From the Operations & Engagement Manager, Thiviya
Working in the office has been exciting, but what a treat it was to join volunteer hike leader, Barbara Mason, on a guided hike of Father Troys Trail earlier in October.
October 4th was a fantastic day! The weather was warm and wonderful, the people even more so. Our group of eight included hikers of all levels; we had some experienced hikers who were familiar with the trail, amateur hikers acquainting themselves with the trail, and even some retired hikers who dusted their hiking boots off for the first time since pre-COVID. After a brief safety check-in and preliminary introductions, we were off!
Having met in Torbay, we carpooled to Flatrock to begin our hike. It was a windy walk up to the beamer, but the sun was radiant. The beamer never ceases to amaze me – a sentiment I’m sure many Newfoundland hikers share. After snapping a few photos, we continued on towards Torbay. The stretching hills were scattered with shades of red and orange throughout the autumn flora. We were lucky enough to find a blueberry bush, still laden with fruit (there really is nothing better than a mid-hike blueberry find). Along the trail, we spotted different birds and even saw a toad up close on the trail! Each corner we turned revealed a new vista and each vista was cause for pause as we gazed across the Atlantic Ocean. All the while, we kept our eyes on the coastline, watching for the specific bend that signified the end of our hike in Torbay.
In my position, I am responsible for much of the behind-the-scenes work of the ECTA. Tucked away in a corner at the office, I chip away at emails, develop program materials and collaborate with other staff and volunteers to keep the trail maintained and programs running. Joining this guided hike with Barbara Mason reminded me of what we work so hard for. I experienced, first-hand, everyone’s contentment along Father Troys Trail. We shared the joys of seeing a variety of wildlife and awe-inspiring sights, the efforts of multiple steep climbs, and the unanimous desires for hydration and snack breaks. The East Coast Trail is so important to the community and helps foster a sense of connectedness through programs such as these Guided Hikes. The trail continues to remind me how interconnected I am – and how anyone who enjoys the trail is – with the ecosystems that weave throughout the coastline and how they offer solace to any adventurers who seek it.
