Sugar Momma / Fullerton Loop

Dist: 10.1km    Elev: 280m    Time: 3h    Difficulty: 2/5

To complete our 2017 resolution of twelve "mountain adventures," Melinda and I agreed to push our final trip into 2018 in order to avoid the frigid December temperatures. Looking for something a little shorter and easier, we decided to check out the Fullerton Loop trail near Bragg Creek. The weather also looked a little warmer and sunnier here than some of the other areas we considered.

Trail Description:
Park in the Allen Bill parking lot, along Highway 66 west of Bragg Creek.  The traditional Fullerton Loop is only 6.7km, so we decided to extend our day by ascending the slightly longer "Sugar Momma" mountain biking trail and then using the "Bobcat" trail to connect back to the second half of the Fullerton Loop ridge.  The first couple hours of our day were spent slowly but steadily climbing in soft and slushy snow through mostly viewless forest (this has it's own charm and appeal, just don't come here expecting spectacular mountain vistas), but once we joined the Bobcat trail we were treated to plenty of sunshine and great views of nearby foothills and faraway peaks for the remainder of the descent.

The trail begins on the flat and wide Elbow Trail walking path.

There are numerous creek crossings on the primary trail.

Departing the Elbow Trail to begin our ascent of Sugar Momma.

Gentle climb through trees.

Occasional views along Sugar Momma.

More trees...

At the intersection of "Sugar Momma" and "Bobcat" trails.

Nice views as we descend towards the Fullerton Loop.

Snow-dusted Moose Mountain.

Snowy mountains in the distance, including the distinct Banded Peak.

Panorama from the Fullerton Loop trail.

Celebratory "12th Mountain Adventure" picture, courtesy of the mini tripod we got for Christmas.

Elbow Valley below as we descend the Fullerton ridge.

Looking back as we come down the ridge.

Back on the primary Elbow Trail.

Snowy meadow near the Allen Bill parking lot.