A forecasted 100km/h wind gusts and a base of 30km/h did not deter 8 ramblers. Adequately dressed we ventured through the 2020 burn area enjoying the improved views through lack of foliage. After reaching the treeline we all donned our winter gear, poles for balance and braved the wind. The forecast didn't have the timing right but once the gusts calmed down to 80km/h we really enjoyed ourselves. Views at the top were excellent and we enjoyed a leisurely break in the leeside of the fire lookout.

With a combination of a good 4x4 tow truck as backup, brazenness and adequate vehicles we managed to continued down to the river bed and saved ourselves 6km of gravel flats drudgery. It should be noted that the Transalta road is still quite rough and that descending down to the river bed on a low-clearance 2 wheel drive carries some risk of getting stranded. Ramblers kindly checked that all of us made it back out of the river bed before heading back to Calgary. We set out from the cars at 9.30 at the 37 marker, reached the top after 2h15 and returned to the cars by 14.30 with a total activity time of 4h15. Elevation gain 974m, distance 11.9km on my gps.

Thanks to all participants for the great company and making my first coordinated trip an excellent day out!

Parking spot at marker 37

Setting out through the 2020 burn area

Rest and layer-up spot on the leeside

Braving the wind above the treeline

Rambler on the plateau

Traversing the narrower stretch with severe crosswind

Group photo at the fire lookout

view over Aylmer, Astral & Devils Head

Participants: David,Alda,James,Brian,Ingrid,Jim,Margot,Sebastiaan (coordinator & scribe).

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