Crowfoot Mountain

Crowfoot Mountain – March 2, 2008

Mountain height:           3050 m
Elevation gain:              1100 m
Ascent time:                  6:45
Descent time:                5:10

Snowshoe mountaineering with Mark and Ferenc (on skis).

Following in the footsteps of Kevin, Raff, and Renata, who completed an ascent of Crowfoot Mountain a week earlier, the three of us set out to do the same. Mark and I decided to snowshoe the ascent, while Ferenc would do it on skis. There were problems right from the start. Ferenc’s new skis boots were causing him significant discomfort almost immediately. Then, both of the skins came off his rental skis. The loop at the top of the skin was too big for the skis and they actually slid right down the skis (someone at the rental shop did not do their homework!) We were able to fix the skin problem using a shoelace, but the boot problem Ferenc was experiencing continued to worsen as we progressed towards the base of the mountain. We suggested turning around, but Ferenc wanted to go on.

Eventually, we happened upon a trail in the snow branching off the normal Bow Hut route. This could have been the remnants of that made by Kevin, Raff, and Renata or that of a guide who had been in the area the day before. Regardless, it sure made easier work of the ascent and eliminated any routefinding issues. This trail quickly led to a wide open bench below the northwest slopes of Crowfoot Mountain . Here, the scenery was incredible. Most of the Wapta appeared to be in whiteout conditions, however, the skies above Crowfoot were clear. The pristine scenery of snow and mountains was phenomenal, eliciting an array of stunned reactions.

After a short break, enjoying the fantastic scenery, we started towards the pass. This part of the ascent was very enjoyable and easier than it appeared from below. As well Ferenc kept up with us throughout. Mark and I were both amazed at his drive to continue, even though he was in significant pain. We roped up for the glacier though it was probably unnecessary.

At the pass, we split up. Since Mark and I would be much slower on descent, we went ahead while Ferenc rested his suffering feet. In truth, I thought that Ferenc was done for the day and would start down. Slogging up to the ridge was draining and the wind really picked up. We reached the ridge and were able to ditch our snowshoes and enjoy an easy stroll to the summit. Unfortunately, the clouds had moved in over the Wapta Icefield by this time, but there were still a few magnificent views in several directions. The corniced ridge and steep, east face of Crowfoot Mountain were stunning.

Just as we were about to leave, Ferenc appeared at the ridge and started towards the summit. Again, Mark and I were thoroughly impressed by his tenacity and refusal to quit. It was a superhuman effort. We congratulated him and moved on to get a head start on the descent, while Ferenc went on to the summit.

The descent on snowshoes was great. Of course, skiing would have been faster, but plunge-stepping down the powdery slopes was fast and effortless. Unfortunately for Ferenc, the problems with his boots detracted from his descent on skis and he couldn’t enjoy it as much if his feet weren’t hurting. Nevertheless, he made it down, getting in multiple, well-deserved turns. We finished the trip together in the dying light. An outstanding day. Hats off to Ferenc!