Happy Earth Day from Walla Walla

Bennington Lake, Walla Walla Washington                        © Diane B Reed

 Today is Earth Day, a perfect day to get outdoors and celebrate nature at its best. If you live in the Walla Walla area, a good place to do that is at Bennington Lake, just a few minutes from the heart of town. Better yet, hike, bike, or rollerblade the Mill Creek Trail from town and leave your car behind!

Although the lake is man-made, the variety of birds and animals rivals many nature preserves. Blue Mountain Audubon Society members are frequent visitors and you can keep up with bird sitings at their Web site. The local society leads field trips and holds programs throughout the year. Why not join up and join them!

The trail around Bennington Lake passes below the dam

© Diane B Reed

The trails at the lake are geared toward many users, including horses, bicycles, birders, and hikers. On any day you're likely to encounter all of them. The lake itself is often dotted with canoeists, kayakers, fishermen, and the occasional water dog in training.

The water's cold, but the dog is willing              © Diane B Reed

So, take a little time off your hectic routine and get in touch with nature on this Earth Day, or any day of the year. It will renew your spirit!

Kayakers and canoeists at the boat launch       ©Diane B Reed

Perhaps Henry David Thoreau said it best:

"The West of which I speak is but another name for the Wild; and what I have been preparing to say is, that in Wildness is the preservation of the world. Every tree sends its fibres forth in search of the Wild. The cities import it at any price. Men plow and sail for it. From the forest and wilderness come the tonics and barks which brace mankind. "