D5 - Tent Ridge Hike / Scramble

http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS0r9p_uI-gbkgia6cMumLBGz8qmQDPB1TLB1hm4PtXL6KD7uDRbw

In order to participate in this trip, you will need to be a Member 2013 of CORA. Fees are now payable online. (Check left handside of this page) If you are not a member when you sign up, or have not paid as a guest, you will be removed from the Attendees List.

This is a challenging hike due to the elevation gain, light scrambling, and brief route-finding. This lesser-known trail is located near Mount Engadine Lodge in Kananaskis Country. This is "one of the most enjoyable ridge walks you will ever take," according to the Gillian Daffern's Kananaskis Country trail guide. This hike traverses the Tent Ridge horseshoe taking in three summits with one section of easy scrambling. Views of Robertson, French, Sir Douglas, Commonweath, Birdwood, Smuts and The Fist are part of the reward. Not to mention Watridge Lake, Marushka (Shark) Lake, Spray Lake and the Bryant Creek Valley.

The pace will be moderate and steady with stops for photos. The ridge does narrow somewhat so please make sure you are comfortable with this type of scramble. No beginners please. It also gets very windy, so bring appropriate clothing. We'll stop by Mt. Engadine Lodge for tea and snacks afterwards and admire the views from the deck if there are no private functions going on. .

Distance: 11 km Hiking Loop
Roundtrip Time: 6 - 7 hours on trail + 4 hrs driving.
Height gain: 830m

PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE DESCRIPTION.

Rules of Conduct (clickable): By participating in this CORA activity, you automatically agree to follow the CORA Rules of Conduct. Please read them by clicking here.

RSVP:
Update your RSVP as early as possible, at least 48 hours before the meeting time. If you are unable to attend for any reason whatsoever, Be courteous to those waiting to attend. Please indicate in your COMMENTS if you can drive, if necessary. I need to know if we have adequate transportation for all participants, not your preference to ride.

My cell phone is 403-540-8711.

TRIP WAIVER AND CONDITIONS: You must sign a trip waiver to attend this event.

Level:
This is a strenuous hike. An average level of fitness is required because our pace will be steady. Please be realistic about your abilities. Please gauge your abilities appropriately. Organizers are not here to babysit you.

Driving and Directions:
To get there we'll meet in the parking lot at Dalhousie C-Train Station. From there we will drive west on Hwy 1 to the Lake Louise ski area. We will park at the Fish Creek trailhead area.

Weather forecast: unknown.
Trail conditions: unknown.

Costs:
Members are free. Non-members fee is $5. Gas contributions for drivers (see below).

Transport:
CORA trips start at the trailhead. As a convenience to participants only, we meet at the meeting point in Calgary then car pool from there. Please be on time. We don't want to have to wait around long. You may choose to meet us at the trailhead, but please advise us ahead of time. Please indicate in your RSVP COMMENTS if you can drive, if necessary. Please reimburse some $$ to drivers for gas.

EQUIPMENT: Weather can change quickly -- rain, snow, wind, warm, or cold -- BE PREPARED. NO COTTON!

Mandatory - sense of humour, lunch, 2-3+ litres of water (if it’s hot and sunny always add a litre), layers, sturdy boots (unless you’re going shopping, runners or sandals are never appropriate footwear)
Recommended - camera, gaiters, hiking poles, bear spray.