Abandoned BC: Walden North

[@barefootanimist]

It's sad to consider that there have been visitors to this site who saw fit to vandalize it, instead of draw inspiration from it.

[@chris101ward]

Some people draw inspiration from destruction. We usually call these people assholes.

[@persiazad]

I really have a hard time figuring out the mentality of an animal who would walk into a space like that and starts smashing things

[@canadaeast8358]

It’s pretty sad that someone would do that.. poor guy worked his ass off for it I’m sure

[@mikehd3904]

@@persiazad same person who is a kid toucher! Usless

[@69kevroletfastback33]

My buddy lived in that house during the 90`s and 2000`s as the caretaker of the property. I met Vernon as a child and the property has been in my life since I was a kid. My Dad was lead surveyor on the original build. I have pictures of the house and Vernon from the 70`s, including while the buildings and original dam were being built. The house was confidentially designed by famous Vancouver area architect Arthor Erickson. Many more details will be coming out in the new, upcoming book about Vernon`s life.

[@motoXjake]

name of the book?

[@krmould]

I understand one of the reasons that Pick moved to Walden North was because he foresaw a nuclear war between the US and Soviet Union. Did the property include a fallout shelter? I can't see going to all the trouble of building a dam, workshop and this house without one.

[@69kevroletfastback33]

@@krmould It was always rumored that there was a fallout shelter, but I never saw one. Walden South (Colorado) didnt have one either from what I was told. I think it was more about privacy and having access to unlimited hydro electricity for his many secret projects and experiments, etc.

[@krmould]

@@69kevroletfastback33 Thank you for replying. You are the first person who has commented, who met Pick and knew someone who lived in the house. There are now three videos on KZbin showing the house. None have them have shown anything resembling a fallout shelter. I think if there was one, it would have been found by now. Interestingly, I might have met your friend. I had read about Walden North in the newspaper in the 80s and was fascinated by Vernon Pick and the site, so I actually went there in about 1990 or 91. I just drove into the property (the gate was up) and down as far as the workshop. There was a sandbar next to Cayoosh Creek (this was before the dam was raised and the larger hydro system built) and there was a guy there sunbathing. I asked if this was Vernon Pick's place. He said yes, but it was private property and told me I had to leave. The place was still in very good repair at the time and the inclined elevator was still functional, but I didn't get a chance to see the house. These videos have given me a chance to see it finally, but it is a shame the state it has fallen into.

[@69kevroletfastback33]

@@krmould Interesting, thanks. My friend was actually one of the engineers for the West Kootenay Power upgrade around 1993 so he would not have been there in 90-91. He stayed on after the project as the caretaker of the enlarged dam / property. The dam and tunnel intake had a never ending driftwood problem, especially in the spring / summer. Other people worked at the power house further down the creek. I`ve been in every building on the property many times. The most curious thing was that there was spare parts for everything. One warehouse was a metalwork shop, another was a woodworking shop, etc. All the best machines money could buy around 1970 and all still in good working order. Steven had many projects on the go all over the property including a fish farm connected to the creek! One of the warehouses was the parts shop and like I said, there was spare parts for everything which I think is where the "survive a nuclear war" thoughts came from. Also feeding the rumor's was the fact that the complex is supposedly built in a nuclear "shadow" whatever that means. It was fully self contained with its own power, water, sewer system. Originally there were three guest / worker houses next to the complex. RCMP officers from Lillooet lived there, but two of the houses were torn down by West Kootenay Power after the project was completed as they needed lots of work. The one house is still there and lived in the last time I dropped by about 13 years ago now. Steven left in 2006.

[@hollyarntzen5460]

What an amazing place, and you captured this piece of history and told the story of Pick's life beautifully.

[@hollyarntzen5460]

Heartbreak to see the vandalism and disrespect. Yet the bones of the building and the property seem still so strong--how amazing to have the water and power generation. What a visionary Pick was.

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks very much Holly, I feel like Pick deserves an hour long doc!

[@AbandonedUrbexCanada]

Great video Luke so glad you explored this place. Such great history always hate how people vandalize places

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Brent, I also feel the same and when I look back I see myself as one of those kids vandalizing, I don't anymore though!

[@mikehd3904]

@@lifeofluke I like your dog, got a border heeler myself, awesome dog

[@teeeeeyden]

Do you need a side kick? I can carry food and water for your escapades haha. Your videos are awesome! Happy to see someone explore so much of the hidden spots in BC.

[@lifeofluke]

I would never turn down anyone offering to carry food and snacks and water!

[@BockaufBiken]

I´m so glad I discovered your channel! I really like your style of making videos. The talking/story telling and the drone shots are amazing! And of course the truly beautiful sceneries you use to roam in! Awesome! I subbed!

[@bordstif84]

I as well have only been graced by this channel for only one week yet.

[@user-yj3od2li9i]

I grew up in Lillooet..I remember the do not trespass signs growing up...Glad I got to see what it looks like finally!

[@Eurotool]

Extremely high quality channel, please keep providing.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Oohhh geez. Sure hope you got permission for this one. This site has suffered terribly from vandals. The owners have a very difficult time with that. Amazing story behind this one, but it’s important people know that it’s private property and not abandoned.

[@eliasgames3453]

My Dad lives in Lillooet for his whole life His dad which is my grandpa was good friends with the dude that owned the mansion my dad literally got to go in the house and look at every detail sadly he died and now people vandalized it so now no one can look at it it was a great house to the all the people watching it was beautiful people vandalize it after he died and took everything from the house most likely but have a great day guys I also live in Lillooet by the way and have a great day

[@rickrayn]

Love the Avocado green appliances. They give you a rough idea of their age.

[@bctw9004]

Absolutely amazing. I can’t imagine the effort to build it in such a remote area. Excellent video!

[@FidoHouse]

Poignant story. Beautiful video.

[@TheStoryTillNow]

Such a cool place. Great video as usual. 👍

[@AllThingsOcean]

Alright. I just binge-watched this entire series. More please! :) :)

[@lifeofluke]

Haha, working on it!

[@FogartyAvenue]

Absolutely incredible.

[@lifeofluke]

Most definitely

[@KCBarr1]

What strong men build, weak men seek to destroy. The ones that wrecked this property will likely never amount to anything useful.

[@DarkroomMedia007]

Amen sir.

[@serenaw7727]

YOU seem like the kind of person I'd like to meet, and I already draw inspiration from you! Another great video.

[@1unsung971]

Enigmatic and enthralling stories, told with sparing narrative and wonderful photography. Terrific work Sir. Thank you so much for your hard work and for sharing these tales of forgotten places. Go well.

[@erikletham4944]

My home town lillooet love the place!

[@soukthavoneinsisienmay1188]

I'm a newly subscribed to your channel. Thank you for this video! Keep up the great work!

[@gwenhaworth5454]

Exceptional. Thank you for this. I love architecture from this era and it's such a gem to hear a story of a structure here in rural BC. The magazine covered desk looked MCM. It's probably in disrepair and inaccessible, but watching your footage, I found myself wishing someone could give it some TLC and another life chapter. ...and of course the home too, but that would be a monumental feat. Love your work!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks very much, Gwen!

[@Evantures]

You’re shots and editing are next level 👏 that fade into the side of the mountain 0:42👌

[@rbmurbach4536]

Recently came across your channel. Like it very much. Great video work and music. Thanks for sharing your interesting adventures!

[@seanfrank4158]

I seem to recall a story or an article I read about this place. It was said that Pick chose this location because of the way the canyon was formed. If there was ever a nuclear attack then the mountains would shadow the dwelling from most of the radioactive fall-out and whatnot during the aftermath. I can't remember exactly where I read that though.

[@599miata]

Interesting video Luke. When I look at it, I find there is a lot of wasted goods and the building is still beautiful. 👍👍

[@RIKAPHI]

Pretty amazing... Thanks so much and never stop! Love to see what's next 😁

[@Skiingislife-oc3fh]

I just found your channel today and watching your adventures has made me really want to get out of my comfort zone! I'm typically a local adventure kind of person who likes to explore things that I'm already familiar with. But these places you've brought us as the viewers to, are absolutely stunning and remind me while i'm recovering from an ACL tear, the fun and exploring I can do when I'm all healed up! Keep up the filming and stay safe and healthy! Cheers from Washington State USA

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks, I love to hear it! I wish you a speedy ACL recovery!

[@thombaan]

Who else just wants to renovate it lightly and live there....

[@dustingerle986]

Love the content! Please keep "abandoned BC" going!!!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Dustin!

[@passflips]

Really nice work

[@stephenunderwood2296]

Great series

[@benparrish9547]

This is definitely an under rated channel!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Ben!

[@jarnoa7592]

Love ur channel. Design on this house i reminds pretty much of Finnish house desing from late 70s early 80s.

[@cyclefancy2726]

Another great video! Keep it up Luke.

[@taxicamel]

Completely left out the huge plant located on the valley floor where the lift dropped down to. That's why the lift existed. I met Mr. Pick in early 70"s. A tall chap, ...very personable. Went through his huge plant were he was doing research and manufacturing.

[@DameUntamed]

Cool spot! Really enjoy your video style. Great story telling ☺.

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Nikki!

[@BritishProudnShit]

Great channel. Keep it up!

[@brookeshaffer4377]

Brilliant man! Most interesting visual of property.Thanks Luke👍

[@solomonwoodland6362]

Man what a cool place! Great video bro!

[@lifeofluke]

Appreciate that, Solomon!

[@Gboyproud]

Great vids mate. Moving out to BC in about 5 months. I will use your vids as land marks to see and hike to.

[@thepeoplesoul]

Fantastic

[@luckyme398]

Amazing house .to bad people have to disrespect property.

[@starzzmcluvin1210]

Well done on the video here. Just goes to show the world that it's possible to learn from our past. People come. people Go. Where we'll end up nobody knows. Our journey is meant to be learned...NOT KNOWN!! SO KEEP TEACHING TEACHER OF HISTORY. This is aww inspiring to me and my past experiences. This gives me a New yearning for things past. Keep the journey alive my friend. Keep IT alive

[@mountainmama713]

What a cool place!

[@stephanlandry9406]

Cool house on the side of a beautiful mountain. Great footage and storytelling/ history lesson. Too bad vandals have smashed the place up. I would love to fix the place up and live there.

[@1984Stanman]

Great video and story, thanks!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Stan!

[@Crittermoto]

Very cool. Never knew about this so hanks. Very Frank Lloyd Wright-esque. So sad to see that some individuals have nothing better to do than vandalize and destroy. This place would be worth repairing and revitalizing.

[@branchsnapper2228]

Extraordinary

[@Kimbeattie]

Thanks again for a great adventure

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Kim!

[@my2cents945]

Nicely done, thanks for sharing.

[@jamesmac7464]

Wow 😯 great 👍 video thanks 😊

[@fillbrother7339]

great impressions, thank you

[@WhereKentWent]

Cool video Luke!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Kent!

[@MikeHalley]

Beautiful home

[@manuelzalazar6706]

Thats a beatiful place to live, just clean and enjoy.. I see fron La Rioja Argentina excelent video!!

[@87brandon1]

Cool video!

[@randiray8640]

That is a great story, you did the man justice. Sad to see miscreants disrespected the property, and perhaps had they known his story they might have acted differently. Somehow I doubt it. I have always been of the mind, leave it better than you found it. Again, great Job on the short story.

[@scottculver]

Nice work.

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Scott!

[@markquiring7296]

Hi Luke! came across your channel just a while back and subscribed to it as you do great videos with detail , research, camera work and great editing. really enjoy them and thanks for sharing your adventures!

[@lifeofluke]

Awesome, I'm stoked you appreciate the work I put in, Mark!

[@markquiring7296]

You bet , I feel very positive and inspired after watching your videos! I moved to bc a few years ago to the coast and haven’t been able to get out and explore yet , but going too. Thanks!

[@OBLIVIONevolvedurbex]

nice house nice explore lads

[@miguelleal424]

Finally got some spare time to watch it. I had no idea! What a waste of a fine architectural gem! Great investigative work! Stay fine!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Miguel!

[@Shadowmick]

Great show!

[@JonathanKuhn]

What a crazy place.

[@derekcariglia5062]

Really spectacular Footage. Subscribed today and have been binge watching all these abandoned BC vids. Great work! Where do you find your new projects to explore? They seem so interesting, yet low key!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Derek! I spend a lot of time researching online and sometimes just bump into these things!

[@irisfaust7585]

Are you going to come back and go all the way to Skip Mountain?hopefully you won't get caught in the rain next time...I really enjoy your video's..

[@ghensold]

Your videos are great and this one is no exception. You probably hear this a lot, but... you gotta do an episode on Kitsault!

[@JG-mp5nb]

What a pity, sad to see the vandalism. Cool cantilever construction.

[@PhilHewkin]

Vernon Pick chose that site to construct his fortress. It was special built to withstand nuclear war and fallout. He had carefuly studied weather patterns, and believed this location would be the highest survival chances in the event of a nuclear war.

[@DanDryfhout]

Great video!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Dan!

[@user-cf3ii1sc4p]

This can be a beautiful house!

[@TheTankss]

Love your channel keep it up

[@musicbycandlelightmbc3225]

🍁 A hearty hello to you Luke and greetings from the Island. 🍁 I would also agree that place can be restored. I think the more expensive part are replacing those large, yes, really, bulletproof windows. Those walls are 2 feet thick. The compound, including a guesthouse and gatehouse, is currently owned by Fortis BC, run as an independent power plant and is not open to the public. That place and based on its history should have been absolutely preserved. It is not hard to find caretakers to maintain such a place in exchange for rent costs or something. Instead, they are sucking the place for his electricity while the rest rots to the ground. What a horrific fate for such a skilled and multi-talented man that employed many to help build it in preparation for his insatiable fear for the so called (will never happen) end of times apocalypse. So he built a complete bomb shelter fearing a nuclear war. If I were younger, I would do everything I possibly could to strike a deal with Fortis for that place's restoration and personally be the caretaker. It is a historical place in my opinion. I guess I just can not comprehend the constant negligence behind the extent of such waste many care not for and would sooner let it rot then to pass it on to those who would gladly take care of it. Vernon Pick’s Full Story Here: www.mountainlifemedia.ca/2016/01/25178/

[@RC-the-OG]

wish i lived there

[@rodneywheatcroft4773]

great video luke!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Rodney!

[@landobro6746]

Do a full gear and tech overview, please!

[@koalacol8963]

Hey, I love your videos, so why aren’t you posting? By the way congratulations with almost 20K you deserve it!

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks for the question, I have been working a lot, and had difficulty with several things breaking, my car broke down, it's winter so the mountains are covered in snow, not travelling because I can't afford to, and lack of partners to do things with

[@koalacol8963]

@@lifeofluke oh. I hope it will get beter soon. I see you uploaded a new video yesterday. Awesome!

[@koalacol8963]

Nice video

[@officialranjansharma8974]

Great job dued 🙏

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Ranjan!

[@matyAnonymuS]

That place was built as a nuclear fallout shelter, he picked the location because the geography meant it was not exposed to prevailing atmospheric currents, or something around those lines. There was a big article about it a few years ago in The Pique Newsmagazine in Whistler.

[@cripknuckles9112]

Makes sense

[@dex99615]

Very cool

[@friedmac7146]

There should be a cable show out there known as Isolated Restoration. TLC or History Channels could do it. Much love from Canada 🇨🇦 backyard neighbor🇺🇲 😎🍺⚓

[@kirkrussell7940]

Really diggin your vids, love your pup too. Curious what drone do you use? Thanks

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks Kirk, I use the mavic 2 pro

[@FiranteATraveller]

Nice

[@mrkemblegilstrap]

Cool video👍 Apparently no family to inherit the house. What a shame. What was the thing that was mounted on the white flower garden/ planter(?) that looks like a hotel air conditioner?

[@ColinTheShots1]

I believe the family is still there. Luke would have likely had to get permission to visit this house.

[@dougtheviking6503]

Flat roofs ? No good in the north. Ever ! Very cool place

[@fingling8]

How close was their "driveway"? If there was an angled elevator, I guess not that far. Just wondering how they got all the materials in to build that. Pretty impressive for a self-taught person.

[@Pack044]

Fantastic content and channel I have to ask though how do you finance all the traveling and time off?

[@lifeofluke]

work really hard, save money, cut out the luxuries that most people live with, be strategic

[@troy204]

I can't believe people have trashed that house. You would think someone would buy it and live in it.

[@scottculver]

I subscribe now.

[@francoismorin8721]

I hate to see buildings like this go to waste.

[@legneil]

Wish i had money i would buy it and make it my home.

[@mattzorn2491]

I was lucky enough to have gone up the tram to the house. Before the destruction it was so amazing .

[@cripknuckles9112]

Wow how long was it

[@scmclane]

I would love to save this

[@t.t8219]

You should check out Kitsault, BC. I’d love to see your video take on it. I’m heading to Ocean Falls next week for work. Secondly, if you’re really looking for an adventure; check out Uranium City, SK. I’ve been there a dozen times. Amazing Canadian history. It’s accessible in feb/March via ice road or plane, or in the summer by plane or boat. The mayor is Dean classen, he owns the gas station/bed and breakfast. You’d like him and he’d give you a grand tour.

[@lifeofluke]

Thanks for the rec's, I'd love to see Kitsault for sure, I know that one needs permission to visit. And Uranium City is also on the list too! Just curious, is your work in Ocean Falls related to the hydro station or the bitcoin operation?

[@t.t8219]

@@lifeofluke negative. I’m a cop in Bella Bella. But we patrol Ocean Falls as well. Was in northern Saskatchewan prior in Fond du Lac. Gives me the ultimate opportunity to see some of the most unique places so far.

[@PurpleCrow27]

Everyone's works decay the same, ultimately. From the great to the insignificant, entropy owns the universe. There is surreal beauty in death.

[@Thetis058]

It is sad that it seems Mr Pick had no descendants who could take over his estate . Would be a gorgeous place to live once now restored to its glory . Ok well some updates are needed like modern appliances. I would live here in a heartbeat so peaceful. You didn’t really show us a view though off either side of the home . Sides it overlook a cliff ? If someone is able please try and buy this place to make it a home again it would be worth every penny you put into it .

[@chrisharvey7461]

nice

[@paulreportingliv]

Nice vids, do you ever travel to Alberta? I’m from Edmonton...

[@goddam9925]

Saw this on destination adventure !