ELBOW LAKE - Full moon/partial eclipse - no headlamps

I ended up with last minute Kanananaskis camping reservations for the week of this hike and it's my first time camping this summer. So, rather than driving back into the city, I'm moving this hike to Elbow Lake. We'll hike up to the hike, around the lake, have a campfire (if no ban), and enjoy the full moon in the mountains. Hot dogs, marshmallows, and roasting sticks recommended. I'll bring firestarter, kindling, and matches. Please try to leave your headlamps in your bag and hike with the light of the moon. Please update your availability. Meet at the Elbow trailhead parking. Arrange carpooling, if you like.

I intend to post a Glenbow Ranch evening hike once a month throughout the year, (weather and health of the organizer dependent). It will serve multiple purposes. During the winter months, we will hike as a close group, to enjoy the sunset and the rise of the full moon. This hike will also keep us in shape when we can't get to the mountains, and will allow me to get to know new to me hikers before I take them to the mountains. I have started limiting my challenging mountain hikes to people I have hiked with before. This is due to super fast hikers signing up and running ahead of the group, super slow hikers signing up and making the group wait for them and a few hikers who can't seem to get along with anyone or follow the rules, making it an uncomfortable hike for everyone.

So! I'm posting a Thursday evening hike at Glenbow Ranch for everyone. Beginners
and experienced hikers welcome. Regardless of your speed and experience, I expect you to show up prepared, get along with others, and hike at the pace of the group. No running ahead or asking to change the route. I will try to post this once a month. In the winter months, I will post it on the evening of a full moon, so we can hike under the stars (no headlamps).

There will be a minimum of four and maximum of 12 hikers.

The route will vary month to month, but it may be on pavement, dirt trails, open, and treed, flat, and with some hills. We will hike for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours (7pm-9pm or 10pm). Between 5 and 11km with some elevation gain, especially near the end.

For August, we will do the Glenbow Bow River Loop. We go down the main hill and close to the Bow river. Beautiful views, with open paved or gravel paths. 10.5km and 182m of elevation gain, mostly right at the end. It will take as long as it takes, based on the group that we have (maximum 3 hours).

If you are new to me, participation in this hike will help me evaluate if you are a good fit for the group to join my mountain hikes (not too fast or slow, cooperate with the group, follow directions, no running ahead, etc.).

A waiting list has automatically been created to determine this trip’s suitability for you as a potential participant. The organizers will be checking your hike history to determine your ability to complete this trip. If the organizer deems it necessary to obtain additional information from you, please provide it, otherwise, you will remain on the waiting list.

Andy Bell's German Shepherd, Jasmine, will likely be on this hike, on a leash at all times. She is an experienced hiker and does not chase pikas, marmots, deer or bears. She is very friendly. Unfortunately, no other dogs allowed on the hike.

Backpack must include 2 liters of water, first aid kit, medications, toilet kit, snacks, and layers for all weather conditions. Good hiking books are required. Poles are optional. A positive attitude, love of nature, and sense of humour are also recommended. 🙃

Bearspray is recommended. We will hike without headlamps, but you may bring one in your backpack. Please bring a backpack and proper hiking footwear.

All participants are expected to read the Slow and Steady Waiver and Code of Conduct. You must sign the waiver at the trailhead to participate. You will need the name and phone number of an emergency contact.