| Ref: Alan Kane's
Scrambles in the Canadian Rockies
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Short pleasant approach in open forest.
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Scramble.
I don't remember exactly how long it took us to climb this mountain but
I know it was a short scramble. There was no fussing on the approach as
we followed a trail. Additionally, the combination of short distance
and minimal
height gain makes this objective a perfect candidate for days when time
or energy is lacking. In my opinion, route finding is straightforward;
I don't recall having to stop to look for the way along the ridge. We
also agreed that the scrambling isn't that difficult; the crux chimney
grants positive holds and doesn't feel particularly exposed. It's worth
mentioning that Fabrice and I returned the same way we came instead of
going down the alternate route. According to several trip reports, the
direct descent isn't especially pleasant. What I really liked about
this outing is that there's nearly no time spent in the forest, the
view is unimpeded from the start. Hiking amongst the tall majestic
mountains of Highwood Pass never disappoints. Mount Arethusa should be
considered for those who want to try a difficult scramble. If the
challenge is too great and a second trip is required when more
experienced, it's less discouraging considering the modest amount of
effort it takes to access the ridgeline. We liked this scramble!
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Mount Arethusa comes into view.
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Climbing on slab when possible.
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Gaining height fairly quickly.
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Nearing the ridge.
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Highwood Ridge and Little Arethusa south-west of us.
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About to drop down the crux chimney.
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Top of the chimney.
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Stopping midway.
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Fabrice is entering the crux chimney.
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Travelling below the ridge crest to avoid difficulties.
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Sections are on the ridge proper.
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South-east of Mount Arethusa, Storm Mountain steals the show.
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Off the ridge crest once again.
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Making good progress along the ridge.
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The ridge crest is especially broken here, there's a bypass.
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Looking back.
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Nearing the summit.
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Fabrice at the summit cairn!
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Eastern view past Mount Rae.
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Looking at the ascent ridge.
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Leaving the summit.
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Interesting rock features along the way.
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Backtracking on the convenient bypass ramp.
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This is a neat section of this scramble.
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Looking back as Fabrice negotiates the narrow path.
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There's a couple of beautiful alpine lakes on the eastern side.
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Sitting on a cool pinnacle. |
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Back up the chimney.
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On our way down the mountain.
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