Beaver, Lime Kiln, and Jack Pine Trails

Ottawa has an extensive network of greenbelt trails that are wonderful to explore. For this outing, a friend and I decided to return to the Beaver and Lime Kiln trails that we had seen last year. Before leaving, we also took a short hike on the nearby Jack Pine trail. We found remnants of the damage caused by the derecho that hit Ottawa in May all along these trails. I had never heard of a derecho before this year. It's an unusual windstorm associated with fast-moving and severe thunderstorms. They can cause hurricane-force winds, tornadoes, heavy rains, and flash floods. The derecho caused extensive wind damage throughout Ottawa. Even after three months, several greenbelt trails were still closed as cleanup efforts continued. Aside from evidence of wind damage, the trails were in good condition and we had a wonderful outing.