Day 9 – Three Hikes today
Ski Cape Smokey hike Group Photo, Sept. 2014, Photo credit Jenny Syms
Today was a busy day on Day 9 of the Hike the Highlands Festival. Hikers enjoyed 3 hikes today – Ski Cape Smokey -4km, Aspy -9km and Coastal to Neil’s Harbour beach -2 km. Ski Cape Smokey is a new hike in 2014 with amazing view at the summit. Aspy received a lot of work from the trails crew in Cheticamp this season and many commented positively on the improvements to the trail. As well hikers enjoy the Beulach Ban falls before or after the Aspy hike. A nice relaxing hike ended Saturday’s hikes – Coastal to Neil’s Harbour Beach & return.
Terry Smith, singing HTHF song, photo credit Sam Schwartz
In the evening, hikers were treated to a great closing roast-beef supper at St. John’s Hall followed by the closing ceremonies. The ceremonies began with the world premiere launch to the new Hike the Highlands song written by Terry Smith. It was at hit. Next the HTHF team thanked the hikers, sponsors, partners and evening presenters. Special plaques were presented to retiring treasurer Tim Reynolds for all his work in the festival and to Elaine Wallace, Manager, Visitor Experiences, Cape Breton Highlands National Park, for her work with the Hike the Highlands Festival Society – 3 Peaks Challenge and the Hike the Highlands Festival events.
Hikers received their hikers distance award pins (25, 50, 75, 100km) by Lisa Dixon assisted by Jenny Syms, our new board member. Over 50 % of the hikers registered in this year’s festival achieved their distance. Good on ya hikers. Door prizes were drawn and finally the closing show was presented. A great way to end the day.