Sparrowhawk Tarns (OT4) Relaxed Pace

Let''s hike up to Sparrowhawk Tarns. Located in Spray Lakes Provincial Park, south of Canmore, this is a moderate hike that includes forest paths, boulder and rock areas, meadows with wildflowers and of course the tarns. A Kananaskis pass is required for this hike. The area is known for fossils, marmots, pikas and bighorn sheep. Participation is not first come first serve but at the discretion of the organizer. Read the entire event description to see if this hike is right for you. In order to be considered, you must answer all the RSVP questions.
Trip Details:
https://hikebiketravel.com/sparrowhawk-tarns/
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/alberta/sparrowhawk-tarns--2?search=true
https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?https://www.gaiagps.com/datasummary/track/72a8756a-d2e4-4ba8-ab91-262f9d028c87/
Time: Arrive at 9:00 ready to hike at 9:15 (6+ hours plus driving time) I am camping this week at Boulton Creek and will be out of cell service. If you are late, you won't be able to reach me so plan to arrive early and ready to hike by 9:15.
Trailhead: Sparrowhawk Day Use Area https://maps.app.goo.gl/gtVxvV3j9weCZhPL8
Distance: about about 13k return (this is an in and out hike)
Elevation Gain: ~700mm
Physical Difficulty: OT4 routes may have sustained steep hill climbs usually on grassy or wooded slopes. Streambed hikes may encounter long stretches of loose boulders to navigate. Boots with good ankle support and more aggressive tread are best for these trips. Hiking poles can be a definite asset for maintaining balance.
Pace: Relaxed and steady on the ascent, moderate on the way down. Expect breaks to delayer, snack, photos and a relaxed lunch before turning back. It is expected that everyone stays together in a group for safety. If you are not willing to stay with the group, this hike may not be the right hike for you. Remember - the journey is as important as the destination!
**Weather:**https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/2-6082773/Canada/Alberta/Mount%20Sparrowhawk
Attendees: 4-8 Max. (no guests no dogs) Participation is not first come first served and is at the discretion of the organizer.
Trailhead: Sparrowhawk Day Use Area. Expect about a 95 minute drive from Shouldice Park and Ride
🌲 The waitlist for this event is not first come, first serve, but based on ability to fit into the group to make the hike enjoyable for everyone. Those that do not answer the RSVP question will remain on the waitlist.
🌲 Carpooling: use the comment section to offer or request a ride. Suggested gas fee: $25
🌲 What to bring: Minimum 2L water, snacks. *bear spray, backpack, appropriate layers, hat, personal-sized first aid kit, personal medications (if needed).
🌲 Suggested Gear: poles, camera/bathroom kit (toilet paper, plastic bag to carry out used T.P., hand sanitizer, etc.), lightweight pad to sit on, change of footwear for during or after the hike.

CARPOOLING

Carpooling will not be arranged for this hike. However, if you wish to carpool, it is at your own discretion, and please follow the recommended Covid guidelines . Rides can be arranged in the comments section or via private personal messages. Suggested gas fee contribution is $20.00 per person. Please be considerate of your driver’s car and bring a change of shoes and a plastic bag for dirty footwear.
PARTICIPATION WAIVER
You must sign our 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. Organizer will have a group waiver for you to sign at the trailhead. You are required to read the Slow and Steady Hiker Club Waiver:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Qi7owQNOgRIIp3Q2LGuRz3tak0su3r1E4MXe--j6DjM/edit?usp=sharing
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.