Sheriff Creek Wildlife Sanctuary’s version of a polar bear cub up a tree…

by Peg Lariviere

Yesterday, I snowshoed along a section of the Red Trail at Sheriff Creek Wildlife Sanctuary. The weather was bright and brisk. The trail began along the edge of a field that was once the original townsite of Elliot Lake. At the first trail junction, I turned right and headed into the woods. Right away, I started to notice snow sculptures, shaped by the forest’s Manitou using only air and snow. I rarely see snow sculptures along this section of the Red Trail, but what surprised me most was that all looked like polar bear cubs climbing trees. To be fair, there was one HUGE perfectly formed button mushroom, complete with stem, sitting up on a stump.

If you’re someone who enjoys walking in the forest during the winter, looking for these natural snow sculptures can lift your spirits and help you reconnect with nature’s beauty. Next time you walk in the snowy woods, stop for a moment and enjoy the magic of a Captivating Display of Nature's Artistry.