Park
at Quartz Creek parking lot on the south side of highway 1, 768035.
Quad or bike the Quartz Creek FSR to the sign indicating the end of
motorized traffic, 767932. From there, hike a short distance on the
trail past some open slopes on the left, aiming for the forest's edge,
764925. Ascend to the ridge and head south-east towards Dauntless
Mountain's highpoint, 783911. Near the summit, difficulties are easily
circumvented on the south side. The official summit (50 m. lower) is
about 2 kilometers away along the connecting ridge.
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After about 13 kilometers, we parked the ATV at the sign.
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Scramble: RT 8.75; 4.5 up (from the
ATV). After a short absence from the mountains, I was keen to get out, despite the forecasted rainy weather. I had to
plan a short and easy trip close to home because I was recovering from
surgery and I was leaving for Montreal the next day; Dauntless Mountain
came to mind. I managed to convince Fabrice; this could be our last
outing without snowshoes or skis. At the parking lot, the sound of rain
on the truck wasn't motivating but we were prepared... We suited-up
with our Helly Hansen rain gear and used the ATV for a quick approach.
After parking the ATV at a sign indicating the end of motorized access,
we hiked for a short distance along a wide trail. We left the trail and
started climbing along the forest's edge to gain the ascent ridge.
Along the way, the rain turned to wet snow. Once on ridge, the wind
picked up drastically; we were very pleased to have our rain gear! We
continued on the ridge feeling quite sheltered from the elements.
Travel was easy but I walked very slowly to prevent a mishap. Even with
reduced
visibility, we simply followed the ridge. The terrain becomes more
complex near the top but luckily, we were able to circumvent
difficulties. We were happy to reach the summit; we didn't mind the
weather or lack of view. We retraced our steps back down after a brief
pause and took a couple of nice breaks where we found some shelter from
the wind. We reached the truck before dusk and drove home with the
heater on full blast; now I was ready to go back east!
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Prepared for a long day out in the rain.
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Following a short walk, we ascended the right skyline along the forest's edge.
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The rain quickly turned to wet snow.
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Nearing the north-west ridge.
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It's very windy on the ridge, hurray for Helly Hansen!!!
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Visibility was greatly reduced.
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We circumvented this broken rockband climber's left.
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Looking back.
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The terrain becomes more interesting.
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Some deep snowdrifts along the way.
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Further along the ridge.
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Nearing the summit.
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Navigating through complex terrain just ahead of the summit.
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The highest point of Dauntless Mountain, yippee!
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Looking down Cabin Valley (local name).
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The ridge drops and continues to the lower official summit, 2 kilometers away.
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We're happy to turn around after a brief break enjoying the view and weather!
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Leaving the top.
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Last glimpse towards the summit.
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Retracing our steps.
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More of the same.
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On the way down, we noticed some sloughing on the north side.
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Still quite windy.
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The snow is diminishing.
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Easy trekking back down, the snow has changed to rain.
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Back on the trail.
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| Back
to home page
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