Hike Schedule

9:00 am Niagara-on-the-Lake Tour

Hosting Club: Niagara

Location (Google Maps):

Veterans Memorial Park, park just outside the park on King Street

Hike Leader(s): Robin Garrett Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Easy
Distance: 6-7 km

Description

Each Friday we will explore different neighbourhoods, trails and parkland throughout Historic Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Moderate pace with some weeks entirely on sidewalks and roads while others may include a mix of trails and paved pathways. Great way to build up endurance for longer more strenuous hikes.

Prepare for cooler windy conditions on open parkland and along Lake Ontario and Niagara River trails.

Plan to stay for conversation and a warm cup of coffee or tea at Sweets & Swirls, Community Centre, Niagara Stone Road, NOTL

Coach Trip: Hardy Lake Provincial Park

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Coach Trip
Location (Google Maps): Hardy Lake Provincial Park

Hike Leader(s): Lisa R. Lifshitz, Nijole Mockevicius, Ross Estrella, Felix Wan Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat, Hilly, Level 2 (Intermediate – some hills and uneven surfaces, rocks and roots underfoot), Rocky, Variable
Distance: 10 km and 13 km

Description

Join us for a relaxing hike in beautiful Hardy Lake Provincial Park!  This park has everything- lush tree canopy, glacial rocks, interesting plants, settlor house remains (with a spooky wooden cabin) and a scenic lake.  At this time we also hope to see some fall colours.  We plan to run two groups on this hike, one at a more leisurely/moderate pace and the other faster that will cover slightly more distance.  We do plan to stop occasionally for photos.  While some of the trails are flat, there are still a few good hills, roots and uneven ground so hiking boots are a must.  Hardy Lake PP is a non-operating park so there is no place to buy food or water, so please bring two litres of water, ample snacks, lunch and dress appropriately for a Fall hike.  We also plan to stop in Orillia for refreshments.

Bus departs 10 York Mills Rd at 8:00 AM.

Iroquoia E2E in 10 – Fundraiser Hike - Stained Glass Butternut Tree Badge (5 weekends)

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Iroquoia E2E-in-Ten
Location (Google Maps): Various locations – Scheduled will be emailed to registered hikers prior to hike start

Hike Leader(s): Freddy Wang Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Brisk – 4 to 5 km/hr
Terrain: Dependent on Conditions, Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing, Slippery and Steep Sections, Slippery Sections Likely, Strenuous – Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing
Distance: 11 – 15 km

Description

This is a special series of 10 hikes to complete the entire Iroquoia section of the Bruce Trail over five weekends.  There is an accomplishment badge, included in the registration fee – which was designed by Joe Borges and features the butternut tree.

For this E2E in 10, we will be following the main trail southbound starting in Milton and finishing in Grimsby. Please note that you are signing up for the entire series of ten hikes as a Group Hike. The Iroquoia in 10 series is geared to experienced hikers with the expectation of a 3.5 to 5.0 km/hr pace maintained over an 11 to 15 km hike.

Hikers will be expected to wear proper hiking footwear and layered clothing. Sufficient snacks, water, hiking poles, and wet weather gear (if necessary) are recommended.

The fee goes towards supporting the Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club, which in turn supports the mission of the Bruce Trail Conservancy, which is: “Preserving a ribbon of wilderness, for everyone, forever.”

A maximum of 3 of the 10 hikes can be self-completed as a result of scheduling challenges, but it is intended that this badge be earned while hiking as part of a group led by a certified hike leader. Car shuttles are shared amongst the hikers.

Please note there are no refunds!

TRANSPORTATION

This series will be through hikes and will require car shuttling, you must be willing to drive or to be a passenger. Some parking locations require paid parking, and hikes that enter Conservation Areas (CA) will require reservations.  The fee for the E2E-in-Ten does not cover any parking/entry fees for hikers who are not members of the Halton CA and/or Hamilton CA.  If the group has enough hikers who are members of a CA, those will be the cars chosen to park in those areas so as to minimize costs but since conservation passes are not free, please consider nominal compensation to the pass holder. At least one hike starts at one CA and possibly ends at another, so parking fees are unavoidable for non-CA members.

Remember, you can only miss three hikes to qualify for this special Beechnut badge. You must still complete the distance you have missed.  If you miss more than three but still complete the distances on your own, you may apply for the regular club End to End badge. Those who already have the Beechnut badge may elect to get the new Red Fox Independent E2E Badge.

Beaver Valley Stained Glass - End to End

Hosting Club: Iroquoia, Beaver Valley
Category: Stained Glass Badge End to End Fundraiser Hike
Location (Google Maps): Kolopore Parking Lot (44.432689)

Hike Leader(s): Anita Bergsma Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Dependent on Conditions, Strenuous – Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing
Distance: 18.5-26km per day

Description

Join us for Beaver Valley End to End on October 26, November 2nd-3rd, and November 9-10th, 2024.  The hikes will be at a moderate pace 3-4km per hour. This is suitable for intermediate to advanced hikers.

We will be using hiker’s vehicles to shuttle  to our start from our meeting point.

Proper hiking boots is a must!  Bring hiking poles (if you use them), food, snacks, 2l of water, hat, sun screen, bug repellent, rain gear and first aid kit.  Please check the weather forecast each day before heading out.

Arrive at 8:15 am Sharp to check in. Once everyone has arrived, we will proceed and drive to the starting point.

Your fee includes the guidance and organization of a volunteer hike leader. I will try to make arrangements for everyone to receive their Stain Glass End to End badge upon completion.

If you must miss a day but can make it up before the last scheduled hike, you will still qualify for this special badge. This is a fundraising hike for the Bruce Trail Club. Proceeds go to the Beaver Valley Club to support the trail infrastructure and to the Bruce Trail Conservancy mission “Protecting this ribbon of wilderness, for every one, forever.”

Please, no dogs or children.

There are no refunds for this hike series. Please ensure you are physically capable of these distances before signing up for this hike.

If you have any questions, please enquire to the hike leader through this form.

Day 1 – Kolopore Parking Lot (44.432689)and shuttle to Maple Lane at Swiss Meadows Parking Lot (44.4956661)-23.8kms

Day 2 – Sideroad 7B Parking Lot (44.3951417)and shuttle to Kolopore Parking Lot (44.432689)- 18.5kms

Day 3 – Hogg Falls Parking Lot, Flesherton (44.28687)and shuttle to Sideroad 7B Parking Lot (44.3951417)- 21.3kms

Day 4 – Sideroad 16C Parking Lot, Kimberly (44.4370672) and shuttle to Hogg Falls Parking Lot, Flesherton (44.28687) – 24.5kms

Day 5 – Grey Road 12 Parking Lot, Medford(44.5013845) and shuttle to Sideroad 16C Parking Lot, Kimberly (44.4370672) – 25.8kms

TRANSPORTATION

Since this is a car shuttle hike, please ensure your vehicle is car shuttle ready. All participants will be expected to take turns either driving to the start or driving the drivers back at the end of the day. Carpooling to our meeting spot with 2 people in the car is generally ok but if more than that, please let the hike leader know.

Waiver

I acknowledge that this activity in which I am participating, organized by The Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) and/or its member Clubs, involves risks which are beyond the control of the BTC and its member Clubs. Notwithstanding the acknowledgement of such risks, I hereby release the BTC, its member Clubs, contractors, employees, agents, assigns and executors from all claims for damage however so arising as a result of my participation in this and any other activity organised by the BTC and/or its member Clubs. I agree to pay the cost of my emergency evacuation of my person or belongings that may be necessary. I affirm that I am aware of the nature of this activity, its length, duration and degrees of difficulty and that I am properly equipped and physically able to participate. I have no medical or other condition which might preclude my participation. I agree to follow the directions of the leader and any assistants at all times.

Peninsula Blue Series: Hopefully Hiking Along Hope Bay's Side Trails

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Peninsula Blue Series
Location (Google Maps): Roadside Parking at the south end of Cathedral Dr, Lion’s Head, ON N0H 1W0, Canada

Hike Leader(s): Kathleen Stahlbaum Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely, Medium
Terrain: Difficult, Easy, Moderate
Distance: 12.5 km

Description

Join us in hiking the side trails of Hope Bay Forest Provincial Nature Reserve and the surrounding areas of Hope Bay and Hopeness. This hike offers incredible panoramic views of Georgian Bay’s sparkling turquoise waters, rich, mature woods, and undulating, rocky terrain.

We’ll be hiking a stretch of Main Trail, along with the entirety of Hopeness Side Trail, Jack Poste Side Trail, and Don Irish Side Trail. The terrain varies, with some elevation changes. We’ll spend plenty of time along both the edge of the escarpment and in the beautiful woods (with a small trip down a tree lined gravel road). Highlights include those jaw dropping Peninsula water views, the renowned Hope Bay glacial potholes, a massive crevice, some other awesome geological features including karst pavement, and perhaps even a glimpse of the slightly haunting, somewhat famed, and very mysterious stuffed animal zoo that has hung in the trees along a portion of Hopeness Road from time immemorial.

Here’s hoping (pun intended!) we’re just in time to take in the incredible Autumn views Hope Bay Forest has to offer. The lush forest below the Escarpment becomes a rich tapestry of yellows, reds, and oranges and it’s a sight to behold!

Be prepared for rocky and slippery conditions. Hiking poles are helpful and rain gear may come in handy. Wear footwear for rugged terrain (roots and rocks are plentiful throughout the trails we’ll be hiking). Pace will be leisurely to moderate and adjusted for slippery conditions, if needed. Bring plenty of water, a snack and light lunch.

This 12.5 km, ~5 hour hike counts towards the coveted side trail badge and you can check it out on Map 31 of the newest edition of the Bruce Trail guidebook!

Map 37, Edition 31

9:00 Witch of Cave Spring Hike

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: In and Out
Location (Google Maps):

Parking lot Quarry Road Beamsville

Hike Leader(s): Angela Lytle Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: 5 km

Description

Enjoy a beautiful hike through the autumn woods and learn about local historical and mystical lore while searching for the Witch of Cave Spring.

Complete this guided hike and count it towards the Screaming Tunnel Badge, more info on the badge requirements is here: https://niagarabrucetrail.club/badges/

Wearing a witch hat, while not required, is highly recommended!

Details:

This hike loops from Quarry Rd in Beamsville (limited parking, carpool if possible) along the Bruce Trail to Cave Spring Conservation area and back.

Note: The path to Cave Spring is quite rocky and has some hills. We recommend using hiking poles and wearing good hiking shoes is a must. Carry water and dress for changeable weather.

We will stop along the way at sites of interest and loop back to the car park on Quarry Rd. The loop is around 5 km. Please arrive by 8:50 to check in with the hike leader for departure at 9.

Louth Tour and Rockway

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: Loop
Location (Google Maps): Meet in Louth Parking lot, Staff Ave, Lincoln

Hike Leader(s): Margaret Northfield Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Strenuous
Distance: 8.5km

Description

Hike main trail from Louth to Rockway and back.  We will loop around Louth Conservation area hiking by the waterfalls.  Poles recommended.  Bring water and snack.

Saturday Shorts: Glen Haffy

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills
Category: General
Location (Google Maps): Meet at 10 am at the roadside parking on Coolihans Sideroad, near where the Trail crosses the road. This is just west of the intersection of Glen Haffy Road and Coolihans Sideroad.

Hike Leader(s): Elizabeth Ganong Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hour
Terrain: Easy – mostly flat and usually good footing, Moderate – some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: Approximately 5 km

Description

Looking to get out on a Saturday but not give up your whole day? Saturday Shorts, a hiking series, will get you out in a small group on a short hike. This Saturday’s hike is at Glen Haffy, where the seasons do not disappoint. We’ll hike the main Trail and conservation trails to make a 5 km route looping around. Bring water and a snack, if desired. There will be a short break. No dogs please.

Car Hike; Crawford Lake & Bruce Trail loop 8km or continue to Nassagaweya Canyon for a 12 KM Loop

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Car Hike
Location (Google Maps): Meet for a 10 a.m. departure from Crawford Lake Conservation Area – 3115 Conservation Rd. Milton ON L9T 2X3, Canada
Meeting point is at the upper parking lot next to the Visitor Centre.

Hike Leader(s): Jeanette Vincent Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Level 2 (Intermediate – some hills and uneven surfaces, rocks and roots underfoot), Variable
Distance: 8km or 12km

Description

About the hike: We will hike around Crawford Lake, a rare example of a meromictic lake and the Bruce Trail on our way to the Nassagaweya Canyon with great views, you can choose a shorter loop of 8km and head back to the Longhouse Village or continue on for another loop in the canyon and looping back to the visitor centre. Crawford Lake is also an important site for global scientific research. Click here to learn more about these studies and how our rare meromictic lake may help scientists define a new proposed epoch: the Anthropocene.

What to wear and bring: Bring water, snacks and lunch. Be prepared for weather conditions for this day. Hiking shoes or boots recommended. Poles if you use them.

Parking: Upper parking lot. Reservations are not required but are recommended. Fee is per person. If you book online, you can reserve your spot and save money on gate fees. Click to reserve.  https://www.conservationhalton.ca/parks/crawford-lake/
Additional Notes:

Length: 8 or 12 km (4 – 4 1/2 hrs) with a lunch stop. If you are doing the shorter hike you will be finished about 12 or 12:30 p..m.
Hike level: 2 (moderate with flat and variable terrain, ( the last 4km has more descents and ascents).

Geology Hike # 5 Boyd Crevice linear hike

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Sydenham
Category: Geology Hike
Location (Google Maps): Dead end of Concession Road 11 south of Superior Street, Owen Sound. Roadside parking. Please park on the east side of the road.

Hike Leader(s): Carol Graham-Mullin Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely: 3 km/h or less
Terrain: Easy: Mostly flat and good footing., Moderate: Some hills and/or poor footing, Strenuous: Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing.
Distance: 5.5 km approx.

Description

This is an extended version of Geology Hike # 5, following Beth Gilhespy’s book  “Walking Through Time” in the Sydenham Bruce Trail Section. This is a linear hike, starting on a rail trail and then entering the main trail and hiking east to the amazing karst geology, towering cliffs and cambering features of this iconic crevice system. We will return the same way.

Copies of Beth’s book will be available for purchase. Special member’s only price of $37.00 . Cash, cheque or etransfer. If paying with cash, please bring exact change. A special guest may join us ! Please bring water and a snack if  you wish. Proper hiking footwear and hiking poles are recommended.

Car Hike: Hike #10 to earn the Dufferin Hi-Land Youth and/or Side Trails Badge!

Hosting Club: Toronto, Dufferin Hi-Land
Category: Car Hike
Location (Google Maps): We will meet at roadside parking on 15 Sideroad at Prince of Wales Road. Note that the only access to this location is from River Road, 500 m west of Kilgorie. Look for a small road sign, “15 Sideroad”, on a sharp curve on River Road. (Map 20 of the Bruce Trail Reference Guide, Edition 31).

Hike Leader(s): Monica Pasquali Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely (2-3 km/hr)
Terrain: Variable
Distance: 8.4 km

Description

Calling all families with children who love hiking and earning badges!!!

This is the tenth in a series of ten hikes that will be offered throughout 2024 on a roughly monthly basis so that children who are 15 years of age and younger can earn the Dufferin Hi-Land Adventurer Youth Badge and their parents/guardians can earn the Dufferin Hi-Land Side Trails Badge at the same time!!!  Details regarding the requirements for each badge can be found here: https://dufferinbrucetrailclub.org/dufferin-bruce-trail-club-badges/  Each of the ten hikes will be a loop hike so no car shuttles will be needed, and each hike will cover a distance of approximately 6-9 km hiked at a leisurely pace (2-3 km/h) so children and adults alike can participate.

This tenth and final hike will be an autumn hike to explore the following four side trails: the Kilgorie ST, the Bell Lookout ST, part of the Pine River Valley ST, and the Black Edge ST.  (Note that the first three side trails will be completed together as a loop, and then we will drive a short distance to the BTC parking area near the intersection of 30 Sideroad and 1st Line EHS in order to hike the Black Edge ST.)  Please dress appropriately for an autumn hike by dressing in layers (wear an inner layer that wicks sweat away from your skin, a middle layer that keeps you warm, and an outer layer that protects you from wind and rain), wearing a sunhat or toque (depending on the weather), and wearing comfortable footwear that has good traction.  Hiking poles or walking sticks are an asset since they will help keep you balanced if the ground is muddy/slippery.  As well, make sure you bring enough water and food for a 3-4 hour hike since we’ll be covering a total distance of approximately 8.4 km.

Hopefully you’ll be able to join me on Sunday, October 27th!  Until then, happy hiking, everyone!