Home»All Photographs»2022 Hikes»Mt. Schaffer 09-21-22

After getting my shift covered the day before, I was free to head to Mt. Schaffer on a sunny Wednesday.
I knew the long walk up the gravel access road (11 km each way) would not be the best part of the day, but I've done it lots before and it's always worth it. Actually, it seems to get shorter with each passing trip to the Lake O'Hara area - maybe because I'm getting to know the characteristics of the approach road? I also find that doing math based on my per kilometer hiking time (there are numbered signs along the way) to estimate my ETA at the lake makes time go by faster.
Upon arrival to the campground, I was treated to a show - crews were shuttling firewood to the ACC Elizabeth Parker Hut and I got a front row seat to the heli-action.
Beyond the noisy ongoing work, I proceeded to hike to Schaffer Lake, where I ascended a frosty gully in the morning shade. At the top of this gully was a col of stupendous scenery - the azure waters of Lake McArthur shone below. After a snack here, I put on my helmet and commenced the scramble up Mt. Schaffer.
I did a rising traverse across some loose shaley slopes before coming to a distinct gully. This gully provided a fine route to the ridge. The summit ridge was lots of fun - up and down and around little obstacles with 'wow' scenery all around. The summit was warm, calm and quiet - a great spot to sit and take it all in.
I descended back the way I came, passing a couple of groups on their way up. Back at the col, I chose an alternate descent route that would have me swing southeast and visit the shores of Lake McArthur - after all, what's the rush to get back from a place like this?