The Yellowhead Highway

We drove across British Columbia from Prince Rupert to Jasper, Alberta on Highway 16, also known as the Yellowhead Highway. It got its name from a fur trader nicknamed Tete Jaune who discovered the lowest pass in the Canadian Rockies that later was the route for the highway.

There are many places of historical interest along this route, but most will have to be explored on another trip. The Visitor's Center at the little town of Hazelton has interesting displays that invite you to spend some time in the area.

Logging history

A famous packer

Mining history

We picked up a tour map, but did not take the time to venture off our highway in search of all the "hands." Next time.

Along the roadsides we have discovered another phase in the life cycle of fireweed. When they go to seed, they look like they are blooming again with puffy white blossoms.

Fireweed gone to seed.

We checked out more of BC's beautiful Provincial Parks. This is Tyhee Lake. Notice the building on the hillside.

It is a private home.

Two loons on the lake entertained us for several minutes.

Yellow reflection of the evening sun on the water.

Common loons

Across the lake you can see the farmland that typifies this part of BC.

Interesting cloud formations.

The next night we stopped at Beaumont Provincial Park on Fraser Lake.

Site of Fort Fraser

Historical building, probably a barn.

Lots of Cedar Waxwings were after the berries in the trees.

Red-breasted Sapsucker

Juvenile sapsucker

Dogs have their own swim area at this park. Stuart would approve.

American Redstart

Back on the Yellowhead Highway.

This sign at a rest stop told about the rainforest climate in the area.

Temperate rainforest

I like that the province names its many mountains after people who have made a contribution to society.

Mount Terry Fox

Entering Mount Robson Provincial Park

We stayed at Lucerne Campground in the park. 

All of the Provincial Parks had nice hiking trails. 

Wildlife 

Next post will be our drive through the Canadian Rockies....Jasper and Banff National Parks