Rolling Stones on Trout Creek

Today was a rare day.  It is only February but the weather lately has been more like late March or April.  Sun was in the forecast and I wanted to take advantage of some free time.  I  put out some calls to see if there was anyone interested in joining me.  Like many other times, my father called and said "I'm in."  I want to state how fortunate I am that I can still enjoy days like today with my father.  Him being with me adds a whole level of enjoyment that can't be defined and I dread the time when he can't be there.

The plan was to try and find a rock face that I somehow missed on a previous outing.  We would approach it from the opposite direction and the knowledge from the previous outing gave us a much better chance of finding it, despite not having a GPS this time.  We would start on a tributary to Trout Creek.  We would walk a little more than a half km up the tributary and then turn east and follow a small stream up to the top of the ridge.

As we reached the top of the small stream we found an unexpected rock outcrop where we hung the hammock and enjoyed a snack. We chatted about the weather and discussed politics while the dogs played tag with one another.  Things almost appeared to be moving in slow motion as we sat there.  A cold breeze moved up the steep hill and it eventually chased us back to focusing on our true goal for the day.

We moved easily over the steep terrain but our pace was slow and steady.  The frozen ground sometimes made the hiking difficult as you had to be sure of your footing.  Suddenly there was a change to the terrain as a small ravine opened up in front of us.  There was rock scree all around and I was certain we were close to the rock face.  We continued to move along the contour we had been following and then a small rock face appeared above us.  We climbed it and then more rock appeared further up again.  The sun shone brightly and we could feel its warmth as we worked our way up towards the top of the steep escarpment.

On the way up we stopped many times to appreciate the view but as we finally made the top of the face I felt a strong sense of accomplishment.  I had a broad smile and felt a bit giddy.  It wasn't a hard hike but it was such a great day and to be there with my Dad just felt incredible.

We made our way down through a steep ravine on the south east side of the escarpment.  Because of the steep grade we covered ground quickly and before I knew it we were walking along Trout Creek again.  There was some cool topography that puzzled us and again we marveled at God's creation.  The hike ended much too quickly and we'll both keep this one close for a long time.  Here is a quick movie on the day.

Wonderful Winter Weekend

Thanks to the great person who offered to take our photo.

Being outdoors is second nature to me.  I am more energetic, I ache less, and smile a lot more.  With my two kids now  more easily able to get outdoors with me, my wife and I are finding it easier to get out and enjoy the wilderness.  While these forays into nature are not what I used to engage in, any outdoor time is rewarding.

This weekend I was able to be outdoors 3 consecutive days.  If you're a parent, you know how rare of occasion that can be.  Given we have karate, swimming, skating, guitar, and drama, I'm lucky to get two (let's call them adventure days) a week.

The first adventure was a night at Poley Mountain where my son wanted to try snowboarding for the first time.  Since his karate teacher at Two Rivers Martial Arts was away as a judge at a tournament, we had a night off karate and thought this would be a good way to spend it. I was not ready to try snowboarding my self so I went and watched.  My church was hosting a Holy Poley night so I felt I could find someone to chat with if need be.  Our pastor was going to provide Seth with all the gear he needed and gave him some pointers to get him started.

Once he had his boots, helmet, and board ready to go there was no stopping him.  I walked with him as he confidently strutted out to the bunny hill where he spent the evening learning to turn, stop, and control the board.  His second run down, he went the whole way without falling.  He was hooked.  As the snow fell that night I continued to watch him and created a bond with him as I would help him strap back into the board each time he came back to the top.  For the most part he was alone while his peers skied on the big hill and he worked away at getting better.  Now I guess I'll be checking Kijiji for deals on youth snowboards.

The next day was a beautiful winter day.  Much to nice to spend doing the laundry and dishes that were piling up in our house.  Instead we packed up some gear and snacks and went for a hike to the Bluff in Sussex Corner.  The sun shone through the trees as we made our way to the rock face.  The kids shook the fresh snow from the night before off each tree and played games.  Their laughter was enough to make you smile, no matter how cold your heart might be.  A very nice person offered to take our family picture at the top and it turned out great considering it was only a cell camera.  We had a cup of hot chocolate and some light snacks while at the Bluff and then headed back to the Jeep.

Following church the next day, the good Lord blessed us with another chance to get out and enjoy another snowshoe adventure.  This time we joined a large group from Go Outdoors Sussex and hiked along the Cotter Holler Road.  The steep valley has lots of ice walls along its rocky ridges and the group enjoyed a side trail into a small ice cave.  My family spends lots of time in this area and my kids took pride in the fact they could lead the group up the road and to most of the sites.  My wife and I enjoyed the conversation with numerous people and loved catching up with everyone.

Words and photos can't do a weekend like this justice.  This was a quick recollection of the weekend and I feel silly even putting it out here but this is for my kids so that maybe later they can come to this blog and remember fondly such a great weekend.

See you in the woods or on the water.

Trout Creek Snowshoe

Getting ready to cross the small tributary above the waterfalls.

Sometime ago I hosted a meeting with  some people interested in looking at developing trails in and around Kings County.  I left the meeting thinking I should look closer at the somewhat defunct section of the Catamount Trail.  From the Fundy Footpath to Adair's Wilderness Lodge, the Catamount, is in pretty modest shape.  The trail however is pretty much non-existent when you head northwest from Adair's toward Sussex Corner.

I reached out to some people who I thought would have some information on the intended line for the Catamount Trail and they were generous enough to give me some map layers to work with.  I took those lines and my personal knowledge of the area and considered some possible route variations to look at.  One area I wanted to check out was a section off the Pleasant Lake Road where a rock face would provide a great look out and destination for a trail line.

So with my brother and father on a sunny January weekend, we headed out to find a route to the rock face I thought was there.  We got a late start so time was not going to be on our side and this would come back to haunt us.
 

I had the camera on during the crossing but nothing funny happened :)

On the first section of the trek we crossed a stream I'm familiar with.  The small but steep stream has a spectacular set of waterfalls which actually cascade right into Trout Creek.  That feature in itself would be worth considering for a trail route.  If there is an issue with this area it might be the fact that after you cross the stream, you head up a steep and difficult hill.  If you stop to catch your breath while climbing he hill though, take a look around.  There is lots to see with some spectacular yellow and white birch trees, interesting geology, and views across to the other side of the valley.

Every now and then we could see Poley off in the distance.

Once we got to the top of the ridge I had to try and determine where the rock face was and how best to get there.  This is where our late start would hamper us.  I had hoped to make the ridge and then work slowly back out towards the rock face, unfortunately dark was moving in and so I didn't find it on this trip.  I do know it is there though and I will find it.  From all I saw on this trek, it is a great hiking area.  I have included a map below for you but keep in mind it is private property.

Now the challenge will be to find out who the landowners are and determine if they would consider having a trail navigate across their properties.

So blessed that my Dad is still able to be on these treks with me and blessed for the sunset behind us.

Cotter Holler Winter Fun

The Whalen family has a long history of enjoying the small, steep valley of the Cotter Holler stream.  We walk the old road up the valley and explore the small streams, rock faces, large trees.  We laugh at tall tales, we share secrets and stories, and we bond as we build memories in this scenic little piece of paradise.  On a recent Saturday we built some more memories as some of us ventured out for some winter fun.

Hot chocolate, crazy carpets, a hammock, and grandparents.  This was the recipe for a great day exploring and everyone had smiles at days end.  I do my best to let the kids explore and at times I even let them get their feet wet.  Sometimes my protective nature takes control and I holler at them..."That's close enough to the water!" or "Careful, that ice is hard if you fall!"  My Dad would mock me a bit and I'd ease up control and let the kids explore a little further.

I made a short video and I hope you enjoy it.

Snow Shoeing Into the Night

Dark slowly falls over the Mill Brook.

Winter is now fully on us with more cold nights in the forecast.  Winter time also means that in order to enjoy the outdoors, most of us will need to snowshoe, cross country ski, or even hike in the dark.  Unless you don't work a typical 8 to 5 job, the only time to get out and enjoy the elements is when it is dark out.  It is hard to be motivated to get outdoors this time of year and for some, fear of being in the dark is enough of a deterrent to dissuade you from going.  I'm hear to say that your missing out and the dark is no reason to be scared.  The same animals, insects, trees, and plants are in the wilderness at night as in the day time.

I enjoy the  rush of overcoming that fear of the dark and exploring the wilderness at night, especially in the winter time.  Sometimes I use a light and others I don't, tt really depends on my mood, the phase of the moon, and the weather.  I always have a flashlight and extra batteries with me.  Well usually, except once when I didn't have the batteries.  That was a rough hike out which resulted in a few scratches to my face and head but I made it.

Tracks across the Bluff during a winter snow shoe outing.

When the snow is on the ground and the moon is full with a clear sky, the woods at night can actually be quite bright.  Typically though on such nights it is really cold and the shadows can play with your mind.  Dress warm and keep your wits about you and the perspective is incredible and it truly is a different perspective every time out, even if you snow shoe the same trail night after night. 

Personally, I like the calm, warmer, nights when there is a light snow falling.  The snow gives a surreal feeling to the night and usually creates a calming sensation because it mutes out the sound of moving branches and other things that might be otherwise easily heard.  For couples, it can be a romantic setting and because of the warmer temperatures you don't mind laying down in the snow and cuddling a little if the mood hits you.  The warm temperatures also make it easier to stay out longer and enjoy more of the night.

Go Outdoors Sussex is hosting regular outings here in Sussex and if you haven't been out with them yet, you should make a date to join them.  I'm embarrassed to say that I haven't yet been out snow shoeing with them so I'm hoping to get out soon.  For those looking to gain experience hiking during the evenings, this is an ideal way to attain that needed experience and possibly meet new friends.

Corner Christmas Carols

In past years my family has attended the St. Mark's Church Living Manger.  I was somewhat disappointed to learn that this year, due to renovations being done to the church, they would not be hosting it.  Members of the church however were also a little disappointed and wanted to do something for the community.  Coming up on December 2oth and 6:30pm they'll be hosting an evening of Christmas Carols in the Corner.  Come by the Sussex Corner Amphitheater on the Dutch Valley Road and lend your voice to the festivities. I'm betting it will be like an old fashion Christmas where members of the community can catch up, be merry, and spread good wishes.  If you can't sing, no worries, simply come for a cup of hot chocolate.

The amphitheater is Sussex Corner is a glow with Christmas lights and snow is on the ground.

Wandering Winter Tips

A first snow fall a few years ago during a camp out I had along Trout Creek.

So we've had the first snow fall of the season and so people are starting to talk about winter activities such as snowshoeing and winter camping.  I've been asked on a number of occasions if I could offer any advice for first time winter campers.  I'm not an expert but I have done a significant amount of tenting in the winter time.  I recently was reading Backpacker magazine and they offered some tips on winter camping and it was very informative and I thought, huh?  I can do that and put my spin on it.  So here are some points on wandering in winter.

1. Get to know your local gear stores: Some people don't like asking questions when shopping but I encourage you to build a relationship with your local gear store.  Don't be scared of asking them for help in getting the proper layers of clothing, boots, pack, or tent for your specific outing.  In Sussex, talk to the great staff at Outdoor Elements.  They are easy to talk to, treat you like family, and take great pride in outfitting you well.  If all you have is a Canadian Tire then try to make the most of the advice staff there can give.  For those who are more experienced, you may not need the advice given as far as picking out gear, but your local store staff can inform you on new technologies and trends for gear.

I hiked into these falls on Beatty Brook a couple of years ago.

2. Know your terrain:  It is always tempting to explore new territory when going out camping but your first winter camp out is not the time to do that.  I would even go so far as to say that your first winter camp out of the year is not the time to do that.  Camping, even in summer, is easier when you establish routines and are comfortable with your gear.  This is even more true in the winter time, when even the slightest gear failure can put you in a bad situation. Knowing your terrain improves your comfort level and leads to a more enjoyable outing and builds your confidence which means you'll enjoy your next trip too.

3. Avoid working to hard:  Hahaha I know this sounds funny but honestly, during winter camp outs, I strongly encourage working a little less.  Ok, so what I am really saying here is, avoid sweating....at all costs.  If you're working up a sweat, then slow your pace to avoid cooling to quickly later.  Once you get your tent up and you go to snuggle into your sleeping bag, that sweat you worked up later, is going to give you the chills first and you won't sleep that well because of it.  This once again will lead to a less enjoyable outing.  While hiking or snowshoeing, take layers off to control your body temperature and when you stop the physical activity put another layer on to again control your body temperature.

During a winter excursion into Hidden Valley I had this fire.

4. Have a fire:  Heck have a big fire, but make sure you dig out a spot where your fire won't collapse into a deep snowdrift and go out.  When you pack your gear for the winter camp adventure make sure to add some type of fire starter to your gear.  Lighting a fire in winter is not easy and I've heard many stories of "experienced" campers getting into a cold situation because they couldn't start a winter fire.  Make sure when you start a fire not to deplete the wood resources for future campers.  The fire will do a couple of things for you.  The obvious thing is keep you warm but it will also warm your spirits and make your trip more enjoyable.  If need be, practice lighting a fire in your backyard to make sure your technique is right.

5. Don't eat yellow snow:  Okay so don't eat just yellow snow, don't eat any snow.  It can be full of bacteria and it won't actually provide you with sufficient hydration.  You are better to melt snow first and if you're using a camp stove to do so, again make sure to set up your stove so that its heat won't melt a hole into the snow you placed it on and not the snow in your pot.  Remember too that when you melt snow to drink or cook with you should bring it to a boil for about 10 minutes.  I know water is better consumed cold and I strongly suggest you wait for your boiled water to cool down before drinking it.  I once scalded my tongue when I tried to drink right from the recently boiled pot.  Don't ever, ever, do that.

So there you have it.  Five not so common tips on how to improve your winter camp out.  Maybe at a later date I'll discuss some more technical points about winter camping.  I think I have some time yet before we are in the dead of winter here in southern NB.

See you in the woods or on the water.

For the Record

It may surprise you to learn that I have been contributing to the Kings County Record for five years. My kids have grown up and been a huge influence on what I submitted to the paper. My life has been through many changes. A change is often healthy and thus I have decided to pursue other writing avenues. I'll no longer be contributing to the KCR. The good news for those of you who enjoy my wandering stories is that I hope to continue my blog.
Over the past couple of months I have felt unsatisfied with my column submissions and felt lately that my heart just wasn't in it. So the time has come to make a change and that means you won't have to see my face in the paper as often. To those who have read my column, I thank you. For those who have taken the time to stop me on the street and discuss my mistakes or ask for details on a hike, thank you. It has been a great experience and I look forward to what my writing future holds. I hope you continue to check out my blog.
Coming up in the near future I'll be pushing my creative side more. I want to build my audience and expand my subject matter a little so this could be fun.

A Hike in to Kinnie Brook

Following a great Remembrance Day ceremony in Sussex my kids and I joined two other families for a hike in Fundy National Park.  My wife unfortunately was not feeling well and had to stay at home.  Prior to today, I had never hiked the Kinnie Brook trail, mainly because it was always to short.  With the kids and a late start, Kinnie Brook was an ideal choice.  I was thoroughly surprised by this short but adventurous trail.  The topography and geology were intriguing and the rock escarpments were calling to be explored.  The well maintained trail was easy to follow and I felt comfortable letting the kids explore on ahead and this probably led to them having a lot more fun.  After the short walk into the brook, which by the way, flows underground at the end point, we dropped our packs and explored.  The karst topography meant there were some shallow holes and small caves, the Acadian forest meant there were twisted yellow pines on beds of thick mosses.  The protruding bedrock spires made you feel like you were in a place out of the "Hobbit" and as I sat and made hot chocolate I was smiling broadly.

Like many hikes, as we left the valley and headed to the parking lot, my heart felt heavy.  The dim sunset put a somber feeling on what, I guess should be, a somber day.  Thanks to the veterans and service men/women who continue to fight so I can continue to enjoy such a park.

Here is a short video of our hike.

Enhancing Flood Plains and Sustainability

Eroding river banks typically result in many ecological impacts as well as having negative impacts on man made infrastructure.  Our historical practices of settling in and around water are slowly catching up to us as our weather patterns are changing and the rain events, at least in our part of the globe, are becoming more intense. In my job I am continually seeing this conflict and the organization I work for continually searches for a suitable resolutions when these conflicts arise.  I wanted to highlight one of the projects completed in 2014.  This project stabilized an eroding stream bank, re-established woody vegetation to shade the river in the future, and improved river and flood plain connection.

Take a look at the rough video.