Outdoor Report: Mount Cory is a scrambler's hidden gem
Right from the start, the uncrowded 1,400-metre climb boasts panoramic views of nearby peaks
Just slightly out of the way of Canmore and Banff's favourite scrambles lies a lesser known but arguably more picturesque peak.
If you're one of the avid climbers who spends many a weekend at The Three Sisters, Lady MacDonald or Mount Rundle, you're likely all too familiar with the unavoidable crowds.
The proximity of those classic scrambles to Calgary and iconic stature mean, more often than not, you'll have to contend with some 50 odd other avid climbers for a view from the top.
"If you want a mountain practically all to yourself on a gorgeous day, and on a weekend, which is sort of unheard of ... I think Cory fits the bill," said Calgary-based mountaineer Gizz Munoz.
Steep hike with quick payoff
Mount Cory, a peak just a few kilometres west of Banff, is an unrelenting, unwavering 1,400-metre climb that is more of a steep hike than a scramble for the first two-thirds.
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On a rainy day, the clay-like soil could quickly turn into a steep slip-and-slide when wet, but on a clear day, the panoramic views will hit you right from the start.
You'll want to snap a couple of the vistas of Castle Mountain to the west, Mount Assiniboine to the east, as well as Pilot, Mount Rundle, Banff Village and the Bow Valley.
Mount Cory isn't an official Parks Canada trail, so there's just a small, unmarked pull-out where you'll start.
There are also numerous routes up Cory, some of which are much more difficult rock climbs, so consult a good guide book or trusted scrambling website before heading up.