike as I know I will not gaze on Garibaldi Lake or climb the Black Tusk again. Between my knees and my heart, I would be a danger to my companions as well as myself on such a strenuous hike. I also get emotional because it marks the last time I was out on a hike with my girlfriend.

Careful steps on the rocks ©1974 Dave Scott

A week later she also became my wife. This was 49 years and many, many adventures ago.

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