Wasootch Ridge

The classic early-season hike, spicy version!

The forecast for Victoria Day long weekend was all over the place, so we figured a hike would be a safer bet than climbing.

The parking lot for Wasootch Creek was packed, and many of the cars had Saskatchewan license places. I then remembered that the Saskatchewan chapter of the ACC was having their annual climbing trip to the Rockies. We chatted with a few of them before starting off on our day.

Oh, hello there

The ridge was mostly free of snow and we made it to the end of the hiking portion of the ridge quite easily. After a relaxed lunch and a quick nap by some, we continued along the ridge onto more interesting terrain.

At the first slab downclimb, a couple of people decided they didn't want to proceed further. At the crux, which is a 10' downclimb of a vertical section with a bit of exposure on either side, a couple more made the same decision. By the time we got to the summit proper, we were down to three.

On top of the highest point of Wasootch Ridge (GR375438)

We didn't tally long as storm clouds were approaching from the west. By the time we met back up with the others, there was a light mix of rain and hail falling from the sky.

Moss campion

The rest of the return trip was uneventful. We passed several groups who seemed intent on reaching the summit as well, despite the weather. Hopefully they didn't get too wet.

Krokus

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