| Ref: Drew
and Mark in the Canadian Rockies |
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Mount
Lorette is visible from the trailhead. |
| Scramble:
RT 7.25;
4.25 up. Windy, windy, windy! The whole length of
the trip I struggled to keep the hood of my sweater on my head. We biked about 5 km
along the cutline; the ground was frozen, travel was fast. After
stashing the bikes, we hiked up the
ascent gully on a good trail. When looking around, we occasionally got
dust blown in our eyes or a whip from a strap... We wondered if the
windy conditions would stop our progress on the summit ridge. Fab had
to put ski pants on and I sure felt where the holes in my long
underwear were. Although doubtful, we continued to the highpoint past
the saddle. Attempting the ridge crest with such wind and numb
hands was not an option. From there, a trail on the north-west side was
discernable despite some snow. It avoids the slabby terrain on the
ridge crest and
traverses all the way to the top. How convenient, this gave us the
opportunity to make it to the summit safely. We didn't stay long. Fab
grabbed a quick bite and I froze my hands taking a few pics. After a
few minutes, we left. The descent was surprisingly enjoyable, we warmed
up and our spirits lightened. Back on the bike, I thought I would
"take it easy" but to no avail. The road had softened and so had my
legs... This is a nice mountain; it offers several ways up and a short
approach (especially if you wade the river). This scramble is more demanding if the ridge crest is followed. |
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We
stashed our bikes in the trees above. |
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The
terrain quickly opens up. |
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Distinctive
trail in the shale. |
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An amazing slab wall skirts the ascent. |
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We
followed the trail climber's right of the treed mound. |
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At
the saddle. |
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The trail continues
to a high point. |
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A look at the summit. |
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Along
the summit ridge. |
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A
trail indicates a traverse below the ridge crest. |
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A
good trail all the way to the top. |
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Last
bit. |
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Fab next to the
buried cairn. |
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Looking
north-east along the scrambler's approach. |
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Nakiska and the top of the south-east ridge. |
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Skogan
Peak. |
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Heading back down. |
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The
colourful saddle ahead. |
| Back to home page |
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