Karst Spring Relaxed Pace with Afternoon Tea

I'd like to microspike out to Watridge Lake and Karst Springs. The trail starts flat with beautiful mountain views and not a lot of other hikers to Watridge Lake, and then goes uphill through the woods. The springs are very beautiful. You can usually see the water running through the green moss, even when the area is covered in snow.

Distance: 9.2km (in snow)
Elevation gain: 308m

I'm leading this hike at a relaxed pace. I will take strong beginners and intermediate hikers, as long as you are willing to hike with the group and not run ahead.

Microspikes, good hiking boots, and winter layers are mandatory. We may need snowshoes. Bring a snack to eat at the lake and lots of water or tea.

It's my tradition to go to Mount Engadine Lodge after this hike for Afternoon Tea (a charcuterie board with local meats, cheeses, crackers, nuts, dried fruit, jams, etc. with coffee or tea and a small dessert for $37 per person) and a glass of wine. Be prepared to be out for a relaxing day. Please don't sign up if you have afternoon or early evening plans.

** I have made a reservation for afternoon tea at 2pm. The lodge now requires a 50% deposit to book, so please e-transfer $20 to andybell3448@gmail.com, to get off the waitlist. If your plans change, I will give you a refund, if I can get my money back. **

I will take a maximum of 12 hikers. You must hike with the group. Snowshoes may be required. Preference goes to those staying for afternoon tea and those who have hiked with me before, but I will take a few new to me hikers.

Once you have been accepted on the hike, you can arrange carpooling in the comments. I recommend meeting at Shouldice Park and Ride at 8am and a gas fee of $20. Drivers need a Kananaskis Park Pass, winter tires, and comfortable driving on the gravel road.

I might bring my well behaved, friendly German Shepherd on leash. Other dogs with prior permission only. No children.

WAIVER:
As per the new policy for waivers, I will bring the group waiver form with me to the Meet-up location and the trailhead. You must sign it before you will be allowed to go on this event. You will also be asked for the name and phone number of an emergency contact. Please come prepared with this information.
You are fully aware that organizers are not professional guides and you assume all responsibility for your safety and well-being. You are fully prepared with proper gear and you're physically fit to do this event with the group
Your participation in this event means you have read the waiver and by signing up for this event you have accepted the waiver. If you have stated "no" in your profile you will not be accepted to participate. You are fully aware that organizers are not professional guides and you assume all responsibility for your safety and well-being. You are fully prepared with proper gear and you're physically fit to do this hike with the group

https://www.meetup.com/Slow-and-Steady-Hikers/pages/OUR_NEW_WAIVER/

Please answer the questions to be considered for this hike. Priority goes to those who can join us for afternoon tea.