A week or so after I my last post, I decided to do the whole Riverside loop ... that is, walking upriver on the west side of Cheakamus River, and downriver on the east bank (which I subsequently learned is called Farside).
Not many views of the river along this part, although the roar of it reminds you that you're never far away! The riverbed is bounded by granite cliffs for some way, promising breathtaking views to come.
Not many photos from this portion of the trail as it was very dark in the forest despite it being after 8am.
Even after the switchbacks, the path continues uphill for a while until you suddenly come out at a clearing where the trail splits - and the suspension bridge (///gossip.winger.positioning). This made the effort worth it!
The staggering smell of slashed soil and weeping sap was an assault. The twisted, torn trunks of once-living and life-giving trees, still red and raw.
It is hard to tell the extent of it, but I reckon that 1/3 to 1/2 of the forest east of the upper trail between the suspension bridge and the Riverside trailhead (///plush.spuds.friendlier) has been wrecked. Needless to say, I won't be rushing back there.
If you're biking through the section beside the destruction, take care ... a tilt in the wrong direction could end with you impaled on one of many splintered stumps.The west side, however, will still be a lovely experience for residents and visitors alike to walk and ride.
And the lower part of the east side trail is still very pleasant with views of the
river and lush greenery. I'll probably return there soon to see if I can catch a photo of the kingfisher I saw
a few weeks ago!
I'd written a significantly longer rant but decided against subjecting all 23 of you, my faithful subscribers, to it. Suffice to say, whatever the reason for the destruction, it can surely not be worth it!
Until next time...
Tanya
Pet Photographer
Outdoor Sports Photographer
