There are few natural phenomena as universally adored as waterfalls. From the sublime power of Niagara Falls to the delicate cascading ribbons of Yosemite or even a secluded cascade in the forest, waterfalls are some of the most magnetic destinations on Earth
Surrounded by the steep, rain-drenched Coast Mountains, Whistler and the Sea-to-Sky region is a veritable waterfall watcher’s paradise. Ever since the early pioneer days, locals and visitors have been drawn to the powerful spray and serene flow of the many cataracts to be discovered.
Shannon Falls are arguably the most dramatic and most accessible in the region. Here Alex Philip and friend pay a rather formal visit, circa 1915.
Based on our photo archives, it is clear that Myrtle Philip of Rainbow Lodge fame was especially drawn to waterfalls. There are dozens of such images in her collection, and they were one of her favourite attractions when guiding lodge guests through the surrounding forest.
Some of the waterfalls in these photographs we know quite well, while others remain a mystery. Perhaps some of Whistler’s many waterfall enthusiasts can help us identify them?
On the reverse of this photo print Myrtle wrote “This could be made a nice picnic spot for hikers or riders from Rainbow as it is a beautiful waterfall and to make a pony trail would mean very little work from Pemberton trail below mile 43 post [of the PGE Railway]. Wedgemount Creek Falls.”
In a recorded interview, Myrtle noted that this photo was “taken when we just began going up there about 1924.” It became a favourite destination for lodge guests on short day hikes from the lodge. Today, 19 Mile Creek runs right through the Alpine Meadows neighbourhood.
These are identified as “Rainbow Falls” but it is unclear if they are half of the twin Rainbow Falls that can be seen up close from a short spur trail, low down on the Rainbow Lake trail.
This steep cascade in heavy flood is reminiscent of the several creeks that can be seen during the middle section of the Rainbow Lake trail. Any guesses?
The stunning Brandywine Falls, circa 1920s. Photo taken by celebrated Vancouver photographer and frequent Rainbow Lodge guest, Lawrence Frank.
Residents of and visitors to the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood should be able to recognize these falls, which provide a stunning winter backdrop for Tweed, the Jardine family’s dog, circa 1930.
Most likely somewhere in the Green River canyon.
Nairn Falls?
Inscription on the back: “Green River Falls 1918-19.” Taken by Myrtle Philip.
Another unidentified gem, shot by Myrtle.
This is just a selection of photos, primarily from Myrtle Philip’s collection. There are many more images of waterfalls in our archives and, of course, many more waterfalls in our region.
I have a feeling most viewers are envious of this mass amount of snow from approximately 50 years ago! “Hey Alex, ‘mind transferring some of that to the future over here?” I love looking through old photographs from our archive and noticing the changes in landscape and weather that are apparent. I especially love pictures like this that showcase some of our earliest pioneers and their Whistler lifestyles—and not without subtle humour, of course.
This photograph shows Alex Philip in his later years. Alex was the co-founder of Whistler’s first resort, Rainbow Lodge, and is also known for being an author of romance novels. Click here to learn more about the life of pioneer Alex Philip.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram (@ whistlermuseum) for more short bursts of history and weekly photographs from our many collections.
As cliché as it is to say, photographs really do have the ability to speak a thousand words and tell of a million adventures. While exploring our Philip Collection here at the museum it’s impossible to ignore the consistently smiling face of Myrtle Philip. Never have I seen a person’s character brought so vividly to life through photographs as I have through these images of Myrtle.
Although not a mother in the typical sense, Myrtle brought life to Whistler and was truly an amazing woman. For this, what better time than Mother’s Day to share some of those powerful photographs of one of our valley’s most influential women?
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To learn more about Myrtle Philip and her contributions to the valley we know and love, visit the following links:
When I moved to Whistler just over half a year ago, one of the first things I noticed was the abundance of dogs. OK, more like the abundance of big and beautiful dogs. It only makes sense with Whistler’s terrain perfectly suited for those long walks and free-running and hunting days.
Sewall Tapley and dogs, 1918. Philip Collection.
This, of course, is nothing new. Dogs of all textures and sizes have been a huge part of Whistler since our earliest pioneers decided to settle here. Our archive holds a wealth of early photographs of dogs – some identified and others not.
Binkie on Alta Lake, 1941. Philip Collection.
From these early albumen and gelatin silver prints, it is clear that although considered as family pets, these pooches were more than just companions – they were hunters and guard dogs as well. During the early days of Alta Lake, the local dogs would have been efficient hunters and handy companions for shooing away bears for their owners.
Sam and Louise Betts on a snowy railway track, 1942. With them are dogs Tweed and Sparks. Philip Collection.
Today in Whistler, dogs have it made. They are free to roam on some of the most gorgeous hiking trails in the country, spend a day at the doggie spa in Function Junction and – for the tourist dog – relax at one of the many pet-friendly hotels in the valley. Our spoiled furry friends even have their own section devoted to them at Rainbow Park.
Apart from the leisurely dog residents here in Whistler, our vast landscape is also home to highly trained rescue dogs. In 1978, professional patroller Bruce Watt trained Whistler’s first rescue dog. Bruce was enticed to do so after being caught and buried in a heavy avalanche that year. Bruce was then encouraged by Chris Stethem, the Safety Supervisor on Whistler Mountain at the time, to pursue an avalanche rescue dog training program. Bruce did just that, researching and perfecting his methods of training along the way. By 1982 the Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association (CARDA) had formed. You can learn more about CARDA and the history of rescue dogs here.
Myrtle Philip sitting with dog and puppies, ca. 1930. Philip Collection.
While it’s easy to admire the beauty of dogs surrounding us Whistlerites, it is important to understand these creatures as affectionate beings, in need of care and protection. With the recent influx of injured and homeless dogs brought into WAG, the local shelter is in need of donations and adoptions more than ever. This recent article in the Whistler Question Newspaper outlines some of the issues surrounding animal abuse and neglect happening around Whistler, bringing awareness to the fact that we need to teach respect for animals to kids from a very young age.
If you would like to help our local hounds by donating to WAG, click here.
