Hike Schedule

Peninsula Blue Series: Cape Chin

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Peninsula Blue Series
Location (Google Maps): Otter Lake Side Trail Roadside Parking along the shoulder of Cape Chin North Road

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

Pace: Leisurely, Medium
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: 13.49 km

Description

Join us in celebrating charming Cape Chin as we hike several side trails connecting Cape Chin North to Cape Chin South – Cape Chin Meadows Side Trail, Pat Daunt Side Trail, Bard Side Trail, and Otter Lake Side Trail – plus a few stretches of main trail.

The hike will include a little bit of everything – rich coniferous forest and lush deciduous forest to beaver ponds, wetlands and marshy areas rich with flora and fauna, to the stunning views of the emerald and turquoise waters of Georgian Bay from the top of the towering white cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment. And of course, it wouldn’t be a proper Cape Chin visit without spending some time snacking on the steps of the beautiful MapleCross mansion at BTC’s MapleCross Nature Preserve.

Be prepared for rocky and slippery conditions (especially around Otter Lake)! Hiking poles are helpful and rain gear may come in handy. Pace will be leisurely to moderate and adjusted for slippery conditions, if needed. Bring plenty of water for hydration, plus a light lunch and a snack or two to keep you nourished throughout our ~6 hour adventure!

Urban Walk; Markham Hike and Splash

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Urban Walk
Location (Google Maps): Finch Go Bus Terminal, Platform 2

Hike Leader(s): Leonora Rochwerger Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate
Terrain: Flat
Distance: 10 km (approx.)

Description

Join us for a 10 km hike along the Rouge River, through sections of Austin Park and Milne Dam Conservation Park, and ending with a post-hike splash (optional- for those interested) at the Morgan Outdoor Pool in Markham Village.

Route map: https://onthegomap.com/s/mfi28ji6

How to get there and get home:  We will meet as a group no later than 09:30 at the Finch Go Bus Terminal, Platform 2 outside the TTC Finch Station. From there, we will use YRT public transport to get to our hiking starting point.

If you are driving, meet us at the Stiver Mill Community Centre at 9 Station Ln, Markham, at approximately 10:45 am. There is free parking. Please contact the hike leader for precise meeting instructions.

To go back, we will use YRT public transport buses to get to our starting points (either parking or TTC Finch Station). Alternatively, GO trains go from Markham Village GO Station to Union station.

What to bring: Proper walking /hiking shoes, at least 2 litres of water, sunscreen, hat, bug repellent if used and a packed lunch. Appropriate clothing for the weather. No dogs allowed

If going swimming, bring a swimming suit and towel.  There is a fee of $4.60 + tax to enter the pool. Change rooms and showers are available. You will need to bring your own lock for a locker. For more information about the Morgan Pool visit: https://www.markham.ca/wps/portal/home/recreation/community-fitness-centres/morgan-outdoor-pool/morgan-pool

Car Hike: Hike #8 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 the west side of 2nd Line E, where the road ends a little north of 8 Sideroad (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: 7.4 km

Description

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

This is the eighth 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 eighth hike will be a summer hike to explore the following four side trails: 2nd Line ECL, part of the Oliver Creek ST, the Boyne Creek ST, and the Mulmur Lookout ST.  Please dress appropriately for a summer hike by dressing in lightweight and breathable clothing, wearing a sunhat, and wearing comfortable footwear that has good traction.  It is also advised that you bring sunscreen, bug spray, a light sweater, and suitable rain apparel in case conditions require their use.  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 7.4 km.

Hopefully you’ll be able to join me on Sunday, August 25th!  Until then, happy hiking, everyone!

Urban Walk: Bluffers Park

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Urban Walk
Location (Google Maps): Toronto, Ontario

Hike Leader(s): Brian Rideout Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate
Terrain: Flat
Distance: 6.9 km

Description

Please join me at Kennedy Station on the bus platform by 9:45 am.  We will take the 201 Bluffers Park bus departing 10:00 am, arriving 10:22 am. We will wander the trails of bluffers park for an estimated distance of 6.9 km.  Pub stop is at the Dogfish Pub & Eatery in the park.

Please bring at least 2 liters of water, a light snack, bug spray and sunscreen.

Here is an online map of our route.  Bluffers Park

Note: Registration closes 48 hours before the start of the hike.

Mushroom Hunt

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Botany Hike
Location (Google Maps): Parking lot at the junction of Malcolm Bluff Side Trail and Purple Valley Access Trail [44.836895, -81.053576]

Hike Leader(s): Barbara Reuber Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: 1 – 2 km

Description

Join mushroom expert and nature writer Jan Thornhill (http://weirdandwonderfulwildmushrooms.blogspot.ca and many children books) as we explore the amazing variety of fungi that can be found on the Bruce Peninsula. We will take the Purple Valley access trail to the main trail and explore the woods along the escarpment. We won’t be covering much ground – this is more of an in-depth look at the biodiversity of mushrooms and other fungi than a hike. It’s also a family-friendly event so you’re welcome to bring children. Since many of the most beautiful and interesting fungi are very small (Eyelash Cups! Turquoise Elfcups!), bring a hand lens, magnifying glass, or binoculars (which you can look through the wrong way to magnify!) if you have them.

Afternoon Hike - Fisher's Pond

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Afternoon/Evening Hikes
Location (Google Maps): Meet roadside on Guelph Line, south of No 1 Sideroad.

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: 6 kms

Description

We will hike up the main trail from Guelph Line, around Fisher’s Pond on the side trail and back. There are a few hills that can be a bit strenuous. Bring bug spray/bug net.

Founders’ Footpath Finalists “B & C”

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills
Category: General
Location (Google Maps): Finalist B: Park at BTC parking lot on the east side of the 5th Line EHS, just south of Hockley Road, 43.993572, -80.014057

Driving Directions:
From ON-10 turn east onto Hockley Road/Dufferin County Road 7. Drive for 9.5 kilometres. Turn south/right onto 5 Line E/5th Line EHS. The parking lot is on the left in 100 metres.

Finalist C: Park at BTC Parking Lot, 713377 1st Line EHS, Mono, 43.959916, -80.070494.

Driving Directions:  
From the 5th Line EHS parking lot return to Hockley Road. Turn left and proceed to 3rd Line EHS. Turn left and continue to 5 Sideroad. Turn right onto Side Road 5 for 1.5 kilometres. Turn right onto 1st Line EHS for approximately 1 kilometre. Continue straight into the parking lot.

Hike Leader(s): Sandy Green Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hour
Terrain: Strenuous – hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing
Distance: 11.5 km

Description

The Founders’ Footpath is a Bruce Trail Conservancy initiative to mark the upcoming 60th Anniversary of the founding of the Bruce Trail. Help the CHBTC select a section of the trail that best exemplifies the founders’ intentions. Explore Finalist B:  Main Trail km 48.9 – 52.1, Hemlock Ridge Side Trail 0.61 km, and Glacier Valley Side Trail 0.58 km; Airport Road to 5th Line EHS Parking Lot; BTC Protected Areas:  Cedar Highlands, Galbraith, and Hemlock Ridges. Once complete, the group will drive to Finalist C: Goodyear Memorial Side Trail 2.2 km, Rushing Rivers Side Trail 0.2 km, and Upland Side Trail 1.2 km; BTC Protected Areas:  The Akela and Scouters Heather and Ross Hamlin at Riverside Woods Nature Reserve, and Rushing River Nature Reserve. Bring snacks and your choice of hydration. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended.

These hikes can be logged towards earning the 60 for the 60th Anniversary badge.

Walk and Talk Rocks

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills
Category: General
Location (Google Maps): Meet at 9 am at the parking lot at Mono Community Centre.

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

Pace: Leisurely – 3 km/hour or less
Terrain: Moderate – some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: Approximately 9.5 km

Description

Let’s rock it out and explore the geology of Mono Cliffs. We’ll hike mainly at a leisurely pace over the approximately 9.5 km route as we cover many of the highlights of Mono Cliffs Provincial Park. Dr. Kathy Wallace will provide an introductory-level look at the geology of the park that welcomes your curiosity. Plan on a lunch break at a spectacular look-out, a total time out just under 4 hours, and having your way of engaging with the trail expanded. This interactive hike was created for a small group, so we apologize in advance if there is more interest than spaces. In consideration of this, the hike may be repeated in September or October. No dogs please.

Loop Hike #4 - Hockley Crest

Hosting Club: Iroquoia, Caledon Hills
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Parking Lot on Mono 5 Sideroad, on the north side where the Trail crosses.

Hike Leader(s): Pati Greenwood, Jeff Dowsett Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Strenuous – Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing
Distance: 14 KM

Description

We will follow the main BT and take in several side trails to make a 14 KM hike with several loops.  There will be a few steep climbs.  Bring plenty of water and a snack.  Please arrive by 8:15 am as we will leave promptly at 8:30 am.

9:00 am Niagara on the Lake Tour & Some Yoga

Hosting Club: Niagara

Location (Google Maps): Veteran’s Memorial Park, park just outside the park on King St.

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

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Easy
Distance: 6 km

Description

Enjoy the benefits of pausing for a yoga practice as we tour through the trails, parkland and Historic Niagara-on-the-Lake. No mat required. Movement will focus on a flow of standing poses designed especially for hikers. Plan to stay for conversation and a warm cup of coffee or tea at Sweets & Swirls, Community Centre, Niagara Stone Road, NOTL.

Bus Hike: Crawford Lake

Trip Information
Departure Time: 08:30
Return to City Time: 17:00
Departure Point: Kipling Departure Point

Optional Items

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Bus Hike
Location (Google Maps): Crawford Lake

Hike Leader(s): Tim Wainwright, George Lennon, Felix Wan Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Hilly, Other (Refer to Description)
Distance: 16.1 km

Description

Our hike starts at the main Bruce Trail at Steeles and Appleby Rd, and continues through the Nassagaweya Canyon connecting Rattlesnake Point to the Crawford Lake Area.  The area features majestic cliffs, rugged rock formations, and lush vegetation — a picturesque landscape that is ideal for nature lovers. Its cliffs provide a perfect habitat for turkey vultures to nest, and they can be seen circling overhead as our journey continues to Crawford Lake and its reconstructed 15th century Iroquoian village, where we’ll be stopping for lunch with time to explore the village if possible.  Archaeological research has found 10,000 artifacts in the area.  From there we’ll continue on the main trail to Kilbride School where the bus will be waiting for us.  There will be a drop-out point at 12.6 km for anyone wishing to end the hike earlier.

The bus will be leaving from Kipling subway station at 8:30 and the planned return is for 5:00.

Urban Walk: Smokey Hollow, Waterdown

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Urban Walk
Location (Google Maps): Waterdown, Ontario

Hike Leader(s): Brian Rideout Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Variable
Distance: 12.4 km

Description

Please join me under the clock in the Great Hall in Union Station by 8:45 am.  We will take the Lakeshore West train to Adlershot GO departing at 9:03 am and arriving at 10:00 am. We will hike north into Waterdown, taking in Smoky Hollow Waterfall, where we will have lunch followed by an ice cream stop.  This is a level 2 / level 3 hike.

Here is a map of the route.  Smoky Hollow, Waterdown

I recommend you purchase  a GO one day pass online if you come on this hike.  If you are driving, meet us at Aldershot GO by 10 am.

Please bring at least 2 liters of water (more is better plus electrolytes), a lunch, bug spray and sun screen.

As of August 25, 2024, this hike is not impacted by the rail strike at CN and CP.  There is GO train service to Aldershot GO.

Note: Registration closes 48 hours before the start of the hike.