A SUMMER EVENING STROLL ...

Sometimes all we need to do to feel like a tourist is to take a new look at an old place. In Richmond, BC, there is a trail called the West Dyke Trail.Thisurban trail gives one the feeling of strolling along a rural shoreline. The views are both restful and beautiful. At first the trail follows the mighty Fraser River, and then it gently turns to meander alongside marshland over which one can see the natural beauty for great distances. There are views over the Gulf of Georgia, north to the Coastal Mountains and Howe Sound, and southwest towards the Gulf Islands. One does not even need binoculars to enjoy the plentiful bird life along the estuary and marshes. Watch and listen carefully. I am not an expert regarding birds but even I can recognize many of the species. I have seen Redwing Blackbirds, Canada Geese, majestic Bald Eagles, hawks, herons,and of course the ubiquitous seagulls. There are also many other varieties of water fowl that I cannot identify but still love to watch. This popular trail abounds with walkers, runners and cyclists of all ages. Yet there are many moments when one is quite alone and can absorb the serenity of this natural place. It is so very easy to forget that you are very close to a major international airport and several large, busy cities. I took a walk with a friend one gentle summer evening. The sun was low in the sky and the colours were beginning to change. However the various insects were still making their cacophony of sounds as they strove to finish their work for the day. A gentle breeze carried bird songs to us as it refreshed us on this otherwise quite warm evening. If you travel up here to Canada and visit us in Vancouver, be sure to take some time to enjoy some of the lovely walks. Consider strolling the West Dyke trail in Richmond where, after about 10km you will find yourself in the charming village of Steveston. This is a perfect way to end your walk with the beverage of your choice and some fish and chips. You will never have fish fresher than in Steveston. Try the take-out at Pajos on the wharf. After that exercise you deserve to enjoy their famed fish & chips in the sunny outdoors. http://www.richmond.ca/parks/trails/trails-map/westdyke.htm