One of the best things about living in the Rockies is the opportunity to climb those big chunks of rock that obscure the sky. Yesterday, the Dam Big Rodents (plus our roommate, Kim) reached the summit of Cascade Mountain. For anybody who has been to Banff, that's the big peak that looms at the end of Banff Avenue. It was a brilliant day for a climb. We started at about 7:30 am to take advantage of the cool morning. By early afternoon, it was quite warm, but then came some nice, poofy clouds to give a bit of shade. The summit, which at just under 3000 metres above sea level can be particularly cold and windy, was actually pleasant and warm. We spent a while up there to rest and eat a well-earned lunch before trekking back down. Thanks to modern technology, there is perfect cell phone reception at the top of the mountain. I know it may offend some alpine purists, but I couldn't resist calling Mom & Dad from the summit. Too much fun!