Spires, Huts, Views.
(Journal thoughts from my first climbing trip to the Bugaboos July 2024)
After the longest washboard chest rattling drive we assemble the requisite porcupine fencing around the car. If this was simply a backpacking trip, the views alone are stunning, but the elevation gain, weight of packs and minor climbing makes the approach feel tougher. Snow has lasted longer and deeper than expected this summer. The hut is packed, the other strangers say it can be worse. Up higher the Applebee camp is slowly thawing with less room for climbers.
A pesky early 'alpine' start after little sleep. When the early light reveals the mountains grandeur, I'm in awe. We start off on the longest approach for the easiest climb, but today is all-time. Pigeon checked off. Down to the hut and new traditions.
Next day we set off for Bugaboo Spire. Exposed scrambles to perfect granite climbing. Rapping off the summit. What a dream this trip has been. Back to the hut, hot drinks, spaghetti and easy sleep.
Now the rattling washboard drive to Brisco, then Spokane then to Hood.
If we had more supplies I'd would love to come back and tag the Howser, beautiful pitch after pitch of alpine granite higher than the rest of the range.
Spires, huts, views. Oh and a mandatory stop at Tim Horton's.