Hike Schedule

Annual Christmas in the Village Hike - St. Jacob's Ont.

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills
Category: General
Location (Google Maps): St. Jacob’s Ontario

Hike Leader(s): Doris Harper Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hour
Terrain: Easy – mostly flat and usually good footing
Distance: 7 – 8 km

Description

We will hike the Health Valley Trail there and back along the Conestoga River. This an easy hike along the river and through fields and woods. We can also cross the road and then hike along the Millrace Trail. There are many Chickadees that winter here and are happy to eat seeds right out of your hand. Total: about 7-8 kms

We can also walk through the Village that will be well decorated for Christmas.

Following the hike, those that are interested, can enjoy lunch at the Harvest Moon Restaurant. RESERVATIONS ARE NEEDED SO PLEASE INDICATE IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO JOIN US FOR LUNCH.

The  St Jacobs Farmers market , just a few kms up the road, is open from 7:30 AM to 3 PM.

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Meet at 9:45 am on Second Line EHS

Hike Leader(s): Karen Bergmann Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: 9.5 kms

Description

We will hike the main trail, Lookout Side Trail, Walter Tovell Side Trail and back up the main trail for a big loop. Bring icers for your boots and a snack.

9am NOTL Tour

Hosting Club: Niagara

Location (Google Maps): Meet on King St and Centre St at the entrance to Veteran’s Memorial Park.

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

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

Description

Each Friday we will explore some history of Niagara-on-the-Lake while getting a moderate paced walk.  Discover where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario. Experience the Heritage District, woods and the Niagara Parkway.

Some weeks may be totally on sidewalks and roads while others may include a mix of trail and paved pathways.

Great way to build up endurance for longer more strenuous hikes.

Plan to stay for conversation and a coffee at Sweets & Swirls, Community Centre, Niagara Stone Rd., NOTL

Robin & Margaret

Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club x MEC - Dec 20/24 - 7pm - Registration is not required for this clinic.

Hosting Club: Iroquoia

Location (Google Maps): Mountain Equipment Company – 1030 Brant St Burlington

Hike Leader(s): Ruth Moffatt Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Distance: N/A

Description

Please join Ruth Moffatt, Hike Director, Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club at MEC Burlington for a clinic. Topics will include: What to pack in your backpack, what to wear on your hike, weather considerations, tips for hiking and a Q&A where you can ask any questions about the Bruce Trail, membership or what to expect while hiking.

Registration is not required for this clinic.

Car Hike: Haliburton Exploratory Hike

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Car Hike
Location (Google Maps):

Haliburton

Hike Leader(s): Glynn Richardson Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely (2-3 km/hr), Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Challenging, Hilly, Level 3 (Advanced – steep hills and some scrambling over boulders), Rocky, Variable
Distance: 14 km

Description

Let’s explore on this advanced hike!

We’ll spend 6-8 hrs hiking 14 km, on and off the trail over rugged topography. Time and distance parameters will be flexible based upon the conditions and the group’s ability. We’ll pass through forests, travel over rock barrens and view amazing landscapes. Bring extra socks as our feet may get a little wet as we navigate our way around lakes (we will not be travelling on ice), over ponds (we will cross beaver dams), and creeks (jumping across, travelling over rocks and logs), There will be lots of elevation change and challenges.

Hiking boots, trail crampons, snowshoes and headlamps are MANDATORY. DO NOT show up without these items, you will not be allowed to participate. At the trailhead we will evaluate conditions and determine whether we will wear, carry (bring paracord, bungie cord(s) or your preferred strapping mechanism) or leave behind our snowshoes. Hiking poles and gaiters are highly recommended.

Bring lunch, snacks and water, or a favorite beverage. 2L recommended.

Check the weather in advance and dress in layers accordingly.

There will be no dropouts, and no dogs allowed.

Registered participants are to arrive 15 minutes prior to the hike to be briefed.

Register now, space is limited.

9:00 am Welcome the Winter Solstice with Tai Chi at Woodend

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: Loop
Location (Google Maps):

Woodend Conservation Area – km 15.5; Enter from Taylor Rd., 140 north of Warner Rd.

Hike Leader(s): Karen Couch Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: 6 km

Description

Usher in the Winter of 2024/2025 with a hike that includes intermittent simple Tai Chi movement breaks led by Mike VanNatter. Hiking poles and hydration are recommended.

Get it on the 1st hike towards your 2024/2025 Winter badge!

Beaver Valley Winter End to End Badge

Hosting Club: Beaver Valley

Location (Google Maps): Meet at the Metcalfe Rock parking lot on 10th Line, just south of km 27.9, Map 25, Edition 30 44.4158524 -80.4434053

Hike Leader(s): Glenda Collings Click here to contact the hike leader.

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate, Some rocky footing, Some steep sections, Strenuous
Length of Hike: 15.6 km

Description

You are registering for a series of 10 hikes to earn the BV Winter End to End badge. This E2E is intended for strong hikers/experienced snowshoers only.  We will be hiking at a steady medium pace with a few short breaks to be sure we keep warm. Deep snow may slow the pace down a bit. As we need to be prepared for variable weather conditions, please have your icers and snowshoes in your car for each hike.  Although the snow may seem okay in parts of the hike, there may be deep drifts in other areas.  The leader will advise if we need to carry our snowshoes. It may be tough hiking so be sure of your physical ability before signing up for this hike. If the snow is deep, please be prepared to take a turn blazing trail.  Please dress accordingly with the weather conditions presented on hike day and bring sufficient water and snacks. This will be a team effort from start to finish!

As we all know Mother Nature can throw us curve balls at times. The hike leader may need to adjust our meeting location and possibly postpone the hike in the case of inclement weather or road/parking conditions. The hikes will not all be in sequential order. Hikers will be advised of conditions and possible changes the night before each hike.  The hike schedule will be sent to the group upon registration.

All hikes in this series will include a car shuttle and everyone is expected to take a turn at shuttling, so please have your car ready to carry passengers.

If you have any questions feel free to contact me using the Contact Hike Leader option in the hike posting.  Let’s have fun in the snow!

For the safety of all, the Beaver Valley Winter E2E is a series that can only be completed with a club leader who is very familiar with the Beaver Valley section.

COVID-19 Precautions Before, During and After your Hike

1. Each hiker joining a Bruce Trail Club organized hike must perform a self-screening check before hiking.
   Find Ontario’s self-assessment tool here: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment/
2. If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, stay home.

Other Guidelines

1. Arrive 15 minutes before the start of the hike.
2. Wear sturdy footwear and appropriate attire for the weather and the terrain.
   Hiking poles are a good idea in any season, especially if the terrain is rocky or slippery. In winter, snowshoes or icers/crampons are needed when conditions dictate.
   Wearing appropriate clothing and footwear prevents injuries and shows consideration for a safe and positive group hiking experience.
3. Always carry I.D. and your health card.
4. Bring sufficient water and snacks (or lunch if indicated). A minimum of 1L of water is recommended on all hikes, and 3L is recommended for long, challenging hikes in the heat of the summer.
5. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent (for spring and summer hikes).
6. Bring your own first aid kit.
7. Please leave dogs at home.

German Mills Creek

Hosting Club: Niagara, Toronto
Category: Hike
Location (Google Maps):

Willowbrook Public School, 45 Willowbrook Rd, Thornhill, ON L3T 4X6

Hike Leader(s): Mehrnoush Ahmadi Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: 8-10 km

Description

A great place for a short outdoor escape, offering a quiet, natural setting with some gentle elevation changes. The trail connects to the Don River Trail, allowing for extended exploration.
• Please dress appropriately for the weather. Waterproof hiking boots, ice cleats, and trekking poles are required. A windproof jacket and gaiters are recommended.
• We will have short water breaks and a 10-minute snack break.
Everyone is welcome!
See you there!

Peninsula Blue Series: Welcoming Winter from the top of Jones Bluff

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Peninsula Blue Series
Location (Google Maps): Boundary Road Roadside Parking where the Jones Bluff Side Trail meets the Main Trail

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

Pace: Leisurely (2.0 – 3.0 km/h): A relaxed pace with frequent breaks and a focus on enjoyment., Medium (3.0 – 4.5 km/h): A comfortable pace for most hikers with steady progress.
Terrain: Easy: Flat forested sections or lowland trails., Moderate: Rolling hills, mild slopes and rocky paths.
Distance: 7.12 km

Description

Join us in celebrating winter solstice with a hike along the beautiful Jones Bluff! This hike offers panoramic views of Neyaashiinigmiing (Cape Croker) and the beautiful sparkling turquoise waters of Sydney Bay and Colpoys Bay. We’ll look over MacGregor Harbour where Cape Croker juts into the water, Sydney Bay Bluff, Cape Dundas, and Barrier Island on the North side, with glimpses of Hay, White Cloud and Griffith Islands on the South side.

We’ll be spending most of our hike on the Main Trail as we round the entirety of the Bluff, with a short jaunt along the whole of Jones Bluff Side Trail. While Jones Bluff offers a relatively easy hike with minimal ups and downs, there are still plenty of rocks, roots, and crevices which may or may not be visible if there has been a recent snowfall. We’ll spend some time hiking close to the Escarpment edge, and some time hiking through the woods. There are plenty of incredible lookouts and we’ll be sure to stop for breaks and photo ops! Depending on snow and ground conditions, this hike will take approximately 3-4 hours with no bailout points.

Be prepared for rocky, slippery and potentially snowy conditions. In the event of snowy conditions, icers/crampons are strongly advised for added traction on slippery terrain. Consider bringing along trekking poles or a walking stick to provide additional balance on icy spots and areas with deep snow. Snowshoes may also come in handy depending on conditions. Wear insulated footwear and layer up! Weather conditions change quickly on the Peninsula, particularly during the winter months, so we will have a better idea what to expect as the date draws nearer (stay tuned to your email in the 48 hours prior to the hike for updates!)

Pace will be leisurely to moderate and adjusted for snowy, slushy or icy conditions, if needed. Bring plenty of water, a snack and light lunch.

This ~7 km, 3-4 hour hike counts towards the coveted side trail badge and you can check it out on Map 36 of the newest edition of the Bruce Trail guidebook!

Map 36, Edition 31

Crawford Lake

Hosting Club: Niagara, Toronto
Category: Hike
Location (Google Maps): Roadside Parking on Twiss Rd. North of Derry Rd.

Hike Leader(s): Mehrnoush Ahmadi Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: 16-17 Km

Description

The Crawford Lake Trail takes you through a serene forest, circling the beautiful Crawford Lake. Known for its unique meromictic lake, where the water layers don’t mix, the trail features boardwalks, observation points, and educational signs that highlight the area’s natural history and wildlife. It offers a peaceful escape, perfect for connecting with nature.

• Please dress appropriately for the weather. Waterproof hiking boots, ice cleats, and trekking poles are required. A windproof jacket and gaiters are recommended.
• We will have short water breaks and a 10-minute snack break.
Everyone is welcome!
See you there!

Car Hike: Exploring Uxbridge Trails (Wilder Forest, Walker Woods, and Glen Major Forest)

Hosting Club: Toronto

Location (Google Maps):

2499 Brock Rd, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1R4. We will meet at the East Duffins Headwaters parking lot at the WILDER FOREST trail head. As soon as you got off the Brock Road, passing the horse back riding facility, there is a free designated parking lot 70 meters down the lane to your right. It includes a sign board for East Duffins Headwaters with a map of the trails. Please do not park on the lane or in the horse back riding property.

Hike Leader(s): Amir Alemohammad Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Hilly, Level 2 (Intermediate – some hills and uneven surfaces, rocks and roots underfoot), Variable
Distance: Approx.14-16 Km

Description

Join us for an enjoyable winter hike in Uxbridge! We’ll explore parts of Wilder Forest, Walker Woods, and Glen Major Forest in a loop starting from Brock Road, passing Concession Road 6, heading west and back. Along the main trail, we’ll also venture onto several side trails.

Please stay on the designated trails at all times. Expect beautiful scenic views and lookouts facing south, with a mix of hilly and flat segments. Be prepared for variable weather—chilly and windy conditions are likely this time of year. Boots and icers mandatory, poles recommended.

Bring at least 2 liters of water and your favorite snacks. We’ll have frequent 2-minute breaks for hydration and lookout photos, along with a 20-minute lunch stop at the Aggregate Pit look out. Please pack your own lunch and refreshments for an enjoyable outdoor meal.

Don’t forget your camera and smile as we explore the beauty of the Uxbridge trails!

iNaturalist and Merlin Apps - How to get started using these two apps on the trail.

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Education Hike – iNaturalist and Merlin Apps
Location (Google Maps): Roadside parking at the corner of Greenhill Ave and Cortina Crescent

Hike Leader(s): Ruth Moffatt Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing, Slippery Sections Likely, Slippery and Steep Sections
Distance: 8km

Description

Are you interested in how the  iNaturalist and Merlin apps work? Please download both apps and join us for what we hope will be a regular hike offering. Please bring enough water and snacks for a two hour hike and your icers in case of slippery conditions.

Car Hike: Spectacular Views and a Visit with Santa

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Car Hike
Location (Google Maps): We will meet at the parking area on St. Helena Road (near km 8.9 on Map 12 of the Bruce Trail Reference Guide, Edition 31). Coordinates: 43.573094, -79.962286.

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

Pace: Leisurely (2-3 km/hr)
Terrain: Level 2 (Intermediate – some hills and uneven surfaces, rocks and roots underfoot)
Distance: 5-6 km

Description

Celebrate the upcoming holidays with a hike along the Bruce Trail followed by a visit with Santa!

First, we’ll do a 5-6 km out-and-back hike atop of the Niagara Escarpment within the Toronto section of the Bruce Trail.  We will begin our hike at the parking area on St. Helena Road, trek uphill along the road to summit the Niagara Escarpment, and then hike south along the main Bruce Trail, taking in the spectacular views to the east during our trek.  After about 1 hour of hiking, we will stop to enjoy lunch before retracing our steps to return to our parked cars.

After our hike, those hikers who would like to join me at the “Santa at the Fairgrounds” event located at the Milton Fairgrounds (136 Robert Street in Milton) are more than welcome to do so.  Admission to this event is free although they are requesting donations such as diapers, wipes, powdered formula, and baby food pouches/jars for Milton Community Resource Centre’s Fill a Crib campaign.  While at this event, we’ll be able to shop local vendors, roast marshmallows over fire pits in order to make s’mores (s’mores kits will be available for purchase), and take a photo with Santa for $15 (note that the photo will not be provided in hard copy – it will be emailed to you after the event).  More information about “Santa at the Fairgrounds” can be found here: https://experiencemilton.com/event/santa-at-the-fairgrounds-2024/2024-12-08/

FYI: Children under 13 years of age who participate in this hike will be eligible for the Toronto Bruce Trail Club’s Youth Badge (https://torontobrucetrailclub.org/the-trail/badges) – all family members who are planning on joining us should register for the hike, including children.

You should bring enough water and food for a 2.5-hour hike, comfortable hiking shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather, and an item to donate as well as cash/credit if you intend to join me at “Santa at the Fairgrounds” after the hike.

Hopefully you can join me – until then, happy hiking!