Thursday, June 16, 2011

The David Thompson Corridor: Rock Climbing, Via Ferrata, Kite Boarding, Free Camping

The David Thompson Corridor is other wordly.  Compared to the Bow Valley with it's endless restrictions and structured trails and campgrounds, the DT Corridor is a free spirited dirtbag's dream.  You can can camp along the shores of Lake Abraham at one of many free campsites, and choose from several adventurous activities such as climbing and kite boarding.  I had originally planned on climbing the Silverhorn route on Athabasca, but rain, wind, and warm temperatures kept us lower down in the valleys.  After an alpine start but no climb, we went back to bed and woke up feeling groggy.  We hiked up the short but steep approach trail (45 mins) to the climbing on Mt. Stelfox, where you can find several easy-moderate traditional 4-5 pitch routes on good rock.  Or, if you are feeling groggy you can always opt for the Via Ferrata on Stelfox.  It is about 200 m of good, fun, easy climbing.  It would be a good way to introduce someone to the logistics of multi-pitch climbing.  

Ian at the first belay on Mt. Stelfox's Via Ferrata, with Lake Abraham below.

Later that day, we headed down to the Lake (Abraham) to watch Mike kite surf in the chilly glacial water.  What a spot to hang out for the afternoon!

1 comment:

  1. Can you provide some more information about how to access the Mt. Stelfox via ferrata?

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