Lakeview Trail

Bartek and I had quite the treat this afternoon! We decided to layer on our clothes and head to Elk Island National Park for a short hike!

Elk Island is this national park (aka belongs to the federal gov’t) which protects wildlife, especially bison (buffalo?). They roam freely through the park, so it’s very common to come across an animal of some kind. BUT we didn’t see any this time :s

[Although, once a few years ago, me and a group of friends were camping in the park and they were having a bison 'push'. Basically they were moving the ginormous creatures from one end of the park to the other. This happened at 5 am, and a few escaped into our site.... which means that the sound of heavy breathing/snorting awoke us bright and early! NOT something one wants to wake up to, especially with a hangover in full swing]

What we saw instead was a frozen wonderland and a trail untouched by others since the last snowfall. Oh and the light was spectacular.

It was so quiet and peaceful that the city seemed far away, although it was only like 30 km from us.

We found a nice place to enjoy our lunch. That’s the frozen lake in the background. It was really nice to just stop and relax without any worry of scheduling.

Of course, we had to have some tea <3

(Bartek received this 1/2L Thermos for Christmas. He loves it and now so do I)

Although the trail was only 3.5 km, it was really enjoyable while it lasted. We wanted to go on another trail before we went home, but unfortunately we got a late start so we weren’t sure if we could make it back before the sun set (@ 4pm…uggggh)

But before we left we made sure to stop by the Ukrainian home they have at the park.

Check out those eyebrow vents. That’s right, those two things sticking out of the roof are called eyebrow vents. Super cool.

Ooh! That’s some sexy thatch Rye? Oats? Wheat?

The trip was a complete success and I’m really glad we went. I can’t wait until we can go again. 10 more trails to try out

But I’m done with the outside at this very moment. Instead I’m much more satisfied curled up on the couch with a cup of hot tea, the blend appropriately named “New Year’s Tea”.

Have a great night, lovelies!

xoxox Miranda

Do you know the difference between bison and buffalo? Do you prefer summer hikes or winter hikes? Me, I’m beginning to think winter… no fear of startling a bear!