Sat, Jun 14 2014, Sun, Jun 15 2014 - Larry's Camp Jo9 - Past the Inkpots (NCT Training Backpack) (View Original Event Details)

Event Coordinator(s): Barbara B.
Participants:Barbara B., Mick, Jamie J, Len M., Tracy Ann, gayle a, Elaine A, Bertin L


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Write Up:
Rule #1: Never trust the weather forecast.

The forecast called for lots of rain, nighttime freezing temperatures, and even some snow. For some reason this means that many people bail out of events. We had our lucky weekend though, dodged that weather and enjoyed sun, temperatures up to +20C, and just an evening shower. Three of us used this as a training event for the North Coast Trail, so had backpacks ranging from around 37 to 50 pounds, which all worked pretty well for us.

I had received mixed reviews of Larry's Camp Jo9, but it's actually a pretty good early season backcountry campground (i.e., the only one really accessibly right now in Banff National Park). All ten tent sites have soft forest ground, so there's no sleeping on rocks, there are two fire pits, two tables, and two sets of food hangs. Some of our evening entertainment entailed practising food hangs without the actual food poles. Lots of laughs there.

Dinner provided an interesting experience and our feast included curried chicken, spaghetti bolognese, creme brulee, and more. We finished the day by enjoying a nice campfire.

Overall a great early season overnighter. Thanks for the laughs, and welcome to the COC, Elaine & Bertin.