Travel Host Stunned by Canada’s Scenic Wonders

Renowned Australian travel host David Whitehill has described his recent journey through Canada’s west coast as an experience “on another level,” highlighting the country’s dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife, and luxury hospitality. The trip, hosted by Scenic, combined iconic destinations with tailored adventures, leaving the seasoned traveller in awe.

A Journey from City Shores to Mountain Peaks

The adventure began in Vancouver, where oceanfront city life meets towering coastal mountains. From there, the group travelled inland toward the Canadian Rockies, home to Banff National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its emerald lakes and rugged peaks.

Staying in a ‘Castle in the Rockies’

In Banff, Whitehill stayed at the Fairmont Banff Springs, the historic chateau-style hotel often called “The Castle in the Rockies.” The property’s grandeur, coupled with its storied history, set the tone for a blend of comfort and wilderness exploration.

Custom Experiences in the Great Outdoors

Scenic’s “Freechoice” excursions allowed guests to tailor their daily itineraries — from traversing the Athabasca Glacier in an Ice Explorer vehicle to motorcycle rides through Jasper National Park, or helicopter flights over Whistler’s snowy ranges. Each option, Whitehill noted, revealed a new dimension of Canada’s vast beauty.

The World’s Most Scenic Drive

Travelling along the Icefields Parkway, connecting Lake Louise to Jasper, offered panoramic views of glacier-fed lakes, snow-covered mountains, and wildlife including bears and moose. Whitehill described the route as “an open-air gallery” of nature’s finest work.

Luxury and Wilderness in Harmony

The tour balanced rugged exploration with refined dining and intimate group sizes. Guests could enjoy Canadian wine and chef-prepared meals after a day of outdoor adventure, ensuring comfort without sacrificing authenticity.

Looking Beyond the Rockies

For those eager to extend the journey, Scenic offers an optional cruise from Vancouver through the Inside Passage to Glacier Bay — a stretch of coastline celebrated for its dramatic fjords and calving glaciers. Whitehill hinted that it’s already on his personal travel list.

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Cougar Encounters Lead to Trail Shutdowns in Whistler

Multiple hiking and biking trails in Whistler, B.C., have been temporarily closed following a string of aggressive cougar sightings in the area. Conservation officers and resort officials made the decision after two big cats were reported stalking and chasing outdoor enthusiasts in recent weeks.

Trail Closures Announced After Aggressive Behavior

On Thursday and Friday, conservation officials shut down the Ascent hiking trail and all biking trails on Blackcomb Mountain. The Singing Pass trail in Garibaldi Park was also closed Wednesday evening. These actions come in response to reports of two cougars displaying unusual levels of aggression, including following hikers and mountain bikers at close range.

Public Safety Now Top Priority

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service stated it is actively monitoring cougar movements in the Sea-to-Sky corridor and will continue to assess risks. “We are responding to ensure public safety,” the agency noted in an official release. Conservation officers recommend visitors travel in groups, carry bear spray, and avoid making sudden movements if they spot a cougar.

Local Experts Weigh In on Spike in Sightings

While black bears and marmots are common in the area, frequent cougar sightings are rare. Adam Mercer, Senior Ski Patrol Manager at Whistler Blackcomb, noted that although cougars do pass through occasionally, this level of visibility is unusual.

Julie Thomas, a PhD candidate studying cougar ecology at the University of Northern B.C., suggests the cougars could be young and exploring territory or may be sick or starving. “They’re typically elusive and avoid people,” she said, but current behavior suggests they may be uncertain about human presence—or struggling to survive.

Community Urged to Stay Vigilant

Officials urge residents and tourists to remain alert while exploring backcountry trails. “Make yourself appear large, remain calm, and back away slowly if you encounter a cougar,” the Conservation Officer Service advises. In the rare case of an attack, people are encouraged to fight back using sticks, rocks, or any available object—aiming for the face and eyes.

Ongoing Monitoring to Determine Next Steps

The conservation team is continuing to track cougar activity in the Whistler and Garibaldi Lake region and will determine when it is safe to reopen affected trails. Until then, the public is asked to respect closures and stay informed through local advisories.

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