Look no further than Cascade Mountain in Banff National Park for a hike that is just spicy enough to get your heart pounding! Actually this isn't a hike, it is a scramble and this mountain deserves your respect. The summit rises just under 3,000 metres above the town of Banff and is a popular spot for adventure seekers from around the world. To summit, you have to start your trek at the Norquay ski area parking lot and hike roughly 7 km before you can actually start for the summit. The 7 km in has many switchbacks and will get your heart pumping but it's a great warmup for the main event. This hike shouldn't be attempted before most, if not all, the snow has melted from the route, usually around mid to late August although your mileage may vary year to year. Give yourself the entire day for this trek, start early to complete it before dark, and make sure to have enough water as there isn't any on the trail. I went through 3 liters and would recommend 4 especially if it's a warm day and take some quick energy carbs like chocolate or energy bars as you'll definitely need them. A windbreaker, gloves and hat are recommended as it can be quite windy at the summit and very cool, if not cold. This hike will test your endurance as it's the distance that is more challenging than reaching the summit.
Chapters:
00:00 Start At Mt.Norquay Ski Area
01:38 Cascade Amphitheater Trailhead
02:29 Switchbacks Begin
03:13 Cascade Amphitheater
04:02 Beginning The Climb Up
04:50 Navigating The Talus Field
05:31 Scramble Down The Rock Bands
07:00 Advise From Other Hikers
08:40 Avoiding False Summits
10:21 The Final Push
11:28 The Summit
13:29 360 Degree Views
14:17 Taking Pictures
15:03 Heading Back Down
15:46 The Crux
16:56 A Tricky Section
17:45 A Long Way To Go
19:03 Fossils
19:35 More Scrambling
20:12 Still A Long Way To Go
20:53 Aches And Pains
22:02 A Real Ass Whupper
23:20 Back At 40 Mile Creek
24:13 Insult To Injury
24:29 Finish In The Dark
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Disclaimer: Hiking and scrambling in mountainous terrain entail inherent risks, including but not limited to, slippery surfaces, steep inclines, adverse weather conditions, and encounters with wildlife. Participants must assess their own physical abilities and preparedness before embarking on any hike or scramble. It is essential to research the chosen route, familiarize oneself with potential hazards, and carry appropriate equipment such as navigation tools, first aid supplies, and emergency communication devices. Weather conditions can change rapidly in mountain environments, and participants should be prepared for sudden shifts in temperature, visibility, and precipitation. By voluntarily participating in hiking and scrambling activities, individuals assume responsibility for their safety and well-being and agree to release any liability from organizers, landowners, or authorities involved in facilitating or permitting such activities.
