JoAnne Burek

A mid-April hike at South Saunders Lake

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It was a bright Easter Sunday morning, and the blanket of snow that had fallen over central Alberta had already melted away. Ten people gathered at the south end of Saunders Lake to hike along the shore.

As we walked along, the clouds rolled in. Along with the ice on the lake that was just starting to open up, it created a dramatic sight. Adding to the drama, we heard loud rumblings coming from the lake. We theorized on what would make that sound. Ice shifting? Methane bubbles rising?

One of the outstanding sights in this landscape are the occasional trees at the lake’s edge. Without the leaves, they can look particularly gnarly.

There were geese, ducks, and seagulls, often standing on ice, sometimes finding a bit of water to sit in.

Lunch was on a grassy hill in full view of the lake. All of the land is quite dry and perfect for hiking now.

Thanks to Lee for scouting and leading the hike, and to the landowners for their continuing generosity. You can find all the photos on Flickr.

Where we’re hiking next.

MacTaggart Sanctuary Hike

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Fifteen hikers came out on a sunny Sunday to hike the McTaggart Sanctuary. Our starting point was the trail head at the parking lot on the south side of 23rd Avenue.

After crossing the Blackmud Creek, we were led directly into a forested section of ups and downs. We soon caught on that wearing our spikes would be a good idea here.

When we came out of the forest, we were at the top of the ravine and at the edge of the huge community garden in the MacGrath neighborhood. From then on, we were on paved paths with the ravine on one side and exquisitely-landscaped houses on the other.

One of the highlights of the hike was seeing the numerous flocks of waxwings. Their dark undertail suggest these are Bohemian Waxwings.

Lunch was on a grassy hill in the neighborhood.

Thanks to Denis and Johanne for scouting and leading the hike. We look forward to more of their hikes in the season. There are more photos on Flickr.