Sherry Kunkel

Elk Island Shoreline Plus hike

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The Shoreline trail at Elk Island was new to many of the ten hikers that came out on Sunday. With an almost flat, paved road this was an easy stroll compared to the typical paths that form the Waskahegan Trail.

Shoreline’s 3km length was added on to by taking several offshoots: a viewpoint, the Beaver Bay picnic area, and the walk across what appears to be a long dam that circumnavigates Elk Island itself. With a further bit of exploration, not including the boardwalk (under water), but including the park theatre and a replica of an old Ukrainian house, our hike was brought us to just under our goal of 10km.

Most of the hikers saw the bison herd on their way in to the park. We also saw two small frogs and lots of various waterfowl.

The hiking conditions were perfect for this very leisurely day out at the national park.

Thanks to everyone who came out to hike with us on this day. You can see all the photos on Flickr.

Mirror Lake to Camrose Ski Club Hike

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With rain threatening, but not materializing, 10 hikers set off around Mirror Lake in Camrose, to start the almost 10km hike. We took advantage of the great paved pathway system in this beautiful area, to avoid being eaten alive. With the wind’s help, we managed to do just that.

Due to all the recent rain, the various greens of the gently rolling hills are very lush and rich looking.

On the north side of the lake we were treated to the sight of two does and a very young fawn, just 25m away from us. For a few minutes, they ran around (especially the little one) and were completely unafraid.

Soon after, we saw 3 swimming pelicans, as well as many blackbirds and a few purple martins.

Then, while lunching at the ski lodge, we spotted another deer on the opposite slope. A good wildlife day!

At the hike’s conclusion several of the group stopped in the visitors’ center, and some even found their way to the ice cream vendor.

The temperature and conditions ended up being just about perfect for this long-awaited restarting of our regularly scheduled hikes.

It was great seeing everyone again. You can see all the photos in our Flickr album.

Where we’re going next.