Home»All Photographs»2020 Hikes»Lipalian Mountain Et al. 09-09-20

With the bomber weather forecast on this Wednesday, I gave my shift to Megan, who graciously worked for me while I enjoyed a fine day out.
I decided on a hike n' bike to the Skoki area near Lake Louise. Upon arriving at the trailhead, a group of hikers were getting in a shuttle van to get a ride up the ski hill trail. I though nothing of it and mounted my bike for the slow, steep pedal up to Temple Day Lodge.
After ditching my bike in the woods and changing gear, I hiked up "Larch" ski run, while dutifully calling out for bears.
Shortly thereafter, I heard voices on the mountainside. I had caught up to the group who rode the shuttle (there is no shuttle - somebody just knows the right person). Upon hiking by them, they were a friendly group of old-timers out for a van-assisted day in the alpine scenery.
Continuing on, I hiked to the summit of Lipalian Mountain, with awesome views of the Lake Louise Group across the highway. From there, the ridge connected over to the aptly-named Purple Mound. After that, I descended to Wolverine Ridge where I had a peaceful lunch in the sun.
By the time I was back near my bike, it was about 1 pm - far too soon to contemplate heading back, so I refilled my water containers and set my sights on Whitehorn - a peak in the middle of the ski area. While technically off bounds due to liability, if you move quickly, keep a low profile and are friendly to any workers you cross, you are generally in good shape. I even chatted with some carpenters working on a utility shed near the summit.
Multiple peaks, all day sun, a thrilling bike ride out and the freedom of solo travel - a perfect day in the mountains!