The Beaver Hills Biodiversity Trail was officially opened today. I hiked it on Tuesday and spent a peaceful 2 hours in the forest.

The trails were littered with fallen leaves. The purple asters and bright red rose hips added pops of color. Mushrooms grew from the earthy forest floor. 

The pond surfaces were covered with duck weed and ducks. As I approached, they took flight. I was silent so it was not something that I said.

I took advantage of all the benches placed along the trail. The wind rustled the leaves in the treetops. The waterfowl called from the ponds. As I sat on the bench beneath the towering spruce, I could smell the sap seeping from the rough bark. 

A moose hiked the trail before me. Its hoof prints were embedded in the soft soil. I could see where it foraged for food. 

This trail has become a favorite. The sights, sounds and peacefulness of the forest are addictive. I'm really 'lichen' the forest experiences on this trail.

http://www.strathcona.ca/departments/communications/news/2016/9/9/new-interpretive-trail-biodiversity-experience/