June 3, 2019 - Hell's Ridge, Lower Cataract, Kananaskis

Ken and Kirsten were not able to make it to MMHC today, so we improvised a little bit.  Our good friend Kirk Taylor agreed to fill in at the last minute, joining us on our hike up to Hell's Ridge.  Kirk is not a regular hiker, but is always up for an adventure, or for trying something new.  We picked him up at 9:00 and were on the trail at about 10:30.

On the trail at about 10:30, layered down by 10:45.

The weather was beautiful and sunny, with a forecasted high of 25 C.  We did the hike in a clockwise manner, starting off north following the trail parallel to the road and Etherington Creek.  After about 4 km we headed up onto the ridge at the small cairn.

Small cairn on right-hand side of the trail heading north.

After the steep climb we enjoyed many views both east (Mount Mann, Cataract Creek, Lookout Range) and west (Raspberry Ridge, High Rock Range).

Top of Hell's Ridge after the initial ascent.

Looking back towards Highwood Junction.

I have always enjoyed ridge walks, and this one was no exception.  It was a rolling ridge with many peaks, and numerous viewpoints.  There were many great spots suitable for breaks or lunch.  I also enjoyed the wildflowers which are all starting to bloom.

Wildflowers, looking east towards Lookout Range

The trail was easy to follow, or pick up when lost, however the exit point is not easy to find (if it even exists).  This is one thing I wish was improved in Kananaskis - there are hundreds of trails and routes in Kananaskis, but almost no signage.  I think it would be relatively easy to put out a call for volunteers and donors to obtain and install trail markers that would make trails more accessible and less intimidating for new hikers.  In my mind placing trail markers or signs at critical and/or non-obvious junctions wouldn't be too difficult, and wouldn't take away from the peaceful and remote feel of Kananaskis.
The initial descent where we decided to exit, was very steep.  After about 500 m it did ease, and we were lucky enough to pick up a trail marked by orange ribbons that took us most of the rest of the way.  It was a relief to finally come out on the initial trail about 100 m from the trailhead.

Back on the trail, on the home stretch.

I think it's safe to say that we were all a little tired, and more than thirsty (it was 26.5 C on the drive home).  We tried stopping in at Highwood House for a pop, but it was closed so we had to wait until we got back to Longview, where we stopped for a pop and a bag of chips.

It was a beautiful day, and a great hike, with lots of laughs.  Thanks again to our good friend Kirk who kept us company, and provided the high-quality entertainment!!