DVD capture

Contributed photo

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 5.37 km to the sour gas plant and containment basin at the end of the road. Go to the left of the concrete barriers for approximately 1/3 of the way down the left side; turn left onto a path that will lead to the creek bed. The site is on your left.

Remarks:
The lovely Creek Crossing is one of the most poignant moments in the opening part of the film. Cinematography critics and commentators have written volumes about the questions presented by this memorable scene. Are Ennis and Jack figuratively crossing the Styx? The Rubicon? The Jordan? Is Christian imagery intended by the prominent use of the lambs and Jack’s “water walk”? Could Jack’s jeans possibly be any tighter?

A Brokeback production marker (a rock marked with a black “X”) can be found on the north side of the creek on the hillside. (GPS: 50d 54m 07.62s -114d 48m 02.04s)

The Canyon Creek trip (which also features Campsite #1 and the Sheep Procession #1 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.

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://srd.alberta.ca/RecreationPublicUse/AlbertaBearSmart/BearsOutdoorRecreation.aspx

Always consult park wardens and take appropriate precautions.