Ob Hill Loop Hike

Today I went for a hike on Ob Hill Loop with 2 firemen - Michael and Jeff. We hiked the 2.7 mile loop around Observation Hill. Here is what our intranet site says about it:

Ob (Observation) Hill Loop

Current Status: Open

Last Updated: October 02, 2012 10:41 AM

Requirements Footplan Required? No Radio Required? No Solo Travel Permitted? Yes

Distance: 2.7 miles loop

Travel Times

Very High Activity Level - 1 hour

Exercise frequently, can hike 10-15 miles with ease.

High Activity Level - 1.5 hours

Exercise regularly, can hike 5-10 miles with ease.

Fair Activity Level - 2.0 hours

Exercise infrequently.

Low Activity Level - 2.5 hours

Exercise rarely or not at all.

• Description
  The Ob Hill Loop trail takes you out to Cape Armitage and around the back side of Observation Hill (see Ob Hill trail description) via a land route. Peace and solitude are experienced as you approach Cape Armitage from either direction.

  Route
  The Ob Hill Loop trail begins with a road walk at either end. You can access the trail from the road to Scott Base (just off the road as it begins a climb towards Ob Hill) or you may access by walking past Crary and the Helo Pad, across the pedestrian bridge and then by following the road as it climbs back up towards Ob Hill.

  
  

  The trail is 1.37 miles long and the total loop distance is 2.7 miles. The trail can be walked in either direction with a steep climb as you approach the side slope behind Ob Hill. Care should be used if snow has covered the trail particularly in this area. The trail is marked by red sleeved bamboo poles.

  

  Current Hazards
  There is a steep side slope behind Ob Hill. Snow collects on the trail and can cause hazardous footing. Please report any trail hazards. The trail is located where lichens and other small plant life grows in the summer months. To minimize environmental impact users should remain on the designated trail at all times. During the austral summer the Helo Pad is off-limits for pedestrian travel.

  Proper Gear
  While ECW clothing is not required for Ob Hill, it is recommended that you bring layers of clothing as hikers heat up quickly as they climb, and cool rapidly at the summit. Bunny boots should be used only if no other sturdy, warm boot is available.

We had a nice day with the temp at 30 degrees, light winds and overcast skies. It took us about 90 minutes. It made for a nice day off for me today! Here are some pictures.

A piece of coral on the trail

Mike Wetzel and Me