It snowed nearly non-stop for a few days before today; not a lot of accumulation, but enough. So it was an easy decision to bust out the snowshoes and head for the hills. We’ve both been itching to get out, and it’s sad that all of December passed without a chance because there hasn’t been enough snow. Come on, Ottawa, what gives? Last year was fantastic for snowfall, and we went many times (sometimes three times a day!).
One of the many great things about snowshoes is that they allow you to “off road.” While cross-country skis generally confine you to trails, with snowshoes you can go pretty much anywhere. And the more snow you’ve got, the easier the terrain is to traverse. Places otherwise inaccessible in the summer can now be easily conquered. Although my irrational fear of bears is always lurking in my mind somewhere, telling me that the large lump up ahead is a hibernating bear that I’m about to make very angry as I scramble up over top. But that’s never happened. The most exciting near-animal encounter was coming across large cat tracks last winter while snowsnoeing along a cliff ridge with some good friends last winter.
We went into Gatineau Park to P15 and did the No. 70 trail (PDF map here) out and back to the Healey Cabin. It was bitterly cold and the sharp wind was harsh as we made our way over the open field, through a gully and to the trees. It was so good to reach the protection of the forest! The silent, magestic trees enveloped us in their cozy and welcoming midst. Oh hello, old friends, it's really nice to see you.
The fresh snow was piled thickly but lightly on all the branches, and we were treated to demi-blizzards with each slight breeze. Beautiful to watch the snow come dusting down, but chilly when it somehow consistently fell into that warm crevice between neck and scarf... What a treat to have a roaring fire in the Healey cabin to warm up by. Note to self: next time bring tin-foil wrapped sandwiches to toast on the fire for lunch!
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