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Pocaterra Ridge
Kananaskis, Alberta
July 31, 2021
Distance: 8.9 km
Cumulative Elevation Gain: 515 m
Undoubtedly the most popular way to reach Pocaterra Ridge is from Highwood Pass. But having traversed the ridge north to south, Dinah and I had never done it. So to experience the south approach, we set off from the pass. Unlike our trip in the fall, it was summertime, so it also allowed us to see wildflowers.
The route begins as a broad trail before becoming a narrow path in the trees. It soon crosses a meadow and passes a pond. Beyond that, the trail forks: left to Grizzly Col and straight ahead for Pocaterra Ridge. After crossing a creek, the trail begins a steady climb up the ridge.
We reached the summit only to experience disappointing views. Smoke from wildflowers made it difficult to see the surrounding mountains clearly. We were thankful to have climbed it years earlier under clear skies.
Starting up the trail, the fireweed looked amazing (mouse over for a close-up)
Walking along the boardwalk
The trail runs through the forest
The views open up when the path hits the meadow
We had a nice view of Pocaterra Ridge
We passed a pond
We kept straight at the fork
The trail runs through larches
Crossing a creek
The trail starts up the ridge
Looking back at Mount Trywhit. The arch is visible.
The rest of the ascent is in the open
Grizzly Ridge and Mount Tyrwhitt
Yarrow
A bumblebee feeds on a wildflower
Dinah stands on the summit
82 J/11 Kananaskis Lake, 82 J/10 Mount Rae