Friday, March 13, 2009

Ground Level at Ouimet Canyon

During the spring and summer the base of the canyon is vulnerable to foot traffic due to the delicate vegetation. However in the winter, if you can struggle through thigh-high snow, and somewhat steep slopes, the view is terrific.
Bruce and I ventured down last weekend. I had been in the area the week before, but after tripping in my snowshoes, and floundering until I could release the harnesses, I decided I needed a rescuer should I try it again. Apparently the lake we walked on was stocked in other years with pickerel. May have to risk the idea of being stalked by bears and try it in the summer...mmm, maybe not!


Top left and over a bit, you might be able to make out the viewing pod the
public uses in the summer. When we first used to come here in the 70's, the public walked out to the edge to have a look-see!


A better view of the viewing pod way up there.


Despite warnings from me of being impaled by falling icicles, Bruce had to have
a closer look at the ice coming out of the rock. I did my part and took the pictures...I would have wiped out anyway!


A view back from whence we came. (up around the corner on the left).



These icicles were about 4 ft long and just ground water as it flowed over the
bare rock on the surface.


Heading back...thankfully ski-dos make a walkable trail for the 2 km or so back to the car.