My motivation for being "out & about" these days is at the lowest level ever and it is taking loads of self talk to just "get up & go"! Today's destination was to the big rock at the end of the Cosmic Ray Road which is up the back side of Sulphur Mountain. The terminal building on Sulphur Mountain is closed for construction and the closure includes the entire length of the boardwalk, which is why the big rock was our destination. There was no closure though of the Sundance Trail area where Bear #148 has been hanging out lately, we knew we would need to be extra cautious along that section. The weather forecast was for rain/snow. So the self talk began and when all was said, I just got up & went! One thing I do know for sure is that once I finally get "out & about", I am very happy that I "got up & went". Today was no different.
first open view
looking back and seeing a tiny speck of blue
It seemed to take forever to reach that big rock and to where the closure warning sign was. I chalked up the foreverness to having no views and that as the snow accumulated the hiking became more laboured. One thing I do know for sure is that I liked being up here without having another single soul around other than my three friends. That being said, we could hear the construction folks off in the distance at the terminal but due to pretty much zero visibility, we could not see them.
We found a sheltered place to spread out and settle down. Lunch did not take long, there was no need for it nor want for it. For the descent, I left my extra dining layers on and then found a spot to take care of our summit shot business. This is my summit shot.
no matter what the conditions, I need to incorporate a little fun time
One thing I do know for sure is that I am happy about the snowfall.
I look forward to strapping on my X-C skis.
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!
At times I found my mind wandering to visions of gliding along the Great Divide and...
...soaring down Moraine Lake Road.
The descent portion of our hike was quick and it seemed like in no time we were back down to the flat trail beside the river. The snow turned to sprinkles then to rain. The overcastness brought out the beautiful color of the Bow River. Even with the cloud coverage and the falling rain, we were still afforded gorgeous reflections.
I tried out my new North Face winter hiking boots for today's trek. I brought along another pair of boots to change into in case these new boots gave me grief. After 16 kilometres and 850 meters of elevation gain, my feet where happy feet. One thing I do know for sure is that these boots are keepers.
I was so happy I gave into all that self talk and got to enjoy another great day in our playground. It was extra special to stand on the deck of the hotel room at the end of our day and view that great valley and vastness that was right before our eyes and where we just spent our day. Thank you for that offer.
One thing I do know for sure is that I love knowing things for sure!
You seemed to reach the summit so quickly. I love the photos of the ice on the Bow River.
ReplyDeleteGreat news about the boots. I have far too many pairs that just don't do the job even when I have painstakingly selected them.
Yes, I know there are some days I really have to talk myself into getting out and going on a hike. But I'm always glad I did. You have some beautiful country to hike around in.
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