Who would think that a measly 6.5 km - round trip! - could be so tough? Obviously the 6 sheep we saw (including two new lambs) don’t have a problem with the terrain, but the almost 900 m of elevation gain over such a short distance was an intense workout for us two-legged creatures.

We steadily climbed on good trail in quite nice conditions other than some mud from the previous night’s rain. After we rounded the corner of the mountain into the beautiful back chutes and valleys, the terrain became even more vertical. We realized that we would have to cross a long snow gully where a slip could potentially be quite serious, but careful testing showed that the snow was supportive and held kick steps well. So we continued up into decreasing temperatures and a nasty cold wind at the col. It is a stunningly beautiful place, and the last leg to the summit was straightforward but interrupted by much picture-taking.

The summit was cool but not as windy as the col, so lunch was comfortable. It was nice enough that we spent some extra time pulling out 4 different emergency beacons and learning how to turn them on and call for help - a very worthwhile exercise.

The trip back was uneventful (although hard on the knees!) and we were back at the cars after 5 1/4 hours.

Thanks to Simon and Chip for photos, and to everyone for an amazing day out. We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to hike with such wonderful people!

Participants: David, Dean, Jeannette, Chip, John, Simon, Ingrid coordinator .

The short scramble up a rockband

Meeting of the beige hat club, with a couple of interlopers

Crossing the snow gully

Nearing the summit

Lunch (note the change of headwear)

Ramblers in their natural habitat