Eighteen Trinity College School students and two chaperones packed their bags during an unseasonably warm week in Southern Ontario and prepared for a westward adventure. Leaving TCS before sunrise on Thursday, November 10th, the group loaded skis, winter jackets and everything else they might need in anticipation of the second destination in the Capture Canada long weekend travel program: Lake Louise.
Landing in Calgary, the group was greeted with the crisp air of winter. Making our way along the Trans-Canada Highway into the Banff National Park, students saw the snowy mountains rise on either side of the road. With delight, the group was hosted at the Chateau Lake Louise where they enjoyed fondue, lakeside walks and some spectacular scenery.
Each day of the weekend had the students ski at the incomparable Sunshine Village Ski Resort. With a recent weather cycle, all were blessed with fresh, powdery trails. Partnering with the ski school at the mountain, students were given an opportunity to explore much of what this winter wonderland had to offer. The runs on the lower mountain invited students to test their mettle on bumps and in some glades. The Teepee Chutes were accessible for those who wished to tackle some steeps. There was something for every member of the group.
The days began with excited conversations about what the group might ski and the days ended in tired smiles, with photos aplenty documenting the day’s adventures. There was a notable sense of community and a commitment to having a shared experience on this trip that contributed to it being a success for all. Mrs. O’Grady and Dr. Hodges would like to thank each participant for the enthusiasm and spirit that they brought to this excursion. With the snow now flying in Port Hope, the trip to Lake Louise has served as a wonderful initiation into the wonders of winter.
- By Dr. Greg Hodges and Mrs. Ally O’Grady, chaperones
