SAACC MAY 2023 NEWSLETTER

SAACC May 2023 Newsletter

“Climb the mountain not to plant your flag, but to embrace the challenge, enjoy the air and behold the view. Climb it so you can see the world, not so the world can see you.” – David McCullough Jr

As we bid farewell to the ski season, we can't help but reflect on all the crazy moments and memories we made on the mountain. From face-planting in the powder to après-ski shenanigans, it's been one heck of a ride. But fear not, dear friends, because with the arrival of May comes a new season of adventure and fun.

The snow is slowly melting away, revealing lush green valleys and sparkling lakes just waiting to be explored. It's time to dust off those hiking boots and hit the trails, to breathe in the fresh mountain air and soak up the sunshine. And let's not forget about the wildlife - the adorable baby animals that are starting to make their appearances. Who doesn't love a fuzzy little bear cub or a playful fawn?

But let's not get too ahead of ourselves. It's still May, and that means unpredictable weather, unexpected snowstorms, and the occasional case of sunburn (oops). So grab your rain jacket, pack a picnic, and get ready for whatever Mother Nature throws our way.

We hope you enjoy this month's newsletter and all the adventures that come with it. So cheers too May, cheers to new beginnings, and cheers to making memories that will last a lifetime.

News From National ACC

New Membership Portal coming May 23.

We have important news regarding the National Membership portal. Beginning May 23, 2023, a new portal will be launched, and you will receive correspondence and an email with a link to sign in from National ACC. This link will bring you to the new sign-in page and guide you through the setup. Your existing member profile will be ported over from the previous site, but all members will be required to re-sign in with a new password.

Once you've logged in, there's a requirement to fill out the online waiver, which is attached to your profile. This online waiver is essential as it makes your account with National ACC valid, allowing you to sign up for their events. National ACC has informed us that this online waiver will replace the paper copies we hand out at our events.

We anticipate some growing pains with this new custom site, but we have had a chance to preview it, and it's a considerable upgrade to the existing one. If you have any questions about the new system, please don't hesitate to contact our club admin.

Please ensure you fill out the online waiver as soon as possible to make your National ACC account valid. We hope you'll enjoy the new membership portal

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR MAY

Weekly Drytooling and Skills Refresher: Thursdays 6-8pm

Operation Iron Path: May 20-21,2023: Emerald Lake, Alberta

LOCAL ROUTES AND STUFF

The Crowsnest Pass area in Alberta is a true hidden gem, offering a variety of outdoor adventures and activities for all levels and interests. If you're looking for a destination that combines excellent climbing opportunities, scenic kayaking spots, thrilling mountain bike routes, and endless hiking trails, this is the place for you.

One of the highlights of the region is Chinook Lake, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain landscape. This crystal-clear lake is perfect for kayaking, swimming, or fishing. Nearby, Window Mountain Lake is another popular spot for water activities, and it's also an excellent location for camping and picnicking.

For climbers, the Crowsnest Pass area boasts some incredible mountain climbs. Whether you're a seasoned climber or just starting out, there are routes to suit all skill levels. And if you're interested in mountain biking, Blairmore has some great trails that will get your heart pumping.

But it's not just about climbing and biking in this region. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore as well, such as the stunning Emerald Lake trail. This hike takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area, including waterfalls, lush forests, and towering mountain peaks.

One of the best things about the Crowsnest Pass area is that it's relatively uncrowded, allowing you to truly experience the great outdoors without the crowds. So whether you're looking for a challenging climb, a leisurely kayak, or a peaceful hike, the Crowsnest Pass area has something for everyone.

EMERALD LAKE AREA

An amazing area to explore for rock. Development is on going but there is now lots to offer. With a parking lot close to the rock makes your approach minimal. This area will get you elevated quickly providing you with easterly looking views of Alberta and the mountains which skirt the foothills. This is a great area to learn and develop multi pitch skills. Please beware there is Big Horn sheep which frequent the area. Even though they wont bother you, you will be silently mocked by them while climbing.

Mount Tecumseh: As The Crow Flies 5.9/5.10a

Mount Tecumseh is one of two mountains that guard the entrance of Crowsnest Pass in to the prairies. This route was created to give more options to get to the summit. The classic route puts the person on the backside and to endure a climb in a scree environment. There is also trouble accessing this trail head due to land permissions with the acreages which have lines the base of the mountain. This new route provides a very direct western route to the summit. This route combines scrambling with several pitches of easy to moderate alpine climbing. Enjoy the vertical and the views all the way to the summit.

  • Are you tired of running on the flat, boring pavement? Do you crave adventure and want to push your limits? Then it's time to hit the mountains and start trail running!

    Trail running is a great way to explore nature, challenge yourself, and get in a killer workout. But before you strap on your shoes and hit the trails, here are some tips for beginners to help you stay safe and have fun.

    Start Slow and Steady

    Don't expect to run like a mountain goat on your first trail run. Start with shorter, easier trails and gradually work your way up to longer, more challenging runs. Take the time to enjoy the scenery and appreciate the natural beauty around you.

    Invest in Good Gear

    Unlike road running, trail running requires specific gear to keep you safe and comfortable. Invest in a good pair of trail running shoes with plenty of grip and support. Consider wearing a hydration pack or carrying water and snacks with you, especially on longer runs. Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

    Be Mindful of Your Footing

    Running on uneven terrain can be tricky, so be sure to watch your footing and adjust your stride as needed. Look ahead and plan your steps, especially on steep inclines and descents. Use caution on loose rocks and gravel and avoid running on slippery surfaces like wet roots and leaves.

    Know the Trail Etiquette

    Trail runners share the trails with hikers, mountain bikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Know the trail etiquette and be respectful of other users. Yield to hikers and uphill runners, announce your presence when passing, and stay on the designated trail to minimize impact on the environment.

    Embrace the Challenge

    Mountain trail running can be tough, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Embrace the challenge and push yourself to new limits. Don't be afraid to take breaks and walk when needed, especially on steep climbs. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small.

    Sources:

    "Trail Running Tips for Beginners" by Rachel Trotta, Verywell Fit (https://www.verywellfit.com/trail-running-tips-for-beginners-4160472)

    "10 Tips for Trail Running Beginners" by REI Co-op, REI (https://www.rei.com/blog/run/10-tips-for-trail-running-beginners)

    "Trail Running for Beginners: How to Get Started" by Trail and Kale (https://www.trailandkale.com/tips/trail-running-for-beginners-how-to-get-started/

  • Have you ever tried to fit five people and all their gear into a Prius? It's like playing a game of Tetris, except the blocks are your friends and the soundtrack is the sound of your sanity slowly slipping away. But fear not, intrepid adventurers! Carpooling is the way to go for your next outdoor excursion. Sure, you might end up smelling like a wet dog and fighting for elbow room, but think of all the money you'll save on gas and the environmental impact you'll reduce. Plus, you'll have some great stories to tell when you finally arrive at your destination. So buckle up, because we're about to dive into the wild world of carpooling for outdoor adventures.

    First things first, make sure you pick your carpool buddies wisely. You want people who are fun, flexible, and preferably not prone to motion sickness. Bonus points if they bring snacks. And let's be honest, we all have that one friend who's always late. Don't invite them. You'll end up waiting in the parking lot for an hour while they finish their morning coffee and check their horoscope.

    Once you've assembled your squad, it's time to pack the car. This is where the real fun begins. You'll have to make some tough decisions, like whether to bring the cooler or the extra sleeping bag. And let's not forget about the important stuff, like the portable speaker and the essential road trip snacks (hello, beef jerky and Sour Patch Kids). If you're lucky, you might even have room for a guitar or a frisbee.

    Now, it's time to hit the road. Cue the sing-alongs, questionable navigation, and debates about whether or not aliens exist. And don't forget about the occasional pit stop to stretch your legs and grab some gas station coffee. You'll have plenty of time to get to know your carpool buddies, like finding out that one of them has a weird obsession with llamas or that another one is secretly training for a hot dog eating contest.

    When you finally arrive at your destination, it's time to unload the car and set up camp. You'll have to work together to pitch tents, start a fire, and decide who gets the last hot dog. And don't forget about the classic car camping games, like cornhole and cards. Just be careful not to get too competitive and end up in a fight over who cheated in a game of Go Fish.

    But perhaps the best part of carpooling to outdoor adventures is the sense of camaraderie and shared experience. You'll have inside jokes and memories that will last a lifetime. And when you're back at work on Monday morning, you'll have something to smile about besides the looming deadlines and endless emails.

    So next time you're planning an outdoor adventure, consider carpooling with your buddies. Sure, you might have to sacrifice some personal space and put up with some questionable smells, but the memories and laughs will be worth it. And who knows, you might even discover a newfound love for llamas or beef jerky.

    Sources:

    "The Benefits of Carpooling" by RideshareOnline.com

    "The Art of Packing for a Car Camping Trip" by REI.com

    "10 Classic Car Camping Games" by OutdoorProject.com

  • Ah, yes, it's that time of year again. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the ticks are out in full force, ready to ruin our outdoor adventures. As much as we hate to admit it, tick season is a reality that we have to deal with every year. But don't worry, there are ways to protect ourselves and still enjoy our time in the great outdoors. So, let's grab a tick remover and dive into the world of these unwelcome guests.

    First things first, let's talk about prevention. We've all heard the same tips year after year: wear long pants, use bug spray, stay on the trail. But let's face it, who wants to be covered head to toe in the sweltering summer heat? So, here are some alternative suggestions:

    Invest in a tick-repelling bandana: Not only will you look like a cool bandit, but this bandana will also keep ticks away from your neck and face. Bring a lint roller: After your outdoor adventure, give yourself a once-over with a lint roller to pick up any ticks that may have hitched a ride on your clothes.

    Sing to the ticks: Okay, this one might not be scientifically proven, but it's worth a shot. Maybe if we sing loudly enough, the ticks will be scared off. Now, let's move on to tick removal. It's important to remove a tick as soon as possible to reduce the risk of contracting Lyme disease or other tick-borne illnesses. Here are the proper steps:

    Use a tick removal tool: Tweezers or your fingers may leave the tick's head embedded in your skin, which can lead to infection. A tick removal tool will safely and effectively remove the tick.

    Grab the tick as close to the skin as possible: This will ensure that you remove the entire tick, including its head. Pull straight up: Do not twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause its head to break off.Disinfect the bite area: After removing the tick, clean the area with soap and water, and apply an antiseptic.

    Lastly, let's talk about what to do if you do contract a tick-borne illness. Symptoms of Lyme disease can include fever, fatigue, and a bullseye rash. If you suspect that you have Lyme disease, it's important to seek medical attention right away. Early treatment with antibiotics can effectively cure Lyme disease, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious long-term health problems.

    In conclusion, tick season is a reality of summer, but we can take steps to protect ourselves and still enjoy our outdoor adventures. So, grab your tick-repelling bandana, your lint roller, and your singing voice, and let's conquer tick season together.

    Sources:

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Preventing tick bites.

    https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/avoid/on_people.html

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Tick removal.

    https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/removing_a_tick.html

    Mayo Clinic. (2021). Lyme disease.

    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lyme-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20374651

2023 SAACC Publication

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Southern Alberta Section: www.southernalbertaalpineclub.ca

National Alpine Club: www.alpineclubofcanada.ca

Jonathan BlackwoodComment