What a great day, I never thought we’d be hiking up Mt Burke in the early part of January. Minimal snow in the front range of our Southern Rockies was an invitation to Cameron Lookout that I couldn’t resist. We left a parking lot on Hwy 940 around 10 a.m. and hiked almost to the Cataract Creek Campground before veering right. After walking parallel with Salter Creek for about 700 metres, we connected with the trail to Mt Burke. Even though there was no ice, only ankle deep sugary snow, some chose to wear microspikes. Hiking in the forest was straight forward and perhaps we cursed ourselves by commenting on a calm wind. At treeline, we regrouped and came across someone’s random camp which was checked out by the curious. A tent was pitched on a slope that had most wondering how anyone could obtain a comfortable sleep.

Random camping on the slopes of Mt Burke. Snowshoes and other gear were outside.

Tomiji and Mikako watching White-tailed Ptarmigan. Photo by Bill Leach.

We continued upward and soon had Cameron Lookout in our sight. It was a peaceful trudge until we reached the historic venue only to be slammed by a cold gusty wind. Additional layers were put on but it was a challenge to enjoy the view in such frosty circumstances. Everyone ate quickly, snapped some photos and opted to retreat out of the gale.Once we descended about 150 metres the wind vanished.


Glenda and Janice on the first bump, not a lot of snow.

Brian and Bill checking out views further along the summit ridge.

Cold Ramblers in Cameron Lookout.

It was around here that the wind stopped, and the clouds cleared out.

We were back at the cars around 4 p.m. and the consensus was that it was a good, full day out. A huge shout out to my Rambler friends for joining me on a great winter adventure. Bill,Aldis,Janice,Brian,Christine,Mikako,Tomiji,Glenda Yours truly, Christine M c/s/p

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