{"id":52942,"date":"2024-04-19T08:10:43","date_gmt":"2024-04-19T14:10:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=52942"},"modified":"2024-05-12T23:44:38","modified_gmt":"2024-05-13T05:44:38","slug":"wilcox-pass-jasper-national-park-alberta-canada-7-25-23","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/?p=52942","title":{"rendered":"Wilcox Pass, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada (7-25-23)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Days 1 & 2, and Part 1 of Day 3 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska!<\/em><\/p>\n

7-23-23, 11:30 AM, 82\u00baF<\/em> – On her pink blanket atop pillows and various gear, the Carolina Dog was excited!<\/p>\n

Ready to roll whenever you are, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

If I’ve forgotten anything else, we’re just going to have to buy it somewhere along the way.\u00a0 Show time, sweet puppy!<\/em><\/p>\n

Turning the key, SPHP backed the RAV4 out of the driveway.\u00a0 Lupe’s grand and glorious 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska was underway!<\/p>\n

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Loopster ready to roll!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Stops to sniff the air and stretch were few and far between on this first day.\u00a0 Lupe kept a nose out for cows and horses, but there didn’t seem to be as many of them this year.\u00a0 Probably huddled around whatever water or shade they could find.\u00a0 All through Wyoming, temperatures were in the mid-90’s \u00b0F as the RAV4 raced W along I-90.<\/p>\n

Montana was an oven!\u00a0 101\u00baF when SPHP dashed into Albertson’s in Billings to grab an 8-piece baked chicken deal.\u00a0 No time to get anything else in there, or the American Dingo would have baked, too, stuck in the RAV4 without the AC on, even with the windows down.<\/p>\n

7-23-23, 8:28 PM – <\/em>At 73\u00baF, conditions in the Little Belt Mountains were much more tolerable by the time Lupe bounded out of the RAV4 full of enthusiasm.<\/p>\n

Kings Hill Pass (7,393 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>!\u00a0 Love it here, SPHP!\u00a0 Any preference?\u00a0 Want to climb Kings Hill<\/span><\/a> (8,008 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> or Porphyry Peak<\/span><\/a> (8,192 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> first?<\/em><\/p>\n

Sun will be down soon, Loop, so we only have time for one or the other this evening.\u00a0 How about Kings Hill?\u00a0 We can do Porphyry in the morning.<\/em><\/p>\n

Shortly after cutting through the forest up to USFS Road No. 487, thunder rumbled in the distance.\u00a0 Lightning played among the dark clouds to the S, and a light rain began to fall.<\/p>\n

7-23-23, 9:07 PM, 68\u00baF, Kings Hill<\/span><\/a> (8,008 ft.)<\/span><\/strong><\/em> – The rain was already over and done with by the time the American Dingo reached the brass survey benchmark near the true summit.\u00a0 An orange glow was on the WNW horizon, and some of the clouds overhead glittered like gold.<\/p>\n

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Porphyry Peak<\/strong> (L) from Kings Hill<\/strong>. Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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By the brass survey benchmark near the true summit. Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Looks promising!\u00a0 Maybe there’s going to be a nice sunset, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

You might be right, Looper.\u00a0 Let’s go over by the edge to watch the show.<\/em><\/p>\n

Going a little down the WNW slope, Lupe sat watching the developing display.\u00a0 The air was cool, fresh, and the clearest it had ever been on any of Lupe’s prior visits to Kings Hill.<\/p>\n

The sunset turned out to be the best one ever, too.<\/p>\n

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Sunset from Kings Hill<\/strong>. Porphyry Peak<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7-24-23, 7:20 AM, 69\u00baF<\/em> – Although this was going to be another travel day, as promised, Lupe got to start the morning with a jaunt up USFS Roads No. 838 & No. 6388 to visit the Showdown<\/strong><\/span><\/a> ski facilities and fire lookout tower on Porphyry Peak<\/span><\/a> (8,192 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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At the base of the Porphyry Peak fire lookout tower<\/strong>. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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The survey benchmark<\/strong> that was in front of Lupe in the previous photo.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Heading over to the Showdown ski lifts. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Fire lookout tower<\/strong> (L), Showdown ski facility<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The most impressive views were of Big Baldy Mountain<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, which Lupe had once been to, and Yogo Peak<\/span><\/a> (8,801 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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Big Baldy Mountain<\/strong> (L) and Yogo Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

We ought to visit Yogo Peak, too, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

Maybe someday, Looper, but not today.\u00a0 Canada and Alaska, remember?\u00a0 This is it for your morning constitutional.\u00a0 C’mon, we need to get back to the RAV4 and make some tracks.<\/em><\/p>\n

Using one of the ski runs as a bit of a shortcut, Lupe headed down to the roads leading back to Kings Hill Pass.<\/p>\n

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Leaving Porphyry Peak<\/strong>. Big Baldy Mountain<\/strong> (R of Center), Yogo Peak<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks NNE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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The shortcut back to the USFS roads. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Driving out of the Little Belt Mountains, SPHP stopped briefly at the Al Buck Memorial Park so Lupe could get a drink from the spring gushing out of a hillside.\u00a0 Other than a couple of quick stops for food and fuel, that was it before crossing into Canada at the N end of I-15 at 12:57 PM.<\/p>\n

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Enjoying a drink from the spring at the Al Buck Memorial Park<\/strong> along Hwy 89.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

At midday, even the Canadian border was a scorching 99\u00baF!\u00a0 Despite the heat, Lupe left the cool comfort of the RAV4’s AC long enough to pose by the Alberta welcome sign.<\/p>\n

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The Most High Exalted Dingo of the Arctic Sisterhood<\/strong><\/span><\/a> returns to Canada<\/strong>!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Another long drive with only occasional brief stops ensued.\u00a0 By early evening, the Carolina Dog was back in the fabulous Canadian Rockies!<\/p>\n

7-24-23, 6:30 PM, 85\u00baF, Banff<\/em> –\u00a0 As usual, beautiful Banff was jam-packed with tourists, and justifiably so.\u00a0 A couple of changes were evident since Lupe had been here last year.\u00a0 It was no longer possible to drive along Banff Avenue in the heart of downtown, which was now reserved solely for pawdestrians, and the fancy new upstream pawbridge over the Bow River that had been under construction in 2022 was now complete and open to the public.<\/p>\n

Lupe’s evening in Banff began with a stroll along the turquoise blue Bow River.\u00a0 Famous Cascade Mountain<\/span><\/a> (9,836 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was in sight as she crossed the new upstream pawbridge, while the downstream bridge offered a great view of the N end of Mount Rundle<\/span><\/a> (9,711 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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Cascade Mountain<\/strong> (Center) beyond the new upstream pawbridge. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Mount Rundle<\/strong> (Center) from the downstream bridge. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Continuing downstream, Lupe visited Bow Falls, which was more like a steep rapids than a vertical waterfall, but awesome nevertheless.\u00a0 From there, a trail led up to the historic Banff Springs Hotel<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Bow Falls<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Along the Bow River<\/strong> below the falls. Photo looks E.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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The historic Banff Springs Hotel<\/strong>. Photo looks N.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Carolina Dog’s evening ended with a long-standing Banff tradition – Lupe’s Pretty Puppy Parade up and down both sides of Banff Avenue in the heart of downtown.<\/p>\n

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Lupe’s one-Dingo Pretty Puppy Parade<\/strong> in the center of Banff<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7-25-23, 6:37 AM, 66\u00baF<\/em> – Early sunshine was peeping through the clouds on this breezy, unsettled morning, and Banff was still quiet as Lupe left town.\u00a0 At least, it was quiet until the Carolina Dog spotted several giant deers.\u00a0 Nearly tame, they seemed more perplexed than alarmed as they were subjected to ferocious barking emitting from the RAV4.<\/p>\n

Guess you told them, didn’t you, Loopster?\u00a0 A bit rudely, though.<\/em><\/p>\n

Giant deers are incredibly exciting, SPHP!\u00a0 Right on the edge of town, too!\u00a0 A great start to a great day.\u00a0 Now that we’ve made it to the Canadian Rockies, what’s on the agenda?<\/em><\/p>\n

Been ages since we’ve seen the Athabasca Glacier from Wilcox Pass.\u00a0 Thinking we might do that, Looper.\u00a0 We can stop at a few favorite spots along the way, too, if you like.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sounds terrific, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

It was a fine plan.\u00a0 However, driving W on Hwy 1, the sky soon became very dark.\u00a0 The mountains turned gray, then vanished amid heavy rain.<\/p>\n

Shucks, Loop!\u00a0 Looks we’re going to miss out on the Canadian Rockies, and get stuck with a rainy day drive.\u00a0 Sorry!\u00a0 Nothing I can do about it, though.<\/em><\/p>\n

Most disappointing!\u00a0 However, current conditions were deceptive.\u00a0 By the time the RAV4 reached Lake Louise<\/strong><\/a><\/span>, the rain was over and blue sky was ahead.<\/p>\n

7-25-23, 7:49 AM, 42\u00baF, Bow Lake picnic area along Icefields Parkway No. 93<\/em> – So much for the baking heat of the plains!\u00a0 \u00a0SPHP dug a couple more layers of clothing out of the duffle bags, put them on, then accompanied the Carolina Dog down to the lakeshore.\u00a0 Beyond the rippled surface, a red roof stood out way over along opposite N shore.<\/p>\n

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Mount Jimmy Simpson<\/strong> (R of Center) beyond Bow Lake<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The trail to Bow Glacier Falls<\/strong><\/span><\/a> and Mount Jimmy Simpson<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/strong> starts over there, remember, SPHP?\u00a0 That’s the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge!<\/em><\/p>\n

Of, course!\u00a0 Awesome times, sweet puppy!\u00a0 However, they’ve now changed the name from Num-Ti-Jah Lodge, to just the Lodge at Bow Lake<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.\u00a0 Easier to remember, I suppose.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

7-25-23, 8:57 AM,<\/em> – Lupe’s next stop was only a few km farther N.\u00a0 The L turn off Icefields Parkway No. 93 for the Peyto Lake overlook came at the top of Bow Pass.\u00a0 Surprisingly, the 0.6 km paved trail to the overlook had been rerouted since the last time the American Dingo was here.\u00a0 The view deck was new, too, and much larger than it used to be.<\/p>\n

Across the deep valley the lake was nestled in, Cauldron Peak<\/span><\/a> (9,580 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> towered over the far shore, with Mount Patterson<\/span><\/a> (10,469 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> standing like a sentinel along the edge of the Mistaya River valley, where a long line of magnificent mountains stretched off to the N horizon.<\/p>\n

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At the fancy new Peyto Lake view deck<\/strong>. Mistaya River Valley<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Peyto Lake<\/strong> from the end of the deck. Mount Patterson<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Peyto Lake<\/strong> with Cauldron Mountain<\/strong> (L), Mount Patterson<\/strong> (Center), Mistaya River Valley<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Love how Peyto Lake has such an amazing, milky, turquoise blue<\/strong><\/span><\/a> color!\u00a0 Don’t you, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Oh, of course!\u00a0 That’s because it’s a glacier-fed lake, Loopster.\u00a0 Remember your Search for the Peyto Glacier<\/strong><\/span><\/a>?\u00a0 We took a primitive trail down to Peyto Creek from here, and wandered up the valley.<\/em><\/p>\n

We never did find the Peyto Glacier, SPHP.<\/em><\/p>\n

Beyond our abilities, Loopster, but we had a great time.\u00a0 If you look SW up the valley, you can actually see Peyto Peak<\/span><\/a> (9,711 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and part of the Peyto Glacier from right here on the view deck.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Peyto Glacier<\/strong> (Center), Peyto Peak<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Peyto Glacier<\/strong> (L), Peyto Peak<\/strong> (R), Peyto Creek<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once upon a time, the American Dingo had also taken a shorter trail from here to Bow Summit<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, a high spot with a gorgeous view of Bow Lake back to the S, although admittedly not as grand as the one from Mount Jimmy Simpson<\/strong><\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n

However, with Wilcox Pass on the agenda, Lupe didn’t visit Bow Summit again today.\u00a0 A final quick stop at the Carson Creek picnic ground along the North Saskatchewan River, where SPHP got the pack ready, was it before the main event.<\/p>\n

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North Saskatchewan River<\/strong> from the Carson Creek picnic ground. Photo looks SE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7-25-23, 11:04 AM, 48\u00baF<\/em> – As Icefields Parkway No. 93 went up and over Sunwapta Pass, the Carolina Dog left Banff National Park<\/strong><\/span><\/a> behind, and entered Jasper National Park<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.\u00a0 Wilcox Creek campground was only 2.5 km farther on the R.\u00a0 For a change, the severely under-sized Wilcox Pass trailhead near the entrance to the campground wasn’t entirely overrun.\u00a0 SPHP was lucky enough to grab a vacant parking spot for the RAV4, and Lupe was on her way!<\/p>\n

The incredibly popular Wilcox Pass trail began with a short climb into the forest along a broad, smooth path.\u00a0 Before long, the trail was even wider and covered with a multitude of roots.\u00a0 After a fairly flat section, the trail began climbing at a good clip, eventually flattening out shortly before leading to a boardwalk with a set of stairs.<\/p>\n

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Near the start of the Wilcox Pass trail<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Lots of roots!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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At the boardwalk.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Beyond the boardwalk, the trail climbed more steeply again.\u00a0 The first viewpoint came soon after going around a bend NW, but only hinted at the glories yet to come.\u00a0 An open slope a little farther on revealed much more.\u00a0 Although the Athabasca Glacier wasn’t in sight yet, Mount Athabasca<\/span><\/a> (11,414 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Mount Andromeda<\/span><\/a> (11,286 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>, Snow Dome<\/span><\/a> (11,345 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Mount Kitchener<\/span><\/a> (11,483 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> were.<\/p>\n

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Snow Dome<\/strong> (L), Mount Kitchener<\/strong> (R) from the first good viewpoint. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Wilcox Pass trail leveled out to some degree as it continued NW through another stretch of forest.\u00a0 When Lupe reached the next open slope, most of the Athabasca Glacier was in view.<\/p>\n

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Along the last stretch of dense forest. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Athabasca Glacier<\/strong> (L), Snow Dome<\/strong> (Center), Mount Kitchener<\/strong> (R). Photo looks WSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Something new was ahead!\u00a0 Two red chairs faced the already grand view of the glacier flanked by Mount Athabasca and Mount Andromeda on the L, and Snow Dome and Mount Kitchener on the R.\u00a0 Lupe got up on a platform connecting the chairs, braving a brisk SW breeze.<\/p>\n

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Red chairs viewpoint. Mount Kitchener<\/strong> (L), Mount Wilcox<\/strong> (far R). Photo looks WNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Hilda Peak<\/strong> (far L), Mount Athabasca<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What a great spot, Loopster!\u00a0 If one didn’t feel like going any farther, these chairs wouldn’t be a bad place to hang out.\u00a0 Both Hilda Peak<\/span><\/a> (9,974 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and the top of Mount Wilcox<\/span><\/a> (9,462 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> are in sight, in addition to all the big peaks over by the Athabasca Glacier.<\/em><\/p>\n

Don’t get any ideas, SPHP.\u00a0 We’re going all the way to Wilcox Pass!<\/em><\/p>\n

The red chairs were near treeline.\u00a0 Only scattered stands of increasingly stunted forest and bushes were ahead, as tundra-covered slopes began to dominate.\u00a0 A relatively flat section of the trail continued a bit farther NW toward a big gully below the Wilcox Pass region, which was now starting to come into view.<\/p>\n

Near the gully, the trail veered N, climbing steeply for 200 feet before once again angling NW.\u00a0 The slope steadily diminished as Lupe entered a rumpled region of low bushes, tundra, and small rock formations.<\/p>\n

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The flat stretch of trail beyond the red chairs. Mount Wilcox<\/strong> (far L). Wilcox Pass region<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Above the steepest stretch. Big gully<\/strong> (L), Mount Wilcox<\/strong> (L of Center). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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In the rumpled region<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Wilcox Pass trail kept flattening, literally becoming a stroll in the park – Jasper National Park!\u00a0 By the time Lupe reached the shallow stream that flowed into the gully, most of Mount Wilcox<\/span><\/a> (9,462 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> was in view, and Wilcox Pass wasn’t much farther.<\/p>\n

From a rock outcropping capping a small rise near the stream, a huge ridge was in sight beyond Mount Wilcox.<\/p>\n

Recognize that ridge, Loop?\u00a0 You were there since the last time we visited Wilcox Pass.<\/em><\/p>\n

Hmm.\u00a0 Not sure, SPHP.\u00a0 Give me a hint!<\/em><\/p>\n

Well, it’s possible to continue over Wilcox Pass along this trail and wind up over there, but that’s not how we did it.\u00a0 Instead we started down by Tangle Falls where the NW end of the Wilcox Pass trail reaches Icefields Parkway No. 93<\/strong><\/span><\/a> again.<\/em><\/p>\n

Tangle Falls!\u00a0 That’s a great hint, SPHP.\u00a0 That must be Tangle Ridge<\/strong><\/span><\/a>!\u00a0 Oh, that was another great day in the Canadian Rockies!<\/em><\/p>\n

Indeed it was, Loopster!\u00a0 Fun to see Tangle Ridge again from here.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Closing in on Wilcox Pass<\/strong>. Mount Wilcox<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Mount Wilcox<\/strong> (L of Center), Tangle Ridge<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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About to cross the shallow stream<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Tangle Ridge<\/strong> (Center) from Wilcox Pass<\/strong>. Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7-25-23, 12:35 PM, 41\u00baF<\/em> – Wilcox Pass was so cold and windy when Lupe arrived, that SPHP dumped the pack then layered up – stocking cap, coat, gloves, the whole bit.\u00a0 Although the Carolina Dog had seen surprisingly few people thus far, plenty were up here, all dressed like winter was coming while exploring the vast Wilcox Pass region.<\/p>\n

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Wilcox Pass<\/strong>. Tangle Ridge<\/strong> (L). Photo looks NNW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Hilda Peak<\/strong> (L), Mount Athabasca<\/strong> (R) from Wilcox Pass<\/strong>. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Mount Wilcox<\/strong> (Center) from Wilcox Pass<\/strong>. Tangle Ridge<\/strong> (R). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A sign said it was 1.4 km to Wilcox Ridge.\u00a0 As awesome as all the wide open spaces were at Wilcox Pass, the pass was never the Carolina Dog’s ultimate destination.\u00a0 Wilcox Ridge was where the stupendous view of the Athabasca Glacier was.\u00a0 Lupe always went there!\u00a0 Despite the cold wind, coming all the way to Wilcox Pass and not going to Wilcox Ridge would be simply ridiculous.<\/p>\n

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Wilcox Ridge<\/strong> from Wilcox Pass<\/strong>. Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The spur trail heading W up into the Wilcox Ridge region used to fade away, simply becoming more of a choose-your-own-path route once it turned SW.\u00a0 However, the trail was now very distinct.\u00a0 If there was any question at all about it, new cairns held together by wire cages, each bearing a yellow diamond, marked the way.<\/p>\n

More than halfway to the Wilcox Ridge viewpoint, Lupe came to a long rock wall serving as a windbreak.\u00a0 That was new, too.\u00a0 The Carolina Dog was glad one thing hadn’t changed.\u00a0 Bighorn mountain sheep still grazed these windswept slopes.<\/p>\n

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Signage at the Wilcox Pass trail junction.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Hilda Peak<\/strong> (far L), Mount Athabasca<\/strong> (Center) from one of the yellow diamond cairns. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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At the rock wall windbreak. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Mountain sheep relaxing on the tundra.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Wilcox Ridge Trail went over a series of minor ridges and ravines on the way to what appeared to be a more formal viewpoint than Lupe had ever seen here before.\u00a0 Quite a few people were already present as the American Dingo arrived.\u00a0 Preferring more solitude, SPHP decided to take a side route farther W, closer to the SE end of the narrow ridge leading up Mount Wilcox before selecting another spot along the SW edge where Lupe could relax on a patch of tundra.<\/p>\n

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Approaching the Wilcox Ridge Athabasca Glacier viewpoint<\/strong>. Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Heading a little farther W before taking a break. Mount Wilcox<\/strong> (R). Photo looks W.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7-25-23, 1:36 PM, 43\u00baF<\/em> – The 30 mph gale sweeping in from the SW felt really cold at the viewpoint SPHP had chosen.\u00a0 Fortunately, conditions weren’t nearly as bad while relaxing just a few feet back from the edge.\u00a0 Facing SW directly into the breeze, Lupe once again enjoyed one of the most magnificent easily accessible views in the Canadian Rockies.<\/p>\n

Mount Athabasca<\/span><\/a> (11,414 ft.)<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0and Mount Andromeda<\/span><\/a> (11,286 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> on the L, and Snow Dome<\/span><\/a> (11,345 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> and Mount Kitchener<\/span><\/a> (11,483 ft.)<\/span><\/strong> on the R, with the Athabasca Glacier between them, flowing down from the almost entirely hidden Columbia Icefield<\/strong><\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Looking S. Mount Athabasca<\/strong> (L), Mount Andromeda<\/strong> (Center), Athabasca Glacier<\/strong> (R).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Mount Andromeda<\/strong> (L), Athabasca Glacier<\/strong> (Center), Snow Dome<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Athabasca Glacier<\/strong> (L), Snow Dome<\/strong> (R), Mount Kitchener<\/strong> (R edge). Photo looks SW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Still a truly incredible scene, SPHP, but there isn’t as much snow and ice as I remember.<\/em><\/p>\n

Yup.\u00a0 The Athabasca Glacier is steadily retreating, Loopster.\u00a0 One day in the not too distant future, it will be but a memory.<\/em><\/p>\n

That’s a terribly sad thought, SPHP!\u00a0 This has to be one of my favorite places in the Canadian Rockies, although seeing the Saskatchewan Glacier from Parker Ridge<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, Berg Lake at the base of Mount Robson<\/span><\/a><\/strong> , Moraine Lake<\/strong><\/a><\/span>, and Lake Louise<\/strong><\/a><\/span> all rank way up there, too.<\/em><\/p>\n

All fabulous choices, Looper.\u00a0 However, if we were limited to being able to come back to only one spot in the Canadian Rockies ever again, I might well choose Wilcox Pass and this view.\u00a0 Most spectacular scenic reward for a half day hike there is!<\/em><\/p>\n

Peering over the edge, Sunwapta Lake, the meltwater pond that used to be at the toe of the glacier once upon a time, and the Icefields Centre<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, where it’s possible to get tickets to actually ride in a snowcoach up onto the Athabasca Glacier, were in sight 1,400 feet below.\u00a0 Looking back to the ESE, Sunwapta Pass and Nigel Peak were in view.<\/p>\n

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Icefields Centre<\/strong> (Center) down by Icefields Parkway No. 93<\/strong>. Sunwapta Lake<\/strong> (R) below the toe of the Athabasca Glacier<\/strong>. Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Nigel Peak<\/strong> (L) and Sunwapta Pass<\/strong> (R). Photo looks ESE.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

SPHP shook Lupe’s paw, congratulating the Carolina Dog on her return to this marvelous scene for the first time in nearly 7 years, then shared a chocolate coconut bar with her.<\/p>\n

For over an hour, Lupe and SPHP hung out together in the cold breeze, admiring the glory in all directions, chief of which was the splendid panorama of the Athabasca glacier and surrounding mighty peaks.<\/p>\n

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Mount Andromeda<\/strong> (L), Athabasca Glacier<\/strong> (Center), part of Snow Dome<\/strong> (R). Photo looks SSW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Athabasca Glacier<\/strong>. Photo looks SSW with help from the telephoto lens.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Happy Lupe with Mount Athabasca<\/strong> (L) and the Athabasca Glacier<\/strong> (R) beyond her. Photo looks S.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Oh, we’ll never get tired of Wilcox Pass and these views of the Athabasca Glacier, will we, SPHP?<\/em><\/p>\n

Not even if we live to be 100, Loopster!<\/em><\/p>\n

7-25-23, 2:38 PM<\/em> – Absent-mindedly, SPHP shook the box, then looking down realized it was empty.<\/p>\n

Holy moly, Loop!\u00a0 I’ve eaten an entire box of Dots sitting here.\u00a0 Guess I’ll be on a sugar high now!\u00a0 Sadly, our hour at this splendid perch has flown.\u00a0 Ready to move on?<\/em><\/p>\n

Hate to leave, SPHP, but more adventures lie ahead, don’t they?<\/em><\/p>\n

Gobs of ’em, Looper, a whole Dingo Vacation chock full of them!<\/em><\/p>\n

A final appreciative look, and Lupe was on her way.<\/p>\n

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Mount Athabasca<\/strong> (L), Mount Andromeda<\/strong> (Center), Athabasca Glacier<\/strong> (far R).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After leaving her fabulous viewpoint, Lupe explored the region closer to the SE end of Mount Wilcox.\u00a0 Great fun, but all too quickly, she arrived back at Wilcox Pass.\u00a0 Still awesome views all around, but just a matter of following the trail back now.<\/p>\n

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Leaving the Wilcox Ridge viewpoint. Mount Wilcox<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Back at Wilcox Pass<\/strong>. Mount Wilcox<\/strong> (L edge), Tangle Ridge<\/strong> (Center). Photo looks NW.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

7-25-23, 4:06 PM, 52\u00baF<\/em> – Warmer, actually quite pleasant, with scarcely even a breeze, when Lupe leapt back onto her pink blanket in the RAV4 at the Wilcox Pass trailhead.<\/p>\n

Wilcox Pass, and lots of beautiful places on the way to it!\u00a0 My 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska is off to a terrific start, SPHP!<\/em><\/p>\n

And still time enough for more sight-seeing yet today, Loop.\u00a0 Hope you’re in the mood for some awesome Canadian Rockies waterfalls, sweet puppy!<\/em><\/p>\n

I am!\u00a0 Turn the key, and let’s hit the road N.\u00a0 Onward!\u00a0 SPHP, ho<\/em>!<\/p>\n

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The Athabasca Glacier<\/strong>, Snow Dome<\/strong> & Mount Kitchener<\/strong> from Wilcox Ridge<\/strong>, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada 7-25-23<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Lupe’s GPS Track<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Links:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Next Adventure<\/span><\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Prior Adventure<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Lupe’s Scrollable GPS Track<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Tangle Falls to Tangle Ridge, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada (8-7-19)<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Peyto Lake & Lupe’s Search for the Peyto Glacier, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada (7-26-13)<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Mount Jimmy Simpson, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada (8-6-18)<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Bow Glacier Falls, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada<\/span> (8-2-17)<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

Want more Lupe adve<\/em>ntures?\u00a0\u00a0Choose from Lupe’s Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacations to Colorado, New Mexico, Canada & Alaska Adventure Index<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/em>, Dingo Vacations Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a> or Master Adventure Index<\/span><\/strong><\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0Or subscribe free\u00a0to\u00a0new Lupe adventures<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Days 1 & 2, and Part 1 of Day 3 of Lupe’s 2nd Summer of 2023 Dingo Vacation to Canada & Alaska! 7-23-23, 11:30 AM, 82\u00baF – On her pink blanket atop pillows and various gear, the Carolina Dog was excited! Ready to roll whenever you are, SPHP! If I’ve forgotten anything else, we’re just … Continue reading Wilcox Pass, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada (7-25-23)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":52928,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"nf_dc_page":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1659],"tags":[105,34,135,30,31,106,26,33,104,1692],"class_list":["post-52942","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-1659","tag-american-dingo","tag-athabasca-glacier","tag-banff","tag-canada","tag-canadian-rockies","tag-carolina-dog","tag-dingo-vacations","tag-jasper-national-park","tag-lupe","tag-wilcox-pass"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventuresoflupe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1479-scaled.jpg?fit=1651%2C1238&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52942","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=52942"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52942\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":54108,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52942\/revisions\/54108"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/52928"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=52942"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=52942"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventuresoflupe.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=52942"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}