Chapter 02 - Herding Sheep

Travel Directions:
From Hwy 1 (Trans-Canada Hwy), take Exit 161A “Bragg Creek Rd / Hwy 22.” Go south on Hwy 22 approximately 17.4 km to the 4-way stop in Bragg Creek. (Do not follow the Bragg Creek West sign.) Turn left at the 4-way stop (continue on Hwy 22) and go 3.4 km to the “T” intersection of Hwy 22 and Hwy 66. Turn right (west) onto Hwy 66 and go approximately 16.6 km to Canyon Creek Road. Turn right (north) onto Canyon Creek Road and go 0.8 km to the parking area on the right. Walk north past the locked gate beyond the parking area, and follow the well-maintained gravel road 3.0 km to the bridge, then past two gas metering stations. At the crest of the next hill you will see four concrete barriers and a row of large stones to the left side of the road (4.66 km north of the gate). The site is to the left.

Remarks:
The Canyon Creek trip (which also features Campsite #1 and the Creek Crossing sites) is great for a leisurely hike or a bike ride. The round trip distance is 11 km and the generally flat grade and gravel roadbed make for easy travel. Approximately 0.4 km to the south of this site is the place where the sheep were offloaded from trucks and herded into the valley.

As you walk Canyon Creek Road you will be surrounded by natural gas extraction equipment, including pumping, metering, and sour gas burn-off facilities. Shell Canada operates the gas plant and maintains the road. See:

http://www.braggcreek.ca/kananaskis/elbowmap.htm

If you visit in early spring you will see the lovely creek at its finest. As summer approaches, the creek slows to a trickle and eventually becomes a very rocky highway of stones.

Important:
Use caution. For intermediate and experienced hikers. Wear hiking boots. Take ample water and protective gear. Never leave valuables in a car at trailheads. Use caution; bear activity is common in this area, and in all mountain locations. See:

http://www.srd.gov.ab.ca/fw/bears/safety.html

Always consult park wardens and take appropriate precautions.

Chapter 2 - Herding Sheep - 00 09 55

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