Fourteen people came out on a mid-afternoon to hike the north end of the Ministik Bird Sanctuary. The 7 km hike started at the north access to the area and covered the Waskahegan section of the trail.

We had a short pause near the Berg stopover, but we didn’t linger long. Like many afternoons in Alberta, a thunderstorm was rolling in . It would arrive in just a few hours.

The highlight of the hike was the alternate route—the trail managed by Nature Conservancy of Canada. This lovely deviation was full of surprises.

In the midst of the forest was a lovely pond with water calla finishing their bloom. It was like an Alberta version of Monet’s garden at Giverny. There was also a patch of spotted coral orchid in full bloom.

Thanks to Delaney for scouting and leading the hike and to Trail Maintenance for keeping our trail clear. You can find more photos on Flickr.

Where we’re hiking next

Seven people came out to hike the Kopp Lake trail on a splendid sunny day. We melded as one in our enjoyment of the lovely, quiet verdant surroundings.

The area is renowned for its carpet of wild strawberries. And the bluebells (lungwort) were everywhere.

We looked up in time to watch two pelicans fly past us. There was also an abundance of redwing blackbirds and other birds that were possibly terns.

Thanks to John for scouting and leading the hike, to Trail Maintenance for their fine work, and to the landowners for their continuing permission. You can see all the photos on Flickr.

Where we’re hiking next