The trail begins in a dense forest and the first landmark is an old dilapidated cabin. The collapsing structure possibly dates to the short-lived mining boom in this part of the valley circa 1884.
The pine has cluster of red, newly forming cones on the tips of its branches. Very Christmasy.
All that remains at the site is the foundation of the lookout cabin, which was constructed by laborers from the park's conscientious objector camps in the autumn of 1942.
Lunch spot.
Lunch view across the Bow Valley towards Kootenay.
Using the telephoto lens we could see one of the wildlife crossings on the Trans Canada Highway.
Looking south down the Bow Valley towards Banff.
At the lookout cabin foundation we met this adventurous and friendly family from Atlanta, Georgia. The young man in the middle is a student at Brown University. From left -Jeff (Dad), Daniel, Jonah, Lily and Jennifer (Mom). What fun to be traveling and hiking together!
Trail crossing beautiful meadows on the way down.
View of the cliffs of Castle Mountain.
Closer view. The tallest peak is called Eisenhower Peak.
Today's hike:
Length - 4.89 miles
Duration - 3 hours, 8 minutes (including lunch and visiting)
Elevation gain - 1,780 feet (178 floors on the Fitbit)
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