The Tsunamai

FA – south ridge to north ridge, G.Cornell July 2000

Viewed from the north near Galatea or the Mt.Kidd golf course, The Tsunamai looks like a non-descript treed hill, however, coming from the south near Fortress Junction it’s a striking fin.

This circuit route is a great alternative for when the weather turns foul as ropes/gear are not necessary, just sturdy boots and some nerve for exposure.

Park at Opal Picnic Rest Area and cross the shallow river at the bend in front of the parking lot. Bushwack up the treed slope above to the forested ridge. Hike to the start of the narrow rock ridge which rises dramatically up to the summit.

From the summit, the cruxes begin. This is a hard scramble as its a very decieving peak to be on: it looks tame from the north side but from the summit and down the north ridge it’s tricky and somewhat spooky in spots/.

Walk a very narrow plank with a delicate touch – view the campers 500ft. below! It can be excessively windy here so beware and straddling may be a better move than tight-rope walking the plank. When the plank narrows too thin, downclimb a short corner on the east face. Regain the ridge from some gravel ledges. Shimmy or carefully walk more ridge until it widens out and casual hiking commences.

Hike down the north ridge to Galatea Creek which must be crossed to catch the Galatea Trail back to the highway. Walk or hitch to Opal. Fun day.

The Tsunamai itself has been called a different name in a recent local hiking book, but since the info for this came out years before in the first edition of Kananaskis Obscure zine, we are calling it the Tsunamai at least in regards to the south east ridge.