Foran Grade and Windy Point Ridge
Kananaskis
March 14, 2009

Foran Grade and Windy Point Ridge are rather small peaks in the front range. When hiked separately they are considered half-day trips. But when done together – some of it in deep snow – starting nearly two km from the trailhead, it's still a half-day trip!

Since HWY 546 is closed for the season, we started at the gate and walked up the road to the foot of Forum Ridge. Although there are hiking trails for both Foran Grade and Windy Point, we made our own way up both peaks.

After following the ridge to the summit of Foran Grade, we dropped 90 m down to the pass and climbed Windy Point Ridge. The ascent was on an open slope, but the summit itself is mostly treed.

After a short summit stay, we backtracked through the trees and then hiked to the next high point south on the ridge. After passing it, we started down a scree slope when we noticed some fascinating rock formations that called for a closer look. We traversed the rocky slope to inspect two shallowl caves and a huge rock flake. Our curiosity satisfied, we descended to the highway and walked three kilometres back to the car.

Foran Grade may be forgettable but Windy Point Ridge, as a quick trip, offers good views and interesting rock formations.