We started our family road trip with Banff and Jasper, then followed up with Yoho and Glacier National Parks, so you’d think at this point that wherever we headed next might pale in comparison. But due to the fact that Western Canada is one of the most beautiful places on earth, such was not the case. Most of this leg of the journey we spent on BC-99, known as the Sea to Sky Highway, which was simply breathtaking to drive.

We had not planned on going to Whistler at all. But Greg is an avid mountain biker, and I am a super cool wife (hehe) – so when I suggested we head out that way, I’m pretty sure he blacked out and woke up on top of the mountain with a helmet and kneepads on.

Whistler was super touristy of as expected, but Max and I enjoyed our day relaxing in town while Greg biked, and we all had a really nice time. Max and I checked out the Audain Art Museum, played at the playground, and took a beautiful walk down the Lost Lake trail we found by the museum.

But the best thing that happened in Whistler was the advice we received from an older gentleman with whom Greg struck up a conversation in the parking lot by the camper. He told us that the best place in the whole area to camp is called Porteau Cove, but warned us that we’d never be able to find a spot there—you’ve got to book months in advance.

We checked it out anyway, and were fortunate enough to find a single available spot—so we grabbed it, and I can attest that the man in the parking lot did not oversell. It. Was. Gorgeous.

It was probably the most beautiful campground either of us had ever visited, with campsites right on the water, and stunning views no matter the time of day from a picturesque boat launch. Needless to say, I definitely made sure not to miss sunrise.

It was so peaceful to be the only one out there at that early hour, but almost melancholic as there was no one for me to share it with. In all my life, I’ve always loved being alone. But there are some things that are just better shared—so I will share it with you here.

Here is part 3 of our family road trip: from the mountains to the sea.

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