The newly created Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area located at the junction of Jackson, Jones, and Dubuque Counties was the focus of a full day of hiking and exploration on September 22. Featured attractions included Lost Canyon with its numerous cliff-face caves, the main canyon overtook down onto Whitewater Creek, and streamside Whitewater Creek. More adventurous off-trail scrambles took many along the base of the cliff below the overlook and along a rugged section of the Whitewater Creek shoreline including rediscovery of a cave on the cliff-face above the creek. The day concluded with a potluck dinner at the Jamison's home where Bill prepared barbecued pork, turkey, and salmon!! Check the Winter Outings, February 9 and 23.
A section of Heritage Trail's adjoining prairie west of Farley was cleared of invading brush on October 20 by Charlie and Gretel Winterwood, Gary and Carol Thompson, and Dick Worm. Thanks to DCCB's Brian Preston for making the arrangements.
The very next day, October 21, 7 canoes and 4 kayaks carrying 17 folks converged on the high and fast flowing Maquoketa River at Canton and zipped along to the Royertown Access. Several eagles and colorful leaves were seen along the way. At Buzzard Ridge, the usual gravel beach was submerged so the docking for a climb to the high, scenic overlook was a bit cumbersome.
The weather cooperated on October 25 and 10 folks including two Middle School youth enjoyed a bright full moon hike at Swiss Valley Park. Crossing the new bridge over the Hanging Bog in the moonlight was a special treat, listening to the trickle of water passing by underneath.
More full moon scenery including glistening icicles of Bridal Veil Falls was enjoyed at Pikes Peak State Park during night hikes on November 23 and 24. DAY-hiking Effigy Mound's North Unit to Hanging Rock (for lunch) was cool/windy but provided views of the Mississippi River's silky sheen.
A section of Heritage Trail's adjoining prairie west of Farley was cleared of invading brush on October 20 by Charlie and Gretel Winterwood, Gary and Carol Thompson, and Dick Worm. Thanks to DCCB's Brian Preston for making the arrangements.
The very next day, October 21, 7 canoes and 4 kayaks carrying 17 folks converged on the high and fast flowing Maquoketa River at Canton and zipped along to the Royertown Access. Several eagles and colorful leaves were seen along the way. At Buzzard Ridge, the usual gravel beach was submerged so the docking for a climb to the high, scenic overlook was a bit cumbersome.
The weather cooperated on October 25 and 10 folks including two Middle School youth enjoyed a bright full moon hike at Swiss Valley Park. Crossing the new bridge over the Hanging Bog in the moonlight was a special treat, listening to the trickle of water passing by underneath.
More full moon scenery including glistening icicles of Bridal Veil Falls was enjoyed at Pikes Peak State Park during night hikes on November 23 and 24. DAY-hiking Effigy Mound's North Unit to Hanging Rock (for lunch) was cool/windy but provided views of the Mississippi River's silky sheen.