During each of the Arctic Skies learning vacations, there is an afternoon snowmobile excursion into the boreal forest. Churchill Northern Studies Centre sits on the edge of the tundra and the forest. I always love these excursions, as the trees give us protection and relief from the blowing winds.
Komatics were used to ferry us out to the site which was less than a mile away. A komatic is a giant sled which holds about 8 people. It is pulled behind a snowmobile. On this particular day the sun was shining and the trees were covered in snow. Actually, the trees are always covered in snow during the time we are here.
While there is very little or no snow in front of CNSC, you need snowshoes if you are going to step off from the packed snowmobile trail. Many people did try out snowshoes while others accepted a snowmobile ride through the forest.
My fellow volunteer Kate and I had some fun with a selfie (challenge with cold fingers) and reflections from her tinted goggles.
Staff members did a snow sampling demonstration for the ARctic Skies group. Each year, there is an Earthwatch team, and team members go out each day to sample the snowpack. I am always in awe of the dedication of those groups.
I always like to walk home through the forest and come out onto Launch Road. The rocket launchers are landmarks that make it impossible for even the most direction challenged- that would be me! The serenity and calm of the forest was quickly replaced with a very icy cold wind along the open roa. Hot chocolate was not far away though.
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