Summer has begun in Paradise Meadows, as the Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre has opened for the season.
The Centre is located at the Paradise Meadows trailhead in Strathcona Provincial Park, adjacent to Mount Washington Alpine Resort’s Raven Lodge. Volunteers staff the Centre for visitor and trail information from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Centre is operated by the Strathcona Wilderness Institute (SWI), a non-profit society, which has organized a full schedule of summer programs. SWI also operates the information hut at Parks headquarters at Buttle Lake.
The first event this Sunday is the annual Strathcona Bird Search, an informal count of birds in the Paradise Meadows area, from 10 a.m. till about noon. Pre-register at coordinator@strathconapark.org.
Birding expertise is not required but binoculars are encouraged. Be prepared for some snow on the trails.
SWI nature walks and hikes continue through the summer. For the full schedule, visit www.strathconapark.org. For current information on activities and trail conditions, visit http://strathconapark.blogspot.com.
For all activities: Dress for the weather, wear proper footwear, bring lunch or snacks, water, bug spray and sun protection. No pets on SWI nature walks and hikes unless otherwise noted.
SWI programs are free, although a donation of $5 to 10 is appreciated to help with ongoing activities. All activities start at the Wilderness Centre.
— Strathcona Wilderness Institute