Mount Worthington attempt – June 4, 2005

Roundtrip time: 7:35

Hiking with Kevin.

We may have bitten off a little more than we could chew with this attempt of far-off Mount Worthington. Basically we enjoyed a mostly snow–free 10 km hike to a highpoint above Three-Isle Lake, where we were a little disappointed (but maybe not surprised) to find the ascent route plastered in deep snow. Postholing in the slurpee-like snow throughout the long ascent was a forgone conclusion and we estimated a labourious 4-hour ascent, minimum. We hummed and hahed for 15 minutes deciding whether to make an attempt. On clear day, it would have been a no-brainer and certainly we would have gone for it. However, the low cloud ceiling ensured views would be limited and since this summit would put us in close proximity of spectacular 11,000er Mount King George, disappointment was almost guaranteed. Add to that my less than peak physical condition, having completed a 9-hour ascent of the Limestone Mountain Loop the day before, and the decision was quite clear. In retrospect, it was a good choice, as both of us were somewhat fatigued upon returning to the Kananaskis Lake parking lot. Nevertheless, an enjoyable day of interesting hiking.

Looking across Upper Kananaskis Lake towards Mount Lyautey (left); Mount Worthington is just visible to the right of Lyautey and the more prominent peak to the right is Mount Putnik. 

The popular 5.6 climbing route "Joy", on Mount Indefatigable. 

Mount Worthington through the gap, Putnik to the right

Kevin traverses snow slopes towards Worthington

The closest we got to Mount Worthington

Heading home.

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