Jumpingpound Loop

Dist: 5.4km    Elev: 105m    Time: 2h

In celebration of my first Father's Day, Mindy suggested I plan a small family hike. She really gets me! Our outing last weekend to Glenbow Ranch was a great success, so we decided on a trip "just a little" longer and "just a little" farther in hopes of stretching our capacity for family adventures without overdoing it. Jumpingpound Loop, in the much less popular Sibbald region of Kananaskis, seemed to fit the bill well and promised lighter crowds than many of common family hikes near Canmore. 

We parked along the graveled Highway 68 at the Jumpingpound day use area. Once getting Ivy saddled up in her adventure pack and triple-checking we had the necessary gear and baby supplies, we began a gentle ascent of the grassy slopes on the north side of the road. The route was mostly forested but the meandering trail and occasional views of Moose Mountain in the distance were just enough to keep us engaged. After about two kilometers we descended back to the highway and crossed to the south side for the return leg of our journey. This much flatter section, again primarily in trees, offered pleasant views of nearby meadows and occasional wood bridge creek crossings.

We arrived back at the car in just under two hours and proceeded to unroll our blanket and enjoy a leisurely roadside picnic to give Ivy a chance to stretch her little legs before a much-needed car nap. As it turned out, Mom needed one too. The drive back home was peaceful and I felt quite content - this fatherhood thing is truly the best!

Mom leads the way!

All geared up.

Checking out the "waterfall"

Ivy loves touching the trees.

Snack break.

Got milk?

Moose Mountain views.

Family selfie! Ivy seems to want to take it herself.

About to cross the highway after completing the northern section.

South side meadows.

One of many creek crossings.

An excellent Father's Day! I think Ivy wants more hiking and less selfies ;)