Hastings Lake to Mottet Hill

Eleven people came out for the hike. The weather overall was blustery wind and cooler temperatures.  There were sunny and cloudy periods, a bit of rain, and often we could smell smoke but it wasn’t too bad.

The trail was in good enough shape. There were a few more trees down (due to the couple of high wind storms this past week) than when I scouted it a couple of weeks ago.

Just as we were starting out, we passed by beautiful Percheron work horses.

We ate our lunch below Mottet Hill as it was so windy.

After the hike, we discovered a coffee shop—there was a sign for it on the road back to Highway 14. The “Morning Brew” is at Hastings Lake Gardens on RR204. This location also has a greenhouse and a venue for events. The coffee bar had nice coffee and tea offerings. Currently it is open to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

Thanks to everyone who came out for the hike, to Trail Maintenance for their good work last summer clearing this trail, and to the landowners for their continuing permission. You can find more photos on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.

Fort Ethier Hike

Eighteen people came out to hike the trail from Fort Ethier along Bigstone Creek. The day was very warm, but there was also a wind. Sometimes there were strong gusts, which we welcomed because it moderated the heat.

We saw a muskrat on the creek. And of course there were birds.

Many people went down to see the spring.

At the end of the hike, Mrs. Lucas kindly told us about the history of the fort. We also purchased socks made from the wool of her alpacas.

Thanks to everyone who came out, to trail maintenance for their work on the trail last fall, and to Mrs. Lucas and all the landowners for their continuing permission. There are more photos on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.