Purple Knob loop, just South of Hero’s knob tends to be less frequented, possibly because it’s not as wide, or long, as Sweet 16. It still however makes for an excellent run and can be combined with Hero’s knob to make a full day. Purple Knob is usually approached from the south side, however this is a solar aspect and often has large cornices at the top. An early start is recommended if solar heating is a concern.
Notables: kananaskis, alpine, steep, cornices
6.9km
622m
3-5hrs
N
6/10
ROUTE DESCRIPTION
The start is approximately 1.6 km south of Sawmills Parking Area. Make your way from the road, through the open area, and cross the creek. Carry on for about 750 m through the trees, at which point the tree’s will thin out near the end of the Purple east face avalanche runout (aka ‘the dogleg’). Stay on the east side of the runout and head south for the trees. Eventually veer right and head west where it will quickly open up to a large bowl. Carry on carefully as there can often be some large cornices hanging above. As you climb higher, you may need to use ski crampons or bootpack, as it is a solar aspect. Ski down into the bowl and out the drainage, or cut across and head for Hero’s knob.
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