To maintain our sanity and fitness, my wife and I walk the Millennium Trail in Whitehorse almost daily. But this trail is about much more than the five picturesque kilometres along the Yukon River.
Ice Photography
I have a secret patch along the river that never freezes and generates ever changing wonders of ice.
More of my spectacular ice and snow images photos here.
Encounters
There are the regulars: The two sisters, sometimes with grandkids (mutual complaints about covid are a certainty). A woman on a kick-sled pulled by her dog. The plowing crew keeping the trail walkable.
Yesterday we met a young woman from Paris who is braving the Yukon during our snowiest winter ever (200cm so far!).
One day I climbed down a steep river bank to access some cool photo motifs, when a bypasser called after me if I was fine. I replied that I was braving the deep snow to take some images – and that I was safe. It made my day that he cared about my safety. Suicides in the river have happened. Humans who care are ever more important during covid.
Critters along the Trail
Recently I met two birders who pointed out two Merganser ducks to me – until then just big fat ducks to me. Now I know they have serrated beaks to catch fish. Fish-eating ducks! We also talked about two resident American Dippers – a small songbird that is my favourite. They dive and “fly” under water, to feed even at minus 35 degrees – they have a second eye lid serving as goggles. Here is a video showing them in action. Other regulars are bald eagles, foxes and beavers. Some lives are unchanged by covid 🙂
Rotary Centennial Bridge
This bridge was partially financed by local Rotary Clubs – in time for Rotary’s Centennial (2005). The bridge closes a loop that constitutes the Millennium Trail. From my own experience as a former Rotarian, Rotary International is one of the best volunteer organizations. We are still in touch with our Rotary Youth Exchange Students. The wedding invitations to Budapest and Vladivostok that I had hoped for……..well, both since immigrated to Canada.
Here is a map of the Millennium Trail.
We will ALL fly again – put the Yukon on your List!
All images copyright Stefan Voswinkel. My portfolio on Alamy.com.
A two-year-old daughter loaded up her “truck” 
My World Café - insights & experiences from my travels, café visits and daily life. 