October 18, 2024 - Mount Burke, Cataract, Kananaskis

In a fortunate turn of events, Ben ended up coming home for fall reading week at the last minute.  He arrived on Monday, I got home from work Thursday night, and Friday morning at 6:00 a.m. we were on the road headed for Mount Burke.  I had done Mount Burke a few times already, and have never been disappointed.  Ben had not done it yet, so I was happy to accompany him up for his first time up.

The morning was very crisp and frosty, and the light was perfect.  We were the first in the parking lot and hit the trail right away.  Time seemed to fly by as we discussed many different things on our way up to the summit.  This is one of my favourite parts of hiking - the opportunity to really connect with family and friends, and solve some of the world's problems.  I truly enjoy spending time with the boys, listening to them sharing their thoughts about anything and everything.  Though their life experiences are just beginning, their ideas and perspectives are incredibly interesting and mature. 💗

Morning Light - Our Objective Was The Furthest Summit On The Right Just Peaking Over The Hill In The Foreground

Before I knew it we were on the final approach to the summit.  I have had really good luck on the summit of Mount Burke in the past, but today was not to be one of those days.  The wind was so strong it felt as though it could pick you up and blow you right off the top of the mountain.  We hunkered down in the abandoned fire lookout which provided a tiny bit of relief, but after about five minutes it was time to get back down to where we had some shelter from the wind.

Abandoned Fire Lookout At The Summit

Summit Weather Station

JM Trying Not To Be Blown Off The Side Of The Mountain

Out Of The Wind, On The Descent

The hike down seemed to be just as quick as the hike up, and we were back at the car in no time.  We made our customary stop at the Esso gas station for corn chips and a pop before heading back home.  It was a perfect day (minus the wind), and a truly enjoyable hike, and I felt blessed to be able to share it with Ben.

NOTE: All of the pictures with the exception of the one of Ben on the descent, were taken by Ben. 👍