I had my destination in mind the moment I awoke. Packing up my things I quickly cleaned up and set off on the road. The sun shone brightly as I soon arrived at the star attraction of the day, Riding Mountain National Park.
Picking up a map at the booth on my way in, I promptly found myself exploring the forest that lay before me. My first hike of the day took me to Kippan’s Mill. Winnie being the entertainer she is tried to pounce on every butterfly that flew across the trail, the simple joys of being a dog. As I read the various signs along the path I learned of the lands unique history. Not even 100 years ago this was where so many people spent their lives chopping lumber and making their homes. Now tall grass and wildflowers were all that remained of the once bustling settlement.
It wasn’t long before I back in the car and heading deeper into the park. As per usual time was flying by as I found myself constantly stopping at the various sights spread about. Lakes lay scattered in abundance among the thick timber.
My dawdling eventually took me to the biggest pool of water in the park, Clear Lake. The weather had changed, growing cloudy with strong winds. Waves came crashing into shore as the waters grew tumultuous. I watched as the sea birds navigated the strong gusts with masterful finesse. Flying my drone all the time I get a feel for what it’s like to navigate through the air, finding new appreciation for the various creatures that find their home among the skies.
As I sat there I noticed an older man setting up a board and sail. It wasn’t long before he took it out to brave the waves. His wife stood on the shore taking pictures and I walked up to chat. Turns out he was 61 years old! Age hadn’t dimmed his sense of adventure as he now moved along the waters with surprising speed. Though I never did meet him face to face I was inspired, I hope to be as adventurous at his age.
Having spent an hour at the lake I took to exploring more of the park once again. A short drive down the road led to a twisting dirt path that took me to the Wishing Well, an area adorned with carefully tendered flowers leading up to the well itself. I peered over the edge, looking down into it’s depths before making a wish and being on my way.
A little aimless wandering and I found myself in the main town of the park. I took some time wandering around, grabbing a bite to eat and taking a stroll down to the water before I said my final goodbye.
Heading south out of the park I set fourth to a town called Brandon to set up camp for the night. The setting sun in the west and a rainbow vibrantly glowing in the east kept my mind in a state of awe. I looked to my right and saw the sign, I had arrived in town at last. I made my way to the campground where one of the owners greeted me. We talked for a bit as she shared some of the history of the campground. It was owned by a group of LOL (little old ladies, her words) that kept the campground tidy and functioning. With the arrival of dusk it came time to head to bed, a full day of adventures coming to a close.
