The bears for one last shot, before heading to the O'Hare bus ride. They had an enjoyable time from the three treks (15 miles total / 3200ft altitude gain), 4th July Celebration, meeting new friends, Mosquito night, and even playing Spanish Uno (thanks to our Mexican guest). The camaraderie amongst us hikers is why the hut is so popular, requiring a difficult winning entry in the November lottery.
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The view of our top bunk for the past three nights. Very simplistic, but the morning views of the snow capped mountains from the window were spectacular. What an experience for everyone. The adventure at the hut was quite communal. Everyone participated equally in all of the chores from cleaning dishes and floors, gathering water, and cooking. Our meals were quite simplistic compared to other hut visitors. Most brought gourmet meals consisting of fresh herbs, vegetables and even meat. We often heard the sounds of chopping on a cutting board and clanking of a wooden spoon on skillet pan, and the aroma of fresh garlic and onion during dinnertime. As for the hut, there were two building housing 16 hikers in the main building and and 8 in the other. There were two sleeping bunks in each hut. The main hut has a fully equipped cooking area complete with a gas oven. The chorus of snoring was very interesting nighttime sound. Thank God I am a heavy sleeper, otherwise, earplugs are a must.
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The first annual Elizabeth Parker Hut 4th of July celebration was a success! All of the 20 or so hut stayers enjoyed the event. The kids were very creative without any parent invovlement. It is truly amazing to see the results of their creativity. Definitely a memorable 4th for everyone!
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4th of July celebration at Elizabeth Parker ACC hut. Strange to hold an American celebration in middle of the Canadian Rockies, but these kids did. Even the Canadians participated eagerly. Nothing was left out! There were fireworks, games, prizes, drawing, and even spiced (spiked!) tea. The games consisted of standing long jump, golf, mini race, surfer dude target, guessing game, and race. Unfortunately the American didn't fair well in the events. Our representation was despicable. Mr. Bear placed 7th in the standing long jump, although he had 4lb hiking boots on. Enough of the silly excuses. It was like an UN celebration, USA, Canada, Germany, and even Mexico was represented.
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Lunchtime break at Morning Glory Lake. Daddy Bear cooked hot noodles again!!!
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Quick trail break with Elizabeth Park Hut friends and bears.
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Little bear appearing above Morning Glory Lake.
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Remnants of a very old glacer is seen at the top left side of the picture.
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Our first trail sighting of wildlife. About 6 Marmots were entertaining us as we trekked thru the area. Here is some information about Marmots: large, about the size of a housecat, charismatic sciurid rodents found in the Northern Hemisphere. The only US holiday named after an animal, Groundhog Day, is named after a marmot. (source: http://www.marmotburrow.ucla.edu/ )
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Day #3, Morning Glory Lakes -- Boulder strewn, scree trail to Morning Glory Lakes via the Odaray Grandview trail.
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Here is the oldest bear showing off some bunny fur.
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Day 2 evening fun -- Mosquito dance night at Lake O'Hara park. The park staff had entertainment for the children in the area. The night was filled with crafts, education, games, and a scavenger hunt.
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The prestigious Lake O'Hara Lodge. Mrs Bear and I partook in 3:00 afternoon tea. Delicious tea and scrumptious treats. Our children were patient and quiet, while we were enjoying this quiet time. We happened to see again an older couple from today's hike (July 3). They said we should return and stay at this $600.00 / couple / night lodge, because it is well worth the money. As we were leaving, we also met two teenagers on vacation from Tucson.
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The bears are playing cards in the Elizabeth Parker Hut with new friends from Vancouver Island, BC. The two kids were close in age with our children. The kids bonded quickly. The new family are exceptional hikers as well. They joined us on two hikes in the area. A very enjoyable time and nice family!!!
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The 4.5 mile approach to to Lake Mcarthur was amazing. We met two different groups of hikers from North Carolina. We all were speechless upon reaching the shores of this half frozen lake. The enormous mountain backdrop and the turquoise waters brought tranquility to everyone. I was thinking about my Minnesotan friends, who enjoy ice fishing. We used this time to read from our Divine Intimacy book, discussing with our children our purpose on earth and how we should lead our lives towards Christ. It was Sunday, after all.
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The route to Mcarthur was a little sketchy in spots. The littlest bear was still brave and was able to navigate the tight steep trail very little assistance.
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Day 2 (July 3), Koz family is trekking down a hill on their way to Lake Mcarthur.
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Our destination, Lake Oesa, a 4.5 mile trip. The lake is surrounded by several ranges on the Great Divide: Yukness Mountain., Glacier Peak, Ringrose Peak, and Mt Lefroy, Huber, and Victoria. Definitely a worth while first hike! Very memorable, especially the fun time in the snow! We met several tourist along the way some from Calgary and two friendly groups of Japanese hikers, who had interesting stories to share with us.
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My little snow angels. They couldn't resist making angel impressions. The trekking poles came in handy on this hike, preventing slippage and providing balance on the narrow steep trail.
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We reach our first snowfield on our way to Lake Oesa. About a 1,000 ft climb from our starting position at Lake O'Hara. The temperature is a little brisk at 43F, but the kids still found it warm enough for a friendly snowball fight with their parents.
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The roar of seven falls, which feeds Lake O'Hara.
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Mr. Bear preparing a delightful lunch about 500ft up, overlooking Lake O'Hara. We are on our way to our first hiking trip to Lake Oesa (pronounced owe-EE-suh), meaning ice in Stoney Indian language.
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The beauty of Lake O'Hara. A picturesque view, indeed. A clear turquoise treasure!
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KOZ Family kids infront of Lake O'Hara.
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Cheery ol' bunch of kids trekking their way to the Elizabeth Parker Hut.
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Koz Family arrives at Lake O'Hara. Quick pose before boarding a 30 minute bus ride to park area.
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Awe, our sleeping quarters. This is not your ordinary hostel. Plush floors (wood), immaculate, beer and wine service, and even a gourmet cooking facilities. We have to wake up early (6:00 a.m.) to catch our bus ride to the Lake O'hara wilderness area. Watch for our next update on July 5th. Happy 4th everyone.
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We arrive at Canmore, AB, staying at the Alpine Club of Canada Club House. The snow ridden peaks are everywhere.
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Olympic Park off Hwy-1 in Calgary. Any dare devils tempting to launch off the jump platform.
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The road to Calgrary was breathtaking. We were awestruct by the numerious farming communities. Especially these wind turbines near Magrath, AB. There was a sign nearby describing this power community.
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Restrictions at the border was boring process sitting in line. Firearms, alcohol, and cigarettes were the only concerns. No search of the vehicle or our possessions. Very basic questioning. Joke.
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One tired bear! I need shuteye, too much traveling.
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Dawn of a new day. KOZ family woke up to a dreary morning. The road to Great Falls, MT.
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Quick timeout for a poolside photo.
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Little Bears: Contributions to the Blog

Each bear was equipped with a small notepad to document his or her travels.
I knew each one would want to cherish the moment for years to come and also challenge their writting skills during their summer break.

#1 bear wrote: Idaho has numerous farms and vast grasslands.
#2 bear wrote: We just entered Nevada. The Hoover Dam is so beautiful. Did you know that it was once really full?
#3 bear wrote: -he was busy playing game cube-
#4 bear wrote: We just crossed the Hoover dam. Have you ever been to a casino?

Momma Bear: Does the floor feel wet? Don't you feel sticky and wet? She was comparing this damp change in climate to our arid Arizona weather.

Help! Someone, please, I need some sleep.
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Someone questioned our training schedule in preparing the little bears for this great adventure. As you can see from this picture, training has been grueling. This bear happens to be smiling, because she just received a cliff bar for her recent efforts.
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17 hours later, we arrive at our first destination -- Butte MT. Trip planner had received many complaints regarding the marathon drive. The bears were commenting on their sore behinds after being confined to tight quarters for so long.
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Butte, MT I-15 rush hour traffic jam.
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Scenery along the way to Butte, MT.
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900 miles & 14 hours later, KOZ family refills in Pocatello, ID. (4:30 a.m Idaho Time) Krispy Kremes for everyone.
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KOZ family at Hoover Dam. What a site! Security was tight. 6:00 p.m - June 30, 2005
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Elizabeth Parker Hut

We will be staying at the well thought-of Elizabeth Parker Hut. Lake Mcarthur is 4.3 miles (rt).
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Lake McArthur - One of the first areas the family will visit.
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Location #1 -- One of the most adored areas in the Canadian Rockies, Lake O'hara region.
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Unfortunate event for another hiker

This blog is not typically for Arizona hiking information, yet.. But I thought this newsworthy item was worth an entry.

The AZ Republic reports today that a 76 year old woman hiker succumbed to the ferocious Arizona heat.
It was approximately 112F yesterday, which even young avid hikers like myself would not like to endure. I feel for the loss of this hiker. http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0622MissingHiker22-ON.html

Hiking in extreme temperatures is very risky. From what I have heard on the news and read, she was an avid hiker, who was preparing for a rim hike. The GC rim hike is quite taxing, but commencing a hike in Phoenix in 100+ heat is too much for all hikers to endure. Not that I am on a soapbox, the buddy system is also a must, if you plan on hiking in remote or in extreme climates. Ironman or not, her family is now grieving for her loss, not celebrating her next hiking defeat.

Please hike responsibly and leave no trace.

Trail Conditions

1.5 weeks before we hit the trails, I decided to look at the conditions... Canadian trail books inform readers to prepare for the worse! I have heeded these warnings. Here is today's information:

Banff National Park of CanadaUpdated: Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Record rainfall and cooler temperatures over the June 18th weekend have resulted in approximately 25cm (10 inches) of fresh snow at higher elevations. Expect most trails to be wet and muddy throughout the park. Help preserve vegetation by wearing sturdy footwear and staying on the trail.
Bears continue to frequent valley bottoms. Please remember to:? Obey warning and closure signs.? Stay alert on the trail, make noise, carry bear spray, travel in groups.? Keep your dog on a leash at all times. ? Have an alternate trail planned and be prepared to turn around in case you encounter Warning or Closure notices on the trail.

http://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/tcond/cond_e.asp?oPark=100092

Plug for AAA - Fuel Price Find

An exceptional tool for road warriors like us! Try it today and save! Empower your savings account, not the credit companies.

http://www.aaa.com/scripts/WebObjects.dll/AAAOnline?association=aaa&club=002&page=PPNoLogin&pageParm1=OPISNET

How not to drive across country with kids

Is the question most inexperienced parents will pose. The question and answer is simple. Start at an early age. Yes Virginia this sounds so simple, but it really is. Our first child experienced the Grand Canyon, before his first Dr. visit. We traveled 3.5 hours with our cute newborn, who only woke up 3 times. It is just like the jittery mother and father who mute all sounds and tread softly throughout the house hoping baby Timmy or Susie sleeps soundly through the night. Forget it, run the vacuum, crank the blender, process the disposal and the best trick of them all take a car ride with the stereo playing. Your child will be deprived of the automobile experience, if you neglect the open road. Back to the initial blog title. We will start our trip off in the evening. Reversing a typical driver’s schedule. Start at 6pm and end at 1:00 p.m. the next day. OK, DOT might have troubles with this, if we were commercial drivers. Our children will typically sleep from 10 p.m - 7:00 a.m. We have also reinforced the entertainment department for the kids. The back seat entertainment department is fortified with DVD TV Monitor, Nintendo Game Cube, 4 head phones to silence game and TV activities, and education materials like books and paper diaries. The kids will be sleeping most of the night, allowing me to drive until 6:00 a.m. This will enable the Mrs. to sleep and complete the first leg of our driving mission in the morning – 18 hour stroll.

My reliable Magellan Explorist GPS. One of the most up-to-date GPS toys on the market. Great for geocaching. The bears and I will be hunting for some great caches in Canada. I intend on visiting one cache site in the Lake Louise area. For the latest cache info, checkout http://www.geocaching.com/ . It's great family fun! BTW, my cache code name is Explorist_600.
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20 Days of backpacking food for 6 people. Should I hold a weight guessing contest?
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We will be leaving this peaceful place soon.

Restriction, Restrictions and more red tape

Here I am planning/analyzing this ultimate vacation (determining what to bring and how much) to determine the red tape is where the issues will occur. I'm quickly finding out how ridiculous the laws/restrictions are in Canada. Pepper Spray is a huge No No. BUT, if you arrive stating you have, "Bear Spray", the situation changes rapidly. They allow Bear Spray, but not pepper spray. In other words, they want you to get attacked or killed by your fellow man, but we will help you avoid the bear. Who are they fooling. I still rather have a shot gun. Personal protection is another issue. No firearms in the forest. The heart of the law states you have to wrap the gun in "wrapping paper" and then leave your weapon in the car. Interesting.

It appears that the Mrs. and I have completed the menu selection for our 20 backpacking days. Hopefully the rest of the bears will enjoy boiled noodles for lunch, because it is very light and easy to make. Dinners will be healthy and hearty. Our menu is complete with tantalizing dishes such as cranberry chicken, beef stew, sweet and sour pork and my favorite chicken with gravy and stuffing. You must sample backpacking meals before embarking on an adventure like this. Otherwise, the cook will be unpopular at mealtime.

As for other preparation, I have the route already loaded onto my new Explorist 600 GPS. I ensure the Mrs. that I will be the blame for unfortunate route selections. I have planned two routes to our final destination in Canada. One from State Route 89 into Utah to I15 and the other through Las Wages to I15. I opted for the Las Vegas route because a former neighbor, Connie, suggested this safer night route. THANK YOU CONNIE!!!

We will embark around 6:00 p.m and drive until 1:00 p.m . arriving in southern MT. We will clock several miles. The kids have plenty entertainment gadgets, such as a Game Cube and DVD TV set.