Wye Marsh Snowshoe Ecotour in Midland Ontario
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Get More Gone Outside
Awakening to a clear morning, a reflection of the sun glistening from freshly powdered snow upon the ground.
A temperature so fresh and crisp each breath can be noticed followed by the enjoyment of the great outdoors.
With the mixture of softly settled snow and a pure outdoor atmosphere, our first adventure takes us to the Wye Marsh in Midland, Ontario.
How can you walk on snow without sinking?
Snowshoeing was our chosen adventure activity for today.
Strapping on a traditional pair of wooden snow shoes seems much more exciting knowing that it was the chosen method of transportation in winter long ago by many aboriginals.
The winding path through the grounds of the Wye Marsh first led us to the trumpeter swan migratory resting station. The enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, Adrian, informed us of the difficulties faced in re-populating the endangered trumpeter swan in Ontario.
Plants were introduced to us that may prove useful or very harmful in the wilderness. Examples included a few edible plants providing the proper nutrients for survival in the wilderness, and a plant that will prove to be fatal if ingested.
The next destination along the trail route brought the group to a resting spot in the forest where important winter survival skills and knowledge were explained in detail.
The three most important orders of actions to remember when you are severely lost in the wilderness are: find and build shelter, gather wood to start a fire and signal for help.
Of course, your moments of worry become easier if you are prepared before you set out on your journey. Having the appropriate items in your survival kit can be the difference between an unexpected situation and very serious circumstances.
Simple items such as steel wool, batteries, cotton balls, flint and petro jelly can improve the fire starting process dramatically.
Our minds were captivated as we roasted a hot dog and sipped on a coffee and hot chocolate while these important skills were explained to us.
The easiest and most time efficient way of building your shelter is using the classic A-frame shelter method.
Bringing a pencil and paper along with you can be a great way to document the exciting or unfortunate moments of your journey. You could also try a cedar tea, which is a great way to enjoy the surroundings of nature.
Navigation is also an important factor in determining your direction and location.
Do you have a watch? A basic, not commonly known navigation technique can be used with this simple item. A general understanding of the compass and GPS was explained as we found our way back to the reception area in the park.
A knowledgeable and important understanding of the significance of the Wye Marsh, wilderness animals and vegetation as well as winter survival summarizes a great afternoon in the fresh and crisp winter of February.
If you are interested in the snowshoe eco-tour, contact info@wyemarsh.com or call (705) 526-7809 for more details or reservations.