I went exploring. I was trying to think of what to do in between shifts when I was scheduled to work splits. There was 3.5 hours that needed to be filled. The first day I decided to go home. That worked fine until I added up how many kilometers I was putting on in a day.

The second day I decided to check out a new hiking trail. It officially opened recently and wasn't too far out of town; the Riverside Nature Trail. It's part of the Trans Canada Trail. What a gem! 

The hard packed gravel trail meandered through some magnificent autumn colors. I wasn't dressed for a hike but I had my camera with me so decided to take a short walk. 

There is a trail head close to the North Saskatchewan River. A couple of fishermen had their lines tossed into the water. The trail takes hikers through some tall aspens. It opens into little meadows. One had a pond that was covered with geese. This was only in the first kilometer.

When the forest opens, the trail is within sight of the river. Geese flew overhead and I could hear the water rushing by. 

This was just a teaser. I have another split shift this week but I'll be going prepared. The hiking boots are already packed and I'll be heading there immediately after the morning shift. What a great place to have lunch and see some new sights at the same time.

Stay tuned for the second installment.