In spite of grey skies, seven hikers set out along a snow machine trail down to Esten Lake. The unusual March weather created much more challenging conditions than anticipated (the hike leader had walked the trail 2 days prior to our hike).
Boot crampons/ice cleats and poles were put to good use to safely manage the wet, icy conditions. The ice on Esten Lake looked to be quite thick but was covered by a layer of water. Surprisingly, while we enjoyed the scenery safely from the shore, a snowmachine roared past us, driving on the lake, spraying water as they sped around the back of an island! Brave or foolish, we could only hope that they arrived home safely.
We stopped for a snack by the Esten Lake boat launch, before making our way back to our cars.
An enjoyable jaunt in the great outdoors.
