Exploring Nature: Chasing Rain and Discovering Beauty in Alberta

A recent journey through the Alberta foothills revealed the enchanting interplay between rain and sunshine, as well as the vibrant flora and fauna that thrive in this beautiful region. Traveling southwest towards Millarville, I encountered a landscape marked by heavy clouds and patches of clear sky. With moisture-laden air and the sun breaking through, I remained optimistic about the day’s prospects as I made my way toward the Highwood River valley.

As I crossed the cattle guard on the highway west of Eden Valley, the coolness of the July morning greeted me. The remnants of a rain shower were evident, with glistening droplets clinging to the leaves. The sunlight, softened by dissipating clouds, cast a warm glow on the surroundings, illuminating the lush greenery and vibrant colors. At this time of year, the foothills are adorned with tall stalks of magenta blossoms known as fireweed. Named for its ability to flourish in areas impacted by wildfires, fireweed thrives in disturbed habitats, enjoying the sunlight that spills into clearings.

I took a moment to capture the delicate beauty of the fireweed blossoms. Each petal and sepal stood out in vivid detail, making them ideal subjects for photography. The creamy style and pink-edged stigmas were striking against the backdrop of the forest. The area was also alive with other floral delights, including droplets of rain on roses and the cheerful presence of geraniums. As I explored further, I spotted robins, warblers, and waxwings flitting among the trees, while spotted sandpipers scurried along the rain-swollen banks of the Highwood River.

While engrossed in photographing the fireweed, I was startled by the sudden buzz of a hummingbird. This prompted me to remember that the nearby Highwood House store often attracts these quick creatures with their feeders. Upon arrival, I was greeted by a spectacle of rufous hummingbirds, their rusty brown feathers shimmering as they darted about. Capturing their fleeting presence on camera proved challenging, but I managed to photograph one resting just long enough to appreciate its beauty before it took flight again.

As I observed the hummingbirds, the clouds began to thicken once more, foreshadowing impending rain. Soon after, light sprinkles began as I watched Columbia ground squirrels munching on grass near the store. Unfazed by the weather or my presence, they continued their feast, oblivious to the camera pointed in their direction.

While considering a trip further west to Highwood Pass, the weather prompted a change of plans. The clouds loomed larger in that direction, so I opted to head south instead. The rain ceased briefly at Baril Creek, and I discovered a bit of sunlight at Etherington Creek. I decided to explore the campground there, which was enveloped in the fresh, damp scent of the forest. Raindrops clung to leaves like globs of mercury, and the ground was a carpet of bunchberry and vibrant yellow arnica.

Just as I was about to continue my adventure, a group of horseback riders passed by, seemingly embarking on an impromptu journey. Their lighthearted banter added a cheerful note to the atmosphere. After observing the high and murky waters of Cataract Creek, I set off on a short walk. The lush meadows were filled with three-flowered avens and short-stemmed asters, but my time at ground level was cut short when I inadvertently disturbed a colony of ants. They swarmed me, reminding me that nature’s inhabitants can be just as fierce as they are beautiful.

Heading further south along Wilkinson Creek, I was surprised by the lack of flowers compared to earlier in the day. Despite the damp conditions contributing to the lush landscape, the elevation seemed to stifle the bloom of many species. I turned back toward Highwood Valley, where the sun emerged intermittently, casting light on the grassy hillsides.

Upon returning to Etherington Creek, I enjoyed watching a little dipper as it hunted for insects in the stream. However, any plans to ascend to the pass were thwarted by rain showers at Cat Creek. The presence of cattle grazing nearby indicated that wildlife would be scarce, so I made the decision to return home.

Before concluding my adventure for the day, I made one last stop at Highwood House to check on the hummingbirds. They were still present, more animated than before, as they jostled for position around the feeders. The warm temperatures prompted the appearance of bumblebees and sweat bees, buzzing among the fireweed blossoms. For a fleeting moment, the sun bathed the flowers in a golden light, highlighting their beauty before the drizzle returned.

As I drove back down the valley, I found myself pondering the day’s experience. The rain seemed to follow me, or perhaps I had been following it. Either way, the journey through Alberta’s stunning landscapes underscored the unique relationship between weather and nature, showcasing the resilience and beauty that thrives in the midst of change.