It’s been bitterly cold in Crowsnest Pass over the past couple of weeks. In addition to this, we were whacked with a huge amount of snow during this time. If I wasn’t clearing snow outside, I was inside trying to stay warm. Temperatures have been on the rise over the past several days and by yesterday morning it had warmed up enough for me to head outdoors for a long-awaited walk in the woods.
I pulled my snowshoes from the rafters in the garage and headed to the Allison-Chinook Cross Country Ski Area west of Coleman. The temperature was -10°C when I reached the parking lot, and by noon it had climbed to a pleasant -4°C. It was sunny and bright, and there was barely any wind. Conditions were perfect for snowshoeing.
Snowshoeing along Allison Creek
I started my trek by following the snow-covered banks of Allison Creek. There was a bit of open water on the creek and it was very picturesque. I stopped a couple of times to take photographs before continuing on.
Crowsnest Mountain in the background
I eventually made my way back to the groomed trail and continued to head up the valley until it was time to turn back. It’s easy to work up an appetite whenever you are in the outdoors, but this is especially true when trudging through deep snow. Lunch is always a welcome break.
A hearty lunch and dessert
Heading for home
Here are a few snow, ice, and water photos I made while walking along the creek.
Snow, ice, water
Three scoops
Snow, ice, water, bubbles
Snow dome covering rock
Snow dome with baby snow dome in background
4 Comments
Vic: Nice outing. I like the perfect undisturbed “dome” shot with darkish creek water around it. And the water and ice photos. Great 5***** lunch… I don’t even eat that well at home, LOL
robert
Hi Robert,
It seems the older I get, the more important food becomes, especially when I’m “exercising” in the outdoors. At one time, I would go all day fishing on the river or hiking in the hills and not even think about eating until I got home. I liked the photos in your last post. They inspired me to get out, but I wasn’t brave enough until it warmed up. I like to be indoors when it’s -38°C outside. I should probably be tying flies, like you. I guess I’ll have to start soon. Otherwise, I may have to raid your fly boxes! Thanks for visiting.
You’re right Vic. The friendlier temps have been a welcome gift. You’ve captured well in these photos how interesting the beauty of winter can be. Nice!
Hi Bob,
It’s +5°C today. The snow in my backyard is melting, but it looks like it’s going to cool down again in a couple of days and there’s more snow in the forecast. I’m glad I was able to get out in the woods at least once over the holidays. And I’m glad you liked the photos, too.