Club Events 2007 : 2007-07-20 : COC - Backpack: Tombstone Lakes and area
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Trip Log
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This was a fantastic trip! Great group, great destination, great day trips, and many lessons learned. Day 1: Day 2: Once past Elbow River we crossed a bunch more creeks and streams along our way. We gained and lost elevation several times and passed magnificent open spaces of wild flowers - such diversity and brillant colors! The trail finally arrived at a wide open meadow with several waterfalls & spectacular scenery. A lovely place! Some of the group went on to climb the summit of the actual pass while some stayed back to visit with part of another hiking group who were also waiting for the rest of their group. Some rocks were enjoyed, some photos taken, and oh my – (um, that’s not exactly what Judy said) – a large grizzly bear came up right over the rise where she was sitting. The bear said “oh, my” too and thankfully started walking in the other direction. Judy scrambled up over the rise shouting at me and blowing her whistle, while Rhonda was standing on the next rise shouting at both of us that there was a bear right behind us. Once all were gathered together again we watched the bear, who was also keeping his eye on us, as it continued on its way in the opposite direction. We also saw it “curb-stomping” something although we’re not exactly sure if it was successful, and dared not take any photos until we were far away. We made our way back to pick up Judy and my packs where they were left right at the spot where the bear came through. Lesson #5: Wear your whistle around your neck at all times – not on your pack which is lying on the ground nearby. Was perfect that Judy had it right on her in this situation – caught our attention when she started blowing her whistle to alert us that the bear was headed for her and us. Lesson #6: It’s good to have a whistle that doesn’t sound like a bird – and blow it in a way that doesn't sound like a bird. We agreed that might be a better way of sending an alert to the rest of the group. Lesson #7: Always keep your pack with you and your boots on at all times. You never know when you might have to leave the area in a big hurry. Also, I had visions of the curious bear walking away with my daypack, which contained keys, wallet, rocks, and other such important items. Lesson #8: I feel soooo much more comfortable in a group of 6 – with less than 20ft between us. And Judy was so pleased to have been completely finished her trip to the bushes just before the bear appeared. :) I learned also that a true friend will offer to carry your rocks back down the mountain for you. Group 2 set off later in the morning for an exploratory trip to Rae Lake. Unfortunately the trail was not easily found, so they had a little more exploration of the area than they anticipated. From the sounds of it they did eventually find Rae Lake and from all reports had an enjoyable hike and day. They saw Rae etched in the mountain – and there was also something about the wee, beady-eyed killer duck. As you can imagine, there was lively discussion around the campfire that night. Day 3: - Marg |
Photos
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COC Details
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COC List
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Group
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At Elbow Lake
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Rhonda, Marg
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Janet, Rhonda, ?
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Hiking
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Hiking
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Hikers
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Hikers
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Setup Beer - 1
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Setup Beer - 2