Paradise Meadows did look a bit like the 'Great White North' on the opening day of the Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre - still about 1.5 m of snow on the meadows, though it is melting steadily. The forecast is for several sunny days in a row coming up however.
In spite of the snow, marsh marigolds and swamp lantern are blooming in the wet areas where the snow has melted. Birds seen around the Centre include gray jays (whiskey jacks) , juncos, and a red-breasted sapsucker which visited the building. Hermit thrush & varied thrush were heard singing nearby.
Many people are eager to start hiking, though possibly only one hiker today may reach his camping destination - he was prepared with GPS tracks to follow. A good familiarity with the terrain, and knowledge of GPS or map & compass, are advisable beyond the meadows, since the summer trails are all still completely covered, and even signposts are not yet fully visible.
Visitors today came from Belgium, Australia, and the lower mainland, as well as many from the Comox Valley or down Island. Lots of questions about the record snow levels. Thanks to Isabella for helping out today!
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