Tai Chi madness at the Barrier Info Centre parking lot
It was 12 degrees above and sunny as twelve Ramblers headed up the trail behind Fortress gas station just before 9:30 am. The trail was free of snow until we reached the Hump.
Shirley and Susan heading up through the cliffbands
Just below the Hump we encountered a small group of Ptarmigans , still in their winter white plumage.
Ptarmigan still in winter white plumage
The group took a rest break at the Hump before proceeding up through the 'gates' to the ridge.
Heading up through 'the gates' above the Hump
South Opal from the Hump
Even at this higher elevation there wasn't much snow, perhaps around 10 cm.
Christine and Clifton just below the summit of Opal South
The snow along the ridge traverse to South Opal was firm and provided good footing and easy travel. Only one member chose to use their microspikes. The 360 degree view at the summit as usual, was exceptional.
Looking South from the summit towards Kananaskis Lake
Group photo on the summit of South Opal
A snowy Mt Evan Thomas and the Opal range from the summit
The group enjoyed a long lunch before heading back down along the ridge to the 'gates' and down to the Hump.
Fan Coral
Horn Coral
At the lower cliff bands the group took a short diversion to view the horn coral beds. Ice cream bars and juice were the order of the day back at the Fortress gas station.
Thanks to John, Susan, Nardi. Clifton, Gary, Michael, Yolande ;, Shirley, Arnold , Inge and Christine ; for joining me Kevin (S/C) on a very enjoyable off trail hike in the mountains.
