Trinity Helicopter Tours

I first met our helicopter pilot at a bar in Whitehorse a few days before the flight. While talking over some beer it turned out that we were alumni’s to the same elementary school in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – talk about a small world. I had almost forgot about the encounter in Whitehorse until I ran into him again in Dawson City. I laughed thinking “I wonder how many helicopter pilots are in the Yukon, and how come I keep running into this fellow.” As it would turn out, he was fated to blow my mind with the dangerously endearing beauty of the Tombstone Mountain Range.

Tombstone Valley

Departing from Dawson City, we climbed the currents of air eastward, exploring the hills, valleys, and trees that completely surround this small town. Our pilot provided us with some colour commentary on the way up, explaining some of the work being done in the current gold mines, and briefly informing our group of the geological studies being performed in the area. It wasn’t long before the tree line began to fade into rocky outcrops – which fast became massive slabs of earth that stabbed the sky.

Yukon Spires

As we flew through Tombstone Valley, it was clear why this area of mountains was used as a landmark for first nations people. The towering spires on each side, the epic beauty of small rivers, colourful greenery, and deep shades of blue, grey, and white make for a scene that can only be described as mind-blowingly-memorable. We hovered in the area, snapping photos, and circling the sharp jagged spires along the Tombstone Territorial Park.

Tombstone Mountain, Yukon

Flying up to Tombstone Mountain, it’s apparent how the name stuck. The sharp flat face and jagged edges truly do the name justice .Looking over some of the mountains, you could see completely different weather systems lingering, threatening our clear skies. Our pilot seemed sure they weren’t going to sneak our way, but it was something he was going to keep an eye on. As we approached the 40 minute mark our helicopter began it’s flight back to Dawson City; however, not before a quick fly by of the the city & the Dredge Ponds which scour the surrounding area.

As our helicopter landed along the Dawson City airstrip I stepped onto solid ground once again. I couldn’t help but laugh in shock of what I’d just seen – taking in the Yukon from the sky is truly the only way to get a grasp of the scale and sheer enormity of this Canadian territory. The Yukon is so sparsely populated by humans, yet so densely populated by wildlife, trees, rivers, mountains and lakes. With helicopter tours starting for under $200, you’d be a fool not to jump aboard.

Special thanks to Tourism Yukon and Owen at Trinity Helicopters for helping me get up in the air!

Chopper Flight Over the Tombstone Mountain Range is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Lower Berths

Traveling for days on end can lead to exhaustion. While the economy seats on VIA Rail are massive, with enough leg room that would make a 6’8 basketball player smile, spending a little extra money on a 40+ hour train ride can make all the difference. Stretching out in a freshly made bed, and sprawling in your newfound privacy is something everyone can appreciate. Having your own bench seat during the day (or bed should you choose to leave it down), where you can properly lay back, read, and relax not only helps pass the time, but better lets you enjoy the sights from your window. Sleeping through the night in a comfy bed and waking up well rested and that much closer to your destination is easily worth the price bump.

The showers

Showering while traveling is important. No more so than when you’re in a train with 28 cars traveling for 2 days straight. While Economy tickets don’t have access to shower, all Sleeping Cars come with them. To wake up refreshed from a full nights sleep and to have access to a clean and hot shower is one of the best ways to start a morning.

Time to Work

While Wifi is typically limited to the Corridor (between Windsor & Montreal), if you are able to continue to work disconnected from the rest of the world, you’ll have plenty of time to do so. During my countless hours on the train I was able to organize and edit all of my photos, consistently write new blog posts, and edited three videos.

The Dining Car Food

VIA Rail’s incredible selection of fully cooked and prepared meals makes the thought of airline food sound like the gruesome meals that were likely prepared in the middle ages. You won’t hear a single moan coming from the dining car as VIA Rail’s helpful staff serve everything from smoked salmon to veal, with your choice of beer, wine, juice, or coffee.

The Lack of Anxiety

While I wouldn’t consider myself a very nervous flyer, there have been times where I couldn’t help but start thinking about the fact that 36,000 feet is a long way down. The closest thing to uncomfortable turbulence you’ll find on VIA Rail is the occasional bumpy line of track, which means nothing more than a gentle rock left to right. No sudden drops, no feeling your stomach in your throat, just a smooth & gentle ride.

The Space & Comfort

While I can’t stress how awesome an upgrade on VIA Rail is, even in Economy seats, the amount of room given is on average MUCH more than you’ll find on most airlines. Combined with the ease of getting out of your seat to wander to the Snack Car, the Lounge Car, the Obvservation Car, or just walking to get your blood circulating, having that ease of moving around simply can’t be beat.

Less Hassle

My biggest pet peeve with flying is being stuck behind a giant line at airport security, anxiously waiting to get through in fear that I might not make it to my gate on time. Security on airlines isn’t just strict, it’s border-line de-humanizing. While VIA Rail has it in their right to check your luggage, their security is far more realistic for the average traveler. You show up, check your luggage, grab your ticket, board, and go. Removing the scans, the pat downs, the 20 questions of “Where are you going?“, “What do you do?“, really speeds things up and makes for a much more enjoyable experience boarding the train. I traveled between Montreal & Toronto with Riley of Riles For Miles, and she couldn’t stop saying “That was so easy!” after boarding the train.

The Sights

VIA Rail trains will never win a race with airlines, but that’s not what train travel is all about. The slower pace of train travel on VIA Rail allows you to truly take in the size and scenery of Canada. You’ll be hard pressed to see moose, bear, deer, and a variety of Canadian birds from 36,000 feet up. Traveling  by train, this becomes a daily occurrence! A seat atop the Observation car during the day (or night – with the lights off) offers an astounding view of the scenic landscapes Canada is so famous for.

The Sounds

Many people don’t know this, but VIA Rail offers free train rides to musicians for performing two 45 minute sets per day on the train for passengers. While this is a great way for musicians to get around the country and tour for cheap, it also gives passengers a unique experience. There’s nothing like watching as the rugged Canadian landscape goes by outside the Lounge Car and some of Canada’s most talented artists serenade guests from all over the world.

I was fortunate enough to catch The Bombadils performing on VIA Rails “The Ocean”, between Halifax & Montreal. I also caught Morgan MacDonald perform on “The Canadian”, between Toronto & Winnipeg. Discovering new artists performing on VIA Rail might have been one of my favourite parts of the entire journey.

The Social Side of Travel

When I fly I am a grumpy human being. I don’t want to talk to the person next to me. I typically want to scold parents for bringing children on the flight, and I am generally just not somebody anyone would ever want to talk to. Perhaps it’s the discomfort, the nerves, the terrible food, the state of fear the media has us all worked up in. But the last thing I want to do is talk to anybody I don’t know while I travel on a plane.

The opposite couldn’t be more true on train travel. There is nothing more common on trains than seeing people who didn’t know each other as they boarded the train disembark as newfound friends. Partaking in conversation with both young and old, about their jobs, their past travels, their future aspirations, and their general interest in how you ended up on this same train. During my journeys on board VIA Rail, I became a conversationalist. A suave, interesting guy who wanted to speak to anyone who would listen. I couldn’t have been more of the opposite to that grumpy human being I am when flying.

The Staff

Airline staff can often times feel a bit robotic. Any conversing with staff can lead you with somebody (passenger or staff) glaring at you as if you’re putting the entire world in jeopardy. Staff on VIA Rail behave differently. They are relaxed, happy, comfortable, rested, and it all shows. From the way they’re happy to assist you, to the fact that they’ll spare an extra five minutes from their busy schedule to converse with a passenger about anything from beer preferences, to destination tips. Did I mention they’re hilarious as well?

The Wildlife

The beauty of traveling slow is that you have time to look. Time to take in what you’re seeing, where you are, and who you’re with. In my opinion, one of the best parts of traveling with VIA Rail is the amount of wildlife you’re sure to see. Between bears, moose, elk, and even mountain goats, it’s hard to spend a day on the train and not see something out of the window. What I love is that the staff aboard VIA Rail take time out of their day to announce if there’s wildlife coming up. I scored this great photo of a mother and young mountain goat, a couple dozen kilometers outside of Jasper.

The Cost

Trains are usually on par with your average budget flight, and at times even less expensive. Train travel isn’t as pricey as many people make it out to be. One has to remember that most legs of train travel are over an entire day and night, saving you a night of accommodation and giving you a comfy ride and a whole new experience.

Don’t believe me? I took a look at a one way Economy Fair on VIA Rail for September 8th from Toronto to Saskatoon. The adult pass came up at $273.46 ($242 fare + $41.46 tax). I took a same look at Air Canada for a flight on September 8th from Toronto to Saskatoon. The adult pass came up at $420 ($278 fare + $148 in tax). Making VIA Rail the cheaper choice by $146.54! Add on top of that the fact that you’re saving 2 nights of accommodation by sleeping on VIA Rail and you’ll be laughing all the way to the bank.

Photo Courtesy of VIARail.com

As you have probably figured out, I am a convert! Train travel is the bee’s knees, wearing cat’s pyjamas. It’s for those people who aren’t in a rush, who have learned that in life, it’s not only good, but essential to stop and smell the flowers. Canada was built by the railroads, and I think one of the greatest ways to honour this fact is for every Canadian, and every visitor, to see this magnificent country from coast to coast with VIA Rail.

Special thanks to the folks at VIA Rail for having me aboard their train and giving me access to shoot photos & video. 

13 Reasons to Ditch Airlines for VIA Rail is a post from: I Backpack Canada

All Aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route

After awing over the beauty of Fraser, B.C, I boarded the train and was greeted by a friendly young train employee who happily points out the Train Engineer and the Conductor. At a cost of $135, taking the WhitePass is a great way to get to and from Skagway, Alaska and Whitehorse, Yukon. It’s worth noting that this isn’t your typical Eurorail type of train. These carts are old, and the rail line is practically ancient. While it may not be the fastest train you’ll ride, the slow pace gives you ample time to take in the breathtaking views during the ride.

Old Sounds on an Old Train

As I acquainted myself with my seat, the train slowly began to move forward and I watched as the natural skyline began to change. My cart rocked gently back and forth, swaying to the beat of the precise heavy bass caused by the turning of the wheels. The hissing cry of metal on metal added a sense of old time flavour to the experience. The steam whistle screams and makes me jump. I laugh at myself for not expecting that. As the train passes through canyons covered in snow and ice I couldn’t help but feel as if it’s winter. It’s June 1st – practically summer – and snow in these regions are still measured in feet, rather than inches.

A low ceiling of misty white clouds hangs over the mountains. Sleet and rain gently pour down, adding a sense of adventure to the slow moving train. Walking outside of the trailing cart I snap photos of the ever changing terrain. After passing through a few tunnels it’s clear to see we’re approaching a rainforest. Snow trades it’s place for massive trees and the temperature begins to warms up. Waterfalls and cliffs can be found every few kilometres along the rail line.

Does a bear sh*t in the woods?

As the train curves around bends, I hang over the iron rails and snap photos. Then suddenly, as if waiting to see the train go by, a large brown bear is crouching beside the tracks. He isn’t moving, and one passenger asks “Is it real?” – as our cart is dragged a little further down the track we see the bear from another angle and quickly find out that yes, he is real, and yes bears do in fact shit in the woods. Our cart erupts in laughter as someone jokes “It’s the Charmin bear!“.

On to Alaska

Moving slowly along cliffs and waterfalls, across old bridges and rivers, we made it to our final destination – Skagway, Alaska. While I have many thoughts and opinions on Skagway; I’ve decided to leave them be for now (separate post on that coming soon). A train with this much history and beauty along it’s path really needs to be experienced to fully understand it’s allure. You don’t have to be a train buff, history geek, or arctic explorer to enjoy the Whitepass Yukon Route. All you need are some curious eyes interested in seeing one of the most beautiful stretches of rail you can find in North America.

The White Pass & Yukon Route – Gateway to the North is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Then after a visit home to Saskatchewan I became infatuated with the train tracks that ran across this country and their part in making this country what it is today. Without rails settlers wouldn’t have been able to make it west. Towns wouldn’t have prospered and turned into cities. The railway lines literally helped carve the face of this country. Then it hit me like a punch in the side of the head – “I must ride these iron rails with VIA Rail from Halifax, Nova Scotia to Vancouver, British Columbia. A true coast to coast journey stopping at several major city centers to explore the country at a slower pace to better take in the sights & sounds. A summer journey filled with writing, photography, and video. The Summer of VIA Rail”

On July 4th I began my travels with VIA Rail and will be documenting my journey over the coming months. First leg – Halifax, Nova Scotia to Charny Quebec then a quick shuttle to Quebec City. Be sure to stay tuned and follow along on Twitter with #ViaRail! I’ll be posting as fast as possible; however, there’ll no doubt be some lag time due to the amount of photos and content I need to create. I’ll fill these moments of silence with a few posts in my back catalogue. Keep an eye out for some video as well, now let the ~7000km+ journey begin!

Discovering Canada By Train with VIA Rail is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Fact of the matter is, it’s hard to get away from the Chains. In Canada, you’ll come across them more often than I’d like to admit. But should you choose so, you don’t have to give them your hard earned money. There’s enough local gas stations, restaurantes, hotels, and stores to shake a stick at, it just requires a bit of planning.

Reb Stevenson recently tried this on for herself, cleverly titled “The Retro Roadtrip”. She documented nearly the entire series in little webisodes, and compiled the whole trip down to a 2 minute cross Canada video. Have a watch, and get inspired to try new things, local things, non-chain things. Looks like it was worth it! Be sure to check out Reb’s Retro Road Trip adventures!

The Sunday Canadian Travel Video: Across Canada in 2 Minutes is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Porter Airlines

I’m starting with the little guy first. If you don’t recognize the name Porter, chances are you’re from Western Canada. Porter is a regional airline headquartered out of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. They’re hands down the smallest airline in terms of size and numbers. This can be seen as either a good thing or a bad thing, depending on where you’re trying to get to. Porter operates primarily in Eastern Canada and parts of the United States. So if you’re looking for flights anywhere west of Thunder Bay, Ontario you’re better off looking at the other two airlines. However, if you’re after friendly service, competitive rates, and the opportunity to fly into (or out of) downtown Toronto like a rockstar, Porter could be for you. Did I mention there’s free liquor served on board?

Here’s what other Canadian Travel Bloggers have to say about Porter Airlines:

WestJet Airlines

Westjet is the second largest airline in Canada, providing flights to 71 destinations across Canada, The United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. They’re headquartered out of Calgary International Airport in Alberta, but also have a hub in Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Ontario. Westjet is a non-unionized airline, which means strikes are practically unheard of. The same thing can’t be said for Air Canada…*Cough..Strike Much?..Cough*.

Westjet is known across Canada as being the “funner” of the three airlines. Stewards and Stewardesses are encouraged to show some personality and have fun on the job, which ultimately leads to a more pleasant flying experience. Flying has become such a sterile activity in recent years, its a refreshing change to see real people behaving like they would with their friends.

While I have nothing but good things to say about Westjet’s people and service, they’re entertainment consoles are sucky in comparison to Air Canada’s. Their satellite TV’s tend to drop often, and don’t even bother turning them on if you catch a redeye flight. Infomercials and News on Repeat will be all that greets you. Not their fault, I know, but if you can’t sleep during the night flights, you might as well gauge your eyes out.

If Westjet were to ever upgrade their entertainment units they could totally drop to one knee and pop the question, and chances are this guy would say yes!

Here’s what other Canadian Travel Bloggers have to say about Westjet Airlines:

Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, currently providing service to 178 destinations. They’re headquartered in Montreal, QB and were one of the founders of the Star Alliance Program. For those not in the know, the Star Alliance Program is a network of global airlines, created to offer customers a smoother travel experience when grabbing international flights. While Air Canada remains the most travelled airline in Canada, it’s had a bumpy past. In 2003 Air Canada had to file for Bankruptcy protection, and it seems there’s always talk in the news of its financial difficulties or of an upcoming strike.

This might sound bleak, but if you’re anything like me, smiles and fun personalities won’t entertain me longer than a few minutes. Air Canada‘s on-demand entertainment consoles make those long flights a breeze. They may not win the most awards for happy faces and fun memories, but they get the job done.  I like to compare Air Canada as sort of like ordering a burger & fries. You know what you’re getting every time. It might not be the best item on the menu, but it’s good enough. Seeing as Air Canada has the most destinations, a good points system (if you know how to use it!), and reasonable rates, I see nothing overtly wrong with saying Air Canada is pretty okay!

Here’s what other Canadian Travel Bloggers have to say about Air Canada:

So who should you fly with in Canada?

It’s clear there is no right answer. When it’s all said and done, it comes down to what type of things are important to you during air travel. Do you need good customer service, a warm smile to greet you boarding you on the plane? Then you might be best suited for Westjet, or Porter if you’re out east. If you’re an entertainment junkie who partakes on flights longer than a few hours, and just so happens to be an airline points hoarder, Air Canada’s probably your best bet. Regardless of whomever you decide to go with, Canadian Airlines are after all…Canadian. Expect apologies when your flight is delayed, expect a helping hand if your flight is cancelled, and one of my fondest memories, expect an open liquor cart when your plane has technical problems that require a couple hours of mechanical work before departure.

Special thanks goes out to the Canadian Travel Blogging community who helped bring their two cents to the table!

Air Canada VS Westjet VS Porter – A Canadian Airline Comparison is a post from: I Backpack Canada

I’ve come across a new program that’s being offered by FlightNetwork. They call it “Price Drop Protection“. Basically, if you book a flight early, then the same flight decides to drop in price a few weeks later, you earn that money back. Its kept on your account and can be used for future flights and/or travel insurance. If you book more than a couple flights a year, this can turn into a decent chunk of savings.

In case my explanation totally sucks, their website has this say:

For example, if you’ve purchased a flight for $500 and the price drops to $400, you can grab that deal and we’ll give you $100 Price Drop Protection Dollars to spend on future Flight or Insurance bookings.

So it turns out I’m not the only one who’s thought about this whole price fluctuation in flights. The scientists, mathematicians and logistic people at Flight Network, whom I assume wear white lab coats did some surveys across Canada and found the leading concern with Canadians booking flights was price fluctuation. So rather than thinking “Oh, bummer…“,  they took the go-get’um approach and said “Let’s fix this!” – and fix it they did! Hello travel savings!

I should also mention that Flight Network is actually the 2nd largest Online Canadian travel company, so you know you’re in good hands. I’ll be using their service to help keep my travel costs low, and definitely recommend you guys give them a try too.

Backflip budget travel team high 5′s all around! Boom!

Travel Tip – Book Flights in Canada with Price Drop Protection is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Q. How long have you been guiding?

A. I’ve been in the tourism industry for ten years and guiding for 5 of those. I used to be a diving guide in the Caribbean, but missed the mountains so I came home this Christmas. I’ve been with Moose ever since and have been loving every day of of it!

Q. What is your favourite thing about working with Moose Network?

A. Without a second guess it has to be the people I meet everyday. Observing peoples reaction when they discover something for the first time, and being able to witness their passion for travel is amazing. Everyone is in this permanent holiday happiness mode. It ends up feeling like I’m just travelling with friends.

Q. What are some highlights that stand out during your time with Moose Network?

A. So far, taking an Australian girl to Peyto Lake to let her see and touch snow for the first time was one that stood out. Witnessing peoples reactions when they see the mountains, only to find out they’re in the foothills, then seeing their minds explode when we actually get into the Rockies. That’s always a big favourite. Lastly, seeing how happy and energized people are after white water rafting the Kicking Horse River makes me smile!

Q. What are some things you think everyone should try when they travel in Canada?

A. Where do I start? You’ve got to see the Old Growth Forests on Vancouver Island. Trees here can get to be up to 9m round and 60m tall! Everyone should also experience a night on Granville Street in Vancouver, it will be memorable to say the least. When you get hungry, try some fresh BC smoked salmon. Hop on a tour and try and see a wild Grizzly Bear. If you’re looking to chill go enjoy the west coast beaches, salt air and try surfing or head to the Okanagan Valley for some fine wine and more amazing Beaches. Just being in Canada is something everyone should try.

Q. Do you think more Canadians should start riding the Moose, and if so, why?

A. Absolutely! Each province is like a country of its own, with its own culture, food, and personalities. They’re all so geographically different, limiting yourself to your home province is sort of like sitting in the same lawn chair around a campfire the whole night. Move around, be social, talk to people, see things from a different light. As a Canadian myself, I still love watching as the landscapes change during the long drives across provinces and through the seasons. Shameless plug here, but Moose Network goes across Canada and lets you hop on and off as you see fit. Great for seeing Canada!

Q. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever witnessed while guiding with Moose Network?

A. Well its only my first season, but Watching a Grizzly Bear swim across a glacier river with the rocky mountains looming over the entire scene. The bear climbed out of the water and scratched himself against a tree for like ten minutes, as bears do! It was unreal. Of course, I should mention that its always a laugh watching people try to swim in the freezing glacial water and realizing how splintering cold it is. People do crazy stuff for photos.

Q. If there is one thing you could tell someone whos planning on backpacking across Canada, what would it be?

A. Plan more time because you won’t want to leave. Lots of people end up hopping off the Moose for a day and never leave the country.

Gros Merci goes out to the always lovely Rachel Huber. If you have any other questions regarding what Moose Network can offer you, send them a tweet @moosenetwork or check out the Moose Network website. Of course, you can always comment here and I’ll do my best to answer any questions I can.

Moose Karate Photo by Candice Walsh

Interview with a Moose Network Travel Guide is a post from: I Backpack Canada