This hike is suitable for families with some experience on
mountain trails. The front section follows the edge of the mixed
forest, providing intermittent views down into the Lantern Creek
valley and back towards the Elk Ranges. If you’re like us, you’ll
appreciate the fact that the gentle sounds of Lantern Creek
effectively block the traffic noise from Highway 40, adding to the
sense that you’re way out in the mountains.
At about the 3 km mark you’ll start a fairly steep section,
gaining approximately 200 meters elevation over 750 meters.
Finally, there’s a short stretch across a talus field, including a
small, “up and over” crux. Be sure to pause here to look at the
sediment layers turned vertical by the upthrust forces which formed
the Canadian Rockies.
If you’re ambitious enough to bring along your fishing gear and
have the necessary license, there’s reportedly some good cutthroat
trout fishing in these lakes. Stay alert though – not all fishermen
have two legs; although we haven’t encountered one in this area,
grizzlies are known to frequent Picklejar Lakes ‘cause they like
the fish too!
This cache is hidden in a small grove of conifers on a small
rise overlooking the western shore of the fourth and final lake.
This is where we enjoyed our picnic lunch. With only seven
satellites in view with a poor dispersal, GPSr accuracy was limited
to +/- 15 meters, so we’ve included a spoiler photo and generous
hint. Poor accuracy is also the reason we’ve rated the cache
difficulty at 2 stars. You’re looking for a camo-painted nalgene
water bottle hanging on one of the lower branches.
The trail appears on Gem Trek’s “Highwood Pass” Trail Map and
Guide; is covered in Gillean Daffern’s “Kananaskis Country Trail
Guide" Vol. 2 and “Where Locals Hike in the Canadian Rockies” by
Kathy & Craig Copeland. It’s also included in the
Calgary
Area Trail Mapping Project trail set.
One final note: hunting is permitted in this area at certain
times of the year. At a minimum, consider wearing bright clothing
or a reflective, flourescent safety vest. For more information,
contact Alberta Fish and Wildlife at 403-678-5508.