April 2022 CORE Newsletter

Executive News

CORE Members Have You Thought about Volunteering with the Club

Members are encouraged to volunteer with the club. Would you like to be a trip coordinator, help out on the executive, or help plan for CORE’s winter and summer weekend trips, or suggest any ideals for outdoor activities. You can contact CORE executive at mailbox@core.org

The current CORE executive is looking for members to volunteer for the executive for the next term (June 1 2022 to May 31 2023). The Positions are: Chair, Co-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Coordinator, Executive Trip Coordinator, Communications Coordinator, Presentations Coordinator, Webmaster, 2 positions for Member-At-Large. More information on these positions will be emailed to you shortly. If you have any questions or you would like to volunteer for one of these positions please email CORE executive at mailbox@core.org .

Nominations for CORE’s Chicken Award

**Even George the Chicken made it up to Bourgeau Lake**

Have you had an interesting adventure on a CORE event. CORE executive would like to hear about it. These adventures will be voted on at the Annual General Meeting on May 31, 2022. And the winner with the most interesting adventure will be awarded CORE’s prestige Chicken Award. Please email your adventures to mailbox@corehike.org by May 16, 2022.

CORE hosted an Outdoor Wiener Roast/Cookout, Get Together, Plus a walk and Frisbee Golf on Sunday, April 24th

A very successful outdoor barbecue was held on April 24th, with 30 members attending.

Members were hungry after a morning of either partaking in an urban hike or playing frisbee golf. With some members not seeing each other after a long period of time, we were united again.

Many thanks to the organizers, Carol, Pat and Julia and everyone else that helped with the outdoor event.

Reminder of CORE’s COVID-19 Regulation

As discussed and passed by the CORE executive on October 26, 2021: During these exceptional times and until further notice, all CORE members will be required to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to participating in all club activities.

Please note that CORE is not collecting or saving any members medical information.

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

Spring is now with us. More activities are being planned for the coming months. Watch your emails for notification of activities/events and go to the CORE calendar to view scheduled activities/events.

Members you can now View CORE photo albums and event calendar using your Mobile Smartphone

For mobile Smartphone users, there is a Fotki APP available for Android and IOS users, which allows members to login and view CORE photo albums. Just open the APP store on your phone and search for the Fotki App. If you are unsure of the login and password for Fotki, send an email to mailbox@corehike.org.

The CORE calendar can be accessed on your mobile phone using website browsing navigation. However, it is best used for viewing the calendar only, not for posting events. Posting and editing events on the calendar are best accomplished on your desktop where you have all your planning resources available.

Hiking Apps – Something for Everyone

Ever wondered when technology would reach the backcountry? The good news: it already has. There are plenty of apps and hiking companions that offer navigation and guidance without the need to be connected to WiFi. Click here for a comprehensive guide.

CORE Photo Album

All CORE members participating in CORE activities are welcome and encouraged to post photos taken on your outings in the CORE website Photo Albums. There are Photo Management instructions on the CORE Guides web page. If you have any trouble uploading your photos, please ask the event coordinator or other experienced CORE member. Some guidelines when posting photos:

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

CORE has a couple of different purpose-oriented email addresses through which you can contact various executive members. If you have a general question about the club, for instance upcoming presenters planned, events, etc, please email us at mailbox@corehike.org. If it is a question about membership or joining the club, please direct your query to membership@corehike.org.

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

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ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from March 26, 2022 to April 24, 2022. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

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**March 26 2022 Carburn Park Urban Hike**

**March 27 2022 Frisbee Golf Thorncliffe Disc course**

April 3 2022 Inglewood East Village Bridgeland Urban Hike

April 24 2022 North Glenmore Park Urban Hike

April 24 2022 North Glenmore Park Golf Frisbee

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News and Notes

Cyclists are you ready!!!!

August 19 2020 RKP Calgary to Chestermere Bike ride

Bow Valley Parkway Highway 1A is open to cyclists only until June 25. From the exit to Fireside turnoff (approx 6kms from Banff) to just prior to Moose Meadows (just pass Johnston Canyon), the Parkway belongs to cyclist and the wildlife.

Elbow Falls Road, Hwy #66, is open to cyclists only from the winter gate closure, west along Elbow Falls Road, until May 14.

Kananaskis Trail, Highway #40, road will remain closed until June 15th. The closure is at the winter gates, just after the turnoff to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. You are allowed to cycle this portion of the Kananaskis road. No vehicle traffic to worry about!

And Highway #546, west of Sandy McNabb Campground is closed to vehicle traffic until May 14.

Lots of cycling options!!!

Kicking Horse Canyon portion of Hwy 1 Closed for One Month

Kicking Horse Canyon, 4 kms east of Golden will be closed from April 19th to May 20th. This construction is part of the fourth and final phase of the Kicking Horse Canyon Project. The project will upgrade the highway from 2 to 4 lanes, create more space for cyclists and mitigate rock fall and avalanche hazards. Per BC Highways, the closure is required, as the work will take up the full highway.

Currently and after the closure ends, this section of the highway will still be under construction but will be open to traffic. With overnight closures from 10 pm to 7 am and 30-minute stoppages during certain times of the day.

Alternative is to use Hwy #93 at Castle Junction and travel thru the Kootenay National Park, then at Radium Hot Springs head to Golden, along Hwy #95. This will add an hour and half to your travel time

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Avalanche Season is here. Check Avalanche Canada report in your area before you head out.

Trailhead Parking Security

It has been reported that car break-ins and theft has been happening at trail-head parking lots. Be sure to lock up your belongings and ensure nothing is visible when you leave your vehicle to mitigate the visibility of tempting items for thieves.

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

Did you know that Lady MacDonald, Grassi Lakes, Goat Creek area including Ha Ling and East End of Rundle is closed for the year. There are many new trail closures this year. Check the Alberta and Canada Parks Trail Reports.

Alberta Parks and Banff National Park are urging people to be bear aware. There have been multiple sightings of bears, and other wildlife in the parks. Depending on which park you are in, contact either Alberta Parks (403-591-7755) or Parks Canada Banff office (403-762-1470) if you come in close vicinity of a bear, cougar, elk or wolf.

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Adventure Stories

Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all happiness and growth occurs while you are climbing it. – Andy Rooney

For all CORE members, this spot is for you. If you have a little story to tell about something you’ve seen on a CORE outing, or some article or book you may have read that you would like to share, please send it along and we’ll publish it in the next newsletter. Keep it to a couple paragraphs, and stick to topics related to the outdoors or the environment. mailbox@corehike.org

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Hither and Yon

Never Poke a Bear in Their Den

Alberta Park officials are trying to find the person who posted a video to social media of a bear swatting at a person photographing a bear in its den. The video has a person going up to a bear’s den and waits for the bear’s reaction. In the video the bear’s paw can be seen swatting at the photographer, who then turns and runs away.

Per John Paczkowski of Alberta Parks, “Anyone who approaches a bear’s den is putting themselves a greater risk of being attack or interacting with the bear. The animal might defend its den. Alberta conservation does not know if the bear had cubs in the den.

Three things can Happen:

Alberta Parks finds the photographer, who then can be fined under the provincial wildlife Act up to $12,000 dollars for the 1st offense.
The bear may need to be put down, due to this bad experience.
Or both

From a bear’s point of view, the photographer cornered the bear and it is now scared and is striking out in fear, per the video. The bear now has a bad experience with humans (bear smelt and saw the human aggravating him), and will remember this event going forward.

Pacczowski states “denning is a critical time for bears and disturbing them can harm their health. It decreases their fitness. They are really dependent on making sure they have enough calories to get thru the year, so they do not need to be unnecessarily burning off calories due to a human disturbance. The bears do not need the extra agitation. Their calorie reserves are very low. They have just come out of four to five months of hibernation.”

Have Fun and Stay Safe!!!!!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

January to March 2022 Newsletter

Executive News

CORE Members Have You Thought about Volunteering with the Club

CORE is hosting an Outdoor Wiener Roast/Cookout, Get Together, Plus a walk and Frisbee Golf on Sunday, April 24th

You are invited to join in on the fun at North Glenmore Park in southwest Calgary on April 24th! CORE will be supplying all the food and drinks for a good old-fashioned wiener roast/cookout at the park. There will be a walk and/or Frisbee Golf. Event will be from 10.30 am to 2:00 pm.

All you need to bring is yourself, warm clothing, wiener sticks (if possible) and a frisbee. CORE will have a few spare frisbee’s.

More information on where to meet on April 24th will be provided at a later date. Rain-out date will be Sunday, May 1, if the weather is too inclement.

Reminder of CORE’s COVID-19 Regulation

As discussed and passed by the CORE executive on October 26, 2021: During these exceptional times and until further notice, all CORE members will be required to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to participating in all club activities.

Please note that CORE is not collecting or saving any members medical information.

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

Spring is now with us. More activities are being planned for the coming months. Watch your emails for notification of activities/events and go to the CORE calendar to view scheduled activities/events.

Members you can now View CORE photo albums and event calendar using your Mobile Smartphone

Hiking Apps – Something for Everyone

CORE Photo Album

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

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ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from January 1, 2022 to March 19, 2022. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

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Jan 1 2022 Snowy Owl New Years Day Winter Hike

**January 9 2022 Penstock Loop Snowshoe**

January 14 2022 Marl Lake Circuit XC Ski

**January 23 2022 Edgemont Golf Course Frisbee Golf**

Feb 13 2022 Porcupine Creek Baldy Pass Connector Hike

Feb 26 2022 Fish Creek Walk from Bebo Grove

March 5 2022 Kananskis Village Trails XC Ski

March 17 2022 Evan Thomas Creek Green Monster Winter Hike

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News and Notes

Be BEAR AWARE

Bears are coming out of hibernation. First reported sighting of a bear was in Banff National Park.

**Our friendly bear White Light Brown Black Bear**

Reminder:

Hike with a buddy or groups.
Talk, make noise, this alerts the bear’s you are around.
Listen and scan your surrounds for any noises or sight of a bear.
If you see a bear and he is close by, make a lot of noise. This alerts him where you are, and most bears will go in the opposite direction.
Carry a bear horn, bear banger’s the noise from these devices may scare the bear away.
Final line of defense is your bear spray. Know how to use bear spray. Aim for the bears eyes and nose, this has the potential to render the bear defenseless for a minute or more.
You then need to walk as quickly as possible in the opposite direction the bear is. Always keep an eye on the bear to ensure, he is not following you.
Report all bear sightings to either the National or Provincial Park the bear was sighted in.

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Avalanche Season is here. Check Avalanche Canada report in your area before you head out.

Trailhead Parking Security

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

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Adventure Stories

There Are No Shortcuts to Any Place Worth Going – Beverly Sills

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Hither and Yon

The New Alberta Trail Act, Bill 79:

Bill 79, The New Alberta Trail Act received proclamation on Feb 22, 2022, except section 5 which comes into effect May 22, 2022.

Per Environment Minister, Jason Nixon, trail legislation has not been updated since 1979, and trail usage has gone up significantly since then.” “The proposed changes will allow volunteer groups, like the quad squad (a ATV group), to apply to have trails designated for a specific recreational use and protected under the act while protecting the surrounding ecosystems.”

Per NDP environment critic Marlin Schmidt, states “this does not lay out a solid enough plan as what trails to designate and who will care for them. The legislation will not set out any kind of regulatory requirements about who can manage or what a trail management plan has to entail. This will be left up to policy.” “Which puts much of the decision-making power in the hands of the Minister of Environment.”

The new Trails Act introduces new powers to government to be able to create trail management plans, designate trail managers and designate provincial trails and provincial trail areas.

The Alberta Wilderness Association does not believe the protection of the surrounding areas and the qualifications of those designating the trails. “Trail planning needs to be based on science and we need to have these regional, sub-regional plans in place that address the cumulative effects of industry and recreation on the landscape and that will tell us where it is appropriate to have trails.”

Other concern groups state the same thing. Need to see a more environmentally focused method when deciding where to designate new trails. This designation should be based on valued ecosystem components like water quality, fish habitats, wildlife and plant life and endangered species. Another concern is the minister has the ability to designate a Trail Manager. What is the qualification and accountability of these trail managers? The provincial government needs to remain the planner, manager and the authority of any trails developed as these trails are on provincial land. Would a designated trail manager take into account not only the ecosystems of the land he/she wishes to develop, but also all the ecosystems surrounding this development?

Another item to consider is, if that manager/club who has designated a trail area, no longer is in business 10,20, etc.. years after the new trail has been built. Who then does the upkeep of this new designated trail area revert too? And who does the maintenance/upkeep of this designated trail area?

The Key Changes to Bill 79 are: (came into effect February 22, 2022)

Establish a system for sustainable trail management on public land
Allow for the designation of trails for specific uses, such as hiking or riding an ATV.
Improve trail planning to consider other land uses and valves
Provide enforcement tools to prevent environmental damage and promote stewardship of the land.
Promote a bigger role for partners in trail maintenance – the minister may enter into a trail agreement with any person, including a municipality, for the purpose of the operation, management, construction, development of maintenance of a designated trail or designated trail area.
Strengthen trail protections so all Albertan’s can enjoy them for years to come.

Trail Management Plan Section 5: comes into effect May 22, 2022

5(1) Subject to the regulations, the Minister may establish trail management plans for designated trails and designated trail areas.
5(2) All designated trails and designated trail areas are subject to an applicable trail management plan established under subsection (1). – (No details in subsection (1) on how this will be done)
If there is a conflict or inconsistency between a trail management plan and any applicable ALSA regional plan, the ALSA regional plan prevails to the extent of the conflict or inconsistency.

Have Fun and Stay Safe!!!!!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

November/December 2021 CORE Newsletter

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Executive News

Effective October 27, 2021 a new CORE COVID-19 Rule Has Been Implemented

At a special meeting, the CORE executive passed a motion regarding a new COVID-19 rule. This new rule is effective as of October 27, 2021 until further notice.

As discussed and passed by the CORE executive on October 26, 2021: During these exceptional times and until further notice, all CORE members will be required to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to participating in all club activities.

Please note that CORE is not collecting or saving any members medical information.

Winter Safety Event – Burstall Pass – January 16, 2022 – See News and Notes below for more Information.

Members you can now View CORE photo albums and event calendar using your Mobile Smartphone

The CORE calendar can be accessed on your mobile phone using website browsing navigation. It is best used for viewing the calendar. Although events may be posted and edited this is best accomplished on your desktop where you have all your planning resources available.

Hiking Apps – Something for Everyone

CORE, ACTIVITIES/EVENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC:

CORE executive has put in place guidelines and recommendations for trip coordinators, and COVID-19 guidelines for keeping members safe, when participating in CORE activities/events. CORE executive would like to thank all CORE members that put on hikes, bike rides, urban walk’s, etc. for their club members during this unprecedented time.

Fall is now with us. More activities are planned for the coming months. Continue to watch your emails and CORE calendar for activities/events.

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

If the province of Alberta mandates different requirements, the organization may have to make appropriate changes. If the situation changes a newsletter with the updated information will be sent to the members.

CORE Photo Album

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

CORE has a couple of different purpose-oriented email addresses through which you can contact various executive members. If you have a general question’s about the club, for instance upcoming presenters planned, event, etc, please email us at mailbox@corehike.org. If it is a question about membership or joining the club, please direct your query to membership@corehike.org.

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

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ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from September 4, 2021 to October 17, 2021. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

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Oct 22 2021 Frisbee Golf North Glenmore Park

Oct 24 2021 Fish Creek Park Urban Hike

Oct 24 2021 Wind Ridge Hike

Oct 26 2021 Nose Hill Urban Hike

Oct 31 2021 Mt Barwell Hike

Oct 31 2021 West Wind Valley Hike

Nov 11 2021 Remembrance Day Walk

Nov 13 2021 Brentwood Art Urban Hike

Nov 19 2021 Snagmore Elbow Loop Hike

Nov 20 2021 Sulphur Mtn Winter Hike

Nov 21 2021 Long Distance Telephone Snow Hair Winter Hike

Nov 25 2021 Sundance Canyon Fenland Loop Winter Hike

Nov 27 2021 Snagmore Elbow Loop Winter Hike

Nov 28 2021 Frisbee Golf North Glenmore Park

Nov 28 2021 Mt Hoffman Winter Hike

Dec 4 2021 Sherbrook Lake Snowshoe

Dec 11 2021 Frisbee Golf Edgemont Park

Dec 11 2021 Xmas Dance Triwood

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News and Notes

Winter Safety Day on January 16, 2022 At Burstall Pass Parking Lot

The Friends of Kananaskis Country are presenting a Winter Safety Day on January 16, 2022.

This outdoor event takes place in the Burstall Pass parking lot from 10am to 3.30pm. This free education event will enable you to connect with experts in outdoor safety. From avalanche awareness to satellite communications devices, to what should be in your emergency kit. Plus free Hot Chocolate and Hot Dogs for everyone.

There are 15 presenters confirmed and more are coming. For more information go to The Friends of Kananaskis Country website. Burstall Pass parking lot is across the road from Chester Lake parking lot on the Smith Dorrien Road, #742 in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park.

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Avalanche Season is here. Check avalanche report in your area before you head out.

Trailhead Parking Security

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

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Adventure Stories

**Mud Lake at Bur**stall Pass looking at Spray Mountains – Commonwealth Peak

Between Every Two Pines is a Doorway to a New World – John Muir

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Hither and Yon

Parks Canada K-9 Unit: Rescues Lady Lost at Lake Louise

In this rescue the theme is:

Never doubt your partner, even if that partner cannot speak and is 4-legged!!!
Make sure someone else is aware of where you are hiking and when you should return.
You are well prepared for your hike, in case something goes wrong (extra clothing and equipment, including bear spray).

Leroy, a German shepherd and his handler Logan Bennett were part of a Parks Canada search and rescue effort on November 9, 2021. They were called out, for an overdue hiker at 4pm at Pipestone cross-country ski trails near Lake Louise. They tracked the missing lady for 22 kms, thru rough terrain, blowing winds and snow, and found the lady alive and well at 1.30am on Nov 10th, 2 kms from Skoki lodge.

The lady was well prepared with adequate clothing and equipment but had gone off route and become lost. She had no headlamp. When found, she had been walking from 9am on Nov 9th to 1.30am on Nov 10th. Due to not being able to cross Pipestone River to get too a nearby warden cabin, another parks rescuer who was 5kms behind had set up a tent and had a fire going, where they stayed until morning.

After the 12km mark, they were following the woman’s tracks up a mountain in deep snow thru a forest of thick trees. On one of Bennett’s passes of that area, Leroy was intent on pulling him in one direction. Quoted from Bennett “He was looking at me like I was stupid. We went in and we backtracked a bit to make sure we had not missed something.” “When I came back to where he was paying a lot of attention too, the trail was really obscured, the trail had gone under and around the tree, but on the other side, sure enough, her trail was right there.”

Park Rescue Dogs

The biggest advantages of having Leroy as part of the Parks Canada team is that he provides significant capability while requiring few resources to operate. Together with Bennett (Leroy’s dog handler) they can do the work of a much larger human only search team which is particularly useful while working in avalanche terrain. The two of them can be put onto a slop and they do not have to put others in harms way.

Work includes tracking and searching for missing people (land or water), locating victims in avalanches, searching for and apprehending suspects and providing backup to park wardens in high risk law enforcement calls.

A Little about Leroy:

Leroy is a sable coloured German shepherd, trained as a general duty police dog by the RCMP. Leroy is good at tracking, picking up and following trails that can include broken branches, bent grass or ground cover as well as particulate matter, like hair and dead skin. He can also follow a person’s scent carried in the air, leading the search team directly to the missing person. And he can identify and track and consistently pursue it. Bennett stated d”He will never stop.”

Leroy and Bennett are the only Parks Canada K9 team in Canada and are located in the Banff National Park but serve all the National Parks surrounding Banff.

A reminder of every member’s responsibility to keeping yourself and your fellow hikers safe, during this unprecedented time.

**Six feet/two metres Social Distancing requirement by AHS and CORE guidelines**

Every member in this photo is a minimum of six (6) feet/two (2) metres apart, for social distancing guidelines.

Reminders:

Bring a mask in case you cannot social distance – 6 feet/2 metres, or you need to go into an indoor area and even for use in the parking lot area.

Stay six feet/2 metres for social distancing when hiking and other events. Also, at rest breaks and lunch.

Remember, This Too Shall Pass!!

Have Fun and Stay Safe!!!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

September/October 2021 CORE Newsletter

Executive News

Effective October 27, 2021 a new CORE COVID-19 Rule Has Been Implemented

At a special meeting this week, the CORE executive passed a motion regarding a new COVID-19 rule. This new rule is effective as of October 27, 2021 until further notice.

As discussed and passed by the CORE executive on October 26, 2021: During these exceptional times and until further notice, all CORE members will be required to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to participating in all club activities.

Please note that CORE is not collecting or saving any members medical information.

CORE is planning a Field Winter Trip, Fun Weekend

Mark your Calendars for December 3rd to the 5th, 2021!!!

Plans are in the works to hold a CORE Winter Fun Weekend in Field, B.C. for members who enjoy x-c skiing, snowshoeing, downhill skiing or simply love the beauty of winter landscapes. Arrangements have been made with the owners of Truffle Pigs Bistro and Lodge to accommodate CORE members over the weekend. Watch for further details and events on the CORE calendar.

WINTER COORDINATOR MEETING – Coordinators meeting for 2021/2022 winter planning

This meeting is open to all members who would like to help with coordinating events, for their fellow hikers.

This meeting is for all hikers, planners, leaders, day-trippers, part-time walkers, nature lovers, photographers, xc-skiers, snowshoers, scramblers, even those who have never led an event. There will be lots of help and mentors and co-trip leaders, who would be happy to come along with you. We have many guide books, maps and computers to navigate any unknown routes. This meeting is for all current CORE coordinators and CORE members who are interested in becoming an event coordinator or just wishing to have someone else put on their favorite trip.

CORE’s Executive trip coordinator will be holding this Coordinators meeting on Thursday, November 18, 2021 7pm by Zoom. You will need to sign up for this event to Carol (our executive trip coordinator). Check the calendar for more information.

What goes up must come down

Something red that could chop wood

CORE Hold’s its First Fall Scavenger Hunt Urban Hike

Coordinated by Lindsay and Carol, they turned a urban hike into a very successful scavenger hunt and hike. What goes up and down in an urban park? What is red and could be used to chop wood? Members had a great time. For more photos go to CORE’s photo album.

CORE’s New Car Pooling Rates

Effective September 1, 2021 CORE’s executive is recommending a new rate of .30 cents per km. With the price of gasoline being much higher than when we set the contribution rate at .25 cents per km. To calculate the car pooling rate go to CORE’s car pooling and location page.

Members you can now View CORE photo albums and event calendar using your Mobile Smartphone

Hiking Apps – Something for Everyone

CORE, ACTIVITIES/EVENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC:

Fall is now with us. More activities are planned for the coming months. Continue to watch your emails and CORE calendar for activities/events.

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

CORE Photo Album

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

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ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from September 4, 2021 to October 17, 2021. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

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Sept 4 2021 Frisbee Golf

Sept 4 2021 Rawson Lake to Sarrail Ridge Hike

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Sept 5 2021 Big Hill Creek Hike Cochrane

Sept 16 2021 Galatea Creek to Lillian Lake Hike

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Sept 7 2021 Powderface Ridge Hike Easy Way

Sept 18 2021 Powderface Ridge Hike Hard Way

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Sept 18 2021 Fish Creek Urban Hike

Sept 22 2021 Confederation Park Urban Hike

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Sept 23 2021 Bragg Creek Hike

Sept 25 2021 Buller Pass North to South Loop Hike

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Sept 26 2021 Cascade Ponds to Johnson Lake Hike

Sept 30 2021 Fullerton Loop Hike

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Oct 1 2021 Nose Hill Park Urban Hike

Oct 2 2021 Pocaterra Ridge Hike

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Oct 3 2021 Inaugural Fall Scavenger Hunt Urban Hike

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Oct 9 2021 Forgetmenot Ridge and Mtn Hike

Oct 10 2021 Frisbee Golf Urban Hike

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Oct 15 2021 Mesa Butte plus Humpty Jack Jill Hills Hike

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Oct 17 2021 Frisbee Golf Lesson Urban Hike

Oct 17 2021 Deer Ridge Sibald Area Hike

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News and Notes

An Opportunist Bear Smells a Meal inside a House!!!

At an acreage in Fort McMurray, a bear wandered into an open garage. The owner watched the bear walk off around the house – hoping the bear went back into the woods.

Then the owners younger son came to the front door and stated “there is all sorts of scratching in the house.” Owners oldest boy ran into the house, came back and stated “there is a bear in the hallway.”

The bear had broken thru a screen, covering a window and crawled into a bedroom. The bear then took a tour of the house until he came to another bedroom, where he smelt one of the son’s bowl of cereal, which was left on the computer desk. The family eventually got the bear out of the house, the same way he came in (thru the window).

For full story go to CBC news.

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Trailhead Parking Security

Trail Closures:

There are many trail closures due to bear activity in both parks. Check the Alberta Provincial and National Park trail advisories, before you head out. If you get to your hiking destination and the trail is closed, obey the closure and try another trail. Have a backup plan in place.

Some of the trails that are closed due to bear activity are: Mist Mountain, Mount Lipsett, Rockwall, Piper Pass, Elbow-Sheep Wildland Provincial Park west of Hwy #40.

Bear Warnings include: Highwood Area, including Ptarmigan Cirque, Pocaterra Ridge, Arethusa, Picklejar Creek and Lantern Creek, Ribbon Creek Trail (from trailhead to falls), Paddy Flats, West Bragg Creek.

Be prepared in case of a bear encounter. Have bear horns, bangers and bear spray. Be aware of your surroundings.

Report all bear sightings to 403-591-7755.

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

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Adventure Stories

Hither and Yon

West Wind Pass good luck bear – 16 July 2021

Bear Spray and Noisemakers When to Use

Bear Spray contains 1% to 2% capsaicin (oleoresin capsicum), the active component of chili peppers. When you push the trigger, the canister releases a stream of the mixture shooting it between 25 to 35 feet and temporarily irritating the bears eyes, nose, mouth and skin with a harsh, burning sensation.

For a bear, who has a sense of smell that’s considered to be seven times greater than that of a dog, when the spray gets into their snout, it is very painful. It causes their eyes to water and all their means of perception are temporarily disabled.

After you administer the bear spray successfully, get out of the area quickly and go for help. Report the incident to your parks detachment. If the bear spray hits the bear in the nostrils and eyes, you have rendered the bear incapacity for 30 seconds to 5 minutes or more. Depending on how much and the strength of the bear spray and if the bear spray hit the bear in the eyes and nose.

No Bear Spray is 100% effective.

In an Alaska bear encounter study; 98% of those who used bear spray were uninjured by the bear. The remaining 2% received only minor injuries that required no hospitalization.
Compared to a firearm, bear spray is more effective at interrupting a bear attack and using it reduces the chance you or the bear will be injured.
Per above the oleoresin capsicum irritates the eyes, nose and lungs, causing a severe but temporary eye irritation and breathing difficulty.

If you see a bear, know when to use a noisemaker or bear spray:

Noisemakers are best used to deter a bear that is at a distance – one that sees you and continues to approach or one that is heading to your camp.
Before using noisemakers, be sure to assess the situation. Make sure the surroundings are clear of people and the bear has an obvious way out. A bear that has been startled by a noisemaker may not be able to avoid groups of people as it flees the area.
Remember, the noisemaker may not immediately deter the bear, especially if the bear has had previous experience with noise deterrents. Noisemakers may not prevent the bear from returning to the area.
- After the bear has left, continuously monitor the area to ensure the bear has left and has not come back.
Bear spray is best used when you need to deter a bear at close range.
- Bear is charging you.
- Noisemakers does not deter the bear.

Types of Noisemakers:

Airhorns: create a loud piercing sound of greater than 120 decibels.
Bangers: available for pen-launchers, creates a loud bang after traveling 20 to 100 metres (66 to 328 ft).

When to use Noisemakers:

Use noisemakers to scare away bears that are aware of your presence but do not leave the area.
Do NOT use bangers in dry forest conditions. They can cause a fire.
When aiming the banger deterrent, aim at the sky. Do NOT shoot it directly at the bear. Ensure it explodes between you and the bear. A noise deterrent that explodes behind a bear may startle it so the bear runs in your direction
Be prepared to defend yourself with bear spray in case the noisemaker does not deter the bear.

When using Bear Spray:

Using Bear Spray is your last resort.
- Your bear spray should be in readily accessible area. Only need to reach for it.
Quickly take the spray out of the holester, point the nozzle at the bears face.
- Aim at the bears eyes, nose, mouth and ears.
Press the trigger to release the spray.
If the wind direction is coming at you, some of the spray will get on you.

When traveling with Bear Spray, put the cannister into a Bear Spray Container upside down. If the spray goes off, the pressure will not dislodge the container cap. The foam inside this container will soak up the bear spray, so as not to leak into your vehicle.

First Aid Treatment for Bear Spray:

Anyone who has been accidentally sprayed should be moved from the contaminated area to fresh air as quickly as possible: The person could be coughing, gasping for air, stumbling and falling down due to the strong chemicals from the spray.
- Removing the bear spray canister and holster away from the body and disposing of the canister, where it will do no more harm to others.
- Remove all contaminated clothing.
Person could feel burning in the area that was exposed to the capsacin.
- Flush exposed skin with cold water and mild soap. Use non-oil based soaps.
- Do Not rub exposed areas. Pat dry with a towel or clean piece of clothing.
To flush bear spray out of your eyes, place your head under water and open your eyes every few seconds. Do Not Rub your eyes. Remove contact lenses.
Do Not apply lotions or creams to exposed areas.
When all the capsacin has been removed from the exposed area, could take a few washes of the area, put ice on area for a few minutes at a time. This will hep relieve the burning.
If the effects of the spray do not dissipate in 30 to 45 minutes, seek medical attention.

To get Capsaicins out of equipment and clothes:

Equipment:

Wash in dawn dish detergent. As the dish soap helps remove greases and oils.
Then wash immediately in laundry detergent. Recommended is Tide.
You may need to wash the equipment 4 or more times before the capsaicin oil has been totally removed.

Clothes:

Wash in cold water with a mixture of dawn dish soap and tide laundry detergent. These Brands are highly recommended.
Ration is 25% dish soap and 75% laundry detergent.
By the 3rd or 4th wash, just use laundry detergent.
Again you may need to wash the clothes 4 or more times before the capsaicin oil has been totally removed.
Do Not put clothes in dryer as the heat could set in the oils deeper.

A reminder of every member’s responsibility to keeping yourself and your fellow hikers safe, during this unprecedented time.

Six feet/two metres Social Distancing requirement by AHS and CORE guidelines

Every member in this photo is a minimum of six (6) feet/two (2) metres apart, for social distancing guidelines.

Reminders:

Bring a mask in case you cannot social distance – 6 feet/2 metres, or you need to go into an indoor area and even for use in the parking lot area.

Stay six feet/2 metres for social distancing when hiking and other events. Also, at rest breaks and lunch.

Remember, This Too Shall Pass!!

Have Fun and Stay Safe!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

July/ August 2021 CORE Newsletter

Executive News

September 28, 2021 at 7 pm CORE’s Monthly Member Meeting (By Zoom)

Banff Film Festival & World Tour Program

Members join us for September’s monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 from 7 pm to 9 pm. Meeting will be open at 6.40 pm for members to socialize prior to the film festival starting. Meeting will be held virtual (by Zoom). More details regarding the type of films and a link to the zoom meeting will be emailed to members by CORE calendar.

CORE is planning a Field Winter Fun Weekend

Mark your Calendars for December 3rd to the 5th, 2021!!!

New Car Pooling Rates

CORE 2021 Summer Weekend Event at Radium B.C.

CORE held their summer weekend event in Radium Hot Springs, B.C. on August 13 to 15, 2021. 20 members attended Hiking trips to Scrambling to Paddling a kayak/canoe on the Columbia Wetlands, with a potluck supper on Saturday night. Now we know who the singers and card sharks are!!! The weekend was a huge success. Many thanks go out to Julia, Carol and Anne-Marie who organized the event and all the coordinators who planned different events for the weekend.

Radium Weekend

Go to CORE’s photo album for more photos from the Radium weekend events (5 hikes, 1 hike and scramble and 1 paddle).

Members you can now View CORE photo albums and event calendar using your Mobile Smartphone

Hiking Apps – Something for Everyone

CORE, ACTIVITIES/EVENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC:

Last part of Summer and the beginning of Fall is now with us. More activities are planned for the coming months. Continue to watch your emails and CORE calendar for activities/events.

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

CORE Photo Album

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

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ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from June 12, 2021 to August 31, 2021. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

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June 12 2021 Wasootch Peak Scramble

June 13 2021 Banff Legacy Trail Bike Ride

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June 21 2021 /Ribbon Creek Falls Hike

June 21 2021 Urban Walk in Currie District

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June 24 2021 Sunnyside River Walk

June 26 2021 Cox Hill Hike

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June 27 2021 Lake Minnewanka Hike

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July 3 2021 Watridge Lake and Karst Springs

July 9 2021 Grotto Canyon Hike

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July 10 2021 Cascade Amphitheatre Hike

July 11 2021 Castle Mtn Lookout Hike

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July 13 2021 Bow Valley Parkway Bike Ride

July 16 2021 West Wind Pass Hike

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July 21 2021 Nose Hill Bike Ride

July 22 2021 Ink Pots via Moose Meadows Hike

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July 25 2021 Healy Pass hike

August 1 2021 Upper Kananaskis Lake Hike

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August 4 2021 Cascade Falls and Beyond

August 5 2021 Bourgeau Lake Hike

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August 7 2021 Coordinators Hike Nose Hill

August 10 2021 Guinns Pass via Lillian Lake Hike

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August 22 2021 Frisbee Golf Workshop

August 29 2021 Beltline Urban Murals Walk

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News and Notes

Canmore Has Trained Its Elk to Use the Crosswalks when in Town

Elk crossing using the crosswalk

Well done Canmore. Thank you to our member in sending this photo in.

Remember to get your Kananaskis Conservation Annual Pass

Kananaskis Country

Remember if you are going into Kananaskis Country Provincial Park, you will need to purchase a Kananaskis Conservation Pass. Sales of the pass started June 1, 2021.

Passes are available online or can be purchased in person or by using Wi-Fi at Kananaskis Visitor Information Centers (Barrier Lake, Elbow and Peter Lougheed) and the Canmore Nordic Center Lodge. To purchase the Kananaskis Conservation Annual Pass online or for more information click on the link.

Day Pass – costs $15 (registers one vehicle only) – day passes expire at 11.59 pm on the day the pass was purchased
- National Park Day Pass is 24 hours from date and time of purchase.
Yearly (Annual) Pass – cost $90 (registers up to 2 vehicles) – valid for a full calendar year (365 days) from date of purchase. E.G.: You purchase an annual pass on June 1, 2021, expires on May 31, 2022.
- Note: You can change your vehicle plate number on the annual pass once per year.
- National Park Annual Pass, expires one year from month you purchased and runs to the end of the month you purchased. E.G. Bought June 1, 2021 Expires June 30, 2022.
Both Passes: you will Not receive a hanger tag or sticker, it is done by a database holding your license plate number.
Both Passes: when you purchase your pass, you will receive via your email a confirmation of your purchase. You can print this confirmation out and use for backup.

This pass applies to all personal vehicles stopping in parks and public lands in Kananaskis Country and the Bow Valley Corridor.

Passes do not apply for vehicles traveling thru the area without stopping and people arriving in the area without a vehicle (on foot, horseback, bicycle)

To see the Areas of Kananaskis country and Bow Valley Corridor that are affected by the new pass and to purchase your day or annual pass go to Alberta Parks website.

Note: I was at Ribbon Creek Parking lot, in Kananaskis Country, and saw a parks official taken license plate numbers and punching them into the computer. Please ensure you have purchased a pass.

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Trailhead Parking Security

Mist Mountain and Mount Lipsett are Closed to Public Usage

Due to a grizzly sow with cubs that bluff charged hikers in this area, Alberta Parks has closed the area northeast of Hwy #40 to the west side of Mist Creek, including Mount Lipsett and Mist Mountain trail and routes. This closure is effective as of August 27, 2021 till further notice.

Rockwall Trail Closed

Effective September 5, 2021, Rockwall Trail located in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, adjacent to the Peter Lougheed Discovery Center is closed due to multiply Grizzly Bears frequenting the area. Closure is in effect until further notice.

Report all bear sightings to 403-591-7755.

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

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Adventure Stories

Hither and Yon

The Story of “Boss, the Bear”

The Boss, Bear cools down during the heat wave

The Boss, known by his identification number, Bear 122, is an adult male grizzly, who weighs over 600lbs (272kg) and lives and hunts in the vicinity of Banff town. Estimated to be around 20 years old, he is the biggest bear in Banff National Park.

Parks Canada states “He is the boss of the landscape and he is the most dominant male grizzly in the Bow Valley and there is nothing else in the food chain that could push him off.” The Boss is a lot about size, but he also has a reputation. A few of his accolades has made him Banff’s Top Bear including surviving getting hit by a train. He has attacked a number of black bears and he has a way with the lady bears as he has fathered a considerable number of offspring.

When Banff had the heat dome on June 27 2021, he wandered into Johnston Canyon and sat in the creek and kept submerging his head in the creek for half an hour, cooling down from the heat. Then wandered off not bothering anyone, per Parks Canada spokesperson.

All these stories, along with his massive size have fed into his status as a local celebrity. There is even Boss merchandise sold at some tourist stores in Banff. Parks Canada says “The Boss spends more time around Banff and gets see more often.” A grizzly this big becomes more familiar with the local people, therefore he gets recognized more easily.

In most situations, large dominate male bears are elusive and are never seen unless on wildlife cameras or during the mating season. But the boss has become a celebrity due to his appearances and actions in Banff national park.

The boss is part of a collared tracking study of 26 local bears, with the goal of finding ways to prevent park bears from being killed by trains. Since 2000, 21 grizzlies have been killed by trains within the park, as bears spend alot of time on the tracks. The tracks serve as a fast and efficient travel corridor along the valley floor, where snow melts earlier and there are few obstacles. The tracks are also, a reliable source for food. Bears can find carcasses of other wildlife killed by trains, but grain is frequently spilled off the top of trains, which bears will feast on.

The Boss (whose collared tracking data reveals), he patrols a large area of 965 sq miles (249.9 sq kms), maintaining a presence not only in Banff but Yoho and Kootenay Parks. The tracks serve as a fast and efficient travel corridor for him. This means the Boss makes his way into Banff along the tracks. It has been said at one time, he nonchalantly wandered right thru downtown Banff, undisturbed by humans or cars.

Who would have thought, when the railroad was built, that it would not only help humans travel from coast to coast, but help the bear and other wildlife population travel as well!!!!!

A reminder of every member’s responsibility to keeping yourself and your fellow hikers safe, during this unprecedented time.

Six feet/two metres Social Distancing requirement by AHS and CORE guidelines

Every member in this photo is a minimum of six (6) feet/two (2) metres apart, for social distancing guidelines.

Reminders:

Bring a mask in case you cannot social distance – 6 feet/2 metres, or you need to go into an indoor area and even for use in the parking lot area.

Stay six feet/2 metres for social distancing when hiking and other events. Also, at rest breaks and lunch.

Remember, This Too Shall Pass!!

Have Fun and Stay Safe!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

May/June 2021 CORE Newsletter

Executive News

CORE’s New Executive for the 2021 to 2022 year:

CORE’s current executive would like to thank members for stepping up and volunteering on the 2021 2022 executive. There was a 39% member respondent to the survey, for the election of the 2021 2022 executive. And a big thank you to last years volunteers.

CORE’s 2021 2022 Executive:

Chairperson – Mike G.
Co-Chairperson – Kim
Secretary – Polina
Treasurer – Jane
Membership Coordinator – Laura
Executive Trip Coordinator – Carol
Communications Coordinator – Mike P.
Presentations Coordinator – Kim
Webmaster – Stu
Member-at-Large – Pam

Note: see below on How to Contact Your Executive.

CORE’s AGM meeting May 25, 2021:

A very successful virtual CORE AGM meeting was held on May 25. With 27 CORE members in attendance. At the meeting, the 2020 Annual General Meeting Minutes were approved. Election results for 2021 2022 CORE Executive were given, with highlights of activities/events. Two Honorary Lifetime Membership Awards were given out and the Chicken Mountain Award.

CORE membership for 2020 – 2021 was a total of 113 members (single 76 and Family 37). Total Events for the year was 114.

The three top trip coordinators appreciation awards for the 2020 2021 year was given to Harvey Kwan (17), Carol Miyagawa (15) and Cheryl Beatty (14).

Julia Trangeled

Honorary Lifetime Membership Awarded to Two CORE Members:

Cheryl Beatty

CORE recognized Cheryl Beatty and Julia Trangeled with an Honorary Lifetime Membership to CORE. Both members have coordinated trips, served on the CORE executive, helped organized many of the long weekend trips and many other contributions to this organization, for many years.

The Chicken Mountain Award

Jane and Carol with their Chicken Mountain award

The Chicken Mountain Award was handed out to Carol and Jane for the misadventures that happened on the Cascade Ponds Hike on March 12th, 2021. Carol and Jane will be sharing this prestigious award. Note: Jane has already named the chicken, George. At the Heart Creek Bunkers, a young family was very curious why, Jane was carrying George the chicken. After explaining, to the family, besides a few giggles from them,they thought this award was a great ideal.

CORE 2021 Summer Trip Planning

On June 17, a summer trip planning meeting was held. Led by Carol, CORE’s executive trip coordinator, with many plans for hiking, biking and scrambling events were discussed. These events will be entered on the calendar, with details to follow. Keep referring to CORE’s event calendar and watching for email notifications of these events. Have a great summer.

CORE 2021 Summer Weekend Event

Floe Lake Kootenay National Park

Organized by Julia Tr and Anne-Marie, CORE will be holding a summer weekend retreat in Radium Hot Springs, B.C.. The weekend get away will be held August 13 to 15, 2021 Does hiking and maybe a cool down in the hot springs to relax your sore muscles interest you?! There is many activities to do in Radium. Hiking, Biking, Golfing, River Rafting and much more. Great chance too get away!!! There already has been email notifications sent to all members regarding the summer weekend event.

Remember these summer events and summer weekend event could be changed due to the continuing COVID -19 by the Alberta Government regulations.

June 29, 2021 at 7 pm CORE’s Members Meeting (Virtually of Course):

Members and Guests please join us for June’s monthly meeting on Tuesday, June 29, 2021, from 7 pm to 9 pm.

Bear Safety Presentation (Virtual)

Videos will be from 7pm to 8.30pm

Presentation for CORE’s June members monthly meeting is a Bear Safety Presentation. This meeting is virtual. These videos will introduce the physical difference between black and grizzly bears. As well as the differences on handling the two types of bear encounters. Each type of bear requires a different way that you should talk and present yourself to that bear. The 4 different types of bear encounters and what you need to do to defend yourself in each type of encounter. Also, how to keep yourself bear safe (as much as possible), and how to use the different bear deterrents.

At the end of each video, members may participate with their own bear stories and/or advice is most welcomed. Having some real-life experiences is always a good learning opportunity.

You must register/signup for this meeting. Kim has sent out a CORE calendar invitation to all members. You will need to register to receive the Zoom meeting link.

These videos are for everyone, for beginners to refreshers for the experts.

This year, there has already been more bear/human encounters than past years. And there has already been 3 tragic bear/human encounters. Remember you the hiker/cyclist/scrambler are going into the bear’s home, and disturbing them. Treat the Bears with Respect.

Meeting will be open at 6.45pm for members to socialize prior to the videos starting and there will be an opportunity to socialize after the videos as well.

Hwy #40 Peter Lougheed Provincial Park to Highwood House Junction ReOpens June 15

Prior to heading out for a hike/cycle/scramble or climb, check the trail closure reports. There are still many trails that are closed due to seasonal wildlife crossings/ecological and construction. Below are links to trail reports for Alberta Provincial Parks and Parks Canada.

June 1, 2021 CORE has reopened for events/activities again.

CORE is Back to putting on events as of June 1 2021

CORE executive has re-opened for events and activities again, as of June 1. Member participation in activities/events will be based on the Alberta Government COVID-19 regulations. These regulations are constantly changing due to the pandemic requirements. CORE executive will be following these changes in regulations and its effects on the organizations ability to carry out events and activities. CORE executive appreciates your patience during these unprecedented times.

Hiking Apps – Something for Everyone

To All CORE Outdoor Event Participants:

Social (Physical) Distancing for COVID 19

The club executive met (virtually of course) and talked about the current COVID-19 situation in Alberta.

The club announced, by a calendar notification to all members, that CORE will be re-opening effective June 1, 2021.

The Alberta Gov’t announced effective June 14, Monday outdoor sporting events will be open to a total of 20 members/event. The number of members allowed on an event will be determined by the coordinator, as there are many circumstances the coordinator needs to take into account. All members must still social distance (2 meters/6 feet) during the hike (event) and when you cannot social distance, you must wear a mask. (e.g. at the trailhead, parking lot). Please go to “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19Pandemic.” See link below.

Thank you for helping us to keep our club members safe.

The CORE Executive.

CORE, ACTIVITIES/EVENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC:

Spring is now with us. More activities are planned for the coming months. Continue to watch your emails and CORE calendar for activities/events.

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

CORE Photo Album

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

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ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from April 16, 2021 to June 15, 2021. During this time, due to Alberta Gov’t Restrictions, CORE had to stop events for 3 weeks. Effective June 1, 2021, CORE is able to resume events. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

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April 30 2021 Vents Ridge

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April 30 2021 Vents Ridge

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June 1 2021 Moose Meadows Loop WBC

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June 11 2021 Heart Creek Trail and Heart Creek Bunker

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June 12 2021 Edgemont Ravines Urban Hike

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June 12 2021 Wasootch Peak Scramble

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June 13 2021 Banff Legacy Trail Bike Ride

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News and Notes

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake – 2021 New Parking Fees in Place

Lake Louise Shoreline and Moraine Lake Parks Canada Shuttle Routes

If you are planning on hiking in the Lake Louise and Moraine Lake area, Parks Canada has put in new parking regulations:

Reservations are required to get a seat on a Parks Canada shuttle to Lake Louise Lakeshore or Moraine Lake, this includes return shuttle. Walk up seat sales are not permitted. Effective June 1 to October 11, 2021.
Book your seat on the Parks Canada Shuttle by using the Parks Canada Reservation system which opened April 28, 2021. A portion of seats will be released in a rolling window, 48 hours prior to departure day. Cost for an adult is $8, Senior $4, Youth (6 to 17) $2, Child (under 6) $free.
Roam Public Transit will operate without reservations. Roam routes 8x and 10 (from Banff), stop at the Lake Louise Park and Ride and can be used to transfer to a Parks Canada shuttle, that you have previously reserved.
There will be paid parking in effect for all public stalls in the Lake Louise Lakeshore parking lot from May 14 to October 11, 2021 from 7am to 7pm daily. Look for pay stations when you arrive. Cost is $11.70 per vehicle per day.
1. You cannot stop and wait in the parking lot hoping for another vehicle to leave.
2. You must have a valid national park entry pass.
Moraine Lake vehicle parking is permitted free, when parking is available at Moraine Lake. Travel to the lake is restricted once the parking lot fills and there is no space to wait for parking stalls to become available.
Access to Paradise Valley trailhead will also be restricted when parking lot is full. There is no cost for parking at Paradise Valley.
There is NO parking fee in the Village of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the Park and Ride lots and all other day use lots across Banff National Park. Including the parking lot at the Great Divide.
You can also inquire at the Lake Louise Visitor Centre for details or contact Parks Canada at Lake Louise by email or call 403-522-3833.
For more information go to Parks Canada – Lake Louise website.

Kananaskis Conservation Annual Pass

Kananaskis Country

Effective June 1, 2021, you will need to purchase a Kananaskis Conservation Pass. Sales of the pass starts June 1, 2021.

Day Pass – costs $15 (registers one vehicle only) – day passes expire at 11.59 pm on the day the pass was purchased
- National Park Day Pass is 24 hours from date and time of purchase.
Yearly (Annual) Pass – cost $90 (registers up to 2 vehicles) – valid for a full calendar year (365 days) from date of purchase. E.G.: You purchase an annual pass on June 1, 2021, expires on May 31, 2022.
- Note: You can change your vehicle plate number on the annual pass once per year.
- National Park Annual Pass, expires one year from month you purchased and runs to the end of the month you purchased. E.G. Bought June 1, 2021 Expires June 30, 2022.
Both Passes: you will not receive a hanger tag or sticker, it is done by a database holding your license plate number.
Both Passes: when you purchase your pass, you will receive via your email a confirmation of your purchase. You can print this confirmation out and use for backup.

This pass applies to all personal vehicles stopping in parks and public lands in Kananaskis Country and the Bow Valley Corridor.

Passes do not apply for vehicles traveling thru the area without stopping and people arriving in the area without a vehicle (on foot, horseback, bicycle)

Note: The Editor would like to give a big Thank You to the staff at the Barrier Lake(Kananaskis) Visitor Information Center for helping me get set up with my Annual Kananaskis Conservation Pass on June 1, and answering my questions. The staff were very courteous and helpful. Thank you again, and Welcome Back.

Getting my pass at the visitor center was very easy (especially with the help of the staff). Everything was pre-set up on a big IPad and already linked to the secure Alberta Government website.

How the pass is enforced:

License plates of vehicles stopped or parked in Kananaskis will be scanned. Visitors can purchase their passes before midnight on the date of their visit, even if their plate has already been scanned. Meaning you can purchase your ticket when you get home, as long as it is by 11.59 pm that day.
Owners of non-compliant vehicles may receive a warning or be sent a fine in the mail.
Information on fine amounts, fine payment processes and timelines will be shared by June 1, 2021.
This pass will also eliminate the cross-country ski pass needed in K-country.

Per Jason Nixon – Environment Minister – in 2020 the area attracted 5.4 million visitors, which is 1 million more than Banff National Park. since 2014, visits in the area have increased 70%. Resulting in over flowing garbage cans, illegal parking, more injuries that need rescues, overcrowded trails and day use areas and conflicts between people and wildlife. The pressure on this park is not sustainable.

The fees will help to:

Reopen visitor centers (e.g. Barrier Lake Visitor Information Center).
Traffic management.
Hire more conservation officers, to help with public safety and human and wildlife encounters, search and rescues, education and environmental conservation.
Conservation activities.
Grooming of cross-country ski trails.
Keeping trails safe.

To see the Areas of Kananaskis country and Bow Valley Corridor that are affected by the new pass and to purchase your day or annual pass go to Alberta Parks website.

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Trailhead Parking Security

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

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Adventure Stories

Hither and Yon

CORE Members in the cold war era Bunker

Government of Canada’s Cold War Bunker in the Bow Valley

In the Bow Valley, near the Heart Creek Trail, there is a large tunnel in the north facing slope of Mount McGillivray. This bunker was part of a Cold War-era plan to store important federal government records and keep them safe in the event of a disaster, including a nuclear bomb.

A main tunnel goes more than 55 metres deep into the mountain with another side tunnels going 40 metres deep, branching off just after the entrance.

In the 1960’s a company called Rocky Mountain Vaults and Archives Ltd., based in Calgary, stated they have the ability to keep documents safe within nearly 275 metres of limestone, with no underground water penetrating the structure. The Canadian Government hired Rocky Mountain Vaults and Archives to create a tunnel to hold important documents. The company obtained licenses to begin construction in 1969, they had actually started tunneling before 1966. The original plans for the bunker called for a system of impenetrable chambers and vaults built right into the mountain, which could have served for government officials in case of a disaster. The plans grew, as the bunker was to become a self-sufficient in the case of disaster. The bunker would be built for maximum protection. Emergency electricity, temperature controls, air exchanges and communication systems were planned. If there was a catastrophe, from a fire to a nuclear war they could seal off the bunker and survive in the tunnels.

The company was also, in negotiations with the Royal Bank of Canada to house bank records in the vault. When this arrangement failed, without any other committed clients, the company went bankrupt. The project was abandoned and left as is.

Heading out of the Bunker

An interesting fact: the prime minister in 1966 when the Alberta bunker was commissioned was Lester B. Pearson. The prime minister in 1969 was Pierre Trudeau. Both led Liberal Governments. The premier of Alberta in 1966 was Ernest Manning, in 1969 was Harry Strom, both belonged to the Social Credit Party of Alberta.

Another interesting fact: It was speculated that all Western and Northern premiers(including cabinet) would actually live in the Alberta(Heart Creek) bunker. All Eastern premiers and the Federal government would live in the Diefenbunker.

The Federal Government stopped funding the Alberta bunker as water had become an issue. There was a high level of moisture inside the cave. Limestone is a porous rock that will admit above and underground water thru cracks in the rock. The federal government based the funding on an understanding there would be no underground water or moisture problems as documents had too stay dry and be mildew free.

The federal government did continue funding on the Diefenbunker. The Diefenbunker was completed and it stood 4 stories tall, was 100,000 sq ft. built under ground in Carp, Ontario. By the time it was completed, the Cold War was over. It has now been turned into a museum.

A reminder of every member’s responsibility to keeping yourself and your fellow hikers safe, during this unprecedented time.

Six feet/two metres Social Distancing requirement by AHS and CORE guidelines

Every member in this photo is a minimum of six (6) feet/two (2) metres apart, for social distancing guidelines.

Reminders:

Bring a mask in case you cannot social distance – 6 feet/2 metres, or you need to go into an indoor area and even for use in the parking lot area.

Stay six feet/2 metres for social distancing when hiking and other events. Also, at rest breaks and lunch.

Remember, This Too Shall Pass!!

Have Fun and Stay Safe!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

April 2021 CORE Newsletter

Executive News

Next Members Monthly Meeting will be Tuesday, May 25,2021 at 7 pm by Zoom.

The May 25, 2021 meeting will be CORE’s Annual General Meeting. More Details will be coming. Watch for CORE email calendar notifications.

Member Volunteer’s for CORE Executive Positions for 2021 – 2022 year

CORE executive is looking for members to volunteer for 2021 – 2022 executive positions. The Positions are:

Chair
Co-Chair
Secretary
Treasurer
Membership Coordinator
Executive Trip coordinator
Communications Coordinator
Presentations Coordinator
Webmaster
Member-at-Large

More information on these positions will be emailed to you shortly. Please consider helping your club by volunteering for one of these positions. If you have any questions regarding a position or you would like to volunteer for one of these positions please email the current CORE executive at mailbox@corehike.org .

Hiking Apps – Something for Everyone

To All CORE Outdoor Event Participants:

Social (Physical) Distancing for COVID 19

The club executive recently met (virtually of course) and talked about the current COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The third wave we are in now has been far worse than the first or second wave, and more seriously. The highly contagious U.K. and South Africa variants are in Alberta. These variants now make up 45% to 50% of all covid-19 cases in Alberta.

All of this makes us now believe it would be prudent to put a stronger emphasis on physical distancing for the next few months at least. We are therefore requesting all trip participants to make a more concerted and conscious effort to physical distance from others, while hiking, winter hiking, urban walking, biking, and other events. (Consider wearing a mask in the parking lots before – and after – the trips).

Thank you for helping us to keep our club members safe.

The CORE Executive.

CORE’s new meeting Facility is Bow Waters Canoe Club

Bow Waters Canoe Club is located just off Deerfoot Trail and 17th Ave SE. Address of the facility is 1975 – 26th Street SE.

Bow Waters Canoe Club map

Directions:

From East or Westbound 17th Ave SE (see map below states 1A, which is 17th Ave)

Turn South on 26th Street SE (there is a set of lights at this intersection),

BWCC Road turnoff

Ensure you are in the right hand lane and immediately turn right where the City of Calgary Utilities/Electrical station is (it is a small black building with LED lights on it, indicated by the red arrow below).

Follow the road down to the parking lot. Take the stairs down to the club house building.

CORE, ACTIVITIES/EVENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC:

Spring is now with us. More activities are planned for the coming months. Continue to watch your emails and CORE calendar for activities/events.

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

CORE Photo Album

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

…………………………………………………………………………………………..

ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from March 15 to April 15, 2021. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

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March 21 2021 Rawson Lake Winter Hike

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March 26 2021 Ha Ling Peak Winter Hike

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March 27 2021 Inglewood Harvie Passage Pearce Estates Urban Hike

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April 2 2021 Sandy McNabb Hill Loop Hike

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April 11 2021 Spray River Loop Hike

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April 13 2021 Spray River Loop A Repeat Hike

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April 15 2021 MCConnell Point aka Engagement Mtn Hike

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News and Notes

Get your Bicycles tuned up!!!

Bow Valley Parkway to be Closed to Vehicle Traffic Summer of 2021

CORE members cycle trip

After a successful summer last year, Parks Canada has announced, the closure on Hwy #1A will remain closed to public vehicles throughout the summer of 2021. Daniella Rubeling, Parks Canada Visitor Manager, stated “the closure last summer proved to be so popular, they are doing it again for the summer of 2021. Parks Canada received a great deal of positive feedback from cyclists who enjoyed the vehicle-reduced experiences on the Bow Valley Parkway last summer. Cyclists found it to be safe and enjoyable and expressed an interest in seeing this highway closed in the future for cycle traffic only.”

Vehicles will be restricted from the east end of the Bow Valley Parkway, where it meets Hwy #1 to the junction with Hwy #93 south.

September 2020 CPAWS and Parks Canada tracked the public’s opinions about the highway closure. CPAWS survey had 3120 respondents who used the road and people that were turned away in vehicles. “Close to 90% of respondents were extremely satisfied with their cycling experience and respondents were in strong agreement that their recreational experience was better because of the closure should continue in some form beyond 2020” stated Sarah Elmeligi who serves as the national parks program co-ordinator for CPAWS.

Rubeling believes the success of the Bow Valley Parkway closure and the joy and fun that people have had cycling this route demonstrates that people are open to a lot more creative options than parks had previously assumed.

Remember Bow Valley Parkway is closed to vehicles, cyclists and hikers from March 1, 2020 to June 25, 2021 from 8pm to 8am for its seasonal closure. This seasonal closure is to give wildlife space during the spring, as this is their critical time of the year.

Lake Minnewanka Road closed to Vehicle traffic for Cycling

CORE members cycle trip

Parks Canada is testing this spring some weekday cycling. And one of these is a Minnewanka Loop Road in Banff National Park. The Lake Minnewanka Loop Road will now be closed to vehicles on Mondays to Thursdays from May 1 to 20, 2021.

Rubleing states, “Its about looking at the bigger picture of sustainable movement throughout the park. Parks Canada worked on the plan in partnership with Banff and Lake Louise Tourism and other tourism stakeholders.” The parks are testing this loop out and they welcome feedback on the Minnewanka loop and the Bow Valley Parkway vehicle closure. Parks Canada has yet to determine what these closures would look like for the long term.

You can start the Minnewanka loop route from the legacy trail in Banff or the Cascade Ponds. You can either cycle up to Lake Minnewanka and back down to Two Jack Lake road to Johnson Lake and back to Cascade ponds. Or do the route the other way. It is a 24km and 178m elevation ride.

Alberta Parks Closes Yamnuska Mountain

Yamunska Mtn

Alberta Parks is closing Yamnuska Mountain from the end of May to November 2021. Trail crews will be upgrading on sanctioned trail sections, constructing new sections and decommissioning non-sanctioned routes.

Alberta Parks is closing all access to Yamnuska Mountain for the following reasons:

To reduce danger to hikers, scramblers and climbers as contractors work on the mountain, who could dislodge rocks, etc..
The contractor needs to work in a safe environment from members of the public moving around the mountain, who could dislodge rocks, etc..
The contractor needs to be able to work efficiently without keeping track of the public in the area.

Canmore Implements Paid Parking in 2021 for Quarry Lake

On March 4, 2021 Canmore town council approved a new paid parking program for Quarry Lake park and nearby residential areas. This is due to the area being popular with locals and visitors to Canmore. These new measures are to help maintain parking and visitor demand. The fee will be $20 dollars for up to 4 hours during the summer peak season and $10 dollars during the off-peak season every day from 7am to 10pm. Local residents are eligible for one free annual pass per household. Nearby residential areas will also have a new seasonal parking permit zone aimed at preventing overflow parking problems there.

The new parking plan was implemented due to the frustration of residents, congestion and cleanup costs. Revenue from the parking will fund some maintenance and upgrade work at the park. Council has approved a plan to create a free seasonal transit route to Quarry Park, Grassi Lake and the Nordic Centre, starting in 2022.

Shutdown of Highway thru Kicking Horse Canyon from April 12th to May 14th and May 15th to May 31, 2021

Kicking Horse Canyon Construction Map Phase 4

Shutdown of Highway #1 near the BC-Alberta border will start on Monday April 12th to May 14th, 2021. The highway upgrade project will cover 4.8 kms thru Kicking Horse Canyon to Golden B.C.. The upgrade will make it safer for motorist and wildlife. This is part of phase 4 of the project will see 13 curves realigned and the highway widened to four lanes with centre median barriers installed and wider shoulders for cycles. There will be improved animal crossings and fencing. This section of the road will be closed to traffic for a month. From May 15 to May 31, there will be 24 hour closures on weekdays, except for Victoria Day Holiday. Traffic for both these closures will be re-routed via highways 93 South and 95 at Castle Junction. These detours will add 90 minutes extra of travel time. Phase 4 is expected to be completed in winter 2023-24.

Alberta Governments 5 member coal Consultation Committee and Online Survey

Coal Mining in the Elkford Valley BC

The committee is headed by Ron Wallace, an environmental scientist, who has worked mainly in Canada’s North and was a member of the former National Energy Board. Other members include an area landowner, the director of a small-town chamber of commerce, a former environmental bureaucrat and a member of a local First Nation.

Wallace has stated “this is an independent committee and it will be focused on the views of Albertans and making sure the government of Alberta has a fair understanding of what those views are.”

Energy Minister Sonya Savage stated “there has been an independent committee formed and there will be a government to government consultation with area First Nations. And an online survey that will be available until April 19, 2021.

CPAWS has stated “the online survey seems to be on “How coal should be mined” rather if they want the Rockies mined at all.” The consultation process needs to allow Albertans to stat if they want more protection of the Rockies. NDP Marlin Schmidt agrees, as the survey has no questions regarding water quality and quantity which raises questions, are these topics in the scope of the consultation.

Companies that brought exploration leases when the 1976 coal policy was revoked can still proceed with drilling and road building. The government did not stop these coal exploration activities, when they reactivated the 1976 policy.

Reminder It Is Tick Season in Alberta

Male and Female Tick

Protect yourself from Ticks:

Walk on cleared trails whenever possible, avoid walking in tall grassy or wooded areas.
Wear light-coloured clothing and cover up as much skin as possible, e.g. a hat, long sleeve shirt, long pants with legs tucked into socks or boots.
Use a bug spray that contains the chemical DEET or lcarridin to repel ticks and reapply as frequently as directed.
It takes hours for a tick to attache itself to a host:
- Check yourself for ticks after leaving a grassy or wooded area where ticks may live.
- Check your pets for ticks after they have been outside. You cannot get Lyme disease from your pet, but your pet can bring infected ticks inside. These ticks can fall off your pet and attach themselves to you.
If you get a tick bite and have the following symptoms you should seek medical attention:
- A round, red rash that spreads at the site of a tick bite, know as a “bulls eye rash.”
- Flu-like symptoms: tiredness, headaches, sore muscles and joints and fever.

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Trailhead Parking Security

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

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Adventure Stories

Hither and Yon

A CORE Member Completes the Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek

In 2017, a CORE member named Saiful completed the Everest Base Camp trek with his Nepalese guide Ram and one porter. Saiful presented videos of his 12 day adventure on Facebook recently. He has provided CORE with a link to his presentation for any members who would like to enjoy it from their Facebook Account.

A reminder of every member’s responsibility to keeping yourself and your fellow hikers safe, during this unprecedented time.

Six feet/two metres Social Distancing requirement by AHS and CORE guidelines

Every member in this photo is a minimum of six (6) feet/two (2) metres apart, for social distancing guidelines.

Reminders:

Bring a mask in case you cannot social distance – 6 feet/2 metres, or you need to go into an indoor area and even for use in the parking lot area.

Stay six feet/2 metres for social distancing when hiking and other events. Also, at rest breaks and lunch.

Remember, This Too Shall Pass!!

Alberta Earthquakes: Turtle Mountain (The Frank Slide)

After the Banff (Cascade Mtn) earthquake, I did a little research.

Did you know earthquakes happen frequently in Alberta. Majority are in the Foothills and the Rocky Mountains. These earthquakes occur within the thrust-fault systems that occurred millions of years ago, with the mountain building processes that created the Rocky Mountains. There are clusters of earthquakes detected east of the Rocky Mountain Deformation Belt. The clusters are the Rocky Mountain House Seism Genic Zone – 30kms southwest of Rocky Mountain House, the Brazeau River cluster – 90kms northwest of Rocky Mountain House, the Cardston Earthquake Swarm – 13kms north of Cardston, and the Crooked Lake Sequences – approx. 30kms west of Fox Creek(northeast of Edmonton).

There has been activity in Kananaskis Country, Banff and Jasper but on a more minor scale.

Turtle Mountain, Franks Slide

Turtle Mountain in Crowsnest Pass was caused by an earthquake. The Blackfoot and Kutenai people knew Turtle Mountain as “the mountain that moves.”

The Earthquake occured at 4.10am on April 29, 1903. Seismologists state the primary cause of the Frank slide was the unstable geological structure of Turtle Mountain. A major thrust fault(the Turtle Mtn Thrust Fault) runs thru the mountain. As the thrust fault divides and weakens the layers of rock within the mountain. The erosion by water and ice of sandstone and shale layers on the lower half of the mountain created a significant overhang. Large surface cracks on the top of the mountain allowed water to enter deeper withing the mountain. Water continued to erode the limestone and with the freezing and thawing of water and ice the cracks grew wider, creating more instability. Secondary contributing factor was coal mining at Turtle Mtn. This Slide would have eventually happen even if there was no coal mining activity within the mountain.

Scientists believe there will be another huge rock avalanche that will occur in the future on Turtle Mountain. Turtle Mountain continues to move, a few millimeters per year, to the northeast toward the valley below. On the south and third peaks of the mountain there is a series of large cracks, and this will be the location of the next large rockslide.

Interesting Fact: did you know, all the rock that fell from Turtle Mountain during the Frank slide was approx. one km wide and half a km high and 150 metres thick. It was calculated you can build a wall one metres wide and 6 metres high all the way from Victoria, B.C. to Halifax, Nova Scotia using rock that fell from Turtle Mountain during the slide.

Have Fun and Stay Safe!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

February/March 2021 CORE Newsletter

Executive News

MEMBERS MEETING MARCH 30, 2021 FROM 6.45pm to 8.15pm (via zoom)

CORE’S FIRST OUTDOOR ADVENTURE FILM FEST

Join our first Outdoor Adventure Film Fest via Zoom. Five short films, of varying lengths, will be shown. Loved by All – The Story of Apa Sherpa(14 min.), The life of one Sherpa on Mount Everest. Beneath the Ice (16 min.), Canadian Will Gadd is the first to explore beneath a glacier in Greenland. Blood on the Crack (10 min.), One of the most excruciating rock climbs in the World, renowned for reducing fingertips to shreds. Circle of the Sun (5 min.), Stunning scenery and adventure in the Arctic. Mirna Valerio – Par for the Course (4 min.), Inspirational film when we feel we can’t go on… Grab your own liquid cheer and join us for a bit of socializing and adventure….until we can meet again in person. You must register for this event, as we will need to send you the Zoom link via email. Please go to the CORE CALENDAR to sign up. You must be signed up by 9.00 pm on March 29th.

Hiking Apps – Something for Everyone

To All CORE Outdoor Event Participants:

Social (Physical) Distancing for COVID 19

The club executive recently met (virtually of course) and talked about the current COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The second wave we are in now has been far worse than the first wave, and more seriously. The highly contagious U.K. and South Africa variants have also reached Alberta, albeit presently in small numbers.

All of this makes us now believe it would be prudent to put a stronger emphasis on physical distancing for the next few months at least. We are therefore requesting all trip participants to make a more concerted and conscious effort to physical distance from others, while xc skiing, snowshoeing or winter walking (and especially in the parking lots before – and after – the trips).

Thank you for helping us to keep our club members safe.

The CORE Executive.

CORE’s new meeting Facility is Bow Waters Canoe Club

Bow Waters Canoe Club is located just off Deerfoot Trail and 17th Ave SE. Address of the facility is 1975 – 26th Street SE.

Bow Waters Canoe Club map

Directions:

From East or Westbound 17th Ave SE (see map below states 1A, which is 17th Ave)

Turn South on 26th Street SE (there is a set of lights at this intersection),

BWCC Road turnoff

Follow the road down to the parking lot. Take the stairs down to the club house building.

CORE, ACTIVITIES/EVENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC:

CORE executive has put in place guidelines and recommendations for trip coordinators, and COVID-19 guidelines for keeping members safe, when participating in CORE activities/events. CORE executive would like to thank all CORE members that put on hikes, bike rides, urban walk’s for their club members during this unprecedented time.

Winter/Spring is now with us. Many more activities are planned for the coming months. Continue to watch your emails and CORE calendar for activities/events. Since restarting the club on June 15th, 2020 CORE has put on many activities/events. Have a look at the Activity Scoreboard below and/or go to CORE photo album .

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

CORE Photo Album

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

…………………………………………………………………………………………..

ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from January 13 to March 14, 2021. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

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January 13 2021 WBC XC Ski Iron Springs Loop

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January 14 2021 Elk Pass Snowshoe

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January 17 2021 XC Ski West Spray River Loop Trail

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January 20 2021 XC Ski Bouton Creek Whisky Jack Pocaterra Packers Loop PLPP

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January 23 2021 XC Ski PLPP Marl Lake Circuit

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January 24 2021 Stoney Squaw Mtn Snowhoe

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January 30 2021 East Douglas Fir Trail Urban Hike

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January 30 2021 XC Ski Cascade Fie Road Banff

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January 31 2021 Chester Lake Snowshoe

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February 17 2021 Sandy McNabb XC Ski

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February 19 2021 WBC XC Ski Moose Loop

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February 21 2021 Grotto Canyon Winter Ice Hike

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February 24 2021 XC Ski Whisky Jack Tyrwhitt Elk Pass Fox Creek Morain Loop

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February 28 2021 High Rocky Trail Winter Hike

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March 5 2021 XC Ski Whisky Jack Pocaterra Lynx Amos Wheeler Loop

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March 7 2021 Ribbon Creek and Kovach Trail Winter Hike

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March 12 2021 Cascade Ponds to Johnson Lake

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March 14 2021 Lower Kananaskis Lake Winter Hike

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News and Notes

Fines for Illegally Parking on Hwy #1A

Parking signs along Hwy #1 Caught fined $162 dollars

Canmore RCMP stated ” that anyone parking illegally on Highway 1A near Canmore and Alberta Parks or other outdoor recreational amenities will receive a $162 dollar ticket in the mail. That means anyone parking along the shoulder or in a ditch in either direction along the highway. And there is signage along the highway stating parking along the highway is prohibited.” Highway Rules and road Regulations states “That vehicles shall not park on the roadway, parking lane or shoulder of a provincial highway.”

There has been a secondary problem. People park on the shoulder of the highway and then stand around their vehicles with doors open and walking on the highway to access the recreation areas. This is causing collisions and a number of near misses by drivers slowing quickly and performing U-turns in the middle of the highway to park.

Banff Records a M3.9 Earthquake

Cascade Mtn epi centre of Earthquake

Taimi Mulder, an earthquake seismologist with the Geological Survey of Canada, confirmed an earthquake struck six kilometres north of Banff town, near Cascade Mountain, at 6.33pm MT and was recorded as a 3.9 magnitude earthquake.

The United States Geological Survey initially reported the earthquake as a 4.4 magnitude. Mulder stated “that Canada uses a different subset of stations that are closer to the town, providing more accurate information.”

The earthquake depth was around 17.3 kilometres, plus or minus 7 kilometres, the USGS tracking website stated.

There has been smaller earthquakes recorded in Banff area in the last 10 years. The largest was a magnitude of 6 dating back to 1918. An earthquake magnitude of 2.5 to 5.4 is often felt but causes only minor damage.

Per Alberta Energy Regulator, earthquakes happen frequently in Alberta. Majority are in the Foothills and the Rocky Mountains. These earthquakes occur within the thrust fault systems that occurred millions of years ago, with the mountain building processes that created the Rocky Mountains. There are clusters of earthquakes detected east of the Rocky Mountain deformation belt. The clusters are the Rocky Mountain House Seism Genic Zone – 30 kms southwest of Rocky Mountain House, the Brazeau River Cluster – 90kms northwest of Rocky Mountain House, the Cardston Earthquake Swarm – 13 kms north of Cardston, and the Crooked Lake Sequences – approx 30 kms west of Fox Creek (northeast of Edmonton).

There has been activity in Kananaskis Country, Banff and Jasper on a more minor scale.

Alberta to Expand World’s largest stretch of Boreal Forest Reserve

Kitaskino Nuwenene Wildland Park is south of Wood Buffalo National Park

Environment Minister Jason Nixon stated “The Province wants to protect more than 1400 square kilometres of forest and wetland to bring the total area conserved to over 68,000 square kilometers. The plan would be an expansion of the Kitaskino Nuwenene Wildland Park. The area is just south of Wood Buffalo National Park. It connects Ktaskino Nuwenene with Birch Hills Wildland Park. ” Which was created by the NDP gov’t.

Chief Peter Powder stated “this is an important area, headwaters that support the Peace Athabasca Delta, an area that supports traditional resources. This expansion would protect land and water for traditional use.”

This park was made possible by the surrender of industrial dispositions on the land from two oil companies.

It is the second announcement protecting stretches of northern Alberta’s forests. The first was an area near the Fort McKay Nation that supports traditional land uses and maintains ecological integrity. The Alberta Court of Appeal overturned regulatory approvals for a $440 million oilsands project that would have encroached on land the First Nation considers sacred.

Alberta’s Government to Reinstate 1976 Coal Mining Policy

Coal Mining in the Elkford Valley BC

After public backlash the Alberta Government says it will reinstate the 1976 coal policy, it revoked last spring. Engery Minister Sonya Savage stated “they will reinstate the 4 coal categories which dictated where and how coal leasing, exploration and development could occur. And the minister has directed the Alberta Energy Regulator no mountaintop removal will be permitted and all of the restrictions under the 1976 coal categories are to apply, including all restrictions on surface mining in Category 2 lands.”

Category 2 lands include parts of the southern Rocky Mountains and the foothills. All future coal exploration approvals on Category 2 lands will be prohibited pending widespread consultations on a new coal policy, per the Engery Minister.

The decision to reinstate the full 1976 coal policy was due to Albertans speaking out and legally challenging the government on this issue.

Energy Minister also stated “the gov’t will not only reinstate the full 1976 coal policy, the gov’t will implement further protections and consult with Albertans on a new modern coal policy.” The 1976 Coal Policy blocked surface coal mines in about 1.4 million hectares of wilderness that is home to endangered species and the head waters of rivers that many people depend on in southern Alberta.

Sonja Savage stated “there are currently 6 coal projects being explored on Category 2 lands, 4 of which began exploration under the 1976 coal policy. Two applications were approved after the 1976 coal policy was rescinded. The gov’t does not intend to remove approvals that were granted by the Alberta Engery Regulator.” The 6 approved coal projects have already begun drilling and road-building under their permits. In Sonya Savage’s message on Feb 8th, 2021, she did not say there will be NO surface mining in the eastern slopes.

The provincial government will hold public consultation for future coal mining with Albertans. The consultations are to start March 28th, 2021. These public consultations are an important step, as it will show how transparent the gov’t is on the subject.

West Bragg Creek Trails

Have you ever been to West Bragg Creek Provincial Park to hike, ski, snowshoe, bike or run?

Do you know all the trail maintenance is done by volunteer’s? These volunteers are a community group who work hard to ensure this area is accessible for everyone. There is still a huge annual cost to build and maintain these trails. Last year it cost WBC trail organization close to $500,000 thousand dollars. And it is almost entirely supported by donations.

Bragg Creek Trails is the trade name of The Greater Bragg Creek Trails Association and is a registered Canadian charity. Charitable receipts are issued for amounts over $20.00 dollars.

There are many ways to donate:

Online at Bragg Creek Trails Organization.
Download the donation from from the website and send a cheque to GBC Trail Association (address is online).
You can do a cash deposit at one of the three donation boxes at the West Bragg Creek parking lot.

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Trailhead Parking Security

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

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Adventure Stories

Quote by AristotleFor all CORE members, this spot is for you. If you have a little story to tell about something you’ve seen on a CORE outing, or some article or book you may have read that you would like to share, please send it along and we’ll publish it in the next newsletter. Keep it to a couple paragraphs, and stick to topics related to the outdoors or the environment. mailbox@corehike.org

Hither and Yon

A reminder of every member’s responsibility to keeping yourself and your fellow hikers safe, during this unprecedented time.

Six feet/two metres Social Distancing requirement by AHS and CORE guidelines

Every member in this photo is a minimum of six (6) feet/two (2) metres apart, for social distancing guidelines.

Reminders:

– Bring a mask in case you cannot social distance – 6 feet/2 metres, or you need to go into an indoor area.

Stay six feet/2 metres for social distancing when hiking and other events. Also, at rest breaks and lunch.

Remember, This Too Shall Pass!!

Avalanche Season

Avalanche AwarenessAvalanche conditions have been heighten in the last couple of weeks due to weather conditions. It does not matter what activitity you are doing in the backcountry. As Most avalanches are triggered by humans.

Recognize Avalanche Terrain:

You need a steep slope, avalanches normally occur on slopes between 30 and 45 degrees.
Convex rolls are prime trigger points but you can also be at risk below these slopes.
Cornices and Wind slabs build up on downwind (lee) slopes.
Slide paths are open areas on a forested slope, cleared of trees by repeated avalanches.

If you are on or below slopes like these, you are in avalanche terrain.

Continuously look up and check conditions. Even if you are not on a slope, many trails travel through terrain threatened by avalanches from above.

Recognize Unstable Conditions:

Heavy Snowfall – Approximately 30 cm or more of new snow over 48 hours. Less if snow is being blown by the wind.
Wind – Wind slabs form on the downwind (lee) side of the ridge. If there has been recent drifting, there are probably wind slabs.
Warming – Strong sunshine, warm temperatures, rain can destabilize the snow.

If you hear a WHUMPF!, This sound is a warning that weak layers are collapsing in the snowpack.

If you see any of these signs, it means you are in avalanche terrain.

Check Avalanche Canada website for the danger level in the area before you venture out.

Have Fun and Stay Safe!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

December 2020/January 2021 CORE Newsletter

Executive News

To All CORE Outdoor Event Participants:

Social (Physical) Distancing for COVID 19

All of this makes us now believe it would be prudent to put a stronger emphasis on physical distancing for the next few months at least. We are therefore requesting all trip participants to make a more concerted and conscious effort to physical distance from others, while xc skiing, snowshoeing or winter walking (and especially in the parking lots before – and after – the trips).

Thank you for helping us to keep our club members safe.

The CORE Executive.

No January or February Members Monthly Meetings

2021 CORE Member Monthly Meeting

Starting 2021, CORE executive is planning member meetings. The present and future COVID-19 AHS regulations will determine if and when CORE can hold these monthly member meetings. Executive is hoping to be able to start in March of 2021. STAY TUNED. CORE will be sending out calendar email notifications to members and information will also be in the newsletter.

There will be two changes. One the facility for meetings will now be held at the Bow Waters Canoe Club at 1975 – 26th street SE. Directions to facility below. The second change is that, for some of these monthly meetings, CORE will be holding Outdoor Adventure Films with free popcorn and beverages (wine) at these meetings.

CORE

Outdoor Adventure Film

and “a little wine” Fest

(Free for members)

Film list and times to follow

in future Newsletters

CORE’s new meeting Facility is Bow Waters Canoe Club

Bow Waters Canoe Club is located just off Deerfoot Trail and 17th Ave SE. Address of the facility is 1975 – 26th Street SE.

Bow Waters Canoe Club map

Directions:

From East or Westbound 17th Ave SE (see map below states 1A, which is 17th Ave)

Turn South on 26th Street SE (there is a set of lights at this intersection),

BWCC Road turnoff

Follow the road down to the parking lot. Take the stairs down to the club house building.

CORE, ACTIVITIES/EVENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC:

Thank you for your patience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the Alberta government has re-opened the provincial parks and has announced that groups of up to 50 people can gather in the outdoors (while maintaining such practices as social distancing), CORE re-started the club on June 15th. CORE executive has put in place guidelines and recommendations for trip coordinators, and COVID-19 guidelines for keeping members safe, when participating in CORE activities/events. CORE executive would like to thank all CORE members that put on hikes, bike rides, urban walk’s for their club members during this unprecedented time.

Winter is now with us. Many more activities are planned for the coming months. Continue to watch your emails and CORE calendar for activities/events. Since restarting the club on June 15th, 2020 CORE has put on many activities/events. Have a look at the Activity Scoreboard below and/or go to CORE photo album .

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

CORE Photo Album

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

…………………………………………………………………………………………..

ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from November 24, 2020 to January 10, 2021. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

…………………………………………………………………………………………

November 24 2020 Ptarmigan Cirque Snowshoe

…………………………………………………………………………………………

December 2 2020 Elk Pass XC Ski

…………………………………………………………………………………………

December 6 2020 Powderface Creek Prairie Link and Creek Hike

……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

December 12 2020 Ranger Summit from Bragg Creek Hike

……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

December 13 2020 Acephale Falls and Heart Creek Bunker Hike

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

December 19 2020 Crystal Line Snowy Owl (WBC) Hike

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

December 20 2020 XC Ski Rolly RD Pocaterra Lynx Come Along Trails PLPP

…………………………………………………………………………………………………….

December 26 2020 Lusk Creek Snowshoe

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

December 28 2020 8km Terrace Kovach XC Ski

……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

December 28 2020 11km Ribbon Creek Terrace Kovach XC Ski

…………………………………………………………………………………………………….

January 1 2021 XC Ski WBC West Crystal Line Loggers Loop East Crystal Line

……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

January 3 2021 North Glenmore Park XC Ski

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

January 6 2021 WBC Snowshoe Hare

……………………………………………………………………………………………………….

January 7 2021 PLPP Fox Creek Loop XC Ski

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

January 9 2021 Burstall Pass XC Ski

……………………………………………………………………………………………………….

January 10 2021 Galatea Creek Snowshoe Hike

………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

News and Notes

West Bragg Creek Trails

Have you ever been to West Bragg Creek Provincial Park to hike, ski, snowshoe, bike or run?

Bragg Creek Trails is the trade name of The Greater Bragg Creek Trails Association and is a registered Canadian charity. Charitable receipts are issued for amounts over $20.00 dollars.

There are many ways to donate:

Online at Bragg Creek Trails Organization.
Download the donation from from the website and send a cheque to GBC Trail Association (address is online).
You can do a cash deposit at one of the three donation boxes at the West Bragg Creek parking lot.

Update for Parking Pass needed for Kananaskis Country, Cross Country Ski Areas

A parking pass program has been implemented for the 2020/2021 cross country skiing season in Kananaskis Park. Reason for the parking pass is due to the Government of Alberta stating in March 2020 they would no longer fund trail grooming in the Kananaskis area (Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, Mount Shark, Sandy McNabb, Ribbon Creek/Kananaskis Village). Alberta Parks and Nordiq Alberta signed a cooperating agreement that will ensure winter trail grooming in these areas in Kananaskis, through a paid parking pilot program in Winter 2020-2021. These paid parking passes will pay for 190 kms of groomed trails in these areas.

You can also self-pay. Trail users in PLPP can fill out the self-pay parking pass form and deposit their parking fee in drop boxes located in Pocaterra and Elk Pass parking lots. Self pay parking pass lots are: Pocaterra Vistor Centre, Elkwood, Boulton, Boulton Bridge, Elk Pass, Upper K-lake, Ribbon Creek, Troll Falls, Wedge Pond Crosswaters Hotel (K-Village), Evan-Thomas, Sandy McNabb and Mt Shark.

Note: All retailers and self pay lots you can only purchase a day pass.

Per Kananaskis Info and Nordiq Alberta: You can only purchase a day pass at retailers, due to complexities for the retailers and Nordiq when purchasing a season pass using credit cards. On how to handle the credit card fees. Self pay lots, due to short notice from the government of Alberta (20 days), Nordiq could not put in a cash system for a season pass. If you would like to purchase a season pass but cannot do the purchase online, you could postal mail a $50 cheque to Nordiq Alberta, with your name, license plate number and email address, and they will email you a season pass upon receipt of the funds.

Snowshoers, alpine skiers, bikers and hikers can contribute if they like. Remember these activities still benefit from the use of these areas in the winter.

Cross country skiers who do not display a parking pass in their vehicles will be informed and encouraged to purchase a parking pass on site or online. Volunteers will be in the parking lots to help inform people of the service for this parking fee. The program is voluntary. Each user can make their own decision to pay or not to pay for this park service (grooming x-country ski trails).

Note: Online purchases require an additional payment of $2 to $3 dollars for credit card processing charges. Processing charges do not apply for cash payments at retailers.

For more information go to Nordiq Alberta – (Kananaskis grooming) website.

Alberta Gov’t to open Rockies to Coal Mining – Facing Legal challenges

Phillipps Pass in the Crownest Pass area Lets keep these areas safe from coal mining

The Alberta government is facing two court challenges in January 2021 (proceedings start January 18, 2021) over its decision to rescind park protection and open the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains to coal mining. The previous coal policy act for lands was rescinded in May of 2020. The government set zones for no development in the most sensitive land and progressively more activity in the lands that hold more value. Mine proposals on all other lands now go directly to the Alberta Energy regulator. They can impose conditions on development, but previously they have never turned down a proposal.

The court challenges are from landowners and the Ermineskin and Whitefish First Nations are requesting a court review of this decision as it was not made with the required consultations. Ranchers who have grazing leases on this land, these lands will now be available for open-pit steel making coal mines. These two groups will argue that the Alberta legislation and common practice require the province to consult with anyone affected before making land use decisions. Per the Alberta Land Stewardship act and other various land use plans.

Government lawyers will state that polices are not the same as legislation and can be changed unilaterally.

Alberta’s eastern slope of the Rockies have ecologically important land, habitat for threatened species and the headwaters of rivers, that is Albertan’s drinking water.

In December 2020 the province sold coal leases for approx. 1800 hectares on the eastern slope of the Rockies. Land leased for coal now covers 60 kms from Alberta’s southwest corner.

Steel making coal is different than thermal coal. Federal government opposes any new open thermal producing coal mines in its carbon mandate. Question is; Will the federal government oppose steel making coal? Or have limitations on amounts and locations where this coal can be produced.

Currently the proposed Grassy Mountain coal mine is before a joint federal-provincial review panel. And there are others waiting.

On January 18 2021, Alberta Gov’t announced it has reversed part of its plans to expand coal mining in the Rockies. Energy Minister Sonya Savage stated that the province would cancel 11 recently (December 2020) issued coal leases and pause any future coal sales in former Category 2 lands, due to growing public opposition over this issue. More than 100 thousand people have signed petitions and written letters to their MLA.

But 8 leases that were already sold in May 2020 remain in effect. There are still more than 840,000 hectares of coal leases and rights in the eastern slopes of the Rockies. Including 420,000 hectares within lands formerly protected as Category 2 that are still open for open pit coal mining development.

Alberta Government Stating No Parks Will Be Closed

West Wind Pass

December 22 2020 the UCP announced “No parks will be closed whether a partner is found or not and that all parks will keep current legal protection.”

December 23 2020 another news release from the UCP stating “the government’s latest call for partners has been a resounding success, meaning all areas currently considered Provincial Parks or Public Recreation Areas will remain as such.”

These two statements seen by many as a reversal of the UCP government’s plans announced in March of 2020 by Environment and Parks minister Jason Nixon. At that time, he stated “the government would fully or partially close 20 provincial parks and hand over another 164 parks to third party managers. Sites for which no managers could be found would lose park status and revert to general Crown land.”

This announcement sparked a provincial protest from Albertans. Including over 20,000 letters to politicians and a popular lawn sign campaign (Defend Alberta Parks). One of the many groups fighting the plan to close, delist or hand over management to third parties stated “the successful opposition shows the government needs to consult with Albertans before changes to the use of crown land.”

December 23 2020 announcement stated 170 partnership agreements have been reached. The statement did not clarify how many are new or long standing. Who are these partners? What sort of activities will they be undertaking? How are they going to be maintained? No details were given about the partnerships.

Currently most partnerships involve operations and not management of a park. E.G. Nordiq Alberta and xc ski grooming PLPP. Friend of Kananaskis – maintaining trails.

Also, the government has announced, that they will provide legislation to modernize the Alberta Parks Act. This will be an opportunity for public input. When???

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Trailhead Parking Security

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

………………………………………………………………………………………

Members Corner

The Members Corner section of the CORE Newsletter is meant to allow CORE Members to connect with other members of like interest, or to seek or sell outdoor equipment. Please submit any request to mailbox@corehike.org and include your contact info for interested parties to contact you. No photo’s of items will be posted on CORE newsletter. Also, please keep your words to a minimum (50 words or less). Please note that the CORE Newsletter is in the public domain, and that by submitting a request, you give permission to CORE to publish your contact information thus provided. CORE will not act as intermediary in any resulting transactions. All members who submit any request have relinquished CORE from any and all liabilities, claims, suits, and causes of action, and property (including loss of use or damage) on the part of the CORE club (individually or collectively).

{member’s AD and contact info to be posted here}

Adventure Stories

XC Skiing quote Ralph Emerson (Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail)
For all CORE members, this spot is for you. If you have a little story to tell about something you’ve seen on a CORE outing, or some article or book you may have read that you would like to share, please send it along and we’ll publish it in the next newsletter. Keep it to a couple paragraphs, and stick to topics related to the outdoors or the environment. mailbox@corehike.org

Hither and Yon

A reminder of every member’s responsibility to keeping yourself and your fellow hikers safe, during this unprecedented time.

Six feet/two metres Social Distancing requirement by AHS and CORE guidelines

Every member in this photo is a minimum of six (6) feet/two (2) metres apart, for social distancing guidelines.

Reminders:

– Bring a mask in case you cannot social distance – 6 feet/2 metres, or you need to go into an indoor area.

Stay six feet/2 metres for social distancing when hiking and other events. Also, at rest breaks and lunch.

Remember, This Too Shall Pass!!

Avalanche Season

Avalanche AwarenessIt is that time of year again. You need to be aware of avalanche conditions in the area you are snowshoeing, cross country skiing, or any other winter activity. Most avalanches are triggered by humans.

Recognize Avalanche Terrain:

You need a steep slope, avalanches normally occur on slopes between 30 and 45 degrees.
Convex rolls are prime trigger points but you can also be at risk below these slopes.
Cornices and Wind slabs build up on downwind (lee) slopes.
Slide paths are open areas on a forested slope, cleared of trees by repeated avalanches.

If you are on or below slopes like these, you are in avalanche terrain.

Continuously look up and check conditions. Even if you are not on a slope, many trails travel through terrain threatened by avalanches from above.

Recognize Unstable Conditions:

Heavy Snowfall – Approximately 30 cm or more of new snow over 48 hours. Less if snow is being blown by the wind.
Wind – Wind slabs form on the downwind (lee) side of the ridge. If there has been recent drifting, there are probably wind slabs.
Warming – Strong sunshine, warm temperatures, rain can destabilize the snow.

If you hear a WHUMPF!, This sound is a warning that weak layers are collapsing in the snowpack.

If you see any of these signs, it means you are in avalanche terrain.

Check Avalanche Canada website for the danger level in the area before you venture out.

Low – generally safe avalanche conditions. Watch for unstable snow. Natural and human triggered avalanches unlikely.
Moderate – Heightened avalanche conditions. Evaluate snow and terrain carefully. Natural avalanches unlikely, human triggered avalanches possible.
Considerable – Dangerous avalanche conditions. Careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route finding and make safe decision making essential. Natural avalanches possible, human triggered avalanches likely.
High – Very Dangerous avalanche conditions. Travel in avalanche terrain not recommended. Natural avalanches likely, human triggered very likely.
Extreme – Avoid all avalanche terrain. Natural and human triggered avalanches are certain.

Have Fun and Stay Safe!!!!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

November/December 2020 CORE Newsletter

Executive News

Seasons Greetings, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays

Have a great holiday season!!!!!!!

Coordinators Meeting for 2020/21 Winter Planning on December 15, 2020

CORE’s Executive trip coordinator will be holding this Coordinators meeting on Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at 7pm by Zoom. You will need to sign up for this event to Carol (our executive trip coordinator). Check the calendar for more information.

A reminder to all current and new event coordinators, please review the Event Coordinators Guidelines posted on the CORE website. These guidelines are a collection of knowledge representing years of experience in the mountains. They are meant to promote safety in our outdoor activities.

2021 CORE Member Monthly Meeting

Starting in the new year (2021) CORE executive is planning member meetings. The present and future COVID-19 AHS regulations will determine if and when CORE can hold these monthly member meetings. Executive is hoping to be able to start in January of 2021. STAY TUNED. CORE will be sending out calendar email notifications to members and information will also be in the newsletter.

CORE

Outdoor Adventure Film

and “a little wine” Fest

(Free for members)

Film list and times to follow

in future Newsletters

CORE’s new meeting Facility is Bow Waters Canoe Club

Bow Waters Canoe Club is located just off Deerfoot Trail and 17th Ave SE. Address of the facility is 1975 – 26th Street SE.

Bow Waters Canoe Club map

Directions:

From East or Westbound 17th Ave SE (see map below states 1A, which is 17th Ave)

Turn South on 26th Street SE (there is a set of lights at this intersection),

BWCC Road turnoff

Follow the road down to the parking lot. Take the stairs down to the club house building.

No November or December Monthly Member Meeting

CORE, ACTIVITIES/EVENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC:

Fall/Winter is now with us. Many more activities are planned for the coming months. Continue to watch your emails and CORE calendar for activities/events. Since restarting the club on June 15th, 2020 CORE has put on many activities/events. Have a look at the Activity Scoreboard below and/or go to CORE photo album .

Members are encouraged to read the Guidelines “Hiking with CORE in the Time of COVID-19 pandemic.”

CORE Photo Album

Post just the highlights of the event
No parking lot photos. We should not identify members vehicles
Do not post unflattering pictures of other members
If you mention a person’s name, use only the person’s first name

Contacting your Executive

Remember that our CORE Executive members are volunteers who also have day jobs and a life outside of CORE, so please be patient if it takes a few days to respond to your queries.

…………………………………………………………………………………………..

ACTIVITY SCOREBOARD

Highlights of Activities/Events

Here are a few highlights from the CORE calendar of hikes from October 17, 2020 to November 22, 2020. Please visit the CORE photo albums for more pictures from recent and past activities.

…………………………………………………………………………………………

October 17 2020 North Glenmore to Heritage Park Hike

…………………………………………………………………………………………

October 25 2020 Foran Grade Winter Hike

…………………………………………………………………………………………

October 25 2020 North Glenmore Park X-Country Ski

……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

October 30 2020 Long Distance Hike WBC

……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

October 31 2020 Halloween Walk in South Glenmore Park

…………………………………………………………………………………………………….

October 31 2020 A Mouse in the House

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

November 1 2020 Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park Hike

…………………………………………………………………………………………………….

November 1 2020 Forgetmenot Ridge Hike

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

November 4 2020 Prairie Mtn Hike

……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

November 6 2020 Lusk Creek Hike

…………………………………………………………………………………………………….

November 11 2020 Remembrance Day Walk

……………………………………………………………………………………………………..

November 14 2020 Ford Knoll Hike

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

November 22 2020 Deer Ridge Loop

…………………………………………………………………………………………………….

News and Notes

Parking Pass needed for Kananaskis Country, Cross Country Ski Areas

Winter trail users are asked to buy and display a day use or a full season parking pass when parking in any of these areas. You can purchase these parking passes online or at a local ski shop in Calgary, Canmore and Kananaskis Village. Cost of a day pass is $10 dollars and a season pass is $50 dollars. You need to download the pass and put the printed pass on the vehicle dashboard. You can also self-pay. Trail users in PLPP can fill out the self-pay parking pass form and deposit their parking fee in drop boxes located in Pocaterra and Elk Pass parking lots.

Snowshoers, alpine skiers, bikers and hikers can contribute if they like. Remember these activities still benefit from the use of these areas in the winter.

Note: Online purchases require an additional payment of $2 to $3 dollars for credit card processing charges. Processing charges do not apply for cash payments at retailers.

For more information go to Nordiq Alberta – (Kananaskis grooming) website.

Calgary Retailers selling parking passes: MEC – 830 10th Ave SW, Norseman – 4655 37th Street SW and LifeSport – 4711 85th Street NW.

Visitor Paid Parking in Downtown Banff by 2021

Due to parking challenges and traffic congestion and the millions of people that go to Banff every year is having an impact on people who live and work in Banff. Banff council is looking at ways to increase the turnover of parking spaces in the downtown while protecting and keeping residential streets available for those who live in the area.

Banff is proposing paid parking for visitors and commuters, with free parking for residents for three hours of continuous parking. Residents would pay for parking in the user pay zone after 3 hours of continuous parking.Visitors would have too pay for parking in the core, they can choose to park for free in designated lots.

The paid parking in the downtown core will be 7 days a week from 8 am to 8pm, year round. Banff council is discussing a discounted rate for winter.

This proposal is still in the final discussion stage by council. If all parking recommendations are accepted it should be approved and the paid parking program would be starting in 2021.

Map:

Red – on street residental parking by permit Green – on street paid parking (seasonal)

Thick Blue Lines – on street, free parking, very few of these

Thin Blue Lines – short term parking only (Free with Seasonal Pay Parking Zone)

Canmore Council has Supported Recommendations to have Paid Downtown Parking Starting 2021

Canmore Downtown

Paid downtown parking in Canmore was to start June 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, paid parking was not implemented. Canmore’s council supported the recommendations to implement paid parking in 2021. More details for review will be part of the upcoming budget process. Council still needs to debate the projected revenues versus the cost of putting in a paid parking system. Council has also supported a second recommendation for paid parking and associated parking ideals for high demand areas. This includes Quarry Lake, The Peaks of Grassi neighbourhood, Old Canmore Road and the Cougar Creek trailhead. After the budget meeting in November, a decision will be made on the issue.

Female Grizzly Defending cub attacks hiker in Kananaskis Country

Bow Valley Parkway

A man, hiking in the Pasque Mountain, at the southern end of Kananaskis country, in a cut block area, when he was attacked by a female grizzly bear. The man had come into a area where a cub and mother were feeding. The mother bear swatted him and knocked him down, then grabbed the man by the elbow and bit him. He played dead and the bear dropped him and ran off.

Playing dead will work if you are being attacked by a mother grizzly defending her cubs. As you are not a threat anymore, she will leave and go find her cub. She is not attacking because she wants to eat you but to tell you to leave us a alone.

Playing dead is the wrong thing to do if attacked by a predatory bear.

The hiker did have bear spray but was not easily accessible, the bear spray was in his back pack.

When hiking in bear territory, travel in groups, make lots of noise, carry bear spray and have the bear spray easily accessible (within reach), be aware of your surroundings.

Bears at this time of year spend their time in open areas such as meadows and cut blocks. As the food source is plentiful in these areas. In these areas make a lot of noise, also scan the area before proceeding into it for potential wildlife activity.

Bears will have more trouble in hearing you near water. Once again make alot of noise and scan the area before proceeding.

Update to Canada Park Passes

For pass holders with a Discovery Pass valid as of March 2020, Parks Canada will automatically extend the end date of Discovery Passes by 4 months. E.G. A Discovery Pass that would have originally expired March 2020 will now expire July 2020, similar if a Discovery Pass would have expired September 2020 will now expire January 2021. A Discovery Pass expires on the last day of the month. E.G. July 31, 2020. For more information go to Parks Canada website.

Defend Alberta Parks Campaign

CPAWS (Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society) and AEN (Alberta Environmental Network) have teamed up to raise awareness of the Alberta Governments plans for provincial parks. This campaign is called Defend Alberta Parks.

The website has information regarding the government’s decision to close parks and to contract out parks as well as coal mining in these parks. Parks are vital for Albertans and Canadians. They are asking Albertans to write to their MLA, Minister of Environment and/or request a Lawn Sign stating, “Defend Alberta Parks.” The two organizations are asking for a donation for the lawn signs. For more information go to Defend Alberta Parks, website.

Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park:

Friends of Fish Creek Park is offering different events regarding the park’s history, wildlife, archaeology and other events in the park this spring/summer/fall.

Visit Friends of Fish Creek Park event calendar for daily and weekly events.

Friends of Kananaskis Park Event Series:

For more information go to Friends of Kananaskis Park event calendar.

Trailhead Parking Security

Trail Closures and Trail Report Link

………………………………………………………………………………………

Members Corner

{member’s AD and contact info to be posted here}

Adventure Stories

Hither and Yon

A reminder of every members responsibility to keeping yourself and your fellow hikers safe, during this unprecedented time.

Six feet/two metres Social Distancing requirement by AHS and CORE guidelines

Every member in this photo is a minimum of six (6) feet/two (2) metres apart, for social distancing guidelines.

Reminders:

– Bring a mask in case you cannot social distance – 6 feet/2 metres, or you need to go into an indoor area.

Stay six feet/2 metres for social distancing when hiking and other events. Also, at rest breaks and lunch.

CORE’S COVID-19 Guidelines

Keeping Members Safe on Events – These guidelines are for your safety and your fellow hikers safety as well.

Do Not sign-up if you are experiencing any illness or COVID-19 symptoms (go to Alberta Health Services website for COVID-19 symptoms).
Avoid non-family car pooling. Meet at trailheads or a designated place for convoying.
Maintain physical distancing at all times. 6 feet/2 metres.
Bring a mask with you for emergency use.
Bring your own supply of wipes/hand sanitizer/gloves/toilet paper, as necessary and your first aid-kit. No Sharing!!
Do Not share food or drink.
Washrooms may not always be available, be prepared.
Bring enough food, water, proper clothing/shoes, equipment and bear spray. No sharing allowed.
There will be no stopping at places on the way or on the way back.
Be aware of risks in participating and agree to accept the risks.
Remember to provide a cell phone # and emergency contact # to the coordinator when signing up.
No Trip Reports will be signed by members for the time being but coordinators are still required to submit a report.
If you test positive for COVID-19 and were on a CORE event prior to the positive test please notify the coordinator of the trip.

Note: Events may be changed or cancelled at short notice due to changes in government guidelines. The requirements above may change accordingly with updated government recommendations.

Remember: This too Shall Pass!!!

Have Fun and Stay Safe!!!!

By CORE Author|Newsletters|Comments Off

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