Exshaw Ridge OT4
Details
Exshaw Ridge is a great early season trip that offers amazing views apparently. Me, Nikhil and Jiri tried it last year on our snowshoes and had so much fun. So, I am hopeful about this especially because of the gorgeous weather on Saturday.
I heard the trail was somewhat dry but I will still bring my microspikes.
Due to the difficulty related to parking I am asking everyone to carpool
As usual all my hikes are weather dependent. We will turn back if the weather becomes dangerous/unsafe.
**Microspikes and bear spray are mandatory!**
Trail Description:
- https://autumnsky.zenfolio.com/rockies/canmore/exshaw-ridge
- https://bobspirko.ca/Hiking/ExshawRidge/ExshawRidge.htm
Stats:
Cumulative Elevation: ~1000meters
Distance: ~17km
Time: 6-9 hours + Driving + lunch
Pace: Moderate. The aim is to maintain at least a 2.0km/hr speed.
Difficulty: OT4 or Class 2
BE READY for some hard work.
Proposed Route:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/map-427357d-14?u=m&sh=vmrvmg
Weather:
https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/week/exshaw-mountain_canada_5950735?day=6
Meeting/Carpooling Details:
Time: 7:03am
Location: Shouldice Park and Ride
1409 Home Rd NW, Calgary, AB T3B 1G7
Trailhead:
Time: 8:04am approximately!
Trailhead Direction:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3uwngfaUA8HUFsYj7
Some Ground Rules:
- Must remain with the group and be willing to turn back with the group
- Must participate is route finding when necessary. MUST raise concerns if any
- Absolutely no complaining. Prepare to work hard
- We are out for the day. Don't rush the group because you have a birthday party to attend to in the evening or some other crap
- No guests and kids
- Be BEAR SMART
- Leave no trace
Required gear:
- Microspikes (similar to Hillsound or Kahtoola trail crampons)
- Bear Spray
- headlamps
- Enough warm layers
- hiking boots, water (at least 2L), lunch / snacks, technical clothing (no cotton or jeans), hat/gloves for cold weather and wind
- first aid kit
- electronic or paper maps
- NO bear bells
Suggested gear:
- rain coat/windbreakers, scrambling gloves
- bug spray, tick tweezers
- gaiters
- light pad to sit on, hiking poles
- sunscreen, sunglasses, toilet kit
- SOS sending device (Garmin, SPOT etc.)
Waitlist and RSVP rules:
It is NOT an inclusive event due to it's nature and safety. If I don't know you, then you must answer the questions. Preference will be given to those who I know is a good fit for the event as well as the group. I reserve the right deny anyone access to this event if necessary. I will make additional inquiries if I am not sure about your fitness or experience.
WAIVER:
You must sign our club waiver before you are allowed to go on this trip. You will need to provide 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 meetup location and/or 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 (if applicable) 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.
(Photo Credit: Zenfolio)
(This event post is inspired by many organizers I have hiked with in this club - Mark & Terri, Lisa W, Atash, Wesley Cook, Mark S, Mark K, Michael K)
Exshaw Ridge OT4