Hikes

It was our inaugural hike on the newly-opened Northeast River Park. Eight hikers met for a wondrous winter walk through the snow covered surroundings.

The snow fell softly and intermittently as we followed the river towards Hermitage Park, up to the point where a new bridge is being constructed.

Near the turn-around point, Martha treated us to homemade cranberry cookies. This was particularly welcome as lunch was still a distance away, at our starting point, where there was a heated shelter and washrooms. In warmer weather, you would love the extensive deck that overlooks a pond, and picnic tables for a lunch alternative.

As for wildlife, we spotted a small flock of waxwings, and many tracks of rabbit, and possibly coyote. Here is the zoom-in on a pair of bald eagles that were captured in one photo taken on scouting day.

Considering the temperatures of only several days previous, we felt quite fortunate to be out in relatively warm, comfortable weather to enjoy this new (to us) piece of trail.

Thanks to everyone who came out to the hike, to Martha for the cookies, and to the City of Edmonton Parks people. You can see all the photos on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.

Fifteen people came out to Devon on a sunny day to hike the river valley trails.

We started with a loop on the Battery Creek Trail east of Devon.

This hike starts with a walk on the plateau high above the North Saskatchewan River and ends with a jaunt down a grand staircase to the river.

The Battery Creek trail is one of the newest in the River Valley Alliance system. Eventually it will connect to Rabbit Hill.

On the return we spotted this eagle high up on a power pole.

After lunch in the pavilion down in the valley at Lions Park, we headed westward along the river again and returned through the trails on the golf course. If we get enough snow this year, these trails will be transformed into some very nice cross-country ski trails, courtesy of Devon’s Nordic Club.

Thanks to Lee for scouting and leading the hike. You can find more photos on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.