Waskahegan Trail Association

The Kopp Lake trail starts with a long section of lush woodland that now belongs to the University of Alberta, thanks to a generous donation of private land.

It was our first “Smell the Roses” hike of the year—aptly named for this hike because the wild roses are in full bloom and the warm humid air in the woods is redolent with the scent.

Fifteen people came out, with mosquito nets, bug spray and nature identification books and followed along as botany expert Jerry pointed out the specimens of almost 40 different species of flora.

As we got closer to the lake, we heard many uncommon bird calls, including the yellow-headed blackbird and the rarely-seen rail. In the field we managed to catch and identify a Common Alpine butterfly.

Perhaps the most spectacular specimen of all was the beaver carcass. Mostly picked-over, it was easy to examine the large yellow-orange front teeth and the rows of molars at the back of the jaw.

Thanks to John for leading the hike and the whole trail maintenance crew for their mowing and clipping. You can see all the photos on Flickr.

A “straight-through” hike is one where you start at one end and finish at the other, as opposed to our usual “there-and-back” where you retrace your steps. A straight-through hike can feel mentally daunting. When you hike 5 km and turn around, the going-back seems faster, and you see nothing new, except for the different perspective. A straight-through hike, however, feels like two hikes in one day. You go 5 km, have lunch, and then go another 5 km. At every turn, you see something new.

On top of that, Middle Coal Lake, has a physically challenging—but fun—section between Point Cooperation to Kjorlein Corner. Good thing we had just had our lunch and were energized for it.

Nineteen people came out for this hike—the highest turnout this year. Either it was a particularly fine day, or so many of us love challenges.

And what a day for natural beauty. We saw pelicans, loons, a patch of shooting stars, the rare wild clematis, loads of bluebells.

The storm clouds rolled in, rain poured down for about 30 minutes, then it was back to sunny and clear blue skies. The old comment about Alberta was demonstrated again: “If you don’t like the weather, just wait 30 minutes.”

Thanks to Anita for leading the hike and to Lee for coordinating the drivers. You can find more photos on Flickr.