We finally got all four "Counsellor Bros" together for a day in the mountains! Aware of increasing avalanche risk in the area, we chose the protected and scenic hiking/snowshoe route to Rummel Lake. Even with a cloudy grey sky, we enjoyed great views of the Spray Valley and surrounding snow-topped wilderness while musing about various psychological phenomena. The hike to Rummel Lake is a relatively easy trip, great for hikers of all fitness levels who are looking for a beautiful half-day in the mountains without having to commit too much time and physical energy.
Trail Description:
Park on the pullout on the side of Mt Shark Road, signed for Engadine Lodge, 30km beyond the Canmore Nordic Centre on Smith-Dorrien / Spray Trail (Hwy 742). The trail begins on the opposite side of the highway, gently ascending through thick forest for the first thirty minutes. Views of Spray Valley and surrounding peaks appear as the obvious trail continues climbing through trees. Cross a small footbridge over Rummel Creek around the one hour mark, and arrive at Rummel Lake at 4.3 km (about 1.5 hours) from the trail-head. The lake, directly beneath the impressive Mt Galatea, was a great spot to stop for a snack while enjoying the natural beauty of this quiet and picturesque destination.
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| Beginning of the trail |
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| The route is obvious for the entire hike |
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| Brad is in his element |
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| Views open to reveal the foggy Tent Ridge |
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| Elliot and Brad enjoy the views from the first major clearing |
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| Mt Engadine to the north |
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| Gavin playing in the snow |
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| Bridge over Rummel Creek |
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| Mt Galatea can be seen from the bridge |
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| Elliot checks out Mt Galatea |
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| The face of adventure |
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| Arriving at the snow-covered Rummel Lake |
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| Rummel Lake |
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| Gavin poses on the frozen Rummel Lake, below Mt Galatea |
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| The only visible "lake" this time of year |
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| "Counsellor Bros" |
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| Rummel Creek, just downstream from the lake |
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| Brad by Rummel Creek |
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| Trailblazing back to the official trail |
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| Cool blue cloud on our way back to the trail-head |
Looks like a great day!
ReplyDeleteIt was! A great way to spend some time with those guys :)
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