Photo of the Week 2018-11-19

A recent visit to Ottawa offered the opportunity for the first snowy winter hike of the season (although it's still technically fall) and the chosen location was Parc de la Gatineau / Gatineau Park across the river in Quebec.

Freshly fallen snow painting the landscape in marshmallow white and crisp cold air tingling exposed skin awoke familiar sensations. We set out from the Meech Lake head of trails (P11) with the idea of a short outing to enjoy the fresh air. Along the way, a side trail sign indicating "ruins" piqued my interest and just had to be explored ... and what a treat was in store.

Wilson Ruins

We came across the "Willson Ruins" at the end of Little Meech Lake where the water flows out and tumbles down a steep sections of rapids. The impromptu encounter provided an intriguing opportunity to learn about yet another tidbit of Canadian history. You can follow the link above to find out more for yourself if you desire.

Subsequent reading on Parc de la Gatineau has placed it on my list of "must return to" sites. Fantastic fall colours, wonderful waterfalls and the MacKenzie King Estate all remain to be explored ...

DJE