A recognized authority on the Rocky Mountains, Ben Gadd is the author of Handbook of the Canadian Rockies, an all-inclusive look at the geology, plants, wildlife, history and recreation of the range.

Residing in Jasper, Alberta since 1980, Gadd is the volunteer director of the Jasper Institute. This non-profit offers natural history courses to visitors at Jasper National Park. He also designs nature trails and interpretive signage, advocates on behalf of mountain national parks, is frequently heard on CBC radio, and has appeared in many television shows and several documentaries on the Rockies.

Ben is giving three separate talks to The Mountaineers in November. The first is on icefield skiing, the second is a general overview of the Canadian Rockies, and the last is aimed at naturalists, featuring the plants, animals and geology of this beautiful and expansive region.

Skiing the Canadian Rockies!
Wednesday, November 16 @ 7 p.m.
Discover some of the best skiing in the world, when Ben is hosted by the Seattle Backcountry Ski and Snowboard Committee at their open house. This is a great opporunity to find our more about our ski and snowboard classes. We'll have instructors on hand to talk about training, equipment and destinations. The open house is free and all are welcome.

The Canadian Rockies in One Hour
Thursday, November 17 @ 7 p.m.
Tickets: $7 General, $5 Mountaineers members
A bit of the Alps, a bit of Colorado and a whole lot that's completely unique -- that's the Rockies in Canada. Ben Gadd has been hiking, climbing, back-country skiing and caving in these amazing mountains for thirty-five years. From the summit of Mount Robson to the depths of Castleguard Cave, Ben's gorgeous images and insightful commentary will bring the place alive for you. If you only see one of Ben's shows, this all-inclusive show is it!

Naturalist's guide to the Rockies
Friday, November 18 @ 7 p.m.
$5 general admission at the door
Rockhounds, flower-fanciers, wildlife-watchers and bird-nuts: join Ben Gadd for a stimulating evening about this remarkable mountain range. From little-known facts about grizzly bears and grabens to the amazing relationship between the calypso orchid and the golden northern bumblebee, prepare for an eye-opening experience. Bring your questions, too.