We went for our regular walk at McKenzie Trails on Sunday, our first visit since the storm on Wednesday. At least a dozen large trees, mostly Balsam Poplars but also two Spruce, were blown down across the path looping through the woods. All of these fallen trees had already been cut up and rolled clear of this path. In addition, countless large branches and snapped tree tops had also been moved off the roads and other trails. Thus, the many picnickers, walkers and cyclists could fully enjoy the park on this beautiful long weekend. Only skate-boarders and in-line skaters might still have had a problem.
By actual count, in addition to our car, there were 95 vehicles at McKenzie Trails when we left at about 2:00 p.m. – 77 in the pavilion area, 12 near the river ramp, one parked at the entry and four more driving in.
Presumably the roads and paths elsewhere in our park system had also been cleared by then and were being enjoyed by large numbers.
Many thanks park staff.
Fred and Celine Brittain, Red Deer