Chapter 5 - Forty Winks - 00 23 15

00 23 15
DVD capture
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Contributed photo
DVD Time Code = 00 23 15
Location: Hwy 66, Moose Mountain
GPS:   50d 56m 25.56s    -114d 48m 40.92s
Map / Satellite Image: Google Link
Site Name: Sheep Procession #2
 

Travel Directions:
From Hwy 1 (Trans-Canada Hwy), take Exit 161A “Bragg Creek Rd / Hwy 22.” Go south on Hwy 22 approximately 17.4 km to the 4-way stop in Bragg Creek. (Do not follow the “Bragg Creek West” sign.) Turn left at the 4-way stop (continue on Hwy 22) and go 3.4 km to the “T” intersection of Hwy 22 and Hwy 66. Turn right (west) onto Hwy 66 and go approximately 13.9 km to Moose Mountain Road. Turn right (north) onto Moose Mountain Road and follow it 7.0 km to the well-marked trailhead. The trail begins in the trees at the green vehicle barrier, located on the south side of the parking area. The site is about 0.6 km beyond the tree line to the southwest (left). (Note: Moose Mountain Road is unmarked; it is just west of the “Paddy’s Flat” sign on Hwy 66.)

The Moose Mountain summit is 7.1 km from the parking area and trailhead, gaining 477 m (1,565') in elevation. Allowing time to explore filming locations, budget a total of 4 to 5 hours for a rewarding hike to and from the vast Moose Mountain meadows, where several sheep herding scenes were filmed. Mornings generally provide the most reliable weather conditions. See:

http://www.braggcreek.ca/kananaskis/trails/moosemtn.htm

http://www.braggcreek.ca/kananaskis/trails/moose_prairie.htm

http://www.braggcreek.ca/kananaskis/outdoor.htm

The hike to the meadows is a moderately strenuous ascent. Though no filming took place above the meadows, the adventurous may wish to keep climbing to the summit using a series of switchbacks leading to a fire lookout station. Budget approximately 50 minutes for the final ascent, along slippery shale surfaces.

Remarks:
Opposite the canyon here is Powder Face Ridge. It is also visible from nearby Canyon Creek, home to Campsite #1.

The filmmakers had a problem finding the “right” mountain. The story suggests Brokeback is a mountain with two levels. Many mountains were considered, some as far away as the U.S. border, but problems with site access and wildlife safety left the producers with Moose Mountain.

Various shots from other locations were used to make the trek to the two campsites appear to be much longer and higher than it really is. Indeed, the elevation of Campsite #2 is actually 488 m (1,600') lower than that of this site.

Important:
Vehicle access to the trailhead and parking area is subject to seasonal closure, usually opening in mid-May and closing after Canadian Thanksgiving (the second Monday in October). Note: For intermediate and experienced hikers. Wear hiking boots. Take ample water and protective gear. Never leave valuables in a car at trailheads. Use caution; bear activity is common in this area, and in all mountain locations. See:

http://srd.alberta.ca/RecreationPublicUse/AlbertaBearSmart/BearsOutdoorRecreation.aspx

Always consult park wardens and take appropriate precautions.

Pictures of surrounding area:

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www.FindingBrokeback.com

  Revised 08 April 2013