Piping Woodpeckers - July 17, 2014

An early start to the day today led to a big trip out to the Rocky Mountains and a hike in the Kananaskis region of Alberta. It was fantastic! The weather was great as we started up the mountain path bordering a glacial lake. Up and up we went; it was difficult, sweaty work but we had the feeling it would be worth it when we reached the end of the trail.We were tired and sticky when another beautiful lake came into view. It was spectacular mountain scenery; pine trees, soaring peaks and snow! Snow, many of us have never seen or touched real snow before. We played in it, sat in it, rolled in it, through balls of it at one another. So much fun! We ate lunch (we each carried a part in our packs) at the side of the lake, then some of us climbed even higher for a grand view and the sight of two inukshuks.We spent a couple hours on the shore of this beautiful lake, called Rawson Lake, before descending down the trail. Along the way, storm clouds rolled in and we met a rain and hail storm. But, rather than being a thing of misery, it was more of a refreshment. Besides, it didn't last long and it got rather hot again soon enough. At the bottom of the trail we all decided to swim in the first glacial lake. It was ice cold but felt so good and was so much fun! It really was a perfect Rocky Mountain summer day.We returned to Calgary for a pizza dinner which we all devoured, hungry as we were from the day's activities.[AFG_gallery id='169']