Waskahegan Trail Association

It was 10 minutes before the hike was to start at 10 a.m. Elizabeth and Mary were alone at the trailhead, wondering if anyone else would show up. Neither of us wanted to hike if there were just the two of us. At five minutes to 10, Bonnie and Karl arrived and we knew the hike was a go. At three minutes to 10, Johanna and Eric arrived. Now we had a real hike.

The drizzly weather earlier in the morning had convinced most people not to come. But the rain had quit by the start of the hike, and the weather became glorious.

We did not see any crocuses — they showed up two weeks ago and disappeared back into the grass. We did see buffalo beans, new growth on willows, porcupine eaten branches, red tailed hawks — mad because we were walking through their area. And we had a great view of the Battle River valley.

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

Where we’re going next.

Twelve hikers came out on a sunny spring day to hike the South Saunders Lake section. The wind was blowing hard and constant at the start, but it subsided within minutes as we got closer to the shore and past some trees.

The path is dry and very easy to walk, as always. It was still too early to see signs of new growth. But the birds are there. Several times we would turn a bend in the lake and startle a flock of bufflehead ducks. Overhead, a hawk soared and screeched at us.

It was great to be walking in the country again. Thanks to Stella for scouting and leading the hike, to trail maintenance for their work, and to the landowners for their continuing permission. There are more photos on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.