It was a superb start for the first introduction to mountaineering course of the summer on the Wapta Icefields. Eight keen participants spent June 11-16 at the Bow hut training up to improve and sharpen mountain travel skills. The week was mixed weather but we still managed to get out every day and explore the peaks and glaciers. After making ourselves at home in the hut we divided up climbing equipment and had the first of many family style meals. Having the hut and mountains all to ourselves was an extra special treat.
Although we’d walked in snow quite a bit already we headed to the glacier and practiced snow travel techniques and proper ice axe use. It was an excellent day to view springs advances on the still very wintery Icefields of the Wapta.
The next day dawned us with a gorgeous sunrise and perfect travel conditions to climb our first peak, the 10,300ft Mt. Olive. Great conditions made for secure steps up the snow to a calm summit. We remained in the clear as weather built to the south. It was impeccable timing as we descended to the hut in the growing storm. Hot drinks and a warm fire dried us out as we savoured the days achievements.
Winter returned the next few days but that didn’t keep our crew from practicing crevasse rescue and climbing Mt. Gordon. Although we saw nothing on the summit everyone had studied the map to make a route plan and didn’t feel too lost in the white out.
Before you could say crevasse the last breakfast of yummy eggs, hash browns and bacon was all gone and we wrapped up the week. Thanks to all for a fun week of learning. It was a pleasure being with everyone.
Happy trails.
Merrie-Beth
Yamnuska Guide
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