The Friendship Trail

I love to walk and hike, but in the wintertime it can be hazardous to venture out, both because it is too cold (for me at least!) and because of snow and ice on sidewalks and trails. That’s when the treadmill in the basement comes in handy! But I do prefer the outdoors and take every opportunity to get out there.

A path called the Friendship Trail connects the towns of Black Diamond and Turner Valley. After a snowfall the path is quickly cleared for the diehards among us, and for many the Friendship Trail is part of a 10 km loop. It is my goal to walk that 10K this coming summer. Actually, it was my goal last summer, but I never made it!

The Town of Black Diamond’s website describes the trail this way:

“This gentle 3 km paved trail linking Black Diamond with Turner Valley is popular among walkers, joggers and cyclists. The trail runs on the north side of Highway 22 and passes scenic viewpoints, secluded rest areas and the site of the old McPherson coal mine which inspired Black Diamond's name. Impressive rock formations along the trail speak to the area's remarkable geology that sustained the Turner Valley oilfields boom during the 1920's to 1940's.”

Yesterday I walked the Friendship Trail with my grandson. The Chinook wind was at our backs which helped propel him on his scooter and gave me an extra push up the hills. I didn’t bring my camera but I took a few pictures with my phone. If I knew where the old coal mine is I would have taken a picture of it, too! More for me to explore in the coming months...

The Friendship Trail at about the halfway point

Can you see the Happy Face?

Here's another face... sort of...

Crossing the Sheep River in Black Diamond