Wed, Mar 19 2025 - Foran Grade Trail to Windy Point Trail to Sheep Trail Loop (View Original Event Details)
| Event Coordinator(s): |  |
Kate B
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| Participants: | | Kate B, David R, Susan Ch, Siri M, Lyle T, Helen Robertson, SUSAN ALLEN, Susan A |
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Write Up:Skies were sunny and temperature around 13 when we began our trek down Hwy #546 to the Foran Grade trailhead. Although there was still some snow on the highway, we were happy to find the eastern slopes of Foran Grade were generally clear, snow was in shaded sections of the trail as we climbed to the top of the ridge. Along the way we were fortunate to spot a grouse and deer, as well as spectacular views of snow covered peaks and looking east at the highpoint we were able to see the Calgary skyline. As there were intermittent gusts of wind at ridgetop, we descended to enjoy lunch sitting on a felled tree or two, just a stone’s throw from the trail’s popular grassy viewpoint. From there it was a short descent to the Windy Point trail junction. As we were looking at the trail’s signpost, we had a short discussion about possible future hikes which would take in a larger loop or perhaps a loop which would explore an ascent to Windy Ridge. We turned left and down this trail section we encountered muddy sections, which one could anticipate due to a rise in temperature to 3 degrees. We stopped to pick up three cans of hard-steeped tea – general consensus was they had either fallen from someone’s pack or been jettisoned because of weight. When we reached the highway we crossed the road to the Sheep trail and to take a group photo at the viewpoint overlooking the river. Onward and up the trail proved pretty much a greasy, muddy venture. Most of the group chose to walk along the road, while two hikers continued on to trundle along while chatting.
Regrouping at the cars, we had big smiles and full hearts after a great day hiking together!
