If you’re an outdoor enthusiast and like to get out and explore all of what nature has to offer, Northern Sunrise County is inviting you to attend its Pat’s Creek Trail Guided Hike.
The Hike is to be held Aug. 8 starting at 10:30 a.m. will begin at the Pat’s Creek Lower Trailhead.
“Northern Sunrise County chose to do this guided hike to help promote its beautiful parks and trails,” says NSC summer program coordinator Emily Schuler.
“As some people may have never been out to Pat’s Creek Trail before, this hike gives people the opportunity to go explore with someone who knows the area and the beauty found in it as well.”
Schuler says Sharon Krushel will be leading the hike. She was chosen because of her knowledge of the area and all of its species.
“She is the author of Mother Earth, Boreal Beauty of the Peace County, with Flora, Fauna & Fungi ID,” says Schuler.
“The trail also contains interpretive signs that Sharon herself helped create, making her the perfect tour guide for this hike.”
Schuler says there is no set distance for the hike, but they will decide as a group what everyone is comfortable with. The entire hike, if completed, is 5.9 km.
“Pat’s Creek was chosen because it contains very beautiful trails that are just outside of Peace River,” she explains.
“Although you are just outside of town, the serene environment makes it feel like you are much further away. Pat’s Creek is also rooted in history as most of the trail follows the old Highway 2 that closed in the late 1960s, which is very cool.”
Schuler urges people to attend the hike to explore the landscape of the trail, to learn the history of the trail, and to discover all the plants and animals that can be found on the trail.
“I think this hike is great for anyone, whether you are an experienced hiker or just want to get outside and enjoy the outdoors,” Schuler adds.
“I also think people who are interested in learning about all types of plants and fungi would really enjoy this hike.”
No registration is required for the hike, Schuler says to show up at 10:30 a.m. and be ready to trek the trails.
“To be prepared to go on the hike people should dress for the weather, bring bug spray, and water,” she explains.
“There is no set time for this hike as it depends on how far we decide to go, our pace as a group, and how many stops we take, but it will likely take 1.5 to 2 hours.”
Schuler says Krushel recommends having two apps: Merlin Bird ID and Seek by iNaturalist.
“We will hike to the place where the highway fell into the gorge and then decide as a group if we want to continue to the top to have lunch at the picnic bench near the fairgrounds,” Schuler explains.
“Bring your own lunch.”
For more information email Emily at eschuler@northernsunrise.net
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter