http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ ACC Okanagan Forum: Recent Posts en Sat, 19 May 2012 16:29:33 +0000 http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=251#post-821 Mon, 14 May 2012 11:36:32 +0000 aparker 821@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>This is a reminder to reserve your spot on this weeklong hut based trip to the Elizabeth Parker Hut in Yoho National Park from August 4-10, 2012. At this time, we are extending the invitation to ACC members from other sections. If you know of other ACC members who would be interested in participating, do not hesitate to forward this email.</p> <p>See attached document for further information about this trip: <a href="http://accokanagan.ca/pipermail/accannounce_accokanagan.ca/attachments/20120513/dd778fe9/attachment-0001.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://accokanagan.ca/pipermail/accannounce_accokanagan.ca/attachments/20120513/dd778fe9/attachment-0001.pdf</a></p> <p>Interested participants should contact Gerald Levac at <a href="mailto:gerlevac@gmail.com">gerlevac@gmail.com</a> (phone 250-864-3603) and send a deposit cheque in the amount of $300.00 made out to the ACC Okanagan in order to reserve a spot. Send cheques to: #306 - 3545 Carrington Rd, Westbank, BC V4T 3A1. Email-transfers of funds are also accepted. The final balance is due June 30, 2012. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=553#post-808 Fri, 11 May 2012 14:35:09 +0000 DaveH 808@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>The Section will be holding skills training this Spring for Section members. These sessions will be run by experienced Section members and could consist of single day or overnight events. There will be some cost to participants but these will be kept to a minimum and will be restricted to expense-recovery only.</p> <p>Examples of the topics that could be covered are:</p> <p>Snowcraft</p> <p>basic use of ice-axe and crampons<br /> snow anchors, belaying techniques<br /> glacier travel and crevasse rescue systems</p> <p>Rock</p> <p>introduction to rock-climbing techniques - belaying, movement on rock,<br /> safe rappelling<br /> rock anchors<br /> leading - trad and sport</p> <p>Note that these are only examples and do not mean that all these topics would be covered or that this list is exhaustive.</p> <p>If you would be interested in attending please respond to Dave Henwood (davephen@yahoo.com) who will be co-ordinating this activity. In particular<br /> please indicate the skills you would like to be covered and whether you would prefer a single day or weekend format. We want to get these underway as soon as possible so that members can put their newly learned skills to good use over the coming summer so please respond promptly. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=442#post-695 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:18:46 +0000 aparker 695@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>The application deadline for the 2012 ACC/North Face Summer Leadership course is May 15th.</p> <p>The goal of the course is to "provide a national forum for emerging club leaders to improve their own personal leadership skills for leading groups in the context of Alpine Club of Canada activities at the local Section level".</p> <p>We strongly encourage anyone who has even a slight interest in leading trips for the section to look into this course; the club will support you in every way that it can and will provide a subsidy after the participant has lead 3 trips for the club.</p> <p>Applicants require the endorsement of the section so please contact myself or anyone on the executive if you would like to apply or for additional information.</p> <p>The course dates are July 28 – August 4, 2012</p> <p>More information is available here:</p> <p><a href="http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/activities/leadership.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/activities/leadership.html</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/activities/trips2012/summer/tnf.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/activities/trips2012/summer/tnf.html</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=441#post-694 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 17:12:34 +0000 aparker 694@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>GMC contest from ACC National<br /> Win a buddy pass to the GMC!</p> <p>We know you've always wanted to attend our General Mountaineering Camp - and now we're adding a little more incentive with a two-for-one contest! There are two ways to be entered in the draw: either register for a spot on the camp between now and May 25 or join the ACC as a new member before that time. The winner will receive a two-for-one GMC registration coupon for a friend to accompany them. If you've already registered for the camp, don't worry, we're adding your name to the draw as well.</p> <p>Find out more about the 2012 GMC at <a href="http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/activities/trips2012/gmc2012.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/activities/trips2012/gmc2012.html</a> or email <a href="mailto:adventures@alpineclubofcanada.ca">adventures@alpineclubofcanada.ca</a> for details! </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=404#post-655 Mon, 09 Apr 2012 18:08:51 +0000 janice 655@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Howie Richardson's latest Skaha Rockclimbs guide book is available for Easter weekend.</p> <p>See <a href="http://www.skaha.org/" rel="nofollow">http://www.skaha.org/</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=356#post-607 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 21:16:33 +0000 krmartin 607@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>New to Kelowna, looking to get out for some spring tours in the Coq or Rogers on the upcoming weekends. Fair amount of bc ski experience based out of Calgary in the past 10 yrs (ast 1 and 2, led numerous trips and traverses).<br /> Let me know - I have wheels and don't mind driving wherever.<br /> Cheers<br /> Kent </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=301#post-593 Sun, 25 Mar 2012 12:50:04 +0000 aparker 593@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Hi Tom,</p> <p>I'm a weekend warrior in Kelowna and ski most weekends in Rogers Pass, often with Nick. </p> <p>agparker[at]gmail.com </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=301#post-592 Sat, 24 Mar 2012 01:52:11 +0000 tom_s 592@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Thanks Nick, will look out for an email,<br /> Tom </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=301#post-574 Sat, 17 Mar 2012 19:00:29 +0000 nickt 574@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Tom, I'll e-mail you closer to the date, but I may be available to ski with you. I do work call outs so I can't guarantee it. Although I don't do anything steep and technical by Chamonix standards! </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=300#post-573 Thu, 15 Mar 2012 20:05:52 +0000 glevac 573@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Trip cancelled due to avalanche hazard. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=301#post-548 Tue, 13 Mar 2012 16:07:08 +0000 tom_s 548@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Hi,</p> <p>I'm coming to Revelstoke your way for the first two weeks of April and am hoping to hook up with people to do some ski touring/mountaineering/general backcountry. </p> <p>A bit about me - I'm 32 and have been skiing about 20 years. I've done lots of touring in the european alps and some in the Canadian rockies. I lived in Canmore winter 01-02 and skiied a fair bit at Rogers pass, and did a few tours from the icefields parkway, including the Wapta, although I was more focused on climbing ice and mixed at the time. Since then I've also done backcountry ski trip to Alaska (the Ruth gorge), some in Utah, Greenland, and loads in Antarctica where I worked as a guide for the British Antarctic Survey. And last but not least, Scotland!! I'm quite into skiing steep technical terrain, but am really keen for anything really. I don't have any formal avy qualifications but feel that I am experienced and competent, and am also up to date with developments in avalanche theory. I've also been following the Canadian avy blogs and am aware that the risk is currently through the roof so any backcountry skiing in the near future might be very limited.....</p> <p>Although I’m staying in Revelstoke I should have a car and don’t mind travelling to wherever conditions look best. If anyone is free and fancies meeting up please reply here or email my direct at <a href="mailto:tomspreyer@hotmail.com">tomspreyer@hotmail.com</a></p> <p>Cheers,</p> <p>Tom </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=300#post-547 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:05:32 +0000 glevac 547@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>In an effort to get out skiing a few more times this winter, I will be leading a ski outing to Rogers Pass on Saturday March 17th, with the goal of skiing the Sifton traverse.</p> <p>This is a long day - 1450m of elevation gain, or 4750'. It's not an appropriate trip for beginners or skiers with a lower level of endurance or skiing ability. Further information may be requested to be accepted on this trip. If you have any questions about your ability level relative to this trip, please contact me directly and I'll be happy to discuss with you.</p> <p>We'll be getting an early start from the parking lot at the Rogers Pass visitor’s centre at 8AM. If you are travelling from the Okanagan, I recommend to stay at the Glacier Park Lodge (Rogers Pass) or Revelstoke on Friday night due to the long day of skiing.</p> <p>This traverse will take us through avalanche terrain. As always, I may cancel the trip or change the destination based on the avalanche hazard that day. Participants should all have some avalanche training such as AST1 or equivalent.</p> <p>Please let me know if you're interested.</p> <p>Gerald Levac<br /> 250-864-3603</p> <p>The ACC requires that the following be communicated:<br /> "Please be advised that these are non-guided trips and the following equipment and a working knowledge of it's use is mandatory for each participant: avalanche beacon, probe, shovel, backcountry touring gear such as alpine skis/touring bindings and skins, similar telemark gear and/or split board/skins."<br /> "There is no legal requirement for trip participants to be ACC members, but non-members are not covered by the ACC's insurance should they be found negligent in causing someone personal injury or property damage/loss. It is strongly recommended that all trip participants become members of the ACC, as this protection is one of the benefits of membership."<br /> More info regarding ACC waiver policy and liability issues can be found at: <a href="http://alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/index.html" rel="nofollow">http://alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/index.html</a></p> <p>Waivers:<br /> Waivers must be signed and returned to the trip leader before leaving the trailhead. Waivers can be signed at the trailhead but usually the trip leader will appreciate receiving them in advance. A scanned copy emailed to the trip leader is acceptable. Waivers are available here: <a href="http://accokanagan.ca/index.php?page=waivers" rel="nofollow">http://accokanagan.ca/index.php?page=waivers</a><br /> Beacon policy reminder:<br /> A new avalanche beacon policy has been implemented by ACC National applicable to all ACC Section and National trips as of November 1, 2011. Single antenna analogue beacons will no longer be allowed on any ACC trip. ACC members are encouraged to upgrade avalanche transceivers to digital, three-antenna models. However two-antenna beacons are still acceptable.<br /> Visit the Canadian Avalanche Centre's website to find out why the single antenna beacons are now considered obsolete: <a href="http://www.avalanche.ca/cac/gear/obsolete" rel="nofollow">http://www.avalanche.ca/cac/gear/obsolete</a><br /> You can read more about the ACC's transceiver policy at: <a href="http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/#policies" rel="nofollow">http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/#policies</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=291#post-538 Fri, 09 Mar 2012 14:50:08 +0000 Dave_Cross 538@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>For those looking at brushing up on your climbing techniques, I see the Greater Vernon recreational services are offering 3 levels of rock climbing courses this year:</p> <p>Sat May 26th (Ellison) Family climbing ($208 for 1 adult+1 child)<br /> Sat June 2nd (Ellison) Rock Climbing 1 ($123 for the day)<br /> Sat June 9th (Cougar Canyon) Rock Climbing 2 ($123 for the day)</p> <p>See <a href="http://www.greatervernonrecreation.ca/pdf/leisure_guide.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://www.greatervernonrecreation.ca/pdf/leisure_guide.pdf</a> (page 36) for more details. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=253#post-528 Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:07:41 +0000 nickt 528@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Trip cancelled due to avalanche hazard. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=253#post-527 Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:43:11 +0000 Marv 527@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Nick what is your phone # </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=267#post-512 Sun, 04 Mar 2012 09:09:04 +0000 jjanmaat 512@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>On my way to visit my father in Chilliwack, thought I'd just quickly tour up Zoa. The avalanche danger rating was considerable, and high in the alpine, and the weather called for rising freezing levels, and some snow or rain.</p> <p>As this was just going to be a simple jaunt, I only had the basic safety and survival stuff with me. This consisted of a compass, whistle, matches and fire starter, and a couple of flashlights. This would be my fifth time up Zoa by the standard route, so didn't worry about the GPS, and didn't worry about extra food, tarp, sleeping bag, etc.</p> <p>At the parking lot, I briefly chatted with a group coming out. They had triggered a slide, and told me that skiing solo was not smart, unless I was just headed out for a walk. Since this was all I planned to do, carried on. The weather was warm - wet snow mixed with rain - at road level (~1200m). Made sense that wet, heavy snow on top of a couple of persistent weak layers would be a recipe for trouble. However, I was planning to stick to the ridge, so figured safe.</p> <p>The standard route follows a pipeline right of way to the ridge coming east from the peak, and then follows the ridge up. On the way up I passed a couple of people coming down, one carrying her skies and walking. Chatted for a bit. They had bailed because they were really struggling to ski in the wet snow. One more bit of information. Don't push the daylight too much, as it may take longer to get down than with better snow. They also told me that there were another half dozen people coming out behind them, who I would probably run into on the way up. This was probably the cause of the troubles I faced later.</p> <p>I continued up, and as usual I left the pipeline and entered the woods before the standard route. This way I could set a track though the collection of small glades here and follow it for a more interesting ski down. As I made my way up, I noticed a set of ski tracks coming down through other glades a bit to the west (climber's left) of my route. After a while I crested onto the ridge joining the standard route. I was far enough up that the blowing wet slop had pretty much obscured the up track of the previous group. I carried on for a while, till I was in sight of the east (false) summit. My watch said 5:20, and given what I'd been told about the snow (and could feel myself as I skied up), thought it wise to turn around and not push the day length. </p> <p>After drinking some water, putting on some extra clothing, and ditching my skins, I headed down. The light was very flat, with no shadows or anything to give a sense of direction. Made it hard to judge speed or see much of the snow surface. Once I got a ways down, I saw a set of ski tracks. These must be the same ones I saw headed up, so my own up track, and the glades I wanted to hit, would be to skiers left. Continued down, looking for my skin track. Didn't see it, so figured it must be to skiers left. When I found myself getting into steep forest, I turned further left.</p> <p>I continued this for a while, ending up in a steep, thick forest. I was thinking that I had somehow come down too far to the skiers right of the route I wanted, and was into some steep terrain above Falls Lake. Would have to climb back up and head further left to meet the pipeline right of way. Put my skins on and started climbing, still continuing to traverse skiers left. After a while, I found myself on top of a bluff that offered a view. Holy #$(*, I'm looking at the wrong mountain! Where the #$#@ am I. I'm loosing daylight. I'm totally lost. Two people who are expecting to hear from me before 7:00pm will be very worried!</p> <p>Next question, what do I do now. First, haul out the compass and try to figure out what happened. Compass says the valley and the next mountain are north of me. The slope I am on rises to the south. This is wrong. I should be on the south side of the ridge. I've got enough stuff that I could make it through the night. Should I settle down now? I'm a long way from the standard route, so if a search party heads up, they won't find me and I can't hear them. So, since I'm still doing O.K. and have some light left, try to get back to the trail. </p> <p>Start a climb, keeping the mountain on my right. At first I figure I'll just follow my tracks, but since I was already climbing when I set them, that would mean I'd be travelling downhill. Thought better of that, as the last thing I wanted now was to end up running into a tree and injuring myself. So instead I head up, figuring I'll eventually crest the ridge and cross the standard route.</p> <p>You may recall that my safety kit included two flashlights. It didn't include a headlamp. Climbing through a fairly thick forest with a flashlight in one had was going to be a real pain. However, it seemed that things were not getting that dark. After a while there were some shadows. Looking up, saw the moon shining through some thin clouds. What a fantastic break! There was just enough light to pick my way up without needing to hold the flashlight. Now whenever I found myself in a bit of a glade I would haul out a light and look closely to see if there were any tracks. I'd also keep checking my compass. The mountain stayed to the south of me for quite a while.</p> <p>Eventually I did crest the ridge, and found the partially buried up track, together with a bunch of ski and board tracks headed down. So, this was the route taken by the second party, and I had ended up skiers left of it. That is where I messed up!!! </p> <p>From here, the standard route descends into a bit of dense forest before making the pipeline track. Do I ski it? No. I'm not injured yet. I'd like to keep it that way. Strapped my skies to my pack and started walking down. The first 20 steps or so were post holing up to mid thigh. This is going to take a while. However, after that ended up on the snow shoe path, which was well packed. Made my way down, using my flashlight when the woods got thick. Other than the skies getting stuck in tree branches above me from time to time, made it out fine.</p> <p>Back on the pipeline track, my first thought was to ski down with my skins on, so that I wouldn't go too fast. That worked really well. So well that I could barely move. Gave that up, and decided I would just traverse side to side and slowly make my way down. Before long though I realized that the part of the path I was on was so wind hammered and tracked, it was just like a badly groomed run at a resort. Couldn't really see all that well, but sort of a mix of step turns and snow plowing got me down. Back at the truck, without any rescue party yet there, by about 8:30, two and a half hours late.</p> <p>All's well that ends well, but for the worry of those expecting me at 7:00. Called them as soon as I found a payphone that worked, which was in Hope. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=260#post-505 Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:45:01 +0000 aparker 505@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>It is with great sadness that we convey news of the passing of Brad Schmucker. Brad was a member of the Okanagan Section for many years. A kinder, gentler person you'll never meet. An obituary may be found here: <a href="http://goo.gl/E12k4" rel="nofollow">http://goo.gl/E12k4</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=253#post-498 Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:15:41 +0000 nickt 498@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>An email was sent to everyone on the 27 Feb.</p> <p>Meeting Time:</p> <p>9:30AM on Friday March 9th. This gives most people the option of driving to Rogers Pass on Friday morning if they wish. For this trip it is required that we all meet at the trailhead rather than depart for the hut at different times.</p> <p>Meeting Place:</p> <p>The Asulkan Trailhead parking lot. Located on the south side of the Trans Canada Highway about 3km west of the Rogers Pass Visitors Centre. 300m west of the Illecillewaet summer campground entrance.</p> <p>Permits:</p> <p>You will need a Park Pass displayed on your vehicle. Available at the Visitors Center located at the Rogers Pass summit. Open from 7:00AM to 5:00PM. You do not need a Winter Restricted Area Permit. Allow yourself time to get a park permit.</p> <p>Entire Trip Cancellation Due to Excessive Avalanche Hazard:</p> <p>ACC Okanagan Section Policy: "The avalanche conditions will be assessed [by the trip leader with group consultation] on the Wednesday [prior to the trip] and should conditions render travel to the hut unsafe, the entire booking will be canceled and participants will receive a refund. Those persons wishing to go to the hut as individuals can contact the ACC on an individual basis and rebook the hut on that date. Individual requests for refunds due to inclement weather and/or marginal conditions will not be granted."</p> <p>Trip Cancellation by Individuals:</p> <p>Please, please, please inform the trip leader that you are cancelling! At the moment we don't have a waiting list.</p> <p>Approach to the Hut:</p> <p>About 5 hours with overnight packs. ~900m elevation gain. Avalanche hazard.</p> <p>The ACC requires that the following be communicated:</p> <p>"Please be advised that these are non-guided trips and the following equipment and a working knowledge of it's use is mandatory for each participant: avalanche beacon, probe, shovel, backcountry touring gear such as alpine skis/touring bindings and skins, similar telemark gear and/or split board/skins."</p> <p>"There is no legal requirement for trip participants to be ACC members, but non-members are not covered by the ACC's insurance should they be found negligent in causing someone personal injury or property damage/loss. It is strongly recommended that all trip participants become members of the ACC, as this protection is one of the benefits of membership."</p> <p>More info regarding ACC waiver policy and liability issues can be found at: <a href="http://alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/index.html" rel="nofollow">http://alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/index.html</a></p> <p>Waivers:</p> <p>Waivers must be signed and returned to the trip leader before leaving the trailhead. Waivers can be signed at the trailhead but usually the trip leader will appreciate receiving them in advance. A scanned copy emailed to the trip leader is acceptable. Waivers are available here: <a href="http://accokanagan.ca/index.php?page=waivers" rel="nofollow">http://accokanagan.ca/index.php?page=waivers</a></p> <p>Info about the Asulkan Hut:</p> <p><a href="http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/facility/info/AsulkanCabin.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/facility/info/AsulkanCabin.pdf</a></p> <p>Food:</p> <p>People usually form food groups of 3-4 for dinners.</p> <p>Terrain Map:</p> <p><a href="http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/glacier/visit/visit5/aval/a10a.aspx" rel="nofollow">http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/glacier/visit/visit5/aval/a10a.aspx</a></p> <p>Departing the Hut:</p> <p>Depending on the conditions the group will generally ski out in the early afternoon on Sunday. If you plan to ski out before or after the main group please inform the trip leader. Do your part to clean the hut before leaving and don't assume that someone else will look after it.</p> <p>Please post questions or concerns, offer a ride, ask for a ride, etc. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=252#post-497 Thu, 23 Feb 2012 13:48:40 +0000 aparker 497@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>From: <a href="http://www.avalanche.ca/uploads/SPAW/Special%20Warning%20Feb%2023%202012.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://www.avalanche.ca/uploads/SPAW/Special%20Warning%20Feb%2023%202012.pdf</a></p> <p>Special Public Avalanche Warning for Much of BC’s Backcountry</p> <p>Canadian Avalanche Centre calls says backcountry travel in avalanche terrain<br /> not recommended without advanced training and experience</p> <p>February 23, 2012, Revelstoke, BC: The Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) is issuing a special public avalanche warning for a widespread area of the province’s backcountry. The warning includes the mountainous areas of the Cariboos, the North and South Columbias, the North and South Rockies, the Lizard Range, the Purcells, the South Coast Inland and Northwest Inland. The warning is in effect from Friday February 24 through to Monday February 27.</p> <p>“The clear, dry spell covering the province in early February had a weakening effect on the surface of the snow at that time,” explains Karl Klassen, Manager of the CAC’s Public Avalanche Warning Services. “Now that surface is buried and left us with a very complex upper snowpack, with a number of weak layers. Conditions are very tricky to manage right now. If you’re going into avalanche terrain, you need local knowledge, extensive experience and training.” </p> <p>The CAC is advising all recreational backcountry users to carefully monitor the advice in the avalanche bulletins. Everyone in a backcountry party needs to be equipped with a shovel, probe and transceiver and the CAC strongly recommends all backcountry users take an avalanche awareness course. Snowpack stability changes constantly throughout the winter. Backcountry users need to check the avalanche bulletin regularly to keep informed of conditions in their area. More detailed information is also<br /> available on the CAC forecaster’s blog. For the bulletins, blog and information on training, check <a href="http://www.avalanche.ca/cac." rel="nofollow">www.avalanche.ca/cac.</a></p> <p>For more information<br /> Mary Clayton, CAC Communications Director<br /> Office: 250.837.2141 (228)<br /> Mobile: 250.837.1492 </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=251#post-496 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 21:39:09 +0000 aparker 496@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>The Alpine Club of Canada – Okanagan Section Summer Camp 2012</p> <p>LAKE O’HARA HIKING/SCRAMBLING/CLIMBING CAMP</p> <p>The Okanagan section has the Elizabeth Parker hut booked for the week of August 4th to August 10th, 2012. The O’Hara area, known as the “Jewel of the Rockies”, is located in Yoho National Park and offers beautiful hiking and a variety of scrambling and climbing objectives in a spectacular setting.</p> <p>This self-guided, catered (we are planning to hire a cook for all meals) camp will feature 7 nights at the beautiful Elizabeth Parker hut. Objectives will depend upon the weather, and the experience and capabilities of participants. Hiking to Lake McArthur or the All Souls route, ascents of Mt. Schaeffer or Mt Yukness are among some of the numerous hiking and climbing possibilities.</p> <p>Dates: August 4-10th, 2012</p> <p>Sat August 4th – drive to Yoho National Park and bus to Elizabeth Parker Hut</p> <p>Sun August 5-10th - day trips from hut</p> <p>Sat August 11 - leave Lake O'Hara &#38; drive back to Kelowna</p> <p>Maximum group size: 20 people (based on hut booking)</p> <p>Other trip details: to be confirmed at a later date</p> <p>Costs: Estimated $550, includes 7 nights at the Elizabeth Parker hut, food and bus.</p> <p>Reservation Deadline: We may open the booking up to other ACC sections starting April 30th if we do not have sufficient participants registered by then.</p> <p>Interested participants should contact Gerald Levac at <a href="mailto:gerlevac@gmail.com">gerlevac@gmail.com</a> (phone 250-864-3603) and send a deposit cheque in the amount of $300.00 made out to the ACC Okanagan in order to reserve a spot. Send cheques to: #306 - 3545 Carrington Rd, Westbank, BC V4T 3A1. The final balance will be due June 30, 2012. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=248#post-493 Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:16:22 +0000 nickt 493@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>A bit of video here <a href="http://www3.telus.net/wxyz2009/Asulkan%20Jan%202012.wmv" rel="nofollow">http://www3.telus.net/wxyz2009/Asulkan%20Jan%202012.wmv</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=248#post-492 Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:50:17 +0000 nickt 492@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>And more</p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/103008155975164944021/Asulkan3Feb2012" rel="nofollow">https://picasaweb.google.com/103008155975164944021/Asulkan3Feb2012</a></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/103008155975164944021/Asulkan4Feb2012#" rel="nofollow">https://picasaweb.google.com/103008155975164944021/Asulkan4Feb2012#</a></p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/103008155975164944021/Asulkan5Feb2012" rel="nofollow">https://picasaweb.google.com/103008155975164944021/Asulkan5Feb2012</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=247#post-491 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 23:16:28 +0000 jjanmaat 491@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>And some photos from John:<br /> <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/112472551128418750232/WheelerWeekend20120114?authkey=Gv1sRgCLOm0J_Ru9uk9wE" rel="nofollow">https://picasaweb.google.com/112472551128418750232/WheelerWeekend20120114?authkey=Gv1sRgCLOm0J_Ru9uk9wE</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=248#post-490 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 22:00:41 +0000 jjanmaat 490@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Some more photos:</p> <p><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/112472551128418750232/ACC_Asulkan_Feb2012?authkey=Gv1sRgCK3qxYqz8uLasQE" rel="nofollow">https://picasaweb.google.com/112472551128418750232/ACC_Asulkan_Feb2012?authkey=Gv1sRgCK3qxYqz8uLasQE</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=248#post-489 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:41:33 +0000 aparker 489@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Sunny skies, calm winds, and stable snow made for an excellent stay at the Asulkan Hut this weekend. Thanks to everyone for a great trip.</p> <p>Photos: <a href="http://goo.gl/QC01F" rel="nofollow">http://goo.gl/QC01F</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=247#post-488 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:34:26 +0000 aparker 488@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Some photos:<br /> <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/113778830259596130628/12011415Wheeler_illecillewaet" rel="nofollow">https://picasaweb.google.com/113778830259596130628/12011415Wheeler_illecillewaet</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=247#post-487 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:34:02 +0000 aparker 487@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>The section ran a beginner's backcountry weekend at the Wheeler Hut. There were 12 participants with a wide range of skill levels. Limited visibility kept us close to the hut on both days but the snow quality was excellent. On Saturday we skied up the toe of the Illecillewaet towards Lookout Col. After the short run down we then ventured onto the sheltered part of the "Practise Slopes" and had some fun turns. Potluck dinner on Saturday night was followed by an epic match of 10000 won by Brian. On Sunday we returned to the Practise Slopes for a repeat of the previous day. Thanks to everyone for a fun trip and thanks especially to Brenda for making it all happen. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=245#post-485 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:24:20 +0000 aparker 485@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Presenter Ken Little will discuss the weather's influence on avalanche conditions. Also some map &#38; data interpretation, a quick review of the winter season to date, plus a discussion of long-range forecasts. Q &#38; A encouraged throughout. Wow.</p> <p>Bunkhouse Bar &#38; Grill, 2777 Klo Rd, Kelowna</p> <p>Map: <a href="http://g.co/maps/t3mx6" rel="nofollow">http://g.co/maps/t3mx6</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=244#post-483 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:50:10 +0000 aparker 483@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Beacon policy reminder:</p> <p>A new avalanche beacon policy has been implemented by ACC National applicable to all ACC Section and National trips as of November 1, 2011. Single antenna analogue beacons will no longer be allowed on any ACC trip. ACC members are encouraged to upgrade avalanche transceivers to digital, three-antenna models. However two-antenna beacons are still acceptable.</p> <p>Visit the Canadian Avalanche Centre's website to find out why the single antenna beacons are now considered obsolete: <a href="http://www.avalanche.ca/cac/gear/obsolete" rel="nofollow">http://www.avalanche.ca/cac/gear/obsolete</a></p> <p>You can read more about the ACC's transceiver policy at: <a href="http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/#policies" rel="nofollow">http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/#policies</a> </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=244#post-482 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:17:58 +0000 aparker 482@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>An email was sent to everyone including those on the waiting list on January 23rd.</p> <p><strong>Meeting Time:</strong></p> <p>9:30AM on Friday February 3rd. This gives most people the option of driving to Rogers Pass on Friday morning if they wish. For this trip it is required that we all meet at the trailhead rather than depart for the hut at different times.</p> <p><strong>Meeting Place:</strong></p> <p>The Asulkan Trailhead parking lot. Located on the south side of the Trans Canada Highway about 3km west of the Rogers Pass Visitors Centre. 300m west of the Illecillewaet summer campground entrance.</p> <p><strong>Permits:</strong></p> <p>You will need a Park Pass displayed on your vehicle. Available at the Visitors Center located at the Rogers Pass summit. Open from 7:00AM to 5:00PM. You do not need a Winter Restricted Area Permit. Allow yourself time to get a park permit.</p> <p><strong>Entire Trip Cancellation Due to Excessive Avalanche Hazard:</strong></p> <p>ACC Okanagan Section Policy: "The avalanche conditions will be assessed [by the trip leader with group consultation] on the Wednesday [prior to the trip] and should conditions render travel to the hut unsafe, the entire booking will be canceled and participants will receive a refund. Those persons wishing to go to the hut as individuals can contact the ACC on an individual basis and rebook the hut on that date. Individual requests for refunds due to inclement weather and/or marginal conditions will not be granted."</p> <p><strong>Trip Cancellation by Individuals:</strong></p> <p>Please, please, please inform the trip leader that you are cancelling! Then make every effort to contact the next person on the waiting list to take your place. The next person on the waiting list is expected to reimburse the hut fees directly to the person canceling. Any financial arrangements made with respect to the hut fees are entirely between the individuals. If you join the trip from the waiting list inform the trip leader so that we know you are coming.</p> <p><strong>Approach to the Hut:</strong></p> <p>About 5 hours with overnight packs. ~900m elevation gain. Avalanche hazard.</p> <p><strong>The ACC requires that the following be communicated:</strong></p> <p>"Please be advised that these are non-guided trips and the following equipment and a working knowledge of it's use is mandatory for each participant: avalanche beacon, probe, shovel, backcountry touring gear such as alpine skis/touring bindings and skins, similar telemark gear and/or split board/skins."</p> <p>"There is no legal requirement for trip participants to be ACC members, but non-members are not covered by the ACC's insurance should they be found negligent in causing someone personal injury or property damage/loss. It is strongly recommended that all trip participants become members of the ACC, as this protection is one of the benefits of membership."</p> <p>More info regarding ACC waiver policy and liability issues can be found at: <a href="http://alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/index.html" rel="nofollow">http://alpineclubofcanada.ca/services/safety/index.html</a></p> <p>Waivers:</p> <p>Waivers must be signed and returned to the trip leader before leaving the trailhead. Waivers can be signed at the trailhead but usually the trip leader will appreciate receiving them in advance. A scanned copy emailed to the trip leader is acceptable. Waivers are available here: <a href="http://accokanagan.ca/index.php?page=waivers" rel="nofollow">http://accokanagan.ca/index.php?page=waivers</a></p> <p><strong>Info about the Asulkan Hut:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/facility/info/AsulkanCabin.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/facility/info/AsulkanCabin.pdf</a></p> <p><strong>Food:</strong></p> <p>People usually form food groups of 3-4 for dinners.</p> <p><strong>Terrain Map:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/glacier/visit/visit5/aval/a10a.aspx" rel="nofollow">http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/glacier/visit/visit5/aval/a10a.aspx</a></p> <p><strong>Departing the Hut:</strong></p> <p>Depending on the conditions the group will generally ski out in the early afternoon on Sunday. If you plan to ski out before or after the main group please inform the trip leader. Do your part to clean the hut before leaving and don't assume that someone else will look after it.</p> <p>Please post questions or concerns, offer a ride, ask for a ride, etc. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=236#post-473 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 14:40:29 +0000 aparker 473@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Our discussion subject for Tuesday's social is winter survival. We'll hear from section<br /> member Steve Binks as he shares his point of view and relates his experience with untimely overnight winter camping.</p> <p>@ The Bunkhouse Bar &#38; Grill, 2777 Klo Rd, Kelowna, BC </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=235#post-472 Mon, 02 Jan 2012 17:36:14 +0000 EJ 472@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>I have a four day visit to the Kamloops area coming up Feb 22-25 and would like to do some cross country/back country outside avalanche risk areas. Any suggestions? I have seen the commercial skiing areas of State Lake and Harper Mountain. Are there any other good areas or guide books I should look for? Thanks, EJ </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=233#post-471 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 13:57:50 +0000 krmartin 471@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>I would be into some ice, when not ski touring, first winter in Kelowna. I am fully equiped, but prefer to second these days. </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=233#post-470 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:02:43 +0000 DaveH 470@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Hi Jason</p> <p>I'm also newish to the Okanagan (moved here from Vancouver in June). Give me a call at home 778-753-3567, and we can have a chat.</p> <p>Dave </p> http://accokanagan.ca/forum/topic.php?id=233#post-467 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 00:43:17 +0000 jaydayman 467@http://accokanagan.ca/forum/ <p>Hi everyone,</p> <p>I just moved to Kelowna from Thunder Bay and in spite of meeting many rock climbers at the local gym it seems like most aren't interested in ice climbing here. I was hoping to meet some fellow ice climbers and get a few routes in this season! I have all my gear and am confident leading up to wi4/5, depending on the conditions, basically just looking for some climbing partners to get out with. Hope everyone is having a great winter.</p> <p>Jason </p>