Mile High Mountaineer The newsletter of the Denver Group of the Colorado Mountain Club

www.cmc.org March www.hikingdenver.net 2016 www.facebook.com/CMCDenver Volume 49, No.3 www.twitter.com/CMC_Denver

THE WINTER TRAIL RUNNER By Peter N. Jones CMC Press Author “The Best Front Range Trail Runs”

I prefer to run the loop clockwise from the trailhead off State Highway 93 on the west side of the mesa. This direction allows A view from the top of Mount Falcon looking east for a nice warmup, provides unique views of the city of Denver from the eastern As the cool air of fall hits the Front Range, and then the Red Mesa Loop Trail before shoulders of the mesa, and finishes with a people tend to put away their mountain descending back down Plymouth Creek Trail solid climb before a speedy descent returns bikes and dust off their skis and snowboards. to the trailhead. Lengthening this run by you back to the trailhead. However, fall and winter are two of the best taking the Golden Eagle Trail out and back seasons to play on the many trails found (one mile roundtrip) is particularly worth it. Peter Jones will be hosting a free trail- around the Denver area – there are less Mount Falcon. Just south of Morrison running and ultra-running clinic and slide people out so you often have the whole trail lies Mount Falcon. It doesn’t look like a show at 6:30 p.m, March 30, Denver REI, and to yourself, the views are better because there mountain from the trailhead because the 6:30 p.m., March 16, Boulder REI. Register is less moisture in the air, and playing in the actual summit is located back and to the online at rei.com. crisp air leaves you feeling energized. west over a small set of foothills. The main Three of the best open space parks for trail – the Castle Trail – enjoys a southern trail running in the fall and winter are Deer exposure, which makes it a perfect winter Creek Canyon, Mount Falcon, and North trail to run. Table Mountain. All three are in Jefferson A favorite is the Castle Trail/Turkey Trot County and are owned and maintained by Trail/Castle Trail to the small shelter at mile the Jefferson County Open Space Division. 2.95 where a gravel service road takes you Maps can be found online at Jeffco Open west to the historic Walker Home Ruins and Space Parks and Trails. a big meadow with spectacular views of the Deer Creek Canyon Park. Deer Creek Continental Divide to the west. The Castle Canyon is a gem of an open space park, Trail reaches the western parking lot. located southwest of Denver off C-470. North Table Mountain. This is an One of the best runs is the outer loop, excellent run in the fall or winter. It is often beginning on the Meadowlark Trail. This too hot in the summer as it lacks any shade, loop continues in a clockwise direction and is one of the first trails to melt out after a on the Plymouth Creek Trail, Plymouth snow in the winter. Mountain Trail, the Homesteader Trail, Castle ruins on Mount Falcon March 2016 • Mile High Mountaineer 1 CLIMB EUROPEAN HIGH POINTS AND SUPPORT TAKING FLIGHT: CMC’S BACKCOUNTRY SNOWSPORTS INITIATIVE ANATOMY OF A BIRD by Mike Foster, MHM Columnist A new form of CMC adventure travel trip goes out June 2016: a visit to the The anatomy of a bird has evolved to produce a creature that can fly. This high points of Bulgaria (Mt. Musala) means reducing weight wherever possible, and Macedonia/Albania (Golem Korab). streamlining external features, and simplifying The trip features a small group (limit internal ones. The wing, for example, weighs 10); moderate pricing; and a $200 tax- almost nothing, yet it is an airfoil, generating deductible contribution to BSI (for more lift and reducing drag. A number of air sacs info about BSI, visit the Conservation in the neck, chest, and abdomen provide pages on the CMC website). We’ll also visit buoyancy. Wing bones are hollow, structural bones contain air pockets, others are fused to a number of cultural sites from the Roman, add strength and smoothness. The tail is a fan Byzantine, Ottoman eras; plus historic of feathers. A light bill (birds have no teeth) churches and museums. moves the center of gravity back toward the Hotel Lion, Barovets, Bulgaria by Steve Bonowski abdomen, giving birds better balance for flight. Relative to their body size, birds have larger The trip dates are June 18-30, 2016. Leader is Steve Bonowski, experienced CMC hearts that beat faster than humans or other international trip leader. For more information, visit the adventure travel portion of mammals, generating a richer mix of oxygen, the CMC website, or contact Steve at: [email protected]. Space is limited! powering muscles that contract faster and sustain rhythmic work longer, and circulating air more efficiently. It takes two or three in- ESTATE PLANNING WORKSHOP and-out breaths for a quantity of air to circulate May 11 at AMC through a bird’s lungs and air sacs before being expelled, but all of the oxygen is absorbed, The Denver Group will sponsor an estate-planning workshop May 11 exclusively for Denver Group whereas humans retain only about 20 percent of members and their spouses. It will be held from 4:00 to 5:30 in the Baker Room of the AMC. The speaker the oxygen in each breath. is Robert Collins, a longtime CMC member, for 50 years an estate planning attorney, now retired. He will Birds maintain average body temperatures help you define your estate planning goals, discuss wills and trusts and other means by which you can of 104 to 111 degrees F, enabling greater achieve those goals, explain the post-mortem process, consider charitable planning techniques, and talk muscle strength and quicker contractions. For about what you might look for in an estate planning attorney. example, a chickadee can flap its wings up and Estate planning is constantly changing as income taxes increase, federal estate taxes are reduced, down (one stroke) around 27 times a second; and the economy recovers. This is not an event the purpose of which is to generate a gift to the CMC. hummingbirds do over 50 strokes per second. The purpose is simply to educate. To sign up, please email Bob [email protected]. First come, first To maintain such high energy, birds need to serve. Attendance will be limited to 20. Hiking attire welcome! Light refreshments will be served. ingest food regularly during the day. Lacking teeth (to save weight), they have two stomachs to decompose and process food. The first amounts GUNNISON GORGE to a bath of acids, to separate out nutrients, with Derek Kehmeier the second (the gizzard, larger in birds that eat March 17, 6 p.m. seeds, shells, fish and plants) grinds up harder materials. Some birds swallow particles of sand By Celia Dunlap, Fly Fishing Section Chair or mud to assist in the grinding, larger birds even On Thursday, March 17, Derek Kehmeier, manager of Black swallow small pebbles. The sand and pebbles are Canyon Anglers, will present “Fishing the Gunnison Gorge of the evacuated. The bones and fur of creatures preyed Black Canyon.” This is Black Canyon Angler’s 32nd season, specializing upon by raptors (and some other species) are in wilderness float fish trips through the Gunnison Gorge. bundled together in the gizzard then regurgitated Derek has been fly-fishing and tying for 30 plus years, an ex as pellets. bank president who gave it all up to work in the fly-fishing industry. Many birds can process a meal in under Join us at Wrigley’s Bar and Grill, 18200 West Colfax Avenue an hour, and even their poop saves weight, 6:00 p.m. happy hour by using little water. To dispose of wastes, 6:30 p.m. roundtable discussion birds secrete uric acid, in a lightweight paste, 7 p.m. presentation humans secrete urea, which is highly toxic, and requires lots of water to dissolve. Even Food available for purchase before the presentation. Free. birds’ food is adapted to keep weight down: Members and non-members are welcome to attend. sap and nectar are light but high in energy; seeds are densely packed with SAVE THE DATE: SAVE THE DATE! nutrition; insects Annual Pot Luck Dinner to benefit the weigh little after April 21, 2016 Eckart Roder Education Fund their wings, legs, and skeletons are Thursday, April 7, 2016 What: Leader/Sr Instructor Gathering 5:30pm – 8:00pm, AMC, Golden regurgitated. American Mountaineering Center Foster is a Format: Leader Best Practices Slide presentation by Doug Kruesi Suggested Donation: $15 naturalist and Panel Discussion historian who RSVP required - please contact [email protected] or When: 5:30 – 8:30 pm (303) 996-2752 by March 31, 2016, with your teaches classes on dish and number attending! Established in 2003, birding. His column Where: AMC Conference Rooms the Eckart Roder Education Fund was named in on birding will honor of longtime CMC member Eckart Roder Registration: Available mid-February appear on a space- Meadowlark at Chatfield, and supports the educational programs of the available basis. Audubon Society of Denver Colorado Mountain Club.

2 Mile High Mountaineer • March 2016 DENVER GROUP SCHOOLS See HIKINGDENVER.NET for complete information on Denver Group Schools Registration: Go to cmc.org, CLASSES. Refund Policy: Requests must be made in writing to school director. If 30 days or more before first day: Whole amount minus $10 processing. 30 days or less: 50 percent of fee. No refund after day one. If a replacement can be found: Full refund minus $10.

This comprehensive course follows a AIARE Level 1 Avalanche School Lightroom Photography Seminar standardized program established by the Contact: Tom Creighton, [email protected] March 6, $45 Emergency Care and Safety Institute, and Session 1: Feb. 10 and 11; 6:30 - 9:30 pm consists of lecture, practical experience Lectures in Conference Rooms, AMC, By Jao van de Lagemaat, and a written exam. Topics include patient Golden; Feb. 13 and 14, Lectures at Empire Photography Class Coordinator assessment, weather-related illness, trauma, Community Town Hall; Field Work at Have you ever had the experience of splinting, medical emergencies, incident Berthoud Pass; 8:00 am – 6:00 pm. coming back after an amazing hike that your management, and altitude illness. Emphasis is Fee: DG members $195; non DG members $215 photos just don’t look anything like? What on “hands on” experience. A WFA card, good Session 2: March 4, 5, 6 Lectures in Empire do you remember seeing that the photos for three years, is issued upon completion. Community Town Hall; don’t convey what you felt like being there? The Denver Group offers a two-day Field days at Berthoud Pass 8:00 am – 6:00 pm; You might even have perfect photographic class or a one-day refresher. The two-day is Fee: DG Members $180; non DG members $215 technique but your pictures just need geared for those who have not had WFA or for Limit: 30 students per session something more. whom it has been a while. The refresher is an Prerequisites: Students may use skis or The CMC photo section is again abbreviated renewal-only, with limited lecture. organizing a 1-day class that can help snowshoes during field exercises; those with Refresher students must have completed you overcome this seemingly intractable the course within the last 4 years and have skis need to be able to ski proficiently in the problem. The main tool we will use will Edition 3 or 4 of the textbook for review prior backcountry at an intermediate level be Adobe’s Lightroom but many of the to the class. Registration: Online at cmc.org, Calendar, concepts apply to other software too. Classes, Feb. 10 or March 4. Many of us gather 1000’s of files from our First Aid, CPR and AED If you participate in winter activities CMC hikes and trips but they languish on such as ice or snow climbing, backcountry memory cards and never reach their full Contact: M.Beatriz Silveira MD, [email protected] telemark or tour skiing, ski mountaineering potential nor get seen by anybody – not Practicum: Tuesday, March 21: two small groups: or snowshoeing in the backcountry, you want even yourself. at 3 pm and 6:30 pm. Register carefully! to know what AIARE (American Institute of In this class, you will learn how to Fee: $23 paid to CMC, plus $27 paid directly Avalanche Research and Education) Level 1 import files from your camera, organize, to the American Red Cross online training can do for you. keyword and edit. Secondly, you’ll learn Register: online at cmc.org, Calendar, March 21 Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain how to edit your images to realize their This course is the traditional content of the Level 1 is a 3-day/24-hour introduction to full potential. Lastly, you’ll learn how to American Red Cross class, however updated. avalanche hazard management that: take your images and share them online on Blended learning is an easier way to learn: the • Provides a basic understanding of avalanches social websites, send them to friends, build theoretical part is learned online while the • Describes a framework for decision making websites, generate slideshows and more. We’ll practical part will be at the AMC, Golden, in a and risk management in avalanche terrain. also teach you how to get the very best prints. small group setting with the certified instructor. This class is required for certification The class will be March 6, and will cost $45. You will be able to access the online material of all CMC Denver backcountry winter trip Registration at cmc.org, Calendar, March 6. for an additional two years. You must pass the leaders after Sept. 30, 2011. Backcountry online assessment before your practicum at the winter leaders certified prior to Sept. 30, 2011, Wilderness First Aid AMC, which will include the mannequins and were grandfathered until 2016 to fulfill this the AED simulator. requirement. This is the 5th and final year of 2016 Series More info at cmc.org, Calendar, March 21. the grandfathered period. Contact: Jeff Flax, school director, [email protected] Scholarships are available to CMC Denver Session 1, two days, Sunday March 6 and 13. leaders for 50% of the school tuition providing Session 2, one-day refresher: Sat. April 16. leaders sign a Memorandum of Understanding Session 3, two days: Sat. Oct. 8 and 15 stating they will take one of three requested Session 4, one-day refresher (if needed): Sun actions within the next 2 years: a) lead more backcountry winter trips b) assist with ATA Nov. 6 as a field instructor c) assist with AIARE Level Location: AMC, Golden 1 in the classroom and the field. Registration: Online at cmc.org, Calendar, or call See the 2015 Scholarship form at: membership services at 303-279-3080, ext. 2. http://www.hikingdenver.net/wp- For more information and links to register content/uploads/2015/09/2016-AIARE- for each session, see www.hikingdenver.net/ SCHOLARSHIP-FORM.pdf schools/wilderness-first-aid Fee: $64 for full two-day course: Denver Group members, $74 for non-Denver Group members. Fee for refresher course: $40 for Denver Group members and $50 for non- Denver Group members. Denver Group leaders, potential leaders, and senior school instructors should apply through the Support Aid for Leader Training (SALT) for the school at no cost to the leaders - see https://t.e2ma. Wilderness Trekking: Leader Norm Arlt on Green net/message/bpuag/jvkl9d Mountain with Wilderness Trekking Group 13. Photo by Vicky Gits March 2016 • Mile High Mountaineer 3 DENVER GROUP SCHOOLS Deadline: March 10 Wilderness Trekking School Call for Wilderness Trekking Prerequisites: See hikingdenver.net Starts April 5 School Instructors Ski Mountaineering School is the Contact: Hikingdenver.net/Upcoming Schools The Wilderness Trekking School introduction to high altitude mountain or 303-279-3080 Ext 2 Committee is looking for instructors for the and peak ski and snowboard travel and Lectures: Tuesdays, April 5, 12, 26, and May 10 & 17 Spring 2016 session that begins on Tuesday, descending in Colorado. Participants are Time: 6:30 pm, AMC, Golden April 5. We encourage previous WTS expected to be high level blue-slope to black- Field Dates: Your choice of Thursdays April 14, instructors and WTS graduates to volunteer. diamond, downhill-capable skiers (tele, AT or snowboard), with experience in backcountry 21, and 28, May 12 and 19; or Saturdays April Senior instructors must be approved CMC ski/ splitboard and high mountain travel in 16, 23, 30, May 14, and 21; or Sundays April trip leaders. All instructors must be willing to accommodate all paces and skill levels steep terrain and varied conditions. 17, 24 and May 1, 15, 22. The class will progress from initial winter- Fee: $100 Denver Group Members; from beginner to advanced. They must love the mountains and be eager and able to teach conditions trip planning, snow-safety review, $110 non-DG members, until March 29; students the skills for safe backcountry travel. travel techniques, safe route selection, group $120 or $130 after March 29. For more information, including application dynamics and efficient travel with moderate Wilderness Trekking School is for and schedule go to hikingdenver.net/Upcoming half-day routes, through spring conditions all – whether you want to bag a few 14ers Schools. WTSC gives preference to applicants with bigger objectives, longer days and steeper or just want to enjoy the scenery. WTS is a who are available for all lectures and field days. terrain as snowpack and skill levels improve. comprehensive course on mountain hiking Applications are due by Tuesday, March 1. and Colorado Mountain Club’s largest school. Send your application to one of the following Trip Leader School Students are all ages, from 18 to 80. WTS committee members: Spring 2016 Trip Leader School is full! If there If you’re new to hiking, WTS is an Senior Instructors – Dave Callais, dctstrider@ is enough interest, a summer class will be opportunity to learn how to travel safely and comcast.net, Returning Associates – Ken considered. Interested members should apply confidently in the backcountry and practice Gurvin, [email protected] and New First Time to SALT (Support Aid for Leader Training). your skills in a non-competitive, non- Assistants – Marc Borai, [email protected]. Once your application is approved you will be confrontational setting. Experienced hikers Thank you in advance for your interest and placed on a waiting list and notified when the enhance their skills and fill in some gaps. participation! next class is scheduled. SALT via application WTS fulfills one of the requirements to online at: https://goo.gl/XuhvKm obtain a Denver Group C classification. The course consists of five Tuesday night Fly Fishing School Contact: Pat McKinley. patrickmckinley@ Contact: Laurence Hoess, [email protected] lectures, four field days, a CMC hike, and hotmail.com weekly homework. Students are assigned or 720-933-5219 Classroom/Field Practical: April 9. Classroom - to groups of 10-12, based on hiking pace, Class Schedule: 4 hours; field day - 5 hours conditioning, and experience. Instructor teams Wed., March 30, 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. Time: 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Bring your lunch consist of a senior instructor and two assistant Wed., April 6, 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. Location: AMC, Golden. Field location TBA instructors. Students plan and complete a Wed., April 13, 6 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Fee: $0. Support Aid for Leader Training (SALT) CMC trip with their group. Location: AMC Prerequisites: CMC member for a minimum of Topics covered include: Tentative Field Days: one year and three CMC trips; only students with • Essential gear Sat. April 16 or 17 at 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Wilderness First Aid certification will be accepted. • Off-trail travel techniques Lake Lehow or Pine Valley Ranch Registration: www.cmc.org, Calendar/Classes/ • Map & compass skills Saturday April 23, instructor’s choice. April 9 • Weather Fee: $180. Includes a 112-page handbook, 20 Being a CMC Trip Leader is one of the • Nutrition flies and many accessories with a value of $100. most rewarding and challenging volunteer • Handling an unexpected night in the Prerequisites: A rod, reel, line, waders, boots positions in the club. The 3.5-hour class backcountry and fishing license by the first field day. If lecture discusses: CMC policies, trip planning, • Snow travel, ice-ax training you need gear, instructors can assist you in participant screening, CMC liability coverage • Leave No Trace practices equipment selection during the class nights. for volunteers, working group dynamics “I thought I knew a lot about hiking. Was Registration: hikingdenver.net/Fly Fishing School and team management, marketing your I wrong! WTS taught me so much more than I This school is designed for both trips, being a CMC ambassador, wilderness imagined.” – Student beginning and novice anglers. Experienced risk mitigation practices, and how the club instructors teach the basics of gear, knots, supports and promotes its leader corps. “I learned some useful information (that) bugs, fish behavior, and casting in three Our Trip Leader School includes an I didn’t know that I didn’t know.” – Student evening classes and two field days. Our school afternoon Leader-In-Training field practical. (or similar experience) is required for Denver Bring your lunch, pack and the 10 Essentials. Group fly-fishing trips. The LIT practical is conducted with experienced Instructor Leaders who model Ski Mountaineering School and work with the leader candidates in doing Contact: John Morrone, school director, a trip cycle from trailhead to trailhead. Leader [email protected] candidates participate as leaders and sweeps. The team is presented with scenarios Class Schedule: 3 Thursdays in March, including emergency medical incidents, weekend outings March-May conflicts, team management and decision- Time: 6-9 p.m. making. By doing a supervised TLS LIT Location: AMC, Golden field practical among peers and instructors, Field days: One day per weekend for 9 the leader candidate receives a more robust weekends (5 mandatory, 4 optional), plus one training and learning experience. multi-day weekend final trip (1 of 2) late May. Tekla Taylor shoots a bearing on the way back to Fee: $175, members; $300 non-members Stony Pass Oct. 17 in front of Group 13. Registration: www.cmc.org, Calendar, March 10 Photo by Vicky Gits 4 Mile High Mountaineer • March 2016 DENVER GROUP SCHOOLS Introduction to Hiking Safety Wilderness Survival School WSS Contact: Art Hogling, director, [email protected] Contact: John Lindner, 303-431-7575 or YOUTH EDUCATION Location: AMC, Golden [email protected] PROGRAM Date: April 13, 6:30 – 9:00 Lectures: Wednesdays - May 18, 25 and June 1 Fee: Denver Group member $5, non-DG $10 Time: 7 to about 9:30 p.m. Registration Now Open Registration: cmc.org/calendar/classes or Location: AMC conference room A CMC’s Youth Education Program has membership services at 303 279-3080 Overnight exercise: Saturday, June 4, returning offerings for youth, 9-18, and all ability levels, Learning how to be safe in the Sunday morning facilitated by AMGA-certified rock specialists backcountry is a major reason many members Fee: $53. A textbook and some supplies will be and trained outdoor educators. The 2016 join the CMC. Most trips do not test one’s provided. schedule is available at cmc.org/youth/adventure preparedness and knowledge, but preparation Registration: hikingdenver.net/schools/ courses/summer courses. and knowledge can make all the difference wildernesssurvivalschoolhiking Mountain Explorers (ages 9-12) when your safety is challenged. And it will do The 2016 session of the Wilderness Session 1: June 6-10, 2016 wonders for your confidence and the comfort Survival School is now open for registration. Session 2: July 5-8, 2016 of loved ones. This course is designed to provide the skills Intro to Rock Climbing (ages 11-14) The Introduction to Hiking Safety and self-confidence to increase your odds Session 1: June 13-17, 2016 seminar is a one-evening session. You will of survival in an unexpected stay in the Session 2: July 11-15, 2016 learn about: wilderness. Enrollment is open to all CMC Intermediate Rock Climbing (ages 12-15) • the many aspects of safety you need members with any level of backcountry Session 1: June 27 - July 1, 2016 to be aware of, from Avalanche experience or hiking classification. Session 2: July 18-22, 2016 Terrain Awareness to Zebras Topics covered will include, (but not Advanced Rock Climbing (ages 14-18) (actually we don’t have a “Z”), limited to) avoiding a survival situation, Session: July 25-29, 2016 • tools, methods of preparation, and attitude, shelters, signaling and fire craft. Check out the CMC website, YEP Teen how to respond to safety challenges, Survival related medical emergencies and Ventures, cmc.org/Youth/Teen Ventures, for • a description of the extensive other priorities will also be covered. summer outdoor leadership course offerings program of in-depth, hands-on safety The course will consist of three evening designed for teenagers, 14-18. training offered in the CMC Denver lectures and an overnight trip, June 4. This Contact: Molly Daley, Youth Education Program Group’s adult education curriculum. is not a “sink-or-swim” field trip and we Manager; [email protected], 303-996-2741 For more information, go to will not be surviving on roots, berries, wild hikingdenver.net/schools mushrooms, or killing and eating bugs/ wildlife. The goal is to learn from a simulated Advanced Crevasse Rescue survival situation and to practice skills with Contact: Director Jason Kolaczkowski, the equipment we should normally carry in WHERE THE FUN IS: [email protected] our daypacks. Alpine Scrambling Course Lecture: Wed., April 14; Monday, April 18; 6 p.m., AMC, Golden Alpine Scrambling Course More often than not, the instructors and Field day: 5 a.m., Sat., April 23, AMC to Contact: School Director Rich.McAdams@ students in the Alpine Scrambling Course feel Loveland Pass hotmail.com that the actual “scrambling” portion of each Prerequisites: Must be a HAMS graduate Lectures: 6:30pm – 10:00 pm, May 19 and May field day is by far the best. Although we meet or current HAMS student or have similar 26 at the AMC early (very early), commiserate during our experience with building 3:1 haul systems. Field Day 1: 5:30 am – 7:00 pm, June 4; drive to the trailhead, then deal with that long Our expectation is that students will have location RMNP approach hike, everyone discovers that when already mastered construction of a 3:1 haul Field Days 2-4: 4:00 am – 8:00 pm, dates the scrambling starts… the fun starts. Here we system PRIOR to the class. The 3:1 system determined within assigned group; location experience the excitement, accomplishment, will be the basis of both our 5:1 and 6:1 TBD and that feeling of being alive. systems. Refresher materials will be sent to Prerequisites: Wilderness Trekking School If you can imagine yourself in that same students prior to the class. We WILL NOT be or Backpacking School and a Denver Group scenario, then consider the Alpine Scrambling reviewing the 3:1 system as part of the class so C hiking classification. Backpacking School Course as your next step to help you develop preparation is a must. graduates also need to complete the TCS Basic the skills and self-confidence needed to ascend Fee: $50 Snow Module offered each spring. Colorado’s 14rs, perhaps by taking a more Registration: contact Seminar Director Jason Class Limit: 18 each session challenging, rewarding, and less popular route. Kolaczkowski to receive your passcode for Fee: $115.00 for Denver members or $135.00 Enrollment for the 2016 course opens registration and then sign up via the for non-Denver Group members. Anticipate March 1, and history suggests the course will CMC.org, Calendar, April 14. an additional $260 for the required technical fill shortly thereafter. The class begins in the Email Jason at [email protected], provide your equipment. mid-May timeframe. HAMS experience or describe your equivalent Register: Online at cmc.org, Calendar entry If interested or simply curious, experience, and receive the passcode. May 19 please visit the ASC website to determine Our real-life scenario practice will give you Alpine scrambling is a form of whether the course would be right for the experience you need to rescue a climbing mountaineering that primarily involves off- you. http://www.hikingdenver.net/schools/ partner who has fallen into crevasse as well as trail travel, which can consist of steep rock, low alpinescramblingcourse mitigate your own risk should you fall into one. angle snow, bushwhacking, stream crossings, Should the website leave some questions After this course, your skills should equip you to and exposure to falls. The harder Colorado unanswered, please contact the course confidently travel on not just the well-trodden 14ers require climbers to be competent director: Rich McAdams, routes, but some of the less popular (and less scramblers, as do many of the highest 100. at [email protected] populated) glacier routes around the world Please refer to the ASC website for additional Website http://www.hikingdenver.net/schools/ where being self-sufficient is a must! details. http://www.hikingdenver.net/schools/ alpinescramblingcourse alpinescramblingcourse Contact Rich McAdams, at [email protected]

March 2016 • Mile High Mountaineer 5 DENVER GROUP SCHOOLS the dates that do work. We provide technical TECH SCHOOLS gear, if needed. You will need basic camping Basic Snow Tech School gear, including 10 Essentials, a daypack to Session A Lecture: 6:00-9:00 pm, April 11 at AMC carry technical gear, and overnight camping Session A Field Day: all day starting no later Instructor Workshop gear. C Hiker Classification is required for than 6:00 am, April 16; location TBD Lecture: 6:00-9:00 pm, March 1 at AMC the Grad Climbs but not for the classes. Session B Lecture: 6:00-9:00 pm, April 20 at AMC Field Day: 8:00am-5:00pm, March 5 at See the Basic Mountaineering School page Session B Field Day: all day starting no later Castlewood under Schools at hikingdenver.net for more than 6:00 am, April 24; location TBD Prerequisite: completion of the class in which information. Choose either Session A or Prerequisite: none you would like to teach Session B. Class Limit: 25 each session Class Limit: none Fee: $75.00 Fee: none Basic Climbing Register: online at cmc.org Register: online at cmc.org Session C Lectures: Mar 14 & 16 6:00-9:00 pm at AMC This is a basic snow travel course meant We are looking for instructors to help Session D Lectures: Mar 23 & 24 6:00-9:00 pm at AMC to be solid preparation for Technical Snow; teach the 17 classes offered by the Technical Session E Lectures: Mar 29 & 31 6:00-9:00 pm at AMC that is, focus on alpine and couloir climbs. Climbing School (Navigation, Rock, Snow, Prerequisite: none Technical Snow is required for completion Ice). If you have taken any of these classes you Class Limit: 25 each session of the Basic Mountaineering certificate. We are a candidate for instructor. If you think you Fee: $65.00 cover ice axe and crampon techniques: how to would like to teach, join us. You are probably Register: online at cmc.org self-belay and self-arrest; French, German, and already on my email list. If not, please let me This is a short introduction to climbing American technique; glissading. 10 Essentials know and I will add you. and is a prerequisite for Intermediate Rock, and winter clothing are required for this Technical Snow, and Basic Ice. We cover basic course. Choose either Session A or Session B. Navigation Level 1 belay technique for top rope climbing. We (Basic Map & Compass) cover footwork. We cover gear and how to use Technical Snow it. We provide all necessary gear. Session A Lecture: 6:00-9:00 pm, April 18 at AMC Session A Lectures: 6:00-9:00 pm, March 7 & 8 at AMC Session A Field Day: all day starting no later Session A Field Day: all day starting at 6:00 am, than 6:00 am, April 23; location TBD March 12; location TBD Navigation Level 2 Session A Lectures: Mar 21 & 22 6:00-9:00 pm at AMC Session B Lecture: 6:00-9:00 pm, May 4 at AMC Session B Lectures: 6:00-9:00 pm, March 15 & 17 at AMC Session A Field Day: all day starting no later Session B Field Day: all day starting no later Session B Field Day: all day starting at 6:00 am, than 6:00 am, April 2; location TBD than 6:00 am, May 8; location TBD March 20; location TBD Session B Lectures: Mar 28 & 30 6:00-9:00 pm at AMC Graduation Couloir Climb: all day; time and Prerequisite: none Session B Field Day: all day starting no later location TBD Class Limit: 25 each session than 6:00 am, April 3; location TBD Prerequisite: Introduction to Climbing; Basic Snow Fee: $75.00 Prerequisite: Navigation Level 1 Class Limit: 25 each session Register: online at cmc.org Fee: $75.00 This is a Basic Map and Compass course Class Limit: 25 each session Register: online at cmc.org meant to be solid preparation for Navigation Fee: $75.00 This is a follow-up course to Basic Snow. Level 2. Navigation Level 2 is required for Register: online at cmc.org Technical Snow is required for completion completion of the Basic Mountaineering This is a follow up to Navigation Level 1, of the Basic Mountaineering certificate. We certificate. In addition to how to use map focusing on intensive field practice with map cover snow anchors in detail and roped team and compass, we cover digital sources, and compass. Navigation Level 2 is required travel. A graduation couloir climb is required. smartphone apps, and GPS devices. Compass for completion of the Basic Mountaineering 10 Essentials and winter clothing are required with declination adjustment is required for this certificate. We navigate from point to point, for this course. Choose either Session A or class. Choose either Session A or Session B. using multiple techniques to negotiate obstacles and to “stay found”. Compass with Session B. Basic Mountaineering declination adjustment is required for this class. Choose either Session A or Session B. Intermediate Rock Climbing Traditional (formerly Basic Rock) Session A Lectures: 6:00-9:00 pm, March 7, 8, Navigation Level 3 Session A Lecture: 6:00-9:00 pm, May 10 at AMC 14, 16, 21, April 11, 18, May 10 at AMC Session A Field Days: all day starting no later than Session A Field Days: all day starting at 6:00 am, (Electronic Navigation) 8:00 am, May 14 & 15; location TBD Session A Lectures: Apr 5 & 6 6:00-9:00 pm at AMC March 12, April 2, 16, 23; May 14, 15; locations Session B Lecture: 6:00-9:00 pm, May 18 at AMC Prerequisite: No prerequisite but Navigation TBD Session B Field Days: all day starting no later than Level 1 is recommended Session A Grad Climbs: one full day and one 8:00 am, May 21 & 22; location TBD Class Limit: 25 each session overnighter; dates and locations TBD Prerequisite: Introduction to Climbing Fee: $65.00 Session B Lectures: 6:00-9:00 pm, March 9, 10, Class Limit: 25 each session Register: online at cmc.org 15, 17, 28; April 20, May 4, 18 at AMC Fee: $85.00 This is a new class that takes a more Register: online at cmc.org Session B Field Days: all day starting at 6:00 am, in-depth look at electronic tools available for Intermediate Rock Climbing is a follow- March 20; April 3, 24; May 8, 21, 22; location TBD land navigation. We will take a closer look at up to Introduction to Climbing. Intermediate Session B Grad Climbs: one full day and one online mapping tools such as CalTopo. We Rock is required for completion of the Basic overnighter; dates and locations TBD will look at various GPS receivers: how to use Mountaineering certificate. And Intermediate Prerequisite: none them and their limitations. We will look at a Rock is a pre-requisite for Rock Seconding Class Limit: 25 each session global satellite communicator with built-in School. We review the Brake-Under-Slide Fee: $375.00 navigation tools. We will look at smartphone belay technique and safe belay practices. We Register: online at cmc.org apps. There is no prerequisite for this class but also cover rappelling and work on climbing This is the traditional track for Basic Nav Level 1 or equivalent is recommended. Mountaineering School. You must commit to technique on slabs and faces. We provide all all the dates listed. If these dates do not work necessary gear. Choose either Session A or for you, better is to take the modular classes on Session B.

6 Mile High Mountaineer • March 2016 ADVENTURE TRAVEL See www.cmc.org/adventuretravel for an up-to-date list of trips. May 18-22, 2016 alongside the Kongakut River. An outfitter will availability. This allows ample time for hiking Moab Bike & Hike provide the raft, food, small plane flights and the canyon, playing in the river and relaxing. We will base camp near Moab and explore the guide services. The canyon hosts a 40-foot waterfall, secluded famous mountain biking and hiking trails in the Contact: Linda Taipale, 303-880-0184 swimming holes and numerous ancient Indian Moab area. You will ride or hike with groups of petroglyphs. Register through Centennial Canoe July 31-Aug. 5, 2016 Outfitters. $359. various sizes and abilities for four days of adven- In-State Outing ture. All savory meals (Wed.-Sun. breakfast) are At the Sweetwater River Ranch, the endless di- Oct. 3-8, 2016 provided by our desert gourmet chef. Our group versity of the northern Sangre de Cristo, Rainbow Ruins Bike & Hike campsite has porto-potties, water, a bonfire every Trail, and Arkansas River become your backyard. The Ancients Ruins Bike & Hike Adventure is 6 night with live music, games, a fun-filled drum Fish at the campsite, hike quiet trails, or read a days mountain bike riding, hiking and camping circle, sweat lodge and other activities. Rides and book with the accompaniment of river sounds. through the heart of Ancient Puebloans’ country hikes suited for beginning to advanced riders of Tent camp or upgrade to a cabin, and enjoy great in the Cedar Mesa region of Southeast Utah. all ages. Not included: Transportation, bike and company and catered food under the big tent! Most of the riding is on moderately rough dirt helmet, and personal camping gear. Custom an- Six days from $550. roads and the side hikes are short but challeng- nual T-shirt. Contact Rick Pratt at ing. Fee: $695. Contact Rick Pratt at [email protected] 303-887-3717 July 9-18, 2016 [email protected] or 303-887-3717 Climbing in the Alps June 3-6, 2016 Have you ever hiked a Colorado 12 or 13er and For more details see cmc.org, Michelson Bicycle Trail basked in the joy of not being on a 14er with Adventure Travel Trips Ride the 109-mile Michelson Trail in the heart 500 of your closest friends? Is it possible to do a of the Black Hills of South Dakota. Three days trip in the Alps and not climb Mont Blanc or the of riding through forest, mountains, meadows Matterhorn? We hike to the Panossiere Hut in and gold mining districts, all at a reasonable Switzerland and climb four peaks. 3-percent grade on good gravel trail. The ride is self-guided and self-supported ride. From $450. Aug. 26-28, 2016 Gunnison River Canoe and Hike June 11-20, 2016 You will paddle and camp beside high walls of Arctic National Wildlife Refuge Trip beautiful red sandstone deposited during the age The Kongakut River is a classic wilderness trip of the dinosaurs on a guided/outfitted Gunni- in arctic Alaska. Only 1,500 visitors per year son River canoe trip through the Dominguez- see this 19-million-acre Arctic National Wildlife Escalante National Conservation Area. Interest- Refuge. This trip starts and ends in Fairbanks. ing side trips into deep box canyons will leave We fly 200 miles north, across the Yukon River you awed by the immensity of geologic time and the Arctic Circle, to the Gwich’in Athabas- and the silence of the wilderness. We plan on can village of Arctic Village. We board a smaller staying camped in the same place for two nights plane through the Brooks Range to a river bar Courtesy of Arctic Wild Alaska Adventure Trips in Dominguez Canyon, depending on campsite and Wilderness Tours

March 2016 • Mile High Mountaineer 7 THANK YOU, FALL 2015 WTS MARCH SOCIAL ACTIVITIES CALENDAR INSTRUCTORS AND COMMITTEE! By Joe Griffith, Director We welcome new ideas. Call us, Patricia 720-296-9422 or e-mail [email protected] or Fred at 303-751-6639 or e-mail [email protected]. Unless listed in the CMC Activity Schedule online, these social activities are not considered official CMC activities. The WTS committee most sincerely thanks the volunteer instructors who so generously gave By Patricia Leslie, Social Activities Leader their time, expertise, and enthusiasm to make for time and free parking directions. We’ll share WTS such a resounding success. We recognize information about our favorite hiking trails, each of these individuals, both those who taught starting with Mt. Bierstadt, Lake Isabelle, Chief for the first time and those who return year after Mountain and more, mostly popular CMC trips. year, for their commitment and dedication. We can recount our hiking experiences on these trails, as well as the stats of miles and elevation Senior instructors: gain. Actual trail photos on the websites Norm Arlt, Marc Borai, Tom Hartzell, David gohikeco.com and the updated gohikecolorado.com Hutchison, Pat McKinley, Tim Musil, Tracie offer previews as well. CMC leader P. Leslie. Sawade, and Derek Taylor. Thursday 17 – More Talk About Favorite Hiking Associate instructors: Craig Atkins, Michael Trails. RSVP for evening meeting time to pleslie. Caruso, Keith Castilow, Michelle Ellington, [email protected] by Wednesday the 16th. We Vicky Gits, Michael Hoop, Bruce Jablonski, Fred will meet at La Belle Rosette, 2421 S. University Jorgensen, John Mill, Jocelyne Morris, Richard Blvd., with free parking off the rear alley. One of Ostrosky, and Russell Peterson. our favorite hikes is to Lily Pad Lake near Dillon. Assistant instructors: For more info see the website, gohikeco.com. We Brett Corning, Tammy Cullins, Chip Furlong, Ja- will share information about other CMC hikes son Gross, Jeff Howard, Rachel Miedema, Linda including Herman Lake, 14ers Democrat and Taipale, and David Toy. Sherman, Cub Lake and Bergen Peak. Substitute and make-up instructors: Saturday 19 – Dinner at Colore Italian Restaurant, Craig Atkins, Michael Caruso, Keith Castilow, 5 p.m., 2700 South Broadway. Those interested Michelle Ellington, Karl Ford, Brookie Gallagher, can ride with us afterward on RTD Light Rail Jason Gross, David Hutchison, Fred Jorgensen, to the Symphony (see below). Come to one or Linda Lawson, Sarah Maurer, Jocelyne Morris, both events. For directions and reservation Russell Peterson, Terry Ploski, Ben Smith, and (required), call Bob Shedd, 303-733-2815. Sarah Thompson. Saturday 19 – Colorado Symphony, 7:30 The WTS director most sincerely thanks p.m. Concert theme is Romeo & Juliet, from the committee whose dedication, expertise, and Cotswold Trail Photo by Fred Siersma Shakespeare and Tchaikovsky to “West Side Story.” hard work made the session possible. Tuesday 1 – Your favorite hiking trails? Discount tickets $29. To sign up, or to cancel, you WTS committee: Norm Arlt, Marc Borai, We would like to know your favorite hiking trails, must call the host by 11:30 a.m. on the day of the Ross Buchan, Dave Callais, Ken Gurvin, John especially those that you have experienced with concert. Bob Shedd, 303-733-2815. Lindner, Tim Musil, Terry Ploski, Robin Starr, CMC. Please email CMC leader Patricia Leslie and Sarah Thompson. at [email protected] with your list. We’ll include those with our favorites when we host a Sunday coffee and Thursday after-work gathering (see 13 and 17 below) to “Talk Hiking Trails.” BIRDING WITH MIKE Friday 11 – TGIF at Hanson’s. 1301 South Pearl. (1 block to light rail). Denver. 5:30-7 p.m. Host Bob “Birding 101” is the recommends the menu’s many excellent choices. next class offered by Bob Shedd, 303-733-2815, [email protected]. Mike Foster. Sunday 13 – Talking Hiking Trails. Ready or not Three classes at for hiking, drop by for coffee, tea, snacks, beer, Jefferson Unitarian or wine at La Belle Rosette, 2421 S. University Church, Golden, on Blvd. RSVP [email protected] by the 12th Lily Pad Lake, Photo by Janice Bennett Thursdays, April 21, 28 & May 5. Two field trips on Saturdays, COUNCIL CORNER April 23, 30 & one on By Maddie Philley, Denver Group Council secretary Sunday, May 8. At the January 2016 Denver Group Council Meeting, there were three major actions taken: • The Support Aid for Leader Training (SALT) Program previously announced has been enhanced to include Wilderness First Aid for Active Leaders who have not taken WFA for more than 4 years, or for Inactive Leaders Total cost $60. who have not led a trip for more than 36 months who desire to return to Active Leader Status. This change supports Beginners welcome. Active Leaders to have current WFA education and encourages Inactive Leaders to return to Active Leader status. Active Leader status necessitates leading one trip during the CMC fiscal year, October 1 – September 30. More info: www.BirdingWithMike.com • Celia Dunlap was confirmed as the new Fly Fishing Section chair, and will continue working with previous chair, Herb Grotheer. The Fly Fishing Section currently has about 150 members, offers a school around April each For questions, and to sign up: year that is targeted at beginners, and hopes to introduce additional programs. [email protected] • DGC approved Bob Collins’ proposal to offer Estate Planning Seminars to Colorado Mountain Club members.

The Mile High Mountaineer Editor: Vicky Gits, [email protected]. The Mile High Mountaineer (USP 703-680) is published monthly for $15/year members and non- Design: Charlotte A. Ricker, Ricker Studio, members. Postmaster: send address changes to the Colorado Mountain Club, 710 10th St., #200, Golden, [email protected]. CO 80401. Periodicals Postage paid at Golden, CO and additional mailing offices. Ads for the newsletter are due six weeks prior to the edition the ad is to be placed. All ads must be submitted via email to mhm@ CMC Office: (303) 279-3080; Fax (303) 279-9690. cmc.org. For an ad rate sheet and questions, please email the editors at [email protected]. MHM welcomes Office Hours:Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. letters to the editor. They must be signed and are subject to editing for length and clarity. Letters are Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. published solely at the discretion of the editor.

8 Mile High Mountaineer • March 2016