Monday, February 24, 2020

Solo ski tour - Evan-Thomas Creek

February 10 made time for a solo ski tour since the rest of my month is jammed with work and family commitments. Went for a casual ski tour up Evan-Thomas Creek, a valley I have a long history with, 20 years of hiking, biking and ice climbing, lots of exploration and adventures. No real plan other than exercise and maybe gain some elevation for views. 

About 8 km up trail, section where the main trail drops back to creek.
Back in the creek bed, view south east.
View back up the trail with my trail breaking.
This view is to the north, about 13 km from the trail head.

Packed trail for about 5 km on the main summer trail (old road), then loads of trail breaking. I skied about 1 km south of the turnoff that heads west towards Rocky Creek Pass then decided to head up to the low point on the long north ridge of Fisher Peak. 

View to majestic "Ripsaw" or "Mt. Sarcee".
Not an officially named summit, over 3000m, directly east of Mt. Evan-Thomas.

Mostly supportive snow, with a bit of bare booting to reach the wind blasted ridge line. Scared a big herd of big horn sheep then enjoyed the sunset. Quick descent straight north and back to main trail. Pleasant return ski on my track. Great exercise and recharge.

Reached the wind blown ridge.
View south to the Opal Range.
On the horizon left side: "Mt. Sarcee", poking up through the col, Mt. Brock, Mt. Evan-Thomas,
"Mt. Potts", "Mt. Denny" and most right "Rocky Peak".
View to summit of Fisher Peak.
View north from outlier north ridge of Fisher Peak.