Inspired by Brendan714
This cache sits atop the stunning 2957 metre Barrier Mountain. Finding this cache requires a minimum round-trip hike of 32 kilometres with an elevation gain of at least 1800 metres. A small lock-n-lock sits between rocks, just waiting to be found by an eager scrambler. As of its posting, this cache is the 35th highest in Canada. Maybe not something to write home about, but no small potatoes. This is an excellent hike/scramble for anyone prepared for it, with panoramic views, fascinating landscapes, and challenge aplenty.
Enjoy the views, and if you want to guarantee your find, bring along the hint and spoiler photos. Happy caching!
Prisoner Point Lake seen from the summit:
Route Info
Subalpine
The first 6 km of the journey to this cache is quite easy, as it follows vehicle tracks. If possible, it's generally wise to bike this section in the interest of time. Once at the Brendan's Crossing river ford, though, a challenging crossing awaits, followed by unbikable horse trail to Hidden Falls. At Hidden Falls, the best option is to descend carefully to the creek and bushwhack up it to the lake, which if you don't want to get wet is very slow going. While it's only ~4 km long, budget several hours for this section. After the bushwhack is a small meadow just before the lake which is great for resting.
Alpine
The scree beside the lake is loose but not too difficult to traverse. Behind the lake, a short but steep and loose pitch rises on the East (climber's left) side of the wash. After these loose pitches, the scree is generally tight and grippy until the cliff bands preceding the ridgewalk. The ridgewalk is not simple, requiring Class 2-Class 3 scrambling depending on route choice and possibly involving major exposure, again, depending on route choice.
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Waterfall near the lake:
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Safety Notes
Access to this geocache is very challenging and is not suitable as a day trip for an average hiker.
Several major obstacles may pose a challenge to seekers:
- The Red Deer River
In good weather, this is one of the most variable and technically challenging aspects of the approach hike. Generally, the river is lowest before spring melt kicks into full gear, so ascents planned for March or April are probably least likely to run into depth issues. Bear in mind, however, that snow will likely make an appearance in these early ascents and make finding the cache hard. It is possible, though not recommended, to ford this river during the very late summer in years of low flow. When this cache was hidden, the water was about 31 inches deep at maximum. Trekking poles and prior river training are an absolute necessity for this depth.
- Difficult Bushwhacking
The climb up the upper creek is difficult, as it is densely littered with deadfall and wet rocks. Several sections of Class 2+ scrambling over wet rock are present.
- Animals and Weather
As is typical of the region, many wild animals may be present in the area, including bears. Weather is highly variable. Use caution. Also remember to yield to horses if and when you encounter them.
- Avalanches
As this cache is hidden in the alpine, ascents during snow-bound months run the risk of triggering avalanches. If you plan to ascend at a time when a significant amount of snow may be present, ensure you have current knowledge of snow conditions and rescue techniques, and only travel in groups.
Cell service is unavailable except for untrustworthy emergency-call-only reception at the summit itself. Use your judgement and only attempt to find this cache if you are confident in your abilities.
Finally, please note that the ridgewalk contains moderate to severe exposure depending on one's route choice.
Looking through the mountain on the ridgewalk:
This cache is confirmed by official government survey data and the land manager (AEP) to be outside of Banff National Park.