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Upper Huffman to Hemlock Knob

Today was a first in Taiga Trekkers history, as one dad pointed out... The dads outnumbered the moms 2:1. That's because there were 2 dads and me, along with 3 kiddos. It was a gorgeous morning for a post Christmas madness hike indeed! We hit the trail from the Upper Huffman parking lot and headed toward the Gas Line trail and did part of the Hemlock Knob Trail. We toted kids in Ergos and sleds while Denali & Foraker glowed pink in their sunrise alpenglow dresses. It is always wise, on winter hike in particular, to bring a backup mode of transportation for your little one. In today's case one of the dads brought both a sled and an Ergo. He used both for his little girl.

Our Little Bear broke out the snowshoes for the first time this season. Thanks to a generous donation by Tubbs Snowshoes, we have 6 pairs in various kid sizes, for families to try out on hikes. I usually bring them to all winter hikes, but if you're interested in using a pair shoot me an email and I'll make sure I have them with me. I wore the Kowalli Cover to help keep our Cub warm in the Ergo. It is truly one of my favorite pieces of winter gear. Like the snowshoes, this cover was donated to our lending library by Kowalli. Again shoot me an email if this is something you'd like to use on a hike!

It was great to be back on the trails in the Anchorage Bowl again today! I can't thank Amanda enough for keeping Taiga Trekkers going in my absence! I hope to see you all out on the trail again soon. We hike every Thursday in almost all weather. Please join us!

Ruth Arcand Park trails

It was a balmy 34 degrees, and 10 families were ready to enjoy it this morning at Ruth Arcand Park. Two new families joined us today-- so welcome!

This is one of my favorite places to hike in the winter--- multi use trails (they are equestrian trails for the most part), a large field and a playground. What more can you ask for?

Given the new 12 inches of snow yesterday, hiking was quite a workout. Many opted to pull littles in sleds or carry on backs. Few, if any, kiddos actually volunteered to hike on this one. Not always a bad thing...

We snaked through the snow-covered trees and turned right at the fork in the trails. This afforded us some good up and downhill grades for all to enjoy. After a bit, many decided to yield to the cries of "play on the playground!" and headed back to do just that.

If you have not been here before, it is a great 'in town' hike that is not usually crowded. Take Abbott road east, and turn into the Ruth Arcand Park road (there are signs) on your right (it is within sight of Elmore Rd). Continue down the road for less than .5 miles and there is a parking lot on your right. The trails start at the to the left of the lot.

Come and enjoy some wonderful winter hiking with us next week!

South Bivouac Trail

 

It was warmer today!  At least it was only in the single digits below zero.  Two other hardy (or stir crazy) families joined us in this icy wonderland. You have to go out and see the ice crystals.  Another mother described them perfectly as looking like rock candy.

 A short walk from the South Bivouac trailhead is a great hill for sledding (just use good judgement and steering).  Just a bit further is a little bridge crossing over Campbell Creek.  It is frozen and gorgeous.  If you need to take a Christmas picture, this location would be perfect right now.

 My crew lasted about 45 minutes.  When it is this cold, I don't even care about distance.  I just need some fresh air.  I have never been on this part of the Far North Bicentennial Park trail system.  You can see the Hiltop Ski Area jumping structure and it doesn't look that long to get to Abbott Loop Community Center.  These trails often close in the summer due to bear activity, so play and explore now while they are sleeping!

(Post and pictures by Lia Keller)