Mount Howard from Canyon Creek Scramble on 7-Oct-2024

Gillean Daffern calls Mt Howard a "staggeringly beautiful ridgewalk", so naturally it's been on my wish list for a shoulder season trip for a while. Alas, the wind did not cooperate: instead of the forecast 30 gusting to 50, it was at least 60 gusting to 80, and I was at risk of getting blown off my feet despite planting all 4 limbs. The others were quick to agree that continuing wouldn't be much fun, so we retreated and were back at the car by 2:00 for a beautiful drive home with golden aspen and red birch views. It was still a good hike (15 km and almost 800m elevation gain) and I'll try again next year!

Participants: Scott, Ingrid (coordinator), John

The route out of Canyon Creek is obvious

Looking forward to a long ridge walk!

On the ridge in morning sun

First lunch with us looking longingly at Howard. Even this spot wasn't sheltered so we weren't there for long.

Group grimacing in the gale