The Weatherford Trail is another beautiful trail that leads either to Doyle Saddle, Freemont Saddle or the long way up to Humphrey's Peak. The trail starts at just over 8,000' and climbs over 4,000' in 10.5 miles up to Humphreys Peak which takes approx. 5 hours one way. Our goal was Doyle Saddle, approx. 6 miles. I was battling the altitude after 5 miles so I rested while Paul pushed further. We would like to return to this trail and try it again. I do better if I have a day or 2 to acclimate to the altitude. The views were stunning; Ponderosa Pines, Aspen, Englemann Spruce and wildflowers.
Sundance Canyon will probably be an annual trek for Paul Pastore and I. This canyon although short in length, really packs in the adventure and scenery! This was our second trip and we had the place to ourselves until we reached West Clear Creek. We actually swam the first few pools without our wet suits but then put them on for the 2 pot holes etc. The final 180' rappel still takes my breath away and keeps me awake at night but once I have done it, I feel a great sense of accomplishment and relief! As you descend the rope, it's crucial to keep the pull rope separated from the main rope since you have a tendency to spin a lot on the free hang. We had a very hard time pulling our rope down but after several attempts at different angles we were able to pull it down. The steep hike up to the parking lot is challenging but well worth the overall experience. This canyon can take anywhere from 2 - 5 hours. Some people do the neighboring Bear Canyon the same day.
This was my first trip to Canada and both Paul and my first visit to Waterton National Park. (July 6, 2015) The Crypt Lake Hike is one of the premium and most rewarding hikes in Canada. Paul made a reservation to take the ferry that morning across the lake to the trail head. It was a cool morning and clear skies. There were a lot of people taking the first of two scheduled ferry's. The initial climb through many switchbacks and forest was gradual and trail narrow but well maintained/easy to follow. We passed Burnt Rock Falls and then the open alpine mountain. We had striking views of all 574 +' of Crypt Falls! Breathtaking beauty. We soon arrived at narrow ledge that leads to the tunnel. We climbed up the aluminum ladder to the tunnel and crawled but mostly walked 100' through the tunnel. After the tunnel there is another steep ledge with a cable to hold on to for several yards. This was somewhat challenging when others were coming the opposite direction but more so if you have a fear of heights. The cable made it feel safe. Crypt Lake was worth every minute of the climb to get there! We ate our lunch and rested before heading back the way we came in time to meet the ferry.
