Heading out through Paradise Meadows I was surprised to find the boardwalks icy. It was very slow going and I was looking forward to reaching the trail head that heads out to Lake McKenzie and be on solid ground. I was a little disappointed that the fall colours had pretty much disappeared but it was fun to see the ponds covered over in ice.
We hiked along just enjoying ourselves, nabbing the odd cache on the way. It really was very slow going because even once we were off the boardwalks the rocks in many places were also iced over and very slippery.
The views however were worth it and so was the silence. It felt like we were out there on our own, even the birds seemed to be asleep! I love hiking out into the woods on trails that are not over populated.
The peacefulness and quietness of the forest is so restful. Sure it can be a bit scary at times not knowing what wild animals are out there with you but one just has to be at ease and hope for the best. We passed three lakes before stopping for lunch on an outcropping of rock.
Then we headed off to Croteau lake. The highlight of the trip was when we arrived at the lake and I looked up into the mountains and I had a clear view of Mount Albert Edward. I had hiked up there last year and there it was in the far distance covered in snow. It gave me a great sense of accomplishment to know that I had been up there on that peak.
I do not feel I always have to reach great heights in hiking but I do love to hike to new places and I love being able to look around me and take note of which hills I have climbed and which ones are still on the list. Sometimes I just need that reminder that I can do this, I can get out there and really connect with nature and explore new places even if it means stepping out of my comfort zone. A few years ago my daughter painted me a large picture of our island and as I hike new trails or climb new mountains she adds them to the picture. It`s a visual of the places I have been, it inspires me to keep hiking and reminds me of all I have accomplished.
Croteau Lake was beautiful in itself. I was so impressed with the group campsite they have set up there complete with a yurt. Maybe someday I can take the kids but now it was time to turn back and head for home looping around Lake McKenzie.
We felt there would be less boardwalk on that trail and there was, however it was just as slippery if not more so and very sloped. We were forced to walk along side it in many places. The trails were now busy with people all of us warning each other of the slippery boardwalks ahead.
Five hours 14.5 kms made for a very good enjoyable day. It will be the last adventure up there for this year. I will not be able to hike there now til spring when the snow has melted but who knows maybe I will get up there snowshoeing! One must always have hope.
