Canadian Rockies: Part 1

Continuing our never-ending struggle against the smoke, we headed east towards the taller mountains.  Mt Robson was along our path, and surprisingly was an island of clear air amongst the smoky skies.



With clear weather we decided to try hiking up towards Mt Robson itself.  This path is along a glacial-fed stream and Lake Kinney, which is quite scenic.

 





The mountain really does tower over the track.


It was no surprise that the air was clear.  Even the clouds were unable to clear the mountain's height and bulk.









From here we forged eastward into the spine of the mountains.  Known as Jasper and Banff, the major valley between the two ranges is a contender for the most scenic 200 miles of road in North America.  Sadly, the smoke moved in on us obscuring much of the view.  Thankfully, we have plenty of photos from our last visit years ago.











Carved by grinding glaciers and tectonic upheaval, the topography is stunning.

In several areas the titanic peaks create a dam for both snow and the resulting ice pack.  Where this monumental mass of ice overflows is known as an outflow glacier.

Below Mt Athabasca lies the Columbia Ice Field.  Its outflow, the Athabasca Glacier is still hanging on despite the ever-warming climate.  Taking 400 years from fallen snow to the terminal face, this glacier has been doing its thing for 3 million years.  

As we approach the terminal face, the scars of the never ending glacial grinding are visible.
 

Despite the heavy smoke the bulk is obvious.  The far rim is nearly a mile away.


On the backside of the south rim of the icefield, you can see the snow and ice that coats the edge.  Even in late summer, the ice still stands over 150ft thick.  A testament to the sheer quantity of snow wrung from the air as it is forced above these mountains.


Smoke much?  Mt Athabasca is to the far right, the middle left is the sun…