Organizers of Easter Seals Alberta’s Banded Peak Challenge are offering a family friendly version of the official challenge new this year.
Aimed at families with younger riders or those who are just starting out, Mini Moose, the new challenge, offers variable terrain but omits the more technical trail elements. Amy Garcia, director of operations of the camp, said the drive behind including the Mini Moose event was to be more inclusive to those who aren’t at a higher skill level.
“This makes it far more doable and a better experience for everyone, and it also is the way we’ve been able to include some of our campers in the event as well.”
Those with disabilities will be able to participate this year, as well, with the introduction of specialized, three-wheeled chairs known as park explorers. The mobile chairs can be propelled by the user or by a supporting team.
Prizes are up for grabs at the five stations along the trial, and participants receive one prize draw ticket for every $50 they raise.
Also new this year, for every $500 raised over $1,500, participants are entered to win airfare for two to any location Westjet airlines flies.
The 15th annual challenge will take place July 25 and will have participants biking from West Bragg Trailhead, 8 km west of Bragg Creek, to Moose Mountain Road raising money for Easter Seals Camp Horizon, located southwest of Bragg Creek. From the road, competitors will travel by foot for the final 2 km to the summit of Moose Mountain.
Challengers will peddle 5 km on Moose Mountain Road to the base of Moose Packers. This wide mountain road, according to the website, is appropriate for intermediate mountain bikers who are skilled and fit.
The site describes Moose Packers as having some tricky switchbacks that advanced riders will be able to negotiate. Volunteers will be stationed on the trail to assist those who would like to push their bikes up. The stretch is 3.8 km and levels and widens on the next segment with 6.6 km remaining to reach the summit.
All riders will need to leave their bikes behind at the fifth and final outpost for the remaining 2.2 km of the challenge.
Those who don’t want the challenge of hauling their bike up Packers can switch to hiking boots and proceed for the 9.8 km to the peak.
After the challenge, a barbecue will take place for participants.
Proceeds raised during the challenge go directly to Easter Seals Camp Horizon. Since 1965, the camp has provided activities and programs for children, youth and adults with mental and physical disabilities.
There are five outposts along the path and each one has a prize. Prizes range from overnight stays in Kananaskis to a mountain bike from Bow Cycle.
According to the Banded Peak Challenge website, depending on the ability and fitness level of the person participating, the time required to complete the challenge is anywhere from four to 10 hours.
Check-in takes place from 6:30-10:30 a.m. Participants arriving after 10:30 a.m. may not have time to summit and may be turned around. Registration is limited to 200.
