Mt Buller North Ridge Snowshoeing on 12-Dec-2021

It sure was an adventure getting to the trailhead on Hwy 742 after the previous day’s snowfall. We came upon one Rambler stuck in the middle of the road just above Goat Creek Day Use on the Canmore side. Nothing like seeing familiar faces I’m sure, when you’re entrenched so deep in the white stuff. After digging out with shovels and pushing with all our might, we were on our way. By the time everything was sorted, and everyone met at the trailhead, I knew this was a hardy group. We were on our way to the north ridge of Mt Buller around 10 a.m. Conditions were superb for snowshoeing; we headed into the trees and soon crossed the High Rockies Trail. Continuing along a rib the terrain became very steep and we were travelling through about 40 cm of fresh snow that was layered on a crust. When we reached larch level it was magical, and I could sense a “we’re almost there feeling,” after two hours of heavy duty trailbreaking through the trees. Snow depth increased to approximately 80 cm through this section and it was here we found a sheltered spot to refuel before continuing onto a wind blasted ridge. Some opted to continue onto the col while others stayed on the ridge taking photos. The wind was fierce, and cold so we didn’t stay long before venturing down using our uptrack. We were back at the cars at 3:30 p.m., total trip 5.5 hours including lunch and breaks. Kudos to Tom for breaking trail, along with Margot, Jane and Jim. Even though the view wasn’t spectacular due to weather, the snow conditions were excellent resulting in an outstanding day. A winter ascent on snowshoes to Mount Buller’s North Ridge was as first for everyone. Thank you Christine,Jim,Kevin,Teresa,Jane,Lenard,Glenda,Margot,guest {-1 Thomas Watson} for such an enjoyable day with loads of fun. Also, to Kevin for the photos. Yours truly, Christine.