Here is what Yamnuska Guide Abby Watkins had to say about our Women’s Intro to Mountaineering July 21st – 26th 2009:
“A week blessed with fine weather, wonderful women and the beautiful glaciers and peaks of the Wapta Icefields. Yamnuska and Alala Women’s Mountaineering Adventures joined forces this year to bring together the 6th inaugural Women’s Intro. Hiking in to the Bow Hut on July 21st with Vanessa Trudel, Vanessa Atherton, Diane Hutton and Erin Inglis, I had the feeling that the week would go well. There was a quiet confidence in the group as we took in the views of icefields and peaks in sunny summer mountain weather. Day two found us on the edge of the icefield, learning how to walk in crampons and placing ice screws. We finished the day sliding down snow underneath Mt. St. Nicholas like baby ravens playing – first practicing our self-arrests and then simply sliding down the snow for the fun of it. I still have a memory of Erin, usually so poised and refined, spinning down the hill on her back like an otter, just for the fun of it! On day three, we were up early and headed up to climb Mt. St. Nicholas. What an amazing climb along that oh so narrow ridge, to sit on the small summit surrounded by icefields, mountains rippling off to the horizon in all directions! Day four found us traversing to Peyto Hut across a quiet icefield. Our only company that day were the lady bugs and an occasional visit by the summer resident Grey Capped Rosy Finches, who seemed to like our company at times. We stopped at the Thompson Moat to practice our crevasse rescue before heading down to the secluded and well-positioned Peyto (Whyte) Hut. We spent the rest of the day hanging out in the sun. Diane even went swimming in the icy lake below the hut! On day five, we awoke early to climb Mt. Rhondda North (now renamed Hassler?). It was a perfect day and a perfect climb. We could see the big peaks in the Selkirks from the summit as well as the Louise Group, the President and Vice President, Mt. Stephen in Field and the Good Sirs. Day six was our exit day. Down across the Peyto Glacier and steep moraine. We sat quietly on the alluvial fan next to Peyto Lake listening to the atmospheric sound of a Hermit Thrush, serenading us with his deep forest, flute-like song. I am, as ever, so inspired by the women who attend the Intro to Mountaineering. Such interesting lives, such wisdom, friendship and kindness. I learn so much from teaching these courses – about life and about people. Thank you Erin, Vanessa, Vanessa and Diane for a very special week in the mountains!”
Abby Watkins
ACMG Alpine Guide
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