Sat, Nov 22 2003 - Ice Climbing (Beginner) (View Original Event Details)
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Well, After the morning epic of the "guide's" vehicle not starting, two intreped beginner climbers picked up the guide at his home in Airdrie. Finally we were off. Off to Kananaskis for some ice climbing. Along the way the three, Jerry, Keith and Dave rumbled down the highway to the tunes of Iron Maiden.
Upon the arrival in K-country, visions of breaking trail through deep snow into Wedge Smear led us to the parking lot for Troll Falls. After a brief but steady walk we were standing at the base of Troll Falls. We quickly donned our gear and began learning the basic steps of walking with crampons. How to ascend, descend and how not to put holes in one's pants. With cold hands and feet we made our way to the top of the route via a snowy trail. Dave set up the rope and soon we were rappeling the chosen route. Some more basic instruction led to both Jerry and Keith making their first climb on this beautiful frozen waterfall. With feet and hands warmed up, the two watched Dave climb up and try to climb a short hanging pillar of ice. However after sinking picks into this ice, it came a crashing to the ground. Soon after it was the students' turn to climb back up. About the "holes" one is not to put in pants, Keith decided a hole in both pant legs looked better and Jerry decided to become one with a tool, and connected face to tool. (No major injuries, just a nick).
Tired muscles and some cold bodies later, we were soon on our way out to the parking lot. We then made a quick trip to the Kananaskis Delta Resort for a drink and two plates of Nachos.
In all, good day on the ice, clear skies and no crowds.
-- Dave