A Foothills Journey: From Cheeky Squirrels to Mountain Vistas in Alberta
The sun cast a warm glow over the golden hills west of Calgary, where patches of snow dotted the landscape like scattered diamonds. On a breezy January day, the mountains stood boldly against the azure sky, inviting exploration. This journey through the foothills promised encounters with nature's characters, both new and familiar.
The Cheeky Squirrel of Big Hill Springs
At Big Hill Springs Provincial Park near Cochrane, the adventure began with an unexpected chatter. A squirrel perched on a spruce branch at the parking lot's edge, its rough outline visible through the limbs. The camera struggled to focus through the clutter, finally locking on just as the creature bolted. It bounced head-first down the trunk, across the snow, and vanished into tall grass with a few leaps, leaving behind only a photograph of its retreating tail.
This wasn't the last encounter. After parking by a large tree to listen for winter birds like chickadees and nuthatches, the squirrel reappeared, nattering away from its perch. This time, it stood still long enough for a couple of pictures before bouncing to a low rose bush. It grabbed a frozen rose hip and sat behind a parking sign to eat it, seemingly on purpose to tease the observer. Even as the journey continued, the squirrel glared from between branches, its chittering echoing as the car drove away.
Winter's Persistent Flow
Big Hill Springs offered more than just wildlife antics. The water here flows year-round, regardless of temperature, creating patches of green watercress and aquatic grass along the creek. A quick detour revealed the creek trickling on both sides of the bridge, a testament to nature's resilience. The empty parking lot provided a quiet backdrop for observing winter birds, though they remained elusive, hidden among the trees.
Into the Dogpound Creek Valley
Heading north, the breeze momentarily died down, allowing the sound of cattle munching on straw to fill the air. A stop revealed a herd with scattered straw everywhere, marking them as messy eaters against a stunning mountain backdrop. As the route dropped into the Dogpound Creek valley near Bottrel, the wind picked up again, adding a crisp edge to the air.
Inspired by the green seen earlier, a westward detour led past frozen beaver ponds to where springs emerge. Water trickled minimally, with tiny patches of green hinting at life beneath the winter surface. On the shady side of the valley, where snow couldn't reach, moss glowed vibrantly on the forest floor, creating an emerald carpet in the otherwise dormant landscape.
The Foothills' Timeless Appeal
This journey through Alberta's foothills showcased the delicate balance of winter's harshness and nature's persistence. From cheeky squirrels to grazing cattle, and from flowing creeks to glowing moss, each element contributed to a tapestry of seasonal beauty. The mountains stood as silent sentinels, reminding travelers of the wild heart that beats just beyond the city's edge.
Whether seeking wildlife photography opportunities or simply a peaceful drive through scenic landscapes, the foothills near Cochrane offer a refreshing escape. The memories of that sunny January day, with its blend of animal encounters and breathtaking views, linger as a testament to Alberta's natural wonders.
