Today we embarked on the Juniper Trail at the edge of the Park. We meandered down the Sinclair Canyon and were rewarded with the refreshing Sinclair Canyon Falls.

I loved this description, found on a plaque by the Falls: "10,000 years ago, the creek jumped from the very top of the canyon walls. Ever since it has been dragging its liquid sandpaper over the rocks, carving out its canyon, taking a long, slow bite of limestone."




The foliage was outstanding, with various beautiful wildflowers about. I was taken with these two solidified drops of tree sap. Aren't they rather pretty?

To reward ourselves for our hike, we came to the place that created the need for the town of Radium Hot Springs. The Canadian Rockies, it turns out, are rather famous for their hot springs. Who knew? In 1841, Sir George Simpson, a big deal around these parts, historically speaking, and the then governor of the Hudson's Bay Company, made the first recorded visit to the springs. He bathed in a gravel pool just big enough for one person. Needless-to-say, over the years it has truly evolved.
The current structure is known as the Aquacourt (1951). It has since been classified a Federal Heritage Building because it is associated with spa development within Canada’s National Parks. It was the first major post-war building project in the western parks. It contributed to the historical development of the region when it gained international reputation as a spa destination. The Aquacourt’s construction provided the reason for the establishment of the townsite at the Radium Hot Springs, and remained the primary attraction within the Kootenay National Park. The townsite was completely redeveloped over a 20-year period beginning in the early 1950s in response to highway reconstruction and increased Aquacourt visitation.
So we arrive here with our picnic lunch, beach towels, summer read, and enthusiasm for a hot soak. We were greeted by the sign below on the door. Yikes!
Since a 'cool' pool wasn't a unique enough experience, we decided not to pay the admission price and will visit a different hot springs in Jasper. We did, however, have a lovely picnic on the tables in the shade at the Aquacourt. And while we dined, an announcement was made that said, "the levels in the cool pool are low. For health and safety reasons, everyone must get out of the pool now." Hmm. So an explore of town followed.
The House of a Thousand Faces. I was drawn to this building and now I'm bummed I didn't pay the $4 to enter. Man! This is the studio of local artist Rolf Heer who carves from stumps, driftwood or any other kind of unique wood found in the area. His woodcarving has been seen by people around the world and he was featured on the TV series "Weird Homes". 
 I loved all of his faces. He is definitely a talented guy with a chainsaw.
"Rolf's eccentric appearance may fool many into believing he is something he is not. What he is is a mountain man with a love for nature and art". http://www.radiumwoodcarver.com/
After strolling the streets of Radium Hot Springs, we saw this sign. It's a good day when there's a chance of Schnitzel. That's all I got to say!