| Ref: Alan Kane's
Scrambles
in the Canadian Rockies |
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Posse of nine, Cascade in the background. |
| Scramble:
Cascade is a very special mountain for most people passing through
Banff. It is impressive yet familiar. The amphitheater has been the
destination of several mountain bike outings. In those days, I was a
strong rider and little did I know that scrambling would become my
favorite pastime. One day a gang of nine people decided to attempt
the summit. Our posse, made up mostly of newly arrived easterners, was
to this day the biggest posse I've ever been trekking with! Very green
in the mountains and not very informed about the route, we failed to
reach the summit. My roommate and good friend Pascale and I decided to
return to possibly ascend our very first mountain in the Canadian
Rockies. It was a fine day and past familiar ground we proceeded to the
real summit. I even remember boiling water for tea on the way; haven't
done that in a while... What a view up there, I was elated, I was hooked!
We descended to the amphitheater quite impressed with the whole
experience. Back on the bikes, the return in town was faster and quite
easier. I'm afraid you just can't do this nowadays! |
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Nice view of the Bow Valley. |
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We followed the trail to the false summit. |
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A close look at Cascade's final plod. |
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After stashing our bikes we prepare for another try. |
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Tea time and typical MSR flare up. |
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Looking towards Norquay ski area. |
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Camera set on the trail for a picture. |
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The true summit is within reach. |
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We did it! First scramble, yeahhhhhhhh! |
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Whoa, don't want to get too close. |
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Lake Minnewanka and Inglismaldie, right of center. |
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Incredible feeling; I'm looking forward to the next outing. |
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