| Ref: Alan Kane's
Scrambles in the Canadian Rockies |
|
 |
|
|
Commonwealth Peak (center) from the trailhead. |
| Scramble: RT
7.25; 3.75 up. The sunny weather enticed us in the region again. This
scramble is not too demanding, we embraced a casual but steady pace. We
brought our bikes for the short approach. After stashing them, we hiked
on the trail to the flats. We crossed the log bridge and aimed for the
ascent gully on the other side of the marsh. We only sank ankle deep in a few
sections; soon we reached the start of the faint trail. The climb
through light timber is quick. Past treeline, grasses lead way almost
to the col. We were fortunate that cold temperature and moisture
stiffened the rubble on the upper mountain, although more ice could
have sent us back home... We gained the saddle at the base of the
scramble. A skiff of snow made it less than ideal, yet there was very
little ice on the rock; we carefully proceeded. The summit ridge is
narrow in places and the top is not roomy. After taking some pictures
and enjoying the moment, we carried on to the bottom of the scramble
where we sprawled out and took a good break, sheltered, in
the sun. I found the scrambling thrilling. This outing
is pleasant, accompanied by picturesque scenery. |
|
 |
|
Crossing the marsh towards the ascent drainage. |
|
 |
|
|
Following a faint trail through light timber. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Heading for the col. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Quickly gaining elevation. |
|
|
 |
|
|
At the col, beautiful view all around. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Starting up the obvious scree ramp. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Looking back. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Just traversed in the hidden gully. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Climbing towards the saddle and 15-meter scramble. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Stunning view of the glaciers along the way. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Cold temperature and moisture firmed up the loose rubble. |
|
|
 |
|
|
The scramble. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Stopping for a picture with Mount Sir Douglas behind. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Arms out for balance, this is narrow. |
|
|
 |
|
| Seconds away from the top. |
|
|
 |
|
| Small cairn on a cramped summit but the view is great. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Mount Assiniboine stands out in the distance. |
|
|
 |
|
|
Heading back. |
|
|  |
|
| At the top of the scramble. |
|
|  |
|
| Traversing back towards Pig's Tail and Mount Birdwood. |
|
|  |
|
| The upper slope was fast, deep plunging. |
|
|  |
|
| A very pleasant outing on a cool fall day. |
| Back
to home page |
|
|