Winter beauty at Emerald Lake
Buy your Discovery Park Pass before heading out.
Limited cell reception.
Dogs are permitted on certain trails. Check out the trail map linked below.
When I head out on my little adventures, I often think about learning about new spaces, landscapes and trail systems. This often motivates me to read blogs, maps and scramble through social media to understand more about the area I’m visiting.
What I often forget about all these trips is that I will end up eventually meeting new friendly people who inspire me to keep being curious.
Thanks to Tanya who started a very friendly and collaborative FB group, Cross Country skiing YYC. She shares her personal adventures with the group which is super helpful to the new folks in the area. What I’ve come to learn in the past 15 months is that there’s so much landscape here, you can live here for a decade and continue to learn about new trail networks!
I feel so lucky to have headed out to Emerald Lake today. I was there this past summer paddle boarding and just when you think the summer couldn’t be outdone, you should head there for the winter! It’s a classic ski network with walking options beside the trail and the landscape around the lake is breathtaking in the winter.
When you arrive at the lodge you will see an entry to the lake where many people ski from to connect to trail #5 Alluvial Fan Loop. This is a beautiful easy climb to the crest of the trail and a lovely downhill all the way back down towards the lake. I am really impressed with how the trail has a nice walking path next to the classic tracks, which make it a lovely experience for everyone.
There are signs clearly indicating where the avalanche terrain is, off the main trails and there’s a handful of places with benches to stop and enjoy the views. If you’re up for more trail network, you can head down to the #6 which is a more black level trail of wining beautiful rolling hills down to the natural bridge.
The café was closed when we were there, but I was lucky enough to run into John, John and Chris who came from NY State. We chatted on the trail and when I was heading to my car, I saw them as they were heading for lunch. It’s worth noting to bring cash for your meal as when we were there, the wifi was down which meant the debit machine wasn’t working.
I feel very fortunate to meet such great people out on the trails who are exploring and soaking in the beautiful atmosphere of being in the Rockies.
As I was driving home, I was gently reminded of how we can find connection with others by simply doing things we love doing. A theme in my blogs is often how I head out alone trying new things in new places, but I often find myself chatting with others and sharing stories and experiences with one another.
I want to encourage anyone out there that’s sitting on the fence to try new things and exploring, PLEASE get out there. There’s a way to be prepared, be safe and get outside of your comfort zone.
If you chose to take the plunge, I’m sure somewhere you’ll meet great people to enjoy a nice glass of wine and a good burger.
Gear: Atomic Redsters skin skis. Move bindings.
Hydration: Nuun Limeade
