The snowshoes got dusted off today for the first time this winter.  Snow depth on the lake surface along the Amisk Wuche Trail was perfect for snowshoeing.  I made my way down the hill on the south side of the parking lot and put the shoes on at the bottom.  X-country ski tracks outlined the shore.  I headed east toward the boardwalk.

On the way, I noticed a number of holes where muskrats had bored to the surface.  The underwater plants brought above the ice were frozen into little heaps.  Animal tracks created designs in the snow.  There were elk, coyote, deer and mouse trails.

I veered south when I got close to the boardwalk.  This route took me alongside a large beaver dam and into a small slough.  I accessed the trail just before my favorite section; the one that with huge spruce trees that form a canopy overhead.

I hiked to the bench that I usually stop at for a break.  At that point I put the snowshoes back on and ventured out to the lake once again.  Large, fluffy snowflakes began falling.  They surrounded me during the entire trek back to the parking lot.

I should have put the skis into the vehicle.  The temperature was perfect for outdoor activities.  I'll be sure to bring them on my next visit to Elk Island.

On the way home I stopped at the Cooking Lake - Blackfoot Recreation Area and took advantage of the

perfect ice on the snowbank rink.  Since I was there last, some benches have been added so skaters have a spot to sit to put their skates on.  They must have flooded it earlier today.  Mine were the only marks on the surface.  

So far I've had the kicksled, skates and snowshoes out. The snow is minimal this winter but there is enough to enjoy and there have not been many days with frigid temperatures so it has been great for outdoor activities.