The ACMG Training and Assessment Program’s Assistant Hiking Guide Exam ran in the Canmore area from September 4-12.
We started off with day trips in the Canmore, Kananaskis areas (Wind Ridge, Quaite Valley, West Wind, Tower Lookout, Buller Pk, Tent Ridge). Above seasonal temperatures and light winds made for warm days on the trails, with a cooling trend and some light intensity rains on September 8. The local trails are in great shape having had lots of traffic, and off trail travel is relatively easy with good game trails to follow.
We completed a 3 day backpacking trip from Sept 9-11 in the Mist Ridge area (Highwood Pass). Excellent fall conditions in that area. Major drainages are still flowing and some of the small tributaries have dried up. We experienced light freezes overnight and temperatures maxed out between 8-10 degrees each afternoon. Some unsettled weather gave short bursts of rainshowers, but this had little impact on the travel conditions. We saw signs of bear activity but had no direct observations.
Lots of folks day tripping into the Mist Mountain and Pickle Jar Lakes zones, with not much traffic deeper in the range. A beautiful area with larches just beginning to turn, well worth a visit!!
On The Map
These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.