Hallowed space

Trails at Strathgartney were decked out in their autumn glory. Leaves covered the ground 

but many remained on the trees despite the high winds the previous day. 

A week of miserable weather had kept us inside and my husband and I were glad to be hiking again. The golden grand-dog was as delighted as we were.

Our pilgrimage to the Creekside trail descended the Bonshaw Hills through the gold-leafed birches. 

At the beginning of the trail, young maple trees in their yellow finery filled the spaces at ground level. 

Though it lacks colour, a path through dense coniferous trees is always a favourite.

Red adds to the foliage along the trail 

while the predominant yellow creates a glow in places. 

Late last month, the creek was dry but after a week of rain, it now had a gentle stream. The sound of the water filled the space.

The area around the creek looked like a naturally open space topped with deciduous trees high above.

It has the feel of a cathedral’s nave, the ceiling of which was crafted by the Master’s hand. 

The openness of the area, the colours and sound of the water could only be imagined or dreamt.

A hallowed space indeed!

We continued on out of the valley and along the creek to the Rock and Roll and Hemlock Trails, buoyed by a sense of well being which nature at her best provides!