Yesterday we had serial downpours. Today’s hike was the complete opposite.
The thirteen of us were treated to a strong sun in a cloudless sky. It may have been only 10 degrees in Edmonton, but it felt like 20 degrees on the trail.
Now that at least half the leaves have fallen from the trees, we were able to take in more than usual of the Battle River valley vistas.
We know autumn for its colours, but what about its scent? For us it was the leaves and grasses that have matured and dried out. For instance, we walked through narrow meadows, sheltered behind the ridge. As the sun beat down, pockets of warm air raised to our faces the heady and pleasant aroma of sages.
This year’s hike was the best in recent memory, in large part due to the extensive trail maintenance. Here we are on the newly-repaired and neatly-shingled boardwalk.
Be sure to check out more photos on Flickr.
