Shawn Baybutt has been all around the world, seen the beauties of Egypt, and hiked through some of Nepal's famous ranges. Yet, Shawn Baybutt has found that sometimes the best and most challenging trails are right in our own backyards. The Akshayuk Pass on Baffin Island in Shawn Baybutt's native Canada is a once in a lifetime experience. The 100 long kilometer trail lies along the Arctic Circle, creating major hazards from cold weather, snow accumulation, and glacier fed rivers. In these extreme northern reaches, snow stays on the ground until May or June and falls again by September.
Still, the trail is majestic and beautiful, a delight for Shawn Baybutt and hikers of all levels. While many hikers only trek the 20 kilometer leg up to Summit Lake, Shawn Baybutt trekked the entire trail as it follows a spectacular valley between the southern boundary of a national park and neighboring Broughton Island. One of the most spectacular points of interest is Mount Thor. It is one of the world's tallest rock cliffs and has been attracting base jumpers to tempt the plunge. In fact, Shawn Baybutt found that the entire Pangnirtung Valley is lined with sheer-faced mountains.
Shawn Baybutt was amazed by the amount of wildlife, including the occasional polar bear, to match the scenery and hanging glaciers. The careful observer might even spot some Innushuks.
With the remoteness of the Akshayuk Pass, always make sure to hike in teams and carry at least two forms of communication to reach rescue personnel in case of emergency.