Walking in the Rockies - Troll Falls and Ribbon Creek

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Our Skrastins group merrily met in front of the re-instituted bus and started off for Troll Falls. The cool, sun-dappled shade refreshed our minds and bodies. Obeying the sign that clearly pointed out the path to Troll Falls, we found ourselves on a road and heading towards another sign that said “This is not the way to Troll Falls.” Nothing could spoil our good humour as we eventually found the right path.

With the recent rains and glacier melt, the Falls crashed down their rock face with almost deafening force, but the spray was welcome on what was becoming a hot day. Eager for more, we took the relatively new path steeply up to the Upper Falls. There the water poured over large step stones, creating a wedding-cake of pulsing white water. Leader Myron had seen a nearby perfect place for lunch, furnished with large rocks and a good view of the cascades.

Increasing numbers of families and couples were passing us as they climbed up and we climbed down – really, the baby in a full carriage made us realize it is never too soon to learn to hike! Unfortunately, the plethora of map-signs on the way down sowed ever-more confusion in our group, bringing us over new terrain to finally reach the correct parking lot.

Unsatisfied, and with an hour to fill, we set off beside the roaring Ribbon Creek, pale blue with melted snow and ice. More flowers popped out their heads in this slightly cooler climate. Even so, two of us decided to retreat and soak our feet in the painfully cold, marvelous water.

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Photos

Upper Troll Falls
Wonderous staircase of rock and tumbling icy water

Ribbon Creek
Frigid water tumbling from the mountains

Kananaskis country
Even mis-directions lead to stunning views

Red clover
Looks purple ...

Arnica in Bear grass
Prolific and used by bears in their dens

Troll Falls creek
Fallen trees are left naturally in place.

Troll Falls
Small but captivating cascade

Troll Falls creek
Outpouring from the upper falls

Troll Falls
Gushing into fast-running water

Dogwood
Also grows in my front garden

Aspen grove
Soft light through the trees

Cool, clear water
Ribbon Creek

Freezing water soothes hot feet
Ribbon Creek

Comments

[Isabel Gibson]

Time to fill . . .
. . . a healthier attitude than "time to kill." May you continue to fill yours with hikes like these. I love the "This is not the way" sign - it seems as if yours was not the first group to be misled by the clear, but clearly inapt, signage. love the broad/far vistas but think my favourite photo is of the aspen grove.

[beentouring]

Aspen Grove
That's my favourite, too!