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.
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