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My friend Mat and I made a quick trip up to Strathcona Provincial Park to hike the Flower Ridge Trail. I do not have a great deal of experience backpacking into the alpine, as I have  largely traditionally done coastal trips. This was my second time hiking up and staying over in the alpine, following a successful trip up to Wesley Ridge last year. I do hope to explore more alpine backpacking in the future. Strathcona Provincial Park seems to be a bit of a playground for outdoor activity and adventuring.

From the trail head, the lower Ridge Trail passes through the lovely old growth forest with a steady elevation gain to 1,040 meters. We found the incline quite gradual until you get near the ridge. Once upon the ridge you are greeted by a beautiful panoramic view of the snow capped mountains in the area. You also get a great perspective on the south end of Buttle Lake and the estuary which feeds it. A rough estimate of our route is shown below. If you are looking to hike Flower Ridge, I encourage you to access the official route here. However, the trail is easily followed right up to the ridge.

A very rough estimate of our route up Flower Ridge in Strathcona Provincial Park

I have to be honest, I was expecting sun, warmth, and bathing in the crystal blue tarns. What we found on the ridge in June was … snow, lots of it! We survived the chilly evening with a good meal and were treated to a pretty sweet sunset. I certainly do want to go back here later in the summer and explore the ridge exposed without snow.