Dec 12, 2010 Turtle Mountains – Ski

Di, Jackie, Fred, Dover and Scotty met for a ski at Adam Lake.  It was a chilly morning, about – 29 on the drive down – but the sun was out and it really didn’t seem that cold. Honest!  We decided to do the Adam Lake circuit – about 15 km.  Not many people had been at the south end, and the trail was ‘blown in’ in a lot of places, but it didn’t matter to us!  When we arrived at James Lake cabin – the embers were still glowing – and the cabin was toasty warm!  We warmed up, dried out – and one of us had a little nap (I’m not going to mention any names, Fred) before we did the last 6 km to the parking lot.  We only met a few other skiers out enjoying the beautiful day – may be there’ll be more next time!  Di



​Mon Dec. 6th Snowshoe
We had a real lively group for snowshoeing this past Monday as 6 people were out to snowshoe and 2 to xcountry ski.  Real kind of Richard to invite us all back for hot chocolate and cookies afterward.  It was cold enough that that felt reeeel goooood!  Skiing is really only available on the upper area as there is flooding in the lower area and it is closed.  There are very few tracks on the upper part but it is compacted.  As far as snowshoeing, we were able to do the entire circumference, top and bottom, by staying to the upper banks around the river in the lower area.  Thanks to Judy, Shirley and Aurthur,  Di, (and Scotty),  Kelly and Michele, Richard and Maureen who were out to make the day a good time.  Next week we hope to ski at least the upper section.



Mon Dec. 6th Snowshoe

We had a real lively group for snowshoeing this past Monday as 6 people were out to snowshoe and 2 to xcountry ski.  Real kind of Richard to invite us all back for hot chocolate and cookies afterward.  It was cold enough that that felt reeeel goooood!  Skiing is really only available on the upper area as there is flooding in the lower area and it is closed.  There are very few tracks on the upper part but it is compacted.  As far as snowshoeing, we were able to do the entire circumference, top and bottom, by staying to the upper banks around the river in the lower area.  Thanks to Judy, Shirley and Aurthur,  Di, (and Scotty),  Kelly and Michele, Richard and Maureen who were out to make the day a good time.  Next week we hope to ski at least the upper section.



2010 Wilderness Club Christmas Party

2010 Westman Wilderness Club Christmas soiree held Sunday December 5th.
The turnout was excellent with 30+ members in attendance.  Christmas Carol singing was enjoyed and gave a festive atmosphere to the evening.
Michelle on keyboards and Bill on guitar provided an instrumental background.  We have some awesome voices in our Wilderness group which boads well
if we ever require a bear or cougar to be routed while on the trail!  Games were played involving some awesome gymnastics by
Shirley, Lynne, Kelly and other nimble participants! (it’s fortunate we had nurses in attendance….).
Food, as usual, was in abundance and hearty.  Desserts were to die for!  The annual gift exchange provided lively entertainment and we hope you got what you deserved?!
All in all a succesful evening and many thanks to Di for providing us with a perfect venue, Maureen and Betty Ann for games and any others
that may have helped out.
Thanks also to our Executive who make it possible for our Club to function throughout the year so that we may enjoy this get together.
In attendance: Norma, Laura,Brian, Lynne,Alf,Janis, Carol, Bill,Richard, Clara, Audrey, Camille, Maureen, Brent, Di,
Judy, Bert, Eldon, Betty Ann, Darryl, Kelly, Michelle, Bryce,Mike, Shirley,Arthur,James, Olwen,Clarence,Grace
(Miriam-Webster Dictionary: Soiree –a party or reception held in the evening )
2010 Westman Wilderness Club Christmas soiree held Sunday December 5th.The turnout was excellent with 30+ members in attendance.  Christmas Carol singing was enjoyed and gave a festive atmosphere to the evening.Michelle on keyboards and Bill on guitar provided an instrumental background.  We have some awesome voices in our Wilderness group which boads wellif we ever require a bear or cougar to be routed while on the trail!  Games were played involving some awesome gymnastics byShirley, Lynne, Kelly and other nimble participants! (it’s fortunate we had nurses in attendance….).Food, as usual, was in abundance and hearty.  Desserts were to die for!  The annual gift exchange provided lively entertainment and we hope you got what you deserved?!All in all a succesful evening and many thanks to Di for providing us with a perfect venue, Maureen and Betty Ann for games and any othersthat may have helped out.Thanks also to our Executive who make it possible for our Club to function throughout the year so that we may enjoy this get together.
In attendance: Norma, Laura,Brian, Lynne,Alf,Janis, Carol, Bill,Richard, Clara, Audrey, Camille, Maureen, Brent, Di,Judy, Bert, Eldon, Betty Ann, Darryl, Kelly, Michelle, Bryce,Mike, Shirley,Arthur,James, Olwen,Clarence,Grace
(Miriam-Webster Dictionary: Soiree –a party or reception held in the evening )



Day Ski on Jackfish lake

Mike R sent out an invitation to join him for a day ski on his Jackfish Lake trail. Fred, Wayne, Grace, Maureen and Eldon took him up on his offer and headed to Riding Mountain National Park for a day of skiing. Arriving a little late and not very organized, for our first ski of the year, we were on the trail by 11:40 and had a great time. Stopped for lunch at a spot with lots of sitting stumps where Maureen showed off her tree climbing abilities. Four of the six continued to the second creek crossing before turning around and heading for the vehicles. It was a perfect day for skiing with just about no wind and a temperature of -5 c.
Cheers, Eldon



Monday Hike

Monday Nov. 29th was a huge difference than 3 weeks ago with lots of snow, rather than a beautiful warm fall hike.  We used it to our advantage to snowshoe!  Three people were out to trek around the golf course – Richard, Pat and Maureen.  A wonderful sighting was a bald eagle flying overhead.  I head this brings good fortune!  Next week we plan to ski as there will likely be great tracks by then.
Maureen



Nov 15, 2010 Brandon Walk

A walk around the Rec Centre

On Monday the nature was superb even if it wasn’t sunny. We had fun walking all around the Rec Centre.
Arthur who was alone with me showed me where to take the nordic ski trails this winter.
Noreen and I have good ideas for this Monday walk all along winter. We could even go snowshooing.
There is also a nice place to slide so there are lots of possibilities.
I also send a picture of how beautiful the trees were.
thanks
Richard



Nov 8, 2010 Brandon Hike

David and Maureen had another wonderful fall day for a hike around the Wheat City Golf Course.  We traced out the trail that will soon be the route for x-country skiing.  It is still so wonderfully green and lush in the area.  Hope to see more out next week!
Maureen



Hike, Sunday November 7th 2010

Spruce Woods Provincial Park, Spirit Sands Trail – Manitoba Desert.
12 plus 1 members ( didn’t want to say 13) and soon to be members met at the Trailhead at noon.  The weather, on a scale of 1-10 was an 11–clear skies and temperatures
of 18 degrees Celcius!  Not bad for November 7th and of course NO SNOW!  We hiked at a leisurly pace and enjoyed the moment(s) and good conversation.
The Punch Bowl was as scenic as ever and some made their way to the banks of the Assinaboine River.  Following our lunch break we returned to the Trailhead.
The Manitoba Desert is a truly unique place.
Total time was 4 hours.  Those attending, Eldon (Trail Leader), Di, Shannon, Bill, Maureen, Roger W,  Ed and Linda, Shannon, Betty Ann, Darrell, Karen and new members Ann and Levona.
Bill



Oct 23, 2010 Gorge Creek Hike

Saturday dawned great and stayed that way for the annual Gorge Creek hike.  Participating were Rogers B. & W., Di, Alf & Janis, Jamie & Monika Montgomery, Brady Strachan and partner Yuki, as well as Scotty and 3 other well behaved canine adventurers. The weather was perfect, the best in years for this hike.  It was not too cold or windy and the trail was dry.  While we didn’t see any wildlife on the trail, we did hear Grouse drumming while at our lunch spot, and a Fisher and deer were spotted on Highway 19.
After reaching the bottom end of the trail most participants headed over to Alf & Janis’s cabin for coffee and a snack, while Di and Scotty decided to hike back up the trail to the upper end. ( Maybe another year for the rest of us!!)
Roger Bright



Long Lake Hike Oct 15-17

Photos by James

The group of Di, Scotty, Clarence, Steve, Arthur and Shirley as well as Lynne and myself left Brandon about 4:00 on Friday afternoon. This had us arriving at our cabin just before 6:00 and allowed everyone to set up tents and prepare dinner before it turned dark. We sat around the camp fire and swapped some stories- Arthur and Shirley tried to teach everyone to count to 10 in Mandarin however most of us had forgotten the numbers by morning.

The attachment is a picture of a lynx and her kitten seen on Long Lake trail Taken by Wally Clegg

Saturday am was a little frigid until we got the stove going in the cabin for breakfast. The group then did a 3-4 km hike around the pasture while we waited for more members to arrive for the Long Lake trek.
Alf, Janice. Roger W, Brenda E., Olwen and James joined us at about 11:30 and we had some refreshments prior to heading to the trailhead.
The group then split into the keeners who were determined to hike the 11 km into Long Lake. The remainder of us took it a little more leisurely and stopped at the ranger cabin approximately 6-7 km up the trail. While resting at the cabin we were joined by a late starter Wally. He continued on to Long Lake.  We had seen a wolf and a couple of pups on the way in and Wally saw a Lynx with a couple of kits. The lead group also saw a Lynx on their return trip.
There was an interesting variation on crossing Bone Creek by the two groups. The keeners removed boots and socks and waded across while the wiser group found a couple of tree trunks to bridge across the water. Apparently one of our members waded across on the return trip then realized he had left his hiking pole on the other side of the creek- I won’t mention any names though Clarence.
After returning we headed back to the cabin. At this point Alf and his crew headed for home. The remainder of us cooked dinner over the the fire however had it in the cabin as it was quite windy and cool outside. Wally also joined us after he completed the trek to Long Lake on his own.
After dinner those that were staying the night had a rousing game of chase the ace followed by a game of Asshole – however we were all rather tired and decided to hit the sack before the cards were completed.
Next morning was quite frosty for those staying in tents and everyone congregated in the cabin for breakfast before breaking camp and heading home.
There was a great turnout for the hike/ camping.
Click on this link for photos from the event.
Brian



Oct 16-17, 2010 Overnight back pack to Cairns cabin.

Carins Cabin Overnight hike was the best hiking conditions in a lot of years.  The trail was dry, and the creeks low, so crossings where quite easy.  Sunshine and nice temperature.
A fish (about 10″ long)  was spotted in a pond above Elk Creek campsite along with lots of minnows. The fish did not have much to fear despite our chasing him back and forth a few times.  A couple of grouse, a long tail weasel, with a mouse in its mouth, and the squirrel that is living in the roof of the cabin, were the wild life sightings.
Myself, Kelvin and Kelly were the three who enjoyed this leisurely four hour hike into the east end of Riding Mountain Park. A relaxing evening without most modern means of entertainment available.
Edward Beamish



James Lake Cabin: October 8-9

Di, Scotty, James and Olwen met at the trail head at Adam Lake.  The weather was just about perfect for a days hiking.  The trail into James Lake cabin was still wet and very muddy in parts – I can believe that they were under water this summer!  We stopped for lunch at the cabin (where Di left her pack) – it was beautiful!  We then headed south and came up through the middle – about 16 km all in all.  James and Olwen headed to the parking lot, while Di and Scotty headed back to the cabin.  It wasn’t long before a group of 4 bikers appeared, with packs and sleeping bags….It was obvious I was going to have company after all!  However, it was a little while before they realized that I was not passing through, that I had reserved the cabin and they hadn’t!  Anyway, in the end we decided that there was room for all of us – so we then continued to enjoy the evening, all knowing that we had a bed for the night!  We went our separate ways in the morning – another beautiful day – so Di and Scotty made the most of the trails before heading home.  Di



WWC Trail Building Day – Saturday October 2, 2010

The attached picture is of Eaton Ash. He had came along with his dad Deron to help build trail.

Grace, Eldon, Di (with Scotty), Arthur, Shirley, Alf, Wally, Bert, Judy and Pam joined RMNP Warden Reade Tereck and Deron Ash with 4 year old son Easton from METS for a glorious day in the woods.  We met at the National Historic East Gate and made our way to a trailhead for one section of the new trails being built on the escarpment. After introductions and a safety talk we hiked into the trail we would spend the day working on. This part of the trail is situated in the oaks at about 400 metre elevation and will add to the interesting adventures on this side of the park. We lopped brush, racked and tamped with McLeod’s and completed about 90 meters of sustainable trail. We enjoyed lunch together and took a break to hike to a small meadow where the view of the prairie and shale ridges was spectacular. The trail is taking shape nicely and it is a good feeling to be part of this venture.  We made a small dint and realize how many more volunteer days are required before this new trail system is finished. We should plan to join METS many more times.
Deron will be going to do trail work every second weekend throughout the fall if people are interested in helping.



Spruce Woods – Sept. 26/27

Di and Scotty were joined by Eldon and Arthur for a hike into cabin 3 in Spruce woods.  It was a superb day for hiking – one of the best days of the summer!  There were a few other hikers and bikers on the trail, too.  After a leisurely lunch/snack time, Eldon and Arthur made their way back to the parking lot, while Di and Scotty continued to enjoy the rest of the day with some more hiking on the Newfoundland loop and relaxing by the fire (not that we really needed the fire for its heat!). It was a beautiful evening – and I wish I had taken my summer sleeping bag – as it wasn’t long before I was peeling off the layers and ripping off my socks!  We had a lovely stroll back to the parking lot – not a person in site – and we savoured every minute of it!  I hope it wasn’t the last one of the year……..    Di



Sept 25, 2010 Moon Lake Hike

The Weather was great as Roger B., Di, Dana, Janis and myself set off to hike the trail around Moon Lake. We had no more than parked our cars and were putting on our backpacks when a welcoming committee of one came sauntering down the trail to meet us. A black bear did not seem to care that we were standing watching him as he walked within 75 feet of us. Everyone had lots of time to take his picture. The trail was pretty muddy for the first part as it had rained substantially over night. At the half way mark we stopped at our usual scenic spot to have lunch and a rest. From this spot you can see all the way down the lake back to the parking lot. After a 30 minute stop we continued on back to the cars. The trail is 9.5 K and took us 3.25 hours including our lunch stop.
Dana then left back for Brandon and the rest of us were treated to coffee, tea, muffins and cookies at Roger B’s camper. He had been camping for the past couple of days. He told us that he had been visited at his camper one evening by a black bear.
All in all it was a great day in the outdoors of Riding Mountain National park.
Alf



Westman Wilderness Club Banff Paddling Trip

10 people (Eldon, Wayne, Laura, Fred, Shannon, Pam, Gloria, Marlene, Elaine, & Che) car pooled from McCreary and Brandon area. We drove to Banff on August 22nd arriving at the Banff International Hostel that evening. The hostel was clean, comfortable and affordable with the women in one dorm and men in another. The kitchen was pretty well equipped but the eating area was a bit small for our group so arrangements were made to use a meeting room for our meals. A variety of wonderful meals were created, shared and enjoyed by all.  We did eat out on the town for two nights.
Arthur, Shirley and their friend from Calgary joined us the first day hiking and for dinner after. Castle Lookout, off the 1A highway, was the first hike. This was a steady up with only a few other hikers on the trail.  Everyone made it to the site of the old lookout and found the view of the Bow Valley was well worth the climb. Lunch was had at the top. Johnson Canyon was the next stop and quite a contrast with crowds of tourists on the trail. The unique trail structure and beauty of the canyon make this a must see even if everyone else goes there too. Che entertained us and many others with a quick dip in the COLD creek.
After supper on Monday we met Pam’s friends Jim Buckingham (Bucky) and his daughter Ali who live & work in Banff and were nice enough to provide our group with paddling instruction. We watched a PowerPoint show on paddling basics including how to dress, white-water paddling strokes and safety on the water. They also reviewed the plan for the three days on the water. This was not only informative but entertaining. Bucky is a bit of a character.
Tuesday found the group in canoes on Johnson Lake about 9 AM. This is the local beach just outside Banff. We were joined by several local paddlers who added to the colour and number of paddling partners people got to experience. Bucky (Jim), Doug McKown & Jim Olver were the instructors. We practiced the pry, draw, turning strokes, moving in the boats, boat rescue techniques and went over safety messages. About 11 we moved onto the Bow River at Castle Junction Bridge. Lunch was on the river across from the put in and it was hot. Several layers of clothing were removed at this point. The afternoon was spent going down river, in and out of every eddy and practicing all the strokes. Partners were switched many times. The group was pleasantly tired by the day’s end.
Wednesday was a glorious Rocky Mountain hiking day high in the Sunshine Meadows which is a World Heritage Site. We took the shuttle bus up and down so started our hike at ~7000 feet. The wildflowers were still in bloom although near their end. This is a beautiful place. Half of the group went up Quartz Ridge while the others hiked the trails around three lakes. Everyone hiked about 15 kilometres that day.
Thursday we hit the Bow River again starting below Lake Louise Rapids on Highway #1 and taking out atEldon (an infamous railway siding!) on Highway 1A. Doug, Bucky, Jim and Ali’s husband Alan were helping us with another day of eddy turns, perfecting the strokes and handling progressively more difficult rapids. We had time to practice with throw bags providing entertainment for some sunbathers along the river.  The day ended with everyone making it through the Red Earth Creek Rapids safely. Many happy moments were spent on the river in the sunshine and the skill level was improving each day.
Friday turned out to be more like the usual paddling weather in the Rockies with clouds, rain, temperatures in the low teens and the need for those layers/wetsuits. We put in at the Lake Louise town site by the railway station and paddled the Bow to the Lake Louise Rapids.  This was an exciting day with even faster rapids & water; bigger waves and for Gloria and Pam a wet ending. Even with the cool weather people were enthused about practicing what they had learned. Ali, Bucky, Jim and Doug were impressed with the enthusiasm and progress in handling the boats that everyone made. Even the most skilled paddlers learned something. We should do it again next year.
Saturday was a day for people to explore the area on their own terms – some went shopping, some walking & running and some just hung out. Sunday we drove home to Manitoba.
Pam



Grasshopper Valley

Only three brave soles, Di, Scotty and Clarence, ventured into the Grasshopper Valley on august 21st and 22nd.  We started from the bison enclosure, taking the road to Lake Audey Dam, and onto the trail.  It was a beautiful 12 km into the Minidosa River camp site.  The trail varied from closed in bush and open meadows, to muddy, boot-sucking areas!  I’ve learnt that Clarence doesn’t always know the best way through!  We had the camp site all to our selves, with only a couple of bikers passing through.  After waiting, patiently, for the beer to cool – we had a lovely evening by the fire.  It rained and thundered over night, but everything had dried off by the time we got up – and after a leisurely morning – we hit the trail.  It was a short 8 km hike back to the bison enclosure, via Lake Audy camp site, but we were lucky enough to have the company of a young black bear.  He was busy picking berrys off the bush, and didn’t realize he was being watched for a good few minutes.  He soon scampered off into the bush when he sensed three pairs of beedy eyes watching!  On the way back to Brandon, it just got hotter, and hotter – the Grasshopper Valley was definitely the best place to be…….
Di Ingram



July 30 – August 2, 2010 Week-end Camp at Rossman Lake

​Photos by James
Our gracious hosts – Carol and Bill
Attendees – Grace, Di and Scotty, James, Olwen, Cheryl, Roger, Brenda [newly inducted member], Judy, Bert, Arthur, Eldon.
Rossman Lake provided the following: Plenty of sunshine, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, reading, biking, campfire sing-alongs and eating delicious food.
On Saturday Eldon and Brenda hosted a special visitor to the cottage — a large black bear. Fortunately he did not overstay his welcome!
Later Saturday afternoon a group attended the Rossburn Fair and enjoyed the talent show. Next year we are going to enter Bill so he can wow the crowd singing “Clay Pigeons”. (Don’t tell Bill as we want it to be a surprise.)
One late evening we sat around the campfire and James entertained us with fireworks that the attendees had brought to the event.
All present would like to thank Carol and Bill for inviting us to their summer home. They were perfect hosts and we all enjoyed a great time together.



Epinette Hike

Bert and Judy, Scotty and Di, and Arthur and Shirley met in the parking lot of the Epinette trail system on Saturday for a hike/campout at cabin 3.  We shared the trail with 3 zillion mosquitoes, which some of us managed to fend off with healthy(?) doses of insect repellent.  The mosquito coils did little to keep the swarms at bay as we cooked supper, but the deet made it bearable for some of us.  Shortly before dark, Jackie and her nephew Josh and Dover showed up.  Fourteen year-old Josh was very impressed with his Aunt’s penchant for outdoor living (I think he was quoted as saying, “Auntie Jackie, I don’t think this was such a good idea”) but he gamely assisted with the supper preparations, accepting the offer of a repellent that was a little more effective than the citronella they wore coming in.
After supper, Bert (bare-legged and armed-that means sans cloth or mosquito repellent) headed out to meet Fred, who had left Winnipeg at 6 pm on his bicycle.  Shortly thereafter, Fred strolled into camp, swatting fiercely (His loving wife  hadn’t even  left him the citronella as he requested).   Fred had taken the old trail, somewhat shorter but quickly getting overgrown and minus the bridges.  We were all impressed to see Bert saunter back half an hour later, totally oblivious to the blood stains and welts that covered every inch of his legs.
No sitting up shooting the breeze till all hours this night.  We were all tucked away well before midnight—all that is, except Dover, who didn’t quite know what to make of the howling coyotes (we didn’t quite know what to make of his snoring, once he did settle down).   Saturday morning, we woke to clear skies and a light breeze, and—miracle of miracles—no mosquitoes.



Arthur’s Hike

Arthur and Shirley lead a hike from the Discovery Center starting at 4:30 this afternoon. Also in the group were Ginger, Agnes and myself.
Although the skies were very ominous we hiked to First Street, across the bridge, through the East end of Brandon back across the Eighth Street Bridge to Eleanor Kidd Park. Arthur did allow us a 5 minute washroom break and a couple of minutes to look at the beautiful flower gardens before heading back to the Discovery Center.
Much of the Park area is now flooded making the pedestrian bridge inaccessible.
Thanks Arthur and Shirley. We all enjoyed the hike as well as the continual conversation.
Brian



Another Successful Hike

The WWC had another successful hike around the southeast corner of the RMNP. Grace was camping at the farm site, and Di and Scotty joined her camping for eve. Ginger, Agnes and prospective member Dana joined Grace and Di, for a hike west of the “farm” in the afternoon.
The sun was bright and hot, but a fresh breeze kept us cool , and mosquitoes at bay for the first part. Later on, the clouds were threatening, and the wind quieted down, but luckily, the storm went around us, and the mosquitoes were still not bad. We kept mostly to the back road area to have the most enjoyable experience possible considering the conditions of the year, and we were not disappointed!  We walked about 6-700 feet in elevation to the west, so walking eastward we took in the occasional view of the countryside. The road meanders around a ravine, and the shale slides  and lush greenery create a picturesque scene.
A great way to spend a couple of hours on a Saturday afternoon!
Grace



Souris River Canoeing

The Westman Wilderness Club organized a canoe trip on the Souris River, Southeast of Brandon, Manitoba, on June 26 and 27, 2010.
After meeting at the marshalling point in the city, participants and their canoes and kayaks headed to the embarkation point, on the Souris River near the small town of Margaret, Manitoba.  There were a total of 16 participants, as follows: Bill, Carol, Aaron, Donna, Arthur, Shirley, Eldon, Shannon, Grace, Michelle,Clarence, Jackie, Fred, Elaine, Che, and Virginia.  There were 7 canoes and 2 kayaks.
Following departure from the Margaret bridge area,  a pleasant ride was had, with minimal rough rapids due to the very high water levels.
Following a lunch stop, the flotilla continued downstream.  A sudden thunderstorm with heavy rain was encountered giving some interesting moments, particularly for those in metal canoes!  Fortunately the rain had stopped by the time we arrived at our overnight campsite. This group was later joined by Brian in kayak, Lynne and a local farmer Don in a canoe.
The campsite was provided by Club members Brian and Lynne and was very well mowed, stocked with firewood, fire-pits and a toilet facility.   What more could wilderness people ask for?
The rains did return but most of us were able to bed down fairly dry after keeping close to the campfires!  Some of our throats were kept moist with a wee drop o’.
Following a breakfast feast the next morning ,we again hit the river.  This group consisted of 13 paddlers as six departed due to previous commitments.Within a couple hours of pleasant water conditions, we arrived at our destination in the town of Wawanesa.  Canoes and supplies were loaded up and everyone proceeded to their homes.
All in all it was a very pleasurable Wilderness outing.  The beauty of the Souris River and its lush green banks is a memory that will last.
Thanks to Brian and Lynne for setting the outing up and Eldon for his organizational skills which ensured the trip was a success.
Also a big thanks to Don Heinrichs for efforts in setting up campsite and ferrying people and equipment up a very muddy hill.
Submitted by Bill



May 30 – Moon Lake Hike

Saturday May 30 was a beautiful sunny day for a hike on Moon Lake. The lake was like glass and a lone canoeist was taking advantage of it. As well several campers were enjoying the area.
Roger W., Mel, Noreen, Brian, Lynn, Evelyn, Janis, Grace, Di, {Scottie} and perspective new member , Faryn met at the trailhead at 11 am.
The trail had many boggy areas; perhaps the remnants of the 12 inch snowfall from 2 weeks ago. Lots of animal tracks were seen and many birds were singing.
With no undergrowth there were many great views of the lake as we hiked along. After the hike it was a warm day to sit in the picnic area and swap bear stories. A fun day with lots of comadarie!!
Janis



May 23rd – Day Hike

Judy, Burt, Julie (friend from Canmore) and Pam hiked from the new gate on the Agassiz road in Riding Mountain National Park to the old ski area approximately 1.5 kl. The area had been the site of a prescribed burn the week before so our shoes got quite black but the walking was easy to the top of the West Run. We then followed the old North Escarpment Trail that heads in a southeast direction from the top of the area and connects to the trails off of Highway #19. The trail was well defined considering it has been off the RMNP maps since 1985. All it would take is a good brushing to make it more enjoyable for those of us who prefer wearing shorts. We hiked about 4 hours total to the Packhorse trail and return to the ski area base. Stopped for lunch at a gorgeous lake with garter snakes swimming, frogs croaking and the sun shining bright. What a lovely day. Judy won the tick count with at least 28 on her before we said good-bye for the day at the vehicles.
Pam Little



Saturday May 23rd Day Hike

Judy, Burt, Julie (friend from Canmore) and Pam hiked from the new gate on the Agassiz road in Riding Mountain National Park to the old ski area approximately 1.5 kl. The area had been the site of a prescribed burn the week before so our shoes got quite black but the walking was easy to the top of the West Run. We then followed the old North Escarpment Trail that heads in a southeast direction from the top of the area and connects to the trails off of Highway #19. The trail was well defined considering it has been off the RMNP maps since 1985. All it would take is a good brushing to make it more enjoyable for those of us who prefer wearing shorts. We hiked about 4 hours total to the Packhorse trail and return to the ski area base. Stopped for lunch at a gorgeous lake with garter snakes swimming, frogs croaking and the sun shining bright. What a lovely day. Judy won the tick count with at least 28 on her before we said good-bye for the day at the vehicles. 
Pam Little



May 10 – Brandon Bike Ride

The sun was shining and the weather mild for the annual 15 mile bike ride around Brandon. Di, Mike, Norma, Arthur, Michele, Kelly, Bryce and Kelse, Katie, Brent and Maureen set out from the North Hill and 1 3/4 hours later were back for pizza dnd desserts! Brandon’s pathways continue to develope with a new one at 1st and Pacific where the scrap metal depot was. We can be proud of the many paved routes around and throughout the city! Hope to see one and all next year.



May 2 – Whirlpool Lake, Camp & Canoe

This was a great year for canoeing the Whirlpool River from Whirlpool Lake to hwy 19 in Riding Mountain National Park. It was actually a bit early and just after starting we ran into numerous ice bridges which required dragging the canoes up on to the ice and sliding them to the first sign of open water and then starting up again. At first it appeared it was going to be a very long slow moving day but eventually we got past this area which was more shaded and the river was open the rest of the way. There was still a lot of ice on the shores so it should be good for a few more weekends. Aaron, Donna, Arthur and Roger canoed the River and Mike and Di camped with us on Friday night and went hiking the next day. We saw numerous ducks and geese and even a Lynx. This is a great river to practice your turning strokes on and there are some challenging rapids at the end.
Roger



May 2,2009 Camp & Canoe Trip

This was a great year for canoeing the Whirlpool River from Whirlpool Lake to hwy 19 in Riding Mountain National Park.  It was actually a bit early and just after starting we ran into numerous ice bridges which required dragging the canoes up on to the ice and sliding them to the first sign of open water and then starting up again.  At first it appeared it was going to be a very long slow moving day but eventually we got past this area which was more shaded and the river was open the rest of the way.  There was still a lot of ice on the shores so it should be good for a few more weekends.  Aaron, Donna, Arthur and Roger canoed the River and Mike and Di camped with us on Friday night and went hiking the next day.  We saw numerous ducks and geese and even a Lynx. This is a great river to practice your turning strokes on and there are some challenging rapids at the end.
Roger



April 26th – Fork River Canoe Trip

Nick and Bobby Peters (new members) Aaron and myself started our canoe on the Fork River at 10:16 a.m. from our back yard. Due to the narrow passage and dam we flew over Bobby’s heart was pumping but soon relaxed as the next five miles was a straight through way as the river was dredged through the flat lands but the current was fast with a few smaller drops in grade and a few rocks that the guys at the rear seemed to have found. Here we made time and we were at the natural river in one and on half hrs. We stopped for lunch before proceeding. Nick and Bobby like to travel and just came back from Australia. (honeymoon) After a long conversation on travel we were off once again. The scenery changed dramatically for the river widened as we began to meander round river curves, through forest of birch, ash, woodpecker village, and spruce. I think I have seen the oldest birch tree ever. The beaver dams were excellent for shooting right over and along with other fast rocky interludes the trip kept us on our toes with parts so calm and peaceful. (sometimes spooky peaceful like on the bayou) The duck chase was on as we chased mallard and goldeneye. A pair of common merganser’s was seen along with Canada Goose, cormorant (feeding on dead suckers) bald eagle, and red tailed hawks as they screeched above us. We saw river bank dens and splashes, presumably muskrat or beaver as they immersed to the water. The highlight sighting was a coyote who was sneaking along one side of the river then on the other side as he disappeared into the wilderness. Also a rabbit was spotted crouched along the riverbank under some hanging brush. We reached our first out landing at about 2:00 p.m. and decided to go the extra four road miles to our second outing which was two miles short of the town of Fork River. Here the river headed south and more curves. One spot we maneuvered our canoes around a fallen tree right in the middle of a sharp curve. Aaron and I went first and got stuck on the river bank. Nick and Bobby handled their canoe with excellent maneuvering skills, even when the undercurrent from the log tried to tip them over. We were at our out landing, which was a ford on a road, at 4:10. While the guys went to pick up the other vehicle, Bobby and I visited with some locals who were sucker fishing and watched as suckers were trying to swim, jump, flop over the one foot waterfall from the ford to get to the other side. None made it while we were watching. A good day on the river, a little windy at times, was had by all and we will do it again next year.
Donna



April 25th – Hunt Lake Hike

Saturday at 10 am, 3 club members (Stacy May, Maria Purification and Sylvie Labossière) along with two guests (Brent Barske and Alison Sanders) met at Tim Horton’s on Fermor (Winnipeg). A two hour drive brought us to West Hawk Lake (Whiteshell Prov. Park) and the Hunt Lake trail which is located a short distance east of West Hawk Lake Beach.
As we prepared to hit the trail, Alison and Brent expressed a little concern over the length of the trail as well as the potential for muddy spots along the way. Despite this, they did not spare me any teasing about my “legwarmers” (gaiters). We headed into the woods as the sun poked in and out of the clouds, seemingly teasing us.
Shortly after beginning the hike, we descended what I have come to think of as the “staircase”, a steep slope covered in rocks and gnarled and twisted tree roots which have to come to resemble a well worn set of stairs. After going down the stairs, we approached a small cave located in a steep rock face. Knowing that a geocache was hidden at this site, we spent a few minutes, exploring the nooks and crannies of the cliff and low and behold, found the cache! Maria made a trade for an item in the cache and we all signed the logbook. Some of us also took several pictures of the spectacular cedars that grow straight out of the rock walls in the area. Their bare roots can be seen twisting and clinging to the rock. They really are quite impressive.
We continued on to our lunch stop. On the way, we crossed a half frozen cedar bog as well as a few sparkling streams and small waterfalls carrying meltwater down to the lake below. To our right we were flanked by a steep slope covered in moss, cedar and brush, to our left, the earth dropped dramatically into West Hawk Lake leaving us perched high up with great views of the the lake and shoreline below. In some places the trail crept allowed us to come right down to the water’s edge where we could hear the eerie hiss of cracks forming in the thinning sheet of ice still resting on the surface of the lake. The sweet smell of cedar was in the air as we brushed against the trees along our path.
We stopped for lunch at a small rock peninsula that juts out into West Hawk Lake. Maria photographed a sociable chipmunk that came to pay us a visit. After lunch, Alison and Brent decided to begin their walk back to the car, having already accompanied the group further than they had originally planned. Maria, Stacy and I chose to continue on to the end of the trail which finishes at Little Indian Bay. An extra hour of walking took us to the end where we came across an impressive uprooted tree. We took a few photos, stopped for a water break and headed back.
The hike back was quick paced and we were back to our lunch stop in 45 minutes. I didn’t time the walk back to the car but I can tell you that we all agreed we were feeling a little bagged. We began our walk around noon and were back at our cars by around 6:30. This trail is wonderful but definitely takes it’s toll on a person’s knees. Apparently my hamstrings and quadriceps got a bit of a workout too because they felt like overstretched fiddle strings for two days following the hike.
All in all we had a great day despite the chilly weather. I am so glad to have had people along this time around. Having Stacy drive in all the way from Brandon was a surprise, as was meeting Maria for the first time. I quickly put two and two together and realized she was the spunky lady I had read about in a previous write up about a hike on Ochre River or Bald Hill. Alison and Brent were initially very reluctant to come along but I believe they surprised themselves and later told me they really enjoyed their day.
Thanks to all those who came out!
Sylvie Labossière