Pacific Ranges
The Pacific Ranges Mountain Range is a part of the larger Coast Mountains system in western Canada, stretching from the border of Alaska to the Fraser River in British Columbia. This mountain range has a long history of human habitation, with Indigenous peoples living in the area for thousands of years. Notable peaks in the range include Mount Waddington, the highest peak entirely within British Columbia, and Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. The highest peak in the Pacific Ranges is Mount Fairweather, standing at 15,325 feet on the border of Alaska and British Columbia. Significant hydrology in the region includes the Fraser River, which is the largest river in British Columbia, and the Skeena River, which has an important salmon fishery. Interesting facts about the Pacific Ranges include the presence of the Great Bear Rainforest, which is home to several rare species, and the fact that the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics were held in this mountain range.
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Mountain Activities
1. Hiking: The Pacific Ranges offer numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. One popular hike is the Black Tusk Trail in Garibaldi Provincial Park, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and alpine meadows.
2. Skiing and snowboarding: The Pacific Ranges are home to several world-class ski resorts, including Whistler Blackcomb and Grouse Mountain. These resorts offer a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
3. Mountain biking: The Pacific Ranges are a popular destination for mountain bikers, with a variety of trails ranging from beginner to expert level. The Whistler Bike Park is one of the most famous mountain biking destinations in the world, offering over 70 trails for all skill levels.
4. Climbing: The Pacific Ranges are a paradise for rock climbers, with countless granite cliffs and crags to explore. Squamish is a popular climbing destination, known for its challenging routes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.
5. Camping: The Pacific Ranges offer numerous camping opportunities, from backcountry camping in remote wilderness areas to RV camping in developed campgrounds. Joffre Lakes Provincial Park is a popular camping destination, with three stunning glacier-fed lakes and numerous hiking trails.
6. Wildlife viewing: The Pacific Ranges are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bears, elk, and mountain goats. Visitors can go on guided wildlife viewing tours or simply explore the area on their own in search of these majestic creatures.