Tom’s Thumb, located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, has always been one of our favorite hikes. However, many trails explore this vast, protected area. Gateway Loop Trail might become a new favorite.
Viewing entries tagged
moderate hike
Our dear friend Margaret has a unique skill. Whenever she comes up, we see lots of wildlife—without fail. This time was no different, just, um...better.
In the past, a hike to Lake Annette in Banff National Park was as simple as turning up Moraine Lake Road and following the signs to the trailhead. Then access, in our minds, became, well, challenging—or so we thought. Thankfully, we were mistaken.
The trail at sunrise.
The freedom to drive up to Lake Louise or Moraine Lake on a whim is no easy feat. Since most areas can no longer handle the masses that frequent every summer, shuttles and reservations are the new normal. However, Lake Annette Trail is outside the Moraine visitors’ lot, so the dilemma was, how do we get in?
With that in mind, Dave and I made a plan. Our strategy was to arrive at the turnoff before sunrise and, with any luck, get to the trail before the roadblock. The road was blocked; however, gaining entrance was as simple as asking—“can we get in to hike Lake Annette?” Yep, it was that easy.
We pulled into the small dark parking area and waited for dawn. Despite being bundled up, the early morning chill quickened our pace.
A colorful preview of what was to follow.
First crossing.
The hike to Lake Annette logs 7.1 miles (11.3 km) roundtrip, with a moderate elevation (1,300 ft, 400 m).
Sunrise magic.
The term scenic does not do this hike justice.
The second crossing.
Dave nearing the lake.
With lunch packed, we arrived at the lake just in time for breakfast. Dave and I decided the sandwiches could wait. Being first at the lake felt pretty darn special. We passed quite a few hikers on the way down, happily hiking without restrictions.
Lake Annette.
For spur of the moment hikers, this is a perfect way to explore the beauty of the Moraine Lake/Paradise Valley area—no shuttle required.
Like clockwork, Dave and I go hiking, and two days later, I’m angling about the next hike. This past week we were looking for something less arduous—one without scrambling or scree—a forest walk to Taylor Lake.
Timing combined with a whole lot of luck. When that happens, it’s a beautiful thing to behold. On this particular hike, I believe the experience would not have been nearly as spectacular.
Memories of Yukon Cornelius come to mind when I think of Dixie Mine—a whole lot of nuthin’. However, the checkered past and expansive views it provided made the trip worthwhile.
Stands of Aspen. Nirvana—especially for desert dwellers. However, the moment is fleeting—so make sure you plan well. Usually, Dave and I would have had our fill of fall in Alberta. Alas, —2020, has changed so many things. Thankfully, the beauty of fall is attainable only two hours from home.
This is our summer of Kananaskis. We have intentionally avoided the hotspots in Banff National Park to focus on hikes that are much less crowded and every bit as beautiful. Our travel time is a bit longer but well worth the effort.
The Chester Lake Trail is one of my Dad’s all-time favorite hikes. He has been hiking this trail for close to 30 years—and has introduced it to many friends and family members. It is a moderate 10.6 km out and back hike with views rivaling anything you will see in a National Park. The first half of the hike is a steady incline, followed by a beautiful meandering trail through lush green meadows. When hiking around the lake, we often take a detour to a place we call Elephant Rock. It is a short, unmarked trail that leads to some enormous boulders worthy of exploring.
In the spring there is an abundance of wildflowers, and in the fall, golden stands of larches. For an entirely different experience, many snowshoe during the winter months on the well-marked trail.
We hike to the lake at least twice during the year. The trail is closed from May 1 - June 29 for wildlife passage. And it can also be closed when a grizzly decides to visit. So, pack a lunch and spend a day in the wilderness. You won’t be disappointed.
Chester Lake Trail, Peter Loughheed Provincial Park.
Spring wildflowers, Chester Lake, Peter Loughheed Provincial Park.
Beauty on the trail.
Lakeside. Chester Lake, Peter Loughheed Provincial Park
Alpine clarity, lakeside.
View from the lakeside portion of the trail. Chester Lake, Peter Loughheed Provincial Park
“Elephant” Rocks
Hillary and Bruno on the rocks.
Our favorite lunch spot, on our own private island.