May 6, still dismayed from the Columbia Icefield trip, and wanting to take advantage of the high pressure system that was providing perfect weather, completely clear skies, warm temperatures and no wind; I headed out for a short day that still allowed some quality family time in the evening. As part of my Opal 35 Project, and to get great views and some exercise, King Creek Ridge filled the bill. Bottom third of the trail as dry, middle third was ice/mud and top third of the trail to the ridge was boot deep snow.
Once on the ridge the snow got very deep, up to waist deep and the odd section that was about armpit deep! Short sections along the western edge of the ridge provided reprieve from the deep snow. Getting higher on the ridge where was an abundance of Rocky Mountain Sheep, probably saw about 25 sheep. Even with the deep snow, I was able to keep a strong pace, probably since was living around 10,000 feet the last 3 days?
The first highpoint was snowy and I was wondering about a cornice, but once I stood on the cairn, it was clear it was very safe, off to the next highpoint, where the signature Canada flag pole littered the top, no flag material was left. Leaving this highpoint got a bit exciting since I hugged the eastern edge of the ridge to avoid snow, it was a bit airy. Nearing the final, highest, northern summit, two mountain goats ran off the summit. Always cool to see the more reclusive mountain goat in K-country. Fantastic views to the Opal Range. With the snow plowed out, I made quick time back to the dry trail. Fun hike in perfect weather.
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