Not many people venture out when the clouds open up, but I do.  I'm usually the only one on the trail.  I love to walk in the rain so when the showers started on Monday, I drove to Elk Island Park.  

The understory along the Amisk Wuche Trail is getting thick and leafy.  I could hear many species of birds but to see them was impossible.  They created a symphony amidst the tangled upper branches.  

I heard the raindrops on the leaves.  Their soothing sound created a serene and relaxing environment for a hike.  At the beaver pond the drops gently hit the pond surface. 

As I walked, there were areas on the trail where the tree canopy overhead was so thick that the rain did not penetrate.  In other areas, little streams flowed down the trail.  I love the sound of running water.

There were many wildflowers in bloom.  Each provided a hint of color in the green canvas of the forest.  Lungwort, marsh marigolds, bunchberry and Western Canada violets were just a few of the many flowers along the trail.

There are many positives to walking in the rain.  The water keeps the pollen in check.  No itchy, swollen eyes.  The water keeps the mosquitoes at bay.  Those miserable little bloodsuckers don't like to be wet.  The sound of the water rejuvenates the soul as the droplets themselves rejuvenate the forest.  There is nothing more relaxing than heading outside when the clouds open up.