When we arrived at the Heart Creek trailhead parking lot it looked like the mountain would be crawling with people, but the large group of Boy Scouts was heading for the Quaite Valley group campground. It turned out the only other group on the mountain was from Winnipeg.


Seeking shade and a cool backrest

It was a hot summer day—at last—and for a change we sought shade and a cool back rest for lunch at the peak, after slogging up the rough ascent ridge. One unusual challenge was squinting into the sun, which was shining down the mountain precisely in our eyes.


Ridge between Heart Mountain and Grant MacEwan Peak

The scenery on the ridge route was lovely, with intense blue sky complementing the greenery. The crocuses were still blooming in profusion by the dregs of melting snowbanks.


Climbing to Grant MacEwan Peak

We followed the limestone ridge to the second peak, which is Grant MacEwen Peak.


The Magnificent Seven at Grant MacEwen Peak

At the summit of Grant MacEwen, the Magnificent Seven: Andy, Lupita, Joe, Norman, Ron, Jim, and Carl, coordinator and scribe.


Leaving Grant MacEwan for top #3

We headed east along the ridge to the next top, with views all the way back to downtown Calgary.


Valentine-shaped Heart Mountain

If anyone wonders why it is called Heart Mountain, the mountain bears a striking resemblance to a Valentine heart from this side.


Descent route on Heart Mountain loop

The descent ridge is a rough “trail,” with loose ball bearings throughout. A couple of us fell down but escaped with minor cuts and scrapes. At the bottom of the descent it was hot and sticky, but we cooled ourselves by filling our hats with cool, clear water from a stream. Mosquito action was very light above and below treeline. Back at the cars by 4:30, we checked out the bar at the new Stoney casino. Unfortunately we could not stay for the buffet, but it looked very good for $14.95. The building is definitely first class construction, with a lot of Rundle rock and tile, although a bit austere.