Baldy Traverse

To do Baldy itself is just a gloried hike. The traverse of all three peaks makes for a full
scramble.   From the summit you have an overview of Barrier lake and the surrounding
peaks. During the Second World War there was a prison camp nearby and prisoners were
allowed to climb this peak as a day trip if they promised to return.

Getting There
From Calgary take the Trans Canada Highway to the exit for the Kananaskis trail, Highway
40. Head south for approx 13 km.   After the Barrier Lake Picnic area (at the south end of the
lake) start looking on your left for a small stream. Once you see it you can pull off the road
on the left into a small area big enough for 4-5 cars or carry on 50 yards and park off the
road in a larger area to your right.

When To Climb
Usually the summer months. From April till sometimes as late as November. Snow
conditions would dictate climbing at other times.

Mountain Conditions
Kananaskis Provincial Park
Barrier Lake Information Centre
Phone (403) 673-3985 (toll free in Alberta 310-0000)
The Alpine Club of Canada (403) 678-3200, ext 1

Route
Scramble up a trail to the west ridge. It took me 1 hour and 15 minutes to the summit.
There is a register. I then traversed to the middle peak. Some exposed down climbing
here. Then on to the SW peak. This is the crux of the three summit traverse. Up
climbing was not bad, but down climbing takes some skill. Just return to the col between
the middle and SW summit and head back out through the drainage.

I enjoyed a large spruce grouse on the way to the summit and solid views of Mount
Lougheed Traverse, Mount Kidd and Bogart as well as The Wedge to the south.