Ref: AllTrails
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The hike starts on a good road.
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Scramble:
RT 5.0; 2.5 up. This objective was a plan B ditch effort, concocted
late in the
evening after realizing that our outing to Probity Peak
wasn't going to work out due to an access issue. We were already deep
into the wilderness when it dawned on me that driving to Revelstoke
wasn't any
longer than driving to Salmon Arm; instead of heading home, we could
still go to the mountains and ascend McCrae Peak. I knew of this peak
because I considered going there with the dogs several years ago. Milan
agreed to go along with my suggestion even though it was nearly 11 PM.
We drove passed Revelstoke and stopped along Airport Way to catch some
needed sleep; a vast roadside pull-off provided a spot to pitch the
tent. The following morning, we cooked breakfast and drove to the
trailhead. The trail is easy to follow; after a short hike, we
reached the upper mountain. The last stretch to the summit appeared
difficult; however, as we got closer, the path became clear.
Near the glacier, we tackled moderate scrambling on the ridge proper
instead of skirting the edge of the snow. It was exciting to travel
some challenging terrain before gaining the top. The weather was
somewhat unstable; multi-layered clouds shrouded neighbouring peaks,
but it was mild and dry. We enjoyed a nice stay at the summit
before returning to the truck. We were happy that we had gone ahead
with this plan B option; it proved satisfying. This outing doesn't
require much effort or planning; it is a great
destination.
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The junction where the trail leaves the road.
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There's a memorial next to the path.
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Just after the memorial is the junction of McCrae Lake and McCrae Peak.
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The objective comes into view.
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The trail is pleasant and easy to follow.
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It would be delightful to visit this unnamed lake on a hot day.
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The ridge walk is enjoyable.
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Further along, the north glacier is revealed; it is a ski touring destination.
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The toe of the glacier with Mount Darling north-east of us.
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The easiest way to the summit block is skirting the glacier's upper edge.
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We're exploring the ridge.
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The ridge proper grants short sections of moderate scrambling.
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There's some brief exposure.
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Dropping off the ridge to the easier route on the snow.
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Aiming for the scree gully in the middle of the summit block.
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Typical terrain on the last stretch.
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The vast grassy summit.
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Eastern view, Comaplix Mountain is the only discernable peak.
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Mount Cartier (left) and Ghost Peak jutting behind the ridge on the right.
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Mount Sproat and Upper Arrow Lake to the south.
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Looking at the unnamed lake in the bedrock; McCrae Lake is on the right.
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We start heading down.
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Descending the summit block.
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Just above the scree gully.
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Delightful hiking on the ridge with a great western view across the valley.
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Back in the trees.
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Back
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