On March 27, 2024, we explored the beauty of Tynehead Regional Park, in north Surrey. Eleven members and one guest were interested in this outing but as various ailments or weather conditions in parts of South Surrey and Langley prevented all from showing up, the number was reduced to five (three members and two guests). We would have had six, but one member unfortunately got lost in another part of Tynehead Regional Park which has several entrances and alternate trails to explore.
Nevertheless, those who attended enjoyed the outing and were treated to an abundance of evidence that Spring has arrived. While walking on the trails, we viewed Pacific Bleeding Hearts, Red Flowering Currant and Osoberry – all just starting to bud. We also enjoyed seeing False Lily of the Valley unfurling its leaves, Fringe Cup and Siberian Miner’s lettuce emerging from the ground and Bitter cherry trees in full bloom with their white petals. Birds were chattering in the forest and with the help of Phil Henderson, they were identified as Spotted Towhees, Purple Finches, Pacific Wrens and Song Sparrows.
According to Janice Leonard, the trails used to be a lot narrower than they are now. Surrey Parks has done an excellent job of widening the trails so that 4-5 people can walk abreast of each other. They have graded the trails with fine gravel in most parts, which helps to prevent muddy and slippery conditions that could lead to falls.
Although the weather was nasty in other parts of Surrey and Langley, we were lucky to escape the rain. It was cool in the forest but pleasant and peaceful. A slight drizzle started just as we finished our walk at 11:30.
We had hoped our second adventure would have brought more sunshine but as weather can be unpredictable! Wish us luck on our next outing in May or June and we hope you can join us then.
