Opal Ridge N Peak plus extra Scramble on 27-May-2025
Another spectacular day on a favourite hike with awesome Ramblers.
The trail was in good shape and we appreciated helmets as we carefully worked our way up the scree and ledges, topping out at the gorgeous ridge. I wanted to visit the two high points at the south end, but the usual high route was covered with deep soft snow at quite an alarming slope angle. But the group cheerfully agreed to lose and regain elevation (and again on the return) by skirting the base of the snowy section, and we climbed to the north start of the Opal traverse for lunch with fabulous views. We visited the outlier on the way back, by which time the weather was much sunnier and warmer.
With our extra detours, various devices averaged over 11 km and 1200m elevation in about 7 hours, including much standing around.
The only annoyance was multiple flybys by CF-18s, although they only appeared during our way up and down, not when we were on the high sections; we’ll all be glad when the G7 is over!
Participants: Nardi, Ulrike, Simon, Donna, Ingrid (coordinator), Deborah, Maryse, Stephanie
Some of the more rugged terrain on the way up
Extra caution was needed here due to mud, ice and melting snow (photo by Ulli)
Detouring around an avalanche slope
Climbing up to our highest point; after this we'll head to the lower peak at centre
Group without photographer Ulli
Coming back from exploring a bit further (photo by Donna)
Second high point of the day; first one is at upper left
Reluctantly leaving (photo by Donna)
Very soft snow
Coming down (photo by Donna)