34. Prairie View/Jewel Pass(a), Prairie View(b), (c)

Distance: 13.4 km
Elevation gain: 500m

I was single today, Herm was at a SAWS meeting, so I invited other 'single' friends, Emmy and Lisa, and we hiked Prairie View.

The hike starts at the north end of Barrier Lake and was easy for us casual hikers to follow. The trail started out wide, gentle and good for conversation. After some time through trees, we reached our first viewpoint.

Then on up to the top viewpoint for a further view. It was a popular hike today.

We went down the far side of the lookout through peaceful forest and enjoyed the clumps and bouquets of calypso orchids all along the descent.

Being spring and wet, there was water everywhere. Jewel Falls was one of the more beautiful spots to stop and take a picture. We soon reached the lake and followed a level trail back to the car and tea and treats just before a downpour. We felt tired and blessed to have enjoyed such a wonderful time together.

Prairie View(b)
Sunday, August 23, Joti had a rare free day and wished to see the mountains so at 10:00 our multicultural small group left Calgary to enjoy a gorgeous day in the sunshine in Kananaskis. Joti's cookies sustained us till we stopped for lunch at the first lookout.

Then on to the 2nd (pictured above) to enjoy views, take pictures and rest while some of the group continued up to the firetower. We were not alone at the top on this beautiful day. Others came and went.

Looking from the top down on our lunch spot.

 

Stanley, Peter, Herm, Zuishin?,
Rachel, Joti, Iris, Cathie, Kate, Kevin on the lookout of Prairie View.
.
Prairie View C

August 22, 2016, my sisters and I spent a week at Baker Creek Resort and did various hikes. This was the first one. It was extremely windy but dry and a good first hike. We enjoyed coffee and shopping at Boundary Ranch before heading on to Banff.