Gary the Cat

Since we’re posting more regularly here and it’s a new platform I figured we should introduce ourselves. This is Gary. He’s an 11-year old domestic longhair cat and together we adventure around western Canada, mostly in the Rocky Mountains.

Hiked the Valley of the 5 lakes in Jasper for the first time since the fire. In just two years there’s already lots of regeneration happening.

Gary is, and will always be, a Canadian cat. If you’re in Alberta and haven’t yet, be sure to vote today. Reject the malignant voices working to divide our country and denigrate our neighbours who have moved here seeking opportunity. #forevercanada

Just a tiny cat in a big world. This Thanksgiving, we’re thankful for the amazing places we get to explore!

Checking out the fall colours

Gary was told there would be early birds

Mountain mornings with Gary

Just a tiny cat in big mountains

Sniffing the breeze

I think he knows he’s pretty

Squeezing in beach days while we still can

Two of my favourite adventures have been in the same spot (though different seasons)

To be a cat sitting by a mountain lake.

“I’d rather be inside than sitting on the ground” - Gary, probably

Oh to be a cat floating on a lake at sunset

Twelve hours inside the B.C. command centre where critical decisions were being made as a wildfire exploded around Summerland. Today’s Globe and Mail cover story, with Jesse Winter www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/artic...

Happy World Helicopter Day! A fun fact: the use of helicopters in Canadian mountain rescue was pioneered in Banff! The book, “The Highest Calling” has some great photos and interesting details and can be read online: alpineclubofcanada.ca/wp-content/u...

That time Gary tried out to be an avalanche rescue cat. Not sure his evaluator was overly impressed. Good thing you’re pretty, bud.

Even when it’s smoky Gary still looks meowjestic

Thinking of our Jasper friends today on the two year anniversary of the Jasper wildfire

It’s the anniversary of Gary’s first time paddling!

Sometimes it’s not clear what photo is on Gary’s collar. It’s just 10 year younger, and somewhat tinier Gary.

Not pictured: the two dozen mosquitos I inhaled on the hike to get here.

Blending into the scenery

Beach days with Gary!

Gary’s not tough and he can’t hunt but he’s good at looking pretty

With the rise of AI, Gary often now gets accused of being slop. I guarantee you he’s not. I really am strange enough that I taught my cat to ski, and will hike with him to the tops of mountains.

Sometimes we adventure in places that aren’t mountains

What’s better than mountain naps?

Why does Gary not like Marge? Mystery, really.

Just out enjoying our first summer long weekend

Opurrations section chief Gary would like to give a shoutout to all the fire crews and staff today on International Firefighter Day. A special shoutout goes to his logistics friends who keep the treats flowing, too.

It’s the time of year when people get into trouble when they venture out into deep snow on hot days and get stuck. It’s not quite summer hiking time just yet - avoid needing a rescue and give it a bit more time.

People often ask me how I know if Gary is having a good time or not. He’s not shy about how he feels. Like when he has to share his Jeep with the dogs.

I joke that Gary’s only life skill is being pretty. At least he’s good at it.

Why shouldn’t your cat live a life of luxury? The Jasper Park Lodge even gave Gary his own jacket when we stayed there

Trying to photograph Gary. A story in three parts

That snow is a lot of Gary’s deep! In the mountains, you need to pay attention to what’s above you, too. Avalanches can run a long way, especially in spring when the snowpack is at its deepest.

Gary attempting to hunt my hot pot

Powder days with Gary!

The ski hill knew Gary was around and made sure to put up the appropriate signage.

And Gary said let there be powder and there was powder. And Gary saw that it was good.

“But father, don’t we come skiing to get away from the dogs?” - Gary, probably

Gary looks down at Doug’s lack of meowdelling skill.

Dreaming of when they’ll let cats into the Olympics