Home»All Photographs»2021 Hikes»Roche a Perdrix 07-24-21

I went on a solo trip to Jasper for a few days of hiking and camping. I based out of Pocahontas Campground, near the eastern edge of Jasper National Park.
After leaving Calgary at 3:30 am, I arrived in Jasper townsite at around 8:30 am. I decided on Roche a Perdrix for my objective since it was close to my campground, and drove 50 km east to reach the trailhead.
I started up the ridge O.K., but soon was feeling the effects of fatigue from little sleep and the long drive. I felt like I had a bit of vertigo or weird balance - but kind of moreso in my head than actually stumbling. I stayed hydrated and plodded on.
At some point on the ridge, I missed an important diversion (at a HUGE rock arrow) and ended up much higher than I should have been, with a cliff between me and the correct route below. This was actually my second miscalculation, and I pondered pulling the plug on my summit attempt in favor of an easy afternoon at the campground. I decided I would give the mountain one last try.
20 minutes later, I was back on route and working my way up. I crossed two pronounced gullies and then was working up a steep slope of packed dirt. At the top of this slope, I took a much needed break for a snack and some hydration in the shade.
The scramble portion soon ensued, and I worked my way across a series of small ledges leading to the summit ridge.
From there, a lovely 10 minute hike to the scenic summit awaited. I took photos, signed the summit register, and worked my way down the same way.
After getting back to the trailhead, I went to the nearby Folding Mountain Brewery. This is a stunning building with really good beers, too. The cranberry sour beer is especially good. Between the friendly staff, impressive building design and flavorful beer, I would definitely return.
I then went to Pocahontas Campground to check in and got set up there. Before supper, I went on a short 1 hour hike along the historic Pocahontas Mine Trail. Lots of cool mining relics remain in the woods. This mine was in operation from 1910-1921 and supplied coal to the advancing railway line.