We met at Bow Summit's lower parking lot early saturday morning. Starting from there, we would be avoiding travel on thawing Peyto Lake. This route added a steep 300-meter descent (ascent on return) to reach the moraines, we jotted that down as "the price of admission" for this trip. I was shocked to see the lack of snow on the moraines. That's when I realized that gaining the glacier would require much determination and perseverance. Hiking in talus with ski boots and an awkward pack weighing 40 lbs isn't easy, this adventure would definitely leave an impression on all of us. Luckily for Kevin and I, a stretch of snow beyond the flats interrupted the slog; we were both pleased to take the skis off the packs to ascend the moraine. Easy travel was short-lived though, we had to stow the skis for the steeper part of the ascent and the section leading to the Glaciology Research Center. From the center, travel greatly improved. We roped up and pleasantly trekked to our chosen camp location, it took us 10 hours. We enjoyed a windless bluebird afternoon surrounded by the stunning snowcovered peaks of the Wapta Icefield.
The night was calm and mild. We awoke at 2 AM under a starry sky, temperature barely below zero. We quickly set off towards Trapper Peak a short distance away, the terrain was easily negotiated. Predawn light was soon upon us and the neighbouring mountains' silhouettes were discernible. We left skis and snowshoes at the base of Trapper and engaged on the steep north-east face. The snow was mostly firm but probing the snowpack revealed a superficial freeze atop soft snow, clearly it was imperative to be off the slopes once they started baking in the sun. Our early start gave us sufficient time to ascend and catch the phenomenal sunrise on the summit ridge, the timing was perfect! A short scramble led to a narrow ridge that quickly delivered us to the confined corniced summit. We enjoyed the alpenglow on the mountains around, the scenery was exquisite. I could tell that Kevin was deeply impressed. We stayed on the summit long enough to soak in the view and snap numerous pictures. Our descent was speedy, we chased the shade off the slopes ahead of us. A fun glissade back to our gear followed. We were very thrilled with this amazing ascent, Kevin and I were also looking forward to an effortless ski back to camp. What came next was disheartening. One of my skis dislodged from the snow without my brake engaged and started down the slope. I tried to stop it by throwing my alpine axe at it but that failed. Doug followed it as it nearly missed landing in the only crevasse in sight. I charged down on one ski leaving Kevin to figure how to ski, not the best thing to do but he did just fine maneuvering the low angled terrain without losing control.
Back at the tent, we took the time to relish the heat of the sun and rehydrate, it was only 7 AM. Once packed, we casually descended to the toe of the glacier; the ski down was pleasant and effortless despite all the weight on my back. Kevin executed wide controlled turns, his skiing had improved quickly and Doug's fast pace kept him in close range. By the time we climbed back to the Glaciology Research Center, the heat was almost unbearable and I was really feeling the accumulated fatigue. We had another long break before tackling the moraines carrying the skis. Good grief, I couldn't even lift my pack anymore, the guys had to help me. When I reached the long stretch of snow, I decided to ski to the flats even if the snow was rotten; I just wanted a break from the heavy load. This worked out good giving me an additional break while I waited for Doug and Kevin. The following trudge on talus was brutal, I was happy to see Doug retreat in the trees for a break in some shade before walking the flats and climbing the final 300 meters to the lookout. I remember being so thirsty. My pace was quite slow for the remainder of the return, I felt depleted. We climbed the slide path to the trail which was discernible despite the remaining snow. Higher up, to avoid deep postholing, we put on skis and snowshoes. Reaching the lookout was a glorious moment, soon all this hardship would become a vague memory associated with this awesome adventure on the glacier. Trapper Peak had indeed been a fine objective and the weather was all we could have asked for. Thanks to Kevin and Doug for making this trip super special!
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
Picture courtesy of Doug Lutz.
