On Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at 10:59 am, Thunder Bay is tilted the furthest away from the sun and we begin the long celestial trek back toward summer. It is a great time to reflect on the season and the quite slumber of the forest.

This hike, weather permitting, is intended as a journey of quiet reflection in the forest in the spirit of Robert Frost’s poem “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”. The outing will be on foot or snowshoes depending on the snow conditions. We will walk the relatively easy 2.3 km trail though the forest, absorb the spirit of the woods, explore the signs of wildlife and maybe even see some late-day birds prior to the Christmas Bird count. Christmas is a busy season full of excitement and commitments. All the more important to take the time to relax with a walk in the woods and see what we can see. This will be an afternoon walk. Bring a thermos with a hot drink and we will find a spot to contemplate the wonders of nature and find way to enjoy the shortest day.

Dress appropriate for the weather conditions, a small sit-upon would be beneficial. Meet at the Wishart Conservation Area Forest parking area at 1:00 PM and we will hike the trail.
The parking area is approximately 10.6 km north of Wardrope Ave on Onion Lake Road. Onion Lake road is hilly with lots of curves and is paved with some sections in poor condition so drive carefully. The Wishart Conservation Forest is an LRCA property and parking fees apply. Either the daily permit purchased online for $5 or a valid Explore card is required.

TBFN outings follow all Covid 19-guides set forth by Thunder Bay District Health Unit and the Ontario Government

Please register by contacting Gerry Racey at 807-939-1620 or email gdracey@tbaytel.net.