We head across the field toward the gap.
Whaleback Ridge The popular route to the summit of Whaleback Ridge begins well south and includes a traverse of the ridge. Lacking daylight for such a long trip we decided on a more direct route. We parked at a turn-off where a road runs south and parallel to Highway 922. This put us west of a gap between Black Mountain and an unnamed ridge. After going through the gap and going south in the valley a short way, we easily reached the summit. We couldn't be sure where the exact summit was as there was no marker; nothing showing above the snow. But we tramped around and covered the highest points on the ridge before turning around. Although we had no trouble accessing the cattle land, Gerry Richardson, Event Co-ordinator Calgary Outdoor Club, emailed me a caveat. |
We head across the field toward the gap.
Behind is one of a few fences we had to climb over.
Almost at the gap where we came to a road that we would use to get us through
After passing through the gap I stop to get my bearings.
Fungi create a staircase up a tree.
Before we reach the ridge on the left, we have to cross the drainage below
it.
Crossing the frozen creek
Grass frosted
and frozen in the creek.
After reaching the ridge we head to the summit.
The sunny, bare slopes behind looked more enticing than where we were!
Looking for the highest point on the ridge
To the west is an unnamed ridge that I reached earlier in the year when I climbed
Chimney Rock.
As we head back we see Saddle Mountain and
Chimney Rock (mouse over).
The sun sets as we hike along the road through the gap.
82 J/1 Langford Creek
