Strawberry Hills - (OT3/T3) - **EXPLORATORY** Strong beginners

I did this hike two years ago, but it was so windy that we ran for shelter. I would like to try it again because the views are amazing! We will be starting at a different trailhead this time, so there may be some light bushwhacking involved.

It is a requirement to read the following trip posting very carefully and to make the proper and responsible preparations for it. Failure to do so, will result in participant not being allowed on this trip.

This trip is weather dependent, so please check the website the morning of the hike to make sure the trip has not been cancelled.

TRAIL DETAILS:
Distance: 12.4 km -/+ out and back
Elevation: 589 m elevation gain
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 4-6 hours plus driving time
Physical Difficulty: - OT3/T3 – See Trail Rating System for description of the trail rating system Slow and Steady uses.

DESCRIPTIVE LINKS:
https://bobspirko.ca/Hiking/Kananaskis/StrawberryHills/StrawberryHills.html
https://www.spectacularmountains.com/canada/kananaskis/strawberry-hills/

Weather:
https://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Mount-Etherington/forecasts/2879

RSVP RULES: Late cancellations without a valid reason, will result in a 'no show' at the organizer's discretion. Please note that 'no shows' can hinder your attendance on hikes with other organizers.

EVENT PACE: The pace for this hike will be at a steady pace, no racers. We will hike together as a group or within view, taking short breaks as required to delayer, re-layer, take pictures, and catch our breath.

TIMELINE: The duration of this event is only approximate. Please do not rush the group back for an appointment. We are out there to enjoy the day and co-hikers.

TRAILHEAD:
Strawberry Hills on AllTrails
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/alberta/strawberry-hills-route?sh=a0uw9f&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

*Google says 2.5 hours. It’s way less!

RESTRICTIONS: No dogs, no children, no guests (without permission).

REQUIRED GEAR & SUPPLIES:
· bear spray **Mandatory·
. backpack
. microspikes on hand
· hiking boots
. headlamp
· personal first aid kit
· snacks
. water (2l)
· appropriate clothing (no cotton, no jeans)
. warm layers
. gloves/mittens
· personal first aid kit
· plastic bag for your wet/muddy stuff
Watch this video on the Ten Essentials!

SUGGESTED GEAR:
· gaiters
· poles
· balaclava
· change of clothes/socks

CARPOOLING: We will meet at Shouldice Park and Ride at 7:30 a.m. Please be considerate of your driver’s vehicle and bring a change of shoes and bag for dirty footwear. Suggested gas fee contribution is $20.00. Carpool etiquette: Carpool Etiquette

CODE OF CONDUCT: By signing up for this hike, you agree to abide by the rules and regulations outlined in the Code of Conduct

CONFIDENTIAL ELECTRONIC WAIVER: You must complete the electronic waiver before you are allowed to go on this hike. You will be asked for the name and phone number of an emergency contact.
The waiver will be sent to the group a few days prior to the hike. It is located at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GPQ5QQJ

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, weather, trail and avalanche conditions for the trip. You must ensure you are fully prepared with proper gear and you're physically fit to do this hike with the group.