February 2010

How Avalanche Terrain is Rated by the Experts

by Tony Daffern on February 25, 2010

The ability to read terrain is the most important skill to develop if you wish to enjoy the winter backcountry safely. Parks Canada has developed a terrain rating system that evaluates the complexity of avalanche terrain and makes recommendations on the suitability of avalanche terrain for various users.

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Winter in Kananaskis

by Brenda Everitt on February 21, 2010

In the winter, the Sheep River is usually frozen and crossing on the ice is an easy way to access trails on the south side of the river.

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Why Carry a Folding Pruning Saw

by Tony Daffern on February 18, 2010

Think about carrying a folding pruning saw to lop off offending branches and clear encroaching alder as your contribution to the maintenance of both official and unofficial trails. Here are some pointers on selecting a saw and some locally available light-weight folding saws.

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February’s K Country Trail Users Group Meeting

by Gillean Daffern on February 12, 2010

A report of the Kananaskis Country Trail User’s Group Meeting, February 10th, 2010.

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Snowshoe Tryst Lake

by Gillean Daffern on February 9, 2010

A short, steep snowshoe trip to scenic but sunless Tryst Lake in the Smith-Dorrien valley. Best with snowshoes that have good grip on steep slopes. Not a beginner snowshoe.

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Snowshoe to Commonwealth Lake

by Gillean Daffern on February 3, 2010

Describes a snowshoe trip into Commonwealth Lake and into the cirque below Commonwealth Peak where you have to be aware of avalanche hazard. The map shows other possible snowshoe trails in the area.

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