December 28, 2025
~ submitted by Matthew Lettington
We had nearly a full group out for this early-season snowshoe trip, thanks in part to a recent snowfall that piled up just enough snow to make snowshoes worthwhile. In many spots, the snow was only about five inches deep—shallow enough that the picnic benches were still visible. If we’d wanted to, we could have stopped for a proper sit-down break!
A recent cold snap allowed us to cross Battleship Lake, though we sensibly stayed close to shore. Previous travellers had already packed down the summer route between Battleship Lake and Lake Helen Mackenzie, making for straightforward travel through the trees. When we reached Lake Helen Mackenzie, we opted not to cross the lake itself, instead following the summer trail around the shoreline and ice to reach our usual lunch spot.
The kids put my shovel to good use, clearing a small patch of ice for some boot skating. I let that continue—briefly—until the energy level tipped toward zany and I decided it was time to rein things in before someone ended up on their head.
On the return to the cars, temperatures warmed noticeably. By the time we reached the icicle wall, snow bombs were dropping all around us—a classic reminder that winter was starting to loosen its grip.
Thanks to everyone for a great day out!