Celebrating Stan Skirrow (late afternoon hike from A38 to “B”+)

This hike is a combination of 3 favourites–Stan’s Bench in the Mix-Cloverlawn area, Source of the Blackmud, and Coal Lake North End–and it includes a commemoration of Stan Skirrow, whose devotion, passion, and energy made the Waskahegan Trail and the organization what it is today. Stan passed away last December, and the family requested to add a plaque to the bench.

The hike starts at A38 – on Range Road 235 (on the bend of RR235 about 0.7km from turn at Township Road 490). From there, it’s a short climb up to Stan’s Bench.

When we reach the bench, we will be met by members of the Skirrow family and the landowners. We’ll have a chance to say a few words, we’ll install another plaque on the bench, and we’ll drink a toast to Stan.

Then, the hikers will continue on, through the twists & turns in the woods, past an unusual “pet cemetery” and cross the farm before descending into the Gwynne valley, with wonderful views of Mud Lake and Coal Lake. We’ll stop to eat somewhere in the area around “B” & A39. The pictures from July 1st, 2018.

In Edmonton we will meet at the Century Park ‘Park & Ride’ (‘Free Parking’ Section I, near the 109th Street Entrance/Exit) and carpool, leaving at 3 p.m. Participants may proceed there directly on their own, but should check the website prior to departure in case of a change (e.g., weather forecast, trail conditions). If you meet us at the trail head, we expect to get there around 3:45 p.m.

If you are new to WTA hikes, then you should visit the Guided Hikes webpage for essential information. For further information specific to this hike, refer to The Waskahegan Trail Guide Book, pages 28-29, , or contact the Hike Leader Oscar Z.