Exploring – Wheeler Creek Trail

Posted on April 8, 2015 by Kim Halloran-Fry

I fell behind logging some of our hiking adventures. In retrospect now though Wheeler Creek is probably my favorite trail so far. It is just outside Huntsville, UT and runs 11 miles. We didn't see all 11 miles, mind you, but probably got a third of the trail explored.

The nice thing about this hike is that the trail – at least from the trailhead up about 3miles – is so wide. Though it is a steady incline it is also regular walking the whole way, not too much actual climbing. After the last few hikes which entailed a fair amount of actual climbing and hoisting and well, sucking air for some of us, this one is remembered fondly.

The trail wound up the canyon with views of the mountains all around and the stream running alongside. There were mountain bikers and the occasional fellow hikers but by and large it was much lower traffic than many of the other trails we have hit. Making a note to self to return especially as the trees turn in the fall.

The Charlecote Deer

Posted on June 28, 2013 by Kim Halloran-Fry

They surprised us to say the least, those deer. Moira finished her dance competition early in the day and since we were already a couple hours from home we hoped to see something of the area before we left it. We chose the Charlecote estate, home to the Lucy family since the 12th century the brochure said.

It was late in the day by then so the manor house was closing to the public but the grounds were open. We read there were deer on the property but it can be hit and miss with brochures and sightings we have learned. Yet, there they were. Down, down the trail, across the pasture, through the gate, up the hill and there.they.were.

I was in a skirt and full of scratches from trudging through brush to get right up close. It was very cool to walk amongst the herd instead of peering through fences. That made it well worth the battle scars on my part. They were not tagged and, though cautious, did not startle easily. This was great for me since I didn't have a zoom lens along. What you see is how close we were.

The world is a beautiful place. : )