Take the 'One Step Challenge'. Staying on the trail, take
one GIANT step forward and make a note of the distance
between your left and right footsteps. Now, examine the
surface on either side of the trail along this distance. See if
you can count at least 10 different kinds of plants. You might
have to get down on your knees and poke your nose through
the greenery. Surprising how much variety you can uncover
in the space of a single
footstep!
You might even find a pale plant of medium height, covered with red or purplish spots.This is the spotted coralroot - an orchid species. This plant has no chlorophyll. It is saprophytic, which means it obtains its nutrients from dead organic matter through a cooperative - or symbiotic - relationship with a fungus.
As you continue, look for the characteristic white trunk of the trembling aspen emerging in the distance. A mixedwood forest of poplars and spruce lies ahead.