| Ref: Soistheman
Digital Diary |
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After leaving the
Evan Thomas Trail, we aimed for a swath of burnt timber. |
| Snowshoe trip:
RT 10.75; 5.0 up. With a beautiful day ahead of us, we decided to head
out to the Kananaskis again and meet Charles for another
lengthy bushwhack. Snowpack stability was still questionable
everywhere; our goal was to reach Mount McDougall via Volcano Peak. The
temperature was frigid when we left the car but it quickly warmed up
when the sun came out. The instant we left the packed trail, I knew we
were in for a long brutal haul. Although our line of ascent was
favorable in burnt timber and decently spaced trees, the snowpack's
crust didn't support our weight. We took turns plowing through
knee-deep snow; even following was difficult as the sugary snow offered
more slippage than purchase... We stopped a few times along the way
just to regain composure; I doubted we would reach treeline! We
continued with lowered expectation, simply enjoying the fantastic
weather. Near treeline, the crust gained strength and travelling
improved. After 5 hours, we reached Volcano Peak. I was surprised to
see a register at the summit cairn. We had a quick break and proceeded
towards McDougall's connecting ridge. The snow-laden ridge appeared
challenging; we were forced to travel on the ridge crest or right up
against the rock on the lee side. With the intense solar radiation and
time of day, avalanche risk was defInitely on our mind. We almost made
it to McDougall's ascent slopes but the last section of the narrow
ridge was heavily corniced. We didn't contemplate using the rope we
carried for the crux rockband near the top; we agreed the risk was too
great, hence we turned around. We had an excellent lunch break at the
saddle before going back up Volcano. I guess we'll have to come back in
this vicinity and check the Old Baldy Trail next time! |
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The crust is mostly
non supportive... |
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Near treeline, the
sun is out and the crust is stronger. |
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The woodlot's
margin, climber's left, served as a good approach.
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Good travelling to
treeline. |
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The terrain higher
up is scoured. |
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Volcano Peak does
look like a cinder cone. |
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Looking back. |
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At the top, glancing
at Old Baldy Mountain (left). |
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Mount McDougall
(left) and its connecting ridge.
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Carefully making our
way towards Mount McDougall. |
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Unable to avoid
sun-baked slopes, we turned around. |
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Forced to travel on
the ridge crest.
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Returning to Volcano
Peak (right). |
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Back up the cone. |
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The company, the
view and the weather are fantastic! |
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Backtraking with The
Wedge in the foreground. |
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Great view towards
The Fortress. |
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Back in the burnt
timber. |
| Back
to home page |
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