Bright pink fireweed Patricia Lake with Pyramid Mountain in background Cameron Creek , Waterton
happen and leaves stay green until winter arrives , argh — so don ’ t take the glorious autumn colours for granted !
Typically , I plan outdoor trips for October to ensure that “ autumn ” as we know it will have arrived . This is a good time for landscape and wildlife photography , two of my passions . Besides , it ’ s always nice to hit the road for some sightseeing and to get away from it all . It ’ s rare to get through September without some killing frosts ; such frosts trigger pigment changes and set the landscape on fire , figuratively speaking . Afterwards , chlorophyll , the green pigment that regulates photosynthesis to fuel plants , ceases to function , and orange and yellow carotenoids in the leaves bring on the bright colours that set landscapes ablaze .
I find the pungent smell of fresh fallen leaves , aspen in particular , to be invigorating . I also like to get outdoors in October because Alberta is similar to the geographic area subject to “ trade winds ” in the Southern Hemisphere . In Alberta , northwesterly and westerly winds diminish after September , before the onset of winter . These events often result in cerulean skies with pleasant daytime temperatures , cool nights filled with celestial wonders , and the occasional display of breathtaking northern lights .
Another wonder of nature is the thrill of hearing a bull elk bugle or the honking of Canada
geese and trilling of sandhill cranes as skeins fly south for the winter . These captivating sounds usually occur in late September and early October . As a bonus , you might stumble across some lateblooming sunflower plants or fireweed in damp areas to brighten your day . Be on the alert for bears , which are most active in the autumn , as they feed on berries to fatten up prior to hibernation . Bears are unpredictable and can be dangerous , so keep your distance from them .
Autumn is called a “ shoulder season ” in the tourism trade , when visitor numbers decline . It ’ s easier and cheaper to find accommodation , another reason to head for Alberta ’ s outdoors . Many campgrounds stay open until Thanksgiving and are no longer crowded . Check ahead to make sure you can find a spot .
Being outdoors is cathartic ; the experience will be good for your mental and physical health , and your level of wellness will go up a notch or two . This is a great time to be in communion with nature , and the outdoor colours add majesty to the experience . Don ’ t forget your camera to take some memorable pictures for your e-scrapbook !
Duane Radford regards the fall as nature ’ s dessert and plans to get out and enjoy the autumn outdoors as often as possible .
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