The Lardeau River drains into Kootenay Lake (well, after a brief passage through the Duncan River). The gravel road along the river from Meadow Creek to Trout Lake is worth travelling on a clear day in the early fall. Certainly, the scenery is spectacular, but as this is the time of the Kokanee spawning run, migrant Bald Eagles hold an annual convention. A few years ago, we counted 68 eagles (juveniles and adults) on this drive. Plus, there is always the much lesser chance of seeing grizzly bears.
Yesterday’s drive produced a paltry dozen adult Bald Eagles and one juvenile. But, the big treat was the grizzlies: a sow and two cubs. Below are a few of the delights (with the grizzlies at the bottom).
The Kootenay-Lake Website offers a discussion and more pictures of local grizzlies and eagles.
Alistair: from my dry home in Kamloops, the Lardeau trip sounds like a spectacular journey which is worthy of a trip to West Kootenay all on its own. Your photos are great at capturing the mood but I must say that the Grizzly shots are standouts. What good fortune. Once again, your blog and website continue to provide stellar insights into Kootenay country. Inspirational.
Retirees just want to have fun.