Given the iffy weather forecast I was pleasantly surprised to be joined by Clifton, David, Jeannine, Alda and Harold on this short jaunt close to Calgary (and Canmore). I enjoyed some good natured ribbing about leaving Calgary at 8:30 am in the "middle" of the day - likely a latest hour ever for me on a Ramblers trip. A short drive and we met Clifton at a pretty deserted Yamnuska parking lot with maybe 5 - 6 cars  just before 9:30. We met 4-5 folks on the trail .... must admit I felt over equipped compared to them. I am not sure this one is a Scramble 6 any more if you follow the beaten path with the yellow labelling in the trees and the blue labelling on the rocks. Probably depends on how you rate the short section at and after the chain traverse. I think we were on the summit just after noon for a lunch (with fearless chipmunks wanting to share! ... a few of the group did n't remember chipmunks on the summit previously but I think increasing travel on this route is providing food!
We had avoided the forecasted rain to this point but as we descended a shower came through but cleared up by the time we got to the parking lot just after 2:00 pm. Parking lot was quite a bit more crowded - including a bus!
For me the trip was a very enjoyable social experience to catch up with old friend's upcoming activities.

Best wishes to  Clifton, David, Jeannine, Alda on your upcoming adventures and thanks for the laughs and good conversation. I heard also some good trip ideas for the future .......




Harold, Clifton, David, Alda and Jeannine summit Mount Yamnuska

Outlier of Goat mountain - reminded me of the Misty mountains in Lord of the Rings.

Addendum ... thought I would include these items for historical insight .....

The Ramblers first club hike was up Yamnuska in May 1954 - I have a lot of respect for these early pioneers ... this was before the Trans Canada Highway was built and they hiked from "Camp Chief Hector" ... quite a ways from the present trailhead parking lot ... unfortunately no summit photo but I am sure some of the group made it. Interesting, for me,  to look at how things have changed. Included, at the end, below is a photo of an ascent the club did on the 50th anniversary in 2004 of the club's first trip.  (notice even in the last 10 years cairn has been destroyed - why?). Sandy's comment "inauspicious beginning and was followed by some similar experiences. However, I'm pleased to say that our organization has improved"  here http://www.ramblers.ab.ca/wdhistory/memtrips1#fir I think so Sandy but you have to like that pioneering spirit !



1954 Yamnuska hike

First Rambler hike: Yamnuska

First Rambler hike: Yamnuska

First Rambler hike: Yamnuska

50th Anniversary climb of Yamnuska