Waskahegan Trail Association

Eight people came out on a sunny day for a walk in St. Albert’s central area and the paths along the Sturgeon River.

Train trestle was built by Grand Trunk Railroad

Frank Potter, a long-time resident of St. Albert, was our hike leader and tour guide. Along the way, we learned about the area’s early history and the stories behind some of the structures and monuments.

We also took a side tour up to the plateau, past the first school, to Father Lacombe’s church. Behind the church is a quaint grotto and the town’s old graveyard under a canopy of tall trees with and a fine view of the valley.

Our walk took us as far as Mercato, a modern Italian market, where some of us picked up specialty groceries and coffee to go.

Thanks to Frank for scouting and leading the hike. All the photos are on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.

Six people came out to hike the north edge of the Blackfoot Recreation Area. It was great to be walking in the quiet peace of the country.

The paths were broad and covered in a heavy blanket of snow. For the most part, we were able to avoid paths used by the skiers. Hikers take note: the Park has been putting in new trails, and the signage has yet to be installed. And there is no up-to-date map.

One of the many fun things about hiking with the Kershaws is you learn so much about nature. We stopped several times to examine footprints (ermine, hare, young moose). We also learned some fascinating facts about moose ticks and the phenomenon of “ghost moose”. A moose infested with ticks—and the volume on the animal will be huge—tries to relieve the itch with intense rubbing. As a result, the moose will lose so much hair that it appears white – that is, ghostly.

We didn’t see a ghost moose, but we did see a clump of dark guard hairs on the trail—most likely fallout from ticks.

Thanks to Peter for scouting and leading the hike. All the photos are on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.