Day 1: Gates of the David Thompson (S5)

Yes, that's the name of the peak. This looks like a great early season objective and, as the name suggests, it's the gateway to the David Thompson area. I wanted to get it done last year but the timing never worked out, so let's get it done this year before I head off to South America. When I was out in this area last year at the same time of year, I fell in love with the David Thompson area. The views were great and it feels more remote for some reason even though it's not, probably because there isn't a lot of traffic here. I booked some spots at the Shunda Creek Hostel and plan to stay there on Saturday night after this hike. This is the first objective of a two-day trip to the DTC. Let me know when you're signing up if you plan to stay the night or if you're coming for a day trip. (Photo credit - Vern Dewitt)

🌲 Distance: 13.5km
🌲 Elevation gain: 1350m
🌲 Time: 8 hours
🌲 Max Group Size: 6 (No children, No Pets, No guests)
🌲 Difficulty: S5 route
🌲 Meeting Location: Shouldice Park and Ride
🌲 Descriptive Link: https://www.explor8ion.com/2023/05/13/gates-to-the-david-thompson/

🌲 If we have not hiked together before, please answer the question regarding your hiking experience. The waitlist for this event is not first come, first serve, but rather is based on your hiking/scrambling experience that is suitable for this hike.
🌲 I prefer to move at a moderate and steady pace with short breaks only when necessary (e.g., re/delayering, bathroom, snacks, lunch). This means that if you need to stop for frequent and/or elaborate photo shoots at every large boulder and pseudo-view point, please do not sign up. It is also a must that the GROUP STAYS TOGETHER, so don't sign up if you want to take off to do exploratory route finding through the bushes or up an uninviting gully or trying to set a personal best time. It is also not acceptable to break off into your own small group to selfishly bag a peak and then head back to the trailhead while leaving the rest of the group behind.

🌲 Required gear:
- microspikes
- helmet
- headlamp
- water
- lunch / snacks
- hiking boots
- hat / gloves
- sensible outdoor clothing (no cotton, no jeans)
- appropriate layers for changing weather (rain shell, down jacket, etc.)
- personal first aid kit, toilet kit
- trekking poles
- sunglasses

🌲 WAIVER: You must sign the club waiver before you are allowed to go on this trip and you shall arrive prepared with an emergency name and phone number to be recorded on the waiver. The organizer will have a group waiver for you to sign at the trailhead.
🌲 Disclaimer: You are fully aware that your hosts are volunteers and not trained guides and you assume all responsibility for your own safety and well-being. All participants are responsible for assessing the current road conditions, current weather conditions, your current physical condition, current trail conditions and current avalanche conditions for the trip and you are responsible for your safety and well-being. You are fully prepared with proper gear and you're physically fit to do this hike with the group.