| Ref: Bob
Spirko's Road not taken |
|
 |
|
|
Entering Jura Canyon. |
| Scramble:
RT 9.5; 4.5 up. We were blessed with the best conditions for this trip.
Jura Canyon was bedded with thick, smooth ice. We walked cautiously but
with ease through this amazing canyon until it widened. The ice led to
a dry creek bed; we used trails as much as possible. We encountered
snow in the last kilometer up Jura Creek, it wasn't deep and some of it
was still firm. At the junction, we were thrilled to see the gully
(climber's right) was filled with snow. We opted for this easier option
although unsure if it connected at the ridge crest. The snow ascent was
easy and uninterrupted. Nearing the upper gully, we picked our way
through grey bands to reach the saddle. While ascending to the top, Fab
noticed an easy transition to the snow gully. We chose that way upon
return. At the top, the absence of wind was definitely noticeable. In
good spirits, I continued to the north summit for a few pictures. Back
at the lower summit, we hung out for almost an hour and a half! I must
admit, I don't recall that many summits that offered such an embrace! |
|
 |
|
Smooth ice bound by
polished rock. |
|
 |
|
The thick ice
highway continues along the canyon. |
|
 |
|
|
Out of the canyon
our objective is in sight, far away. |
|
|
 |
|
|
More interesting
rock with tiny water pools. |
|
|
 |
|
|
A better look at the
frozen water pools in the slab rock. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Making good progress
and enjoying this lovely day. |
|
|
 |
|
|
At the junction, we
decided to climb on firm snow in the south gully instead of the shale
rib. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Looking down at the
junction.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Easy plodding on
uninterrupted snow. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Higher up we veered
left through the grey bands. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Staying close to the
grey rock, we approach the saddle. |
|
|
 |
|
|
The last stretch to
the south summit is pleasant. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Happy to be here,
the air is warm and still. |
|
|
 |
|
|
A good view of
Wendell's ascent route from the top. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Yamnuska looks small
from here. |
|
|
 |
|
|
The quick traverse
to the north summit. |
|
|
 |
|
|
At the north summit,
apparently 1 meter higher! |
|
|
 |
|
|
The small cairn and
Wendell Mountain behind. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Mount Fable (center)
beyond Exshaw Ridge. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Returning to the
south summit for a really good break. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Before reaching the
saddle, we went straight for the snow gully. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Last look from the
creek bed. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Our hike out was
nice. We took the time to enjoy this trip. |
| Back
to home page |
|
|