[Harju]

Originally Posted by Fuzz

Thinking of doing this, but doing the loop to come down Chester. Has anyone done that? Wondering how difficult it is. My wife is OK with long hikes but steep descents really slow her down, as does loose rock.

http://www.mapmyhike.com/ca/canmore-...p-route-830341

I've done that several times over the years but mainly to summit Fortress. Seems a waste just to go to the col. Past Headwall Lakes is it mostly rubble but with good paths from all the traffic. As I recall, the descent from the col is loose, small rock and very steep but can be fun as you can basically run down it until you hit the solid stuff. I've always found the trip back down the valley to Chester a little tedious as it mostly rubble hopping. It has been several years since I've done it so some of the paths may have changed.
Whether it's difficult or not depends on your fitness. I would not say it is difficult but it is a long hard day.
I do recall one time there was a group with a person who was terrified of heights that had to be escorted down the Chester side of the col.
It is a hike I would certainly recommend to anyone of reasonable fitness. Relaxing on the summit of Fortress, then again at Chester Lake near the end is great.