Commonwealth Ridge - OT4

I have done commonwealth ridge twice before but never really enjoyed good views due windy and cloudy weather. This Sunday's nice weather inspired me to attempt it for a 3rd time.

Based on last week, there will likely be old snow on the ground. So, I myself will bring my snowshoes. Please note we will not be going to the actual summit. We will explore the ridge for a bit and turn back

**Bear spray and Microspikes are mandatory!**

As per usual, this event is weather dependent. Which means if the weather forecasts becomes unfriendly, event will be cancelled or changed.

Trail Description:

1. https://www.soistheman.com/diary/page.php?id=commonwealth-ridge

Stats:
Difficulty: OT4
Cumulative Elevation: ~850
Distance: ~10km
Time: 5-7hours + Driving + lunch
Pace: Moderate. The aim is to maintain at least a 2.5km/hr speed.

BE READY for some hard work.

Proposed Route:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/alberta/commonwealth-ridge-route

Weather:

1. https://www.windy.com/50.793/-115.338?50.793,-115.338,15,p:cities
2. https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/week/50.793N-115.338E2530_America%2FEdmonton?day=3

Meeting/Carpooling Details:
Time: 8:00am
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RteEjpagtLYhKqgXA
Trailhead:
Time: 9:45am approximately!
Trailhead Direction:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/VUMKfEh7ZEzrBWYX6

Some Ground Rules:

1. Must remain with the group and be willing to turn back with the group
2. Must participate is route finding when necessary. MUST raise concerns if any
3. Absolutely no complaining. Prepare to work hard
4. 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
5. No guests and kids

Required gear:
- Bear Spray
- Microspikes (similar to Hillsound or Kahtoola trail crampons)
- 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: SoIsTheMan)
(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)