July 29, 2019 - Grizzly Col, Kananaskis Valley, Kananaskis

Another beautiful Monday, and another beautiful hike.  The summer of guest hikers in the MMHC continued with Ken and Kir off hosting their cousins from France.  In addition to Sam returning for a third MMHC hike this summer, our very good friend TT, and her daughter Abby, joined us on a MMHC first-time hike - Grizzly Col.
We arrived at the Highwood Pass parking lot around 9:30.  It was about 15 C with mostly sunny skies and a light breeze - perfect weather for a great hike.  The going was a little muddy at first, but nothing that would make us contemplate turning around.  Once we got through the forest portion the views started to appear.  There are beautiful meadows all the way until the final approach to the col.  The wild flowers were in full bloom today with just about every colour present.

View back towards Mount Rae, Ptarmigan Cirque on the very right.

Sam on a snow patch on the way.

When we arrived at the final approach to the col, a slowly rising scree traverse, we decided we would go for as long as everybody felt comfortable.  Except for one steep section, which was more of a worry for the descent, the trail is well defined and relatively easy.

Sam on his way up  the final approach.

Mandy and TT just below the col.

The views from the col were spectacular as we sat and enjoyed our lunch.  We knew TT would have something gourmet and she did not disappoint!  Parmesan covered chick peas as an appetizer, and quiche (veggie or with bacon) was offered up to everybody.  Mmmmmmmmm!!  We were entertained (or horrified) by a group of four plus one dog, that were in the final stages of gaining the summit ridge of Mount Tyrwhitt.  Truth be told, I felt a touch of vertigo on their behalf.  Once we saw them gain the ridge successfully, and now with full stomachs, we decided to head back down.  After we passed the one steeper section it was easy going.
Sam and Abby decided to butt-toboggan down a couple of the snow tongues.  It looked fun, but I declined when they asked me to give it a try.  But TT decided to play the "Carpe Diem" card and I gave in.  Mandy, TT, and I decided to go at the same time and it was a blast.

Don't worry, despite how the video ended, Mandy was OK.  It wasn't as bad as it looks, although she will likely have a bit of a bruise.  TT will likely have sore abdominals as a result of Mandy's misfortune, because she just could not stop laughing.  In the end, it was a great way to end the hike and I'm glad TT talked us into some fun.

Group shot after descending from the col - see, Mandy is fine!

The rest of the walk out was uneventful.  We all had a good chat, and enjoyed some more wildflowers on the way out.  The parking lot was quite full when we arrived, but I think most people were heading to Ptarmigan Cirque.  We made the customary stop in Longview for a cold drink, and were back home by about 15:00, happy and a little tired.