East Battle River (Duhamel) to Rest & Be Thankful

We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 status and will gradually restart our hikes, with some obvious protocol changes listed at the bottom.

In most years this is our first out of town hike of the season & a glorious way to start spring … while it had been scheduled for May 3rd, COVID-19 hit us, so we’ll end the season with it and hopefully it will start us off again in the spring.

The hike follows the Battle River east towards Stoney Creek and Camrose. It starts by following the river, low in the valley across open grassland, but eventually winds its way up out of the valley, stepping over a field of crocuses, then into woods and gulleys, and ending at the top of “Rest & Be Thankful” hill. There we stop to eat our lunches, thankful for the spectacular views. The pictures from April 28th, 2019

The hike will leave from the Duhamel (Ross Flats) Campground (at Range Road 212C just off Highway 21) at about 10 a.m.

If you are new to WTA hikes, then you should visit the Guided Hikes web page for essential information. For further information specific to this hike, refer to The Waskahegan Trail Guide Book, pages 52-53 or contact the Hike Leader. Elizabeth B., at 780-672-2873.

Initial protocol changes due to COVID-19:

• using public trails, in/near the city (not the WTA Trail as virtually all of the trail is on private land and we do not want to impact the landowners);
  
• meeting at the trailhead, no car pooling (so the start time reflects driving to the trailhead from the city rather than a 9am meeting point at Century Park or Belvedere Park & Ride);
  
• the hike leader will fill out all forms (e.g., signup sheet) & please use the online waver (to minimize what we all touch);
  
• Government of Alberta – Guidance on outdoor activities;
  
• recommending wearing a face mask (Government of Alberta – Guidance for wearing non-medical face masks);
  
• only attend if you are feeling well & comfortable being with the group.