October 25, 2025
~ submitted by Matthew Lettington
On October 25, only four members were brave enough to face the forecast. Although the trip was originally quite popular, a half-dozen people backed out in the final hours—and honestly, who could blame them? The weather looked downright grim.
Still, the four of us met at the head of the logging road, determined to take on the predicted 50 km/h winds, driving rain, and fresh snow. Our plan was to climb Mount Cokely via the Saddle Route and return along Rosseau Ridge.
A light drizzle greeted us at the start—not fierce, but enough to warrant jackets. We made steady progress along the well-worn trail. As we approached the first viewpoints, we noticed a thin dusting of snow beginning to accumulate on exposed surfaces.
Conditions stayed much the same as we moved toward the saddle. There wasn’t enough snow to be hazardous on its own, but just enough to conceal what lay beneath. A thin layer of ice had formed in many of the shaded crevices. We picked our way upward cautiously, but by the halfway point it was clear that we would need crampons to continue safely. That, combined with absolutely pounding wind that pushed us off kilter at times, helped make up our mind. With that, we made the sensible decision to turn around.
I suspect those who bailed enjoyed a well-deserved lazy morning—and good on them, because it was truly nasty up on the saddle. Still, I had a great time. Thanks to the group for the excellent company, the great trip-leading ideas, and the stories shared along the way.