Myrtle's Meanderings - Hike - November 24, 2010

We hit the jackpot! It was a rainy week. Wednesday was the one day without rain – sunny and cool – perfect for a hike.

Jeff picked ten of us up around 1:00 pm. We drove up Wolf Grove Road then drove down the concession road to where the Floating Bridge used to be, where we met Cliff Bennett, Richard and Charlie.

We drove back to the Wolf Grove Road, disembarked, got our hiking poles, and proceeded to hike back down to Floating Bridge.

On the way, Cliff pointed out a buckthorn bush, loaded with dark berries. These are very bitter but provide food for birds late in winter. We also saw a dogwood bush which is green in summer and turns red in winter.

A farmer along the way has a windmill to create power which he sells back to Ontario Hydro for a profit.

We saw deer tracks. Then we saw a flock of wild turkeys in the field. We also spied an osprey next.

Reaching Taylor Lake, we got on the bus (which Jeff had brought down) and enjoyed a hot drink, cookies and squares.

We then reviewed a list of hikes we had enjoyed. Jeff was open to any suggestions for other hikes. Then we saw a lone bluejay flying overhead.

When we left the bus to walk around we spied the carcass of a large bird. Debate followed – was it that of a dead osprey or a loon? No decision was reached.

We then made our way, on foot, back to almost the Wolf Grove Road where Jeff met us with the bus. We were home by 3:30 pm.

The last hike of 2010 was most enjoyable! Lucky us!