Adventures for Wilderness, Full Moon Hike – February 12, 2025

February 13, 2025

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Text by Sara Heerema, Photos by Lindsey Wallis and Sara Heerema

The morning started at a very chilly -22ºC, and things were looking cold for the evening’s activities. Thankfully, the temperature started picking up as the clouds began to roll out in the afternoon. We ended up with a brave group of 15 led by Lindsey Wallis, armed with headlamps and hand warmers.

As the group met in the parking lot, the moon hung low on the horizon, barely showing through the gaps in the trees. We started into the darkened forest where we were met by a thick layer of fresh snow under our boots. Playing around with our phones ‘night mode’ settings was quickly replaced by looking around.

A few bridge crossings later, we emerged into an open field completely illuminated by moonlight. The full moon stood high and bright in the sky, giving us an opportunity to turn off our headlamps and immerse ourselves in the natural spotlight.

The kids took their chance to practice their climbing skills on a huge overturned tree in the field while we prepped for the darkness of the forest again. As we continued winding our way along the trail, glimpses of the moon became more and more frequent as it rose higher in the sky. We had a few stops to check out woodpecker holes in the trees, learn about the Trans Canada Trail, and think about our own connections to nature. By the time we reached the final hill, the moon had crested the treetops.

Happy to be back at a warm fire, we shared some tea, hot chocolate, and marshmallows, and enjoyed the novelty of the wilderness in a different light.

We can’t wait until the next moonlit hike!