Hike Schedule

9:00 Queenston Heights

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: In and Out
Location (Google Maps): Locus Grove Picnic Area. Free parking.

Hike Leader(s): Suzanne Gourluck Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Brisk
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: 10 km

Description

Let’s hike the main trail and some side trails from Locust Grove Picnic Area. This may involve ascending the escarpment depending on the route we take, but we will take it slowly. Dress for the weather and bring poles, water and a snack.

Spencer Adventure

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Thursday Group
Location (Google Maps): Christie Lake Conservation Area

Hike Leader(s): Anne Armstrong Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely – 3km/hr or less
Terrain: Easy – Mostly flat and usually good footing
Distance: Approx. 10 km.

Description

Spencer Adventure is a hiking trail along Spencer Creek terminating at Websters Falls where the creek plunges over the falls to the gorge below. We will start our hike at Christie Lake and eventually follow the creek to Websters Falls. Along the way there are many interesting historical features including a grist mill and Upper Canada’s first pulp and paper mill as well as lovely natural sights. Expect to see some early Spring wildflowers. Bring water, a snack and sunscreen and poles if using. Parking fee or Conservation Area

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

Peninsula Sunrise Series: Hope Bay Forest

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Sunrise Hike
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 (2.0 – 3.0 km/h): A relaxed pace with frequent breaks and a focus on enjoyment.
Terrain: Difficult: Steep ascents/descents, rocky scrambling, and some rugged escarpment paths., Easy: Flat forested sections or lowland trails., Moderate: Rolling hills, mild slopes and rocky paths.
Distance: 7.0 km

Description

Experience the magic of dawn on the Bruce Trail with the Sunrise Hike Series offered by the Peninsula Bruce Trail Club. These early morning hikes provide a perfect opportunity to awaken your senses, boost your energy, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as the sun paints the sky with breathtaking hues. As we make our way through scenic forest trails, we’ll pause to witness the first light shimmering on the turquoise waters of Georgian Bay – a sight that will surely leave you in awe!

Beyond the beauty, morning light helps regulate your circadian rhythm, elevating your mood, boosting energy levels and improving sleep quality. Whether you’re looking to start your day with a sense of calm, capture stunning sunrise shots, or simply reconnect with nature, these hikes offer a unique and inspiring way to greet the day.

On Saturday April 26th, join us in hiking along the Don Irish Side Trail, Main Trail, and portions of the Jack Poste Side Trail and Hopeness Side Trail through Hope Bay Provincial Forest to experience the sun rising over the Bay from the edge of the Escarpment. We’ll have the joy of taking in the stunning colours of the sky as the first light sparkles on the stunning turquoise waters. This peaceful sunrise hike is the perfect way to connect with nature, capture some incredible photos, and start the day with fresh air and inspiration. Whether you’re a morning person or just love a good adventure, come experience the magic of dawn from one of the best vantage points on the Bruce Peninsula!

Don’t forget to bring a headlamp or flashlight (preferably with a red light setting) as we begin our adventure in the pre-dawn quiet. Join us and discover how a sunrise hike can nourish your mind, body, and spirit—setting the tone for a brighter, more balanced day.

This hike is approximately 7 kms in length. Expect to be on the trail for 2.5-3 hours. Pace will be leisurely with ample time to enjoy the sunrise, take some photographs, and nourish yourself!

How to prepare

• Get a good night’s sleep
• Bring lots of water and a snack (breakfast and/or coffee are recommended if that’s your thing!)
• Bring a headlamp or flashlight (preferably with a red light setting)
• Wear waterproof hiking boots (there will be mud!)
• Hiking poles are recommended but not necessary
• Bring insect repellant or wear protective clothing – blackflies in particular are plentiful in late April!

Map 37, Edition 31

Iroquoia City of Waterfalls Challenge - 2 Day Shuttle Hike - Members Only

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: City of Waterfalls – Special Event Fundraiser
Location (Google Maps): Day 1:April 26th – Parking lot at Cityview Park off Kerns Rd. Enter from Dundas St. (capacity 50) 43.351747, -79.862195
Day 2: April 27th – Parking lot off Mud St providing access to the Mud Street Side Trail (capacity 30)

Hike Leader(s): Kristy Goss 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
Distance: Approximately 22-25 km per day

Description

Welcome to Iroquoia, City of Waterfalls Challenge! This is a fundraiser challenge event. All funds raised go towards the Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club to maintain the infrastructure of this beautiful section of trail and to “Preserve this ribbon of wilderness, for everyone, forever!”

We also encourage participants to consider a membership with Conservation Hamilton
https://conservationhamilton.ca/hca-membership-pass/

And/or Conservation Halton (50%discount with BTC membership)
https://www.conservationhalton.ca/park-fees-membership-rates/

DAY 1: APRIL 26 – We will meet at Cityview Park and car shuttle to Spencer Gorge Parking Lot (Conservation Halton) and hike back. The cost at this parking lot is $16.50 per vehicle and driver plus $5.50 for each passenger. To be confirmed. Day 1 Distance (to be confirmed) 21-23km at a brisk pace, with opportunities to stop for photos & a break along the way.

DAY 2: APRIL 27 – We will meet in the parking area off of Mud St and car shuttle to Artaban Rd Parking Lot (Conservation Hamilton) and hike back. The cost for this parking lot is $11.00 per vehicle. To be confirmed. Day 1 Distance (to be confirmed) 22-25km, with opportunities to stop for photos & a break along the way.

Please ensure your vehicle is car shuttle ready by having a minimum of 4 seatbelts available – drivers do not pay for the parking. Please volunteer for this important component of this challenge or we can throw all the names into a hat. While we encourage carpooling to the start of the hike, please let the hike leader know if you’re planning to arrive with more than two people in your vehicle.  This hike will be limited to 20 people including the hike leader so we will need at least 4 vehicles and one vehicle with 5 seatbelts to drive the drivers back at the end of the day. We will try to take as few vehicles as possible. On the second day, those who did not drive on the first day will be asked to drive.

There will be short breaks along the way to admire the waterfalls on route and a short lunch.

Please bring all the hiking items  you require for a long day hike including 2l of water, snacks, lunch, first aid kit, rain gear if rain is forecast, plastic shower caps for your boots if muddy, bug spray, sunscreen, rimmed hat, poles (if you use them) and your camera for all the photo ops. Please ensure you are physically able to complete two long day hikes over two days – if you must drop out, you will have to arrange your own transportation back to your vehicle. There is public transportation, Uber, and taxi’s in the area. If you are concerned about whether you will be able to manage the distance over the two day period, it’s possible that you may need to wait until a 4 day version of this event is posted.

The new badge will be presented to all participants who have completed the challenge at the end of the second day.

Any questions may be directed through contact on this form.

2025 TBTC AGM - Photography hike

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: TBTC Special Events
Location (Google Maps): Gellert Community Centre, Georgetown

Hike Leader(s): Marijo Roy Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

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

Description

Please join us for a nature photography hike with professional photographer Ankur Khurana. Ankur has been captivated by photography since childhood, starting with a mini camera gifted by his father at age 7. Over time, his passion evolved from portraits, events, and landscapes to his true love—bird photography. Now an award-winning wildlife photographer and writer, Ankur’s work is deeply rooted in wildlife conservation. As a full-time storyteller with Feather Friendly, he combines his imagery and writing to raise awareness about bird-glass collisions and promote sustainable solutions. His portfolio can be viewed at www.ankurkhurana.ca. Ankur will provide tips and advice on how to improve your pictures. Bring your DSLR camera, iPad, iPhone, or other devices. After the hike, we will arrive at the Gellert Centre for lunch before the AGM starts.

NOTE: The bus will depart from the York Mills departure point to the Georgetown area for a morning of hiking, followed by lunch and the 2025 TBTC AGM featuring guest speaker Adam Shoalts. This registration is for the Photography Hike only.

IMPORTANT:

You must register separately for the meeting on Eventbrite – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/2025-tbtc-annual-general-meeting-tickets-1111143132019?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Participants who will be coming on the bus need to register and pay for the bus through the AGM Bus Hike registration.

*First Aid/CPR Course for active Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club Hike Leaders and Trail Maintenance Volunteers.

Hosting Club: Iroquoia

Location (Google Maps): Bruce Trail Conservancy Offices

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

Distance: N/A

Description

This two-day course is for active volunteers who are regularly leading hikes or are involved with the Iroquoia Bruce trail maintenance program. This is a full weekend to receive your basic First Aid and CPR certification. The course is instructed by Scott Fraichine. The cost is covered by the BTC.

Please do not register for this course unless you fully qualify as be the above.

Dufferin Hi-Land 60th Anniversary Side Trail Highlights

Hosting Club: Dufferin Hi-Land
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Map 20: Park at north end of 2nd Line E (Access 2nd Line via 1st Line E north from Hwy 89 to 8 Sideroad)

Hike Leader(s): su Bate, Carol Foley Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Brisk
Terrain: Moderate, Slippery Sections Likely
Distance: 9km

Description

This is the 5th in a series of 6 loop hikes; each hike is between 9-12km in length.  If you hike all 6 of the hikes in this series, or otherwise hike 60 km in Dufferin during 2025, you qualify for the 60th Anniversary badge.

Bring a drink, a snack and your ICERS because the trail can be slippery, icy and muddy at this time of year.  Dress for the weather!  Getting closer to the end now :)We will follow 2nd Line ECL Side Trail to Oliver Creek Side Trail. Turn right on Oliver Creek and continue east to Bruce Main Trail at km 24.3. Follow Main Trail south to Mulmur Lookout Side Trail (km 20.7). Take side trips on the Boyne Creek and Mulmur Lookout Side Trails along the way. Return to parking by the same route or, for a shorter hike, stay on 2nd Line E when the Main Trail leaves the road just north of km 22.7.

Explore the TBTC Seed Orchard

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: TBTC Special Events
Location (Google Maps): Todd Bardes Side Trail

Hike Leader(s): Janet Patterson; George Lennon Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

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

Description

This is one of the bus hikes being offered in conjunction with the TBTC AGM. You must be registered (separately) for the AGM bus to take part in this hike.

Come and learn about this innovative new project. We are fortunate to have the BTC’s Restoration Project Specialist, Lyndsey Wilkerson as our guide. Limited to 10 people due to the educational nature of the hike.

We’ll take a leisurely stroll to visit the Seed Orchard, which is located in a meadow adjacent to the Todd Bardes Side Trail, a unique seasonal wetland habitat. The purpose of this orchard – a protected area – is to foster the growth of native plants for the express purpose of producing seeds. These seeds will be collected annually and redistributed to support wetland restoration areas identified in the Toronto section but also in neighbouring Iroquoia and Caledon sections of the Bruce Trail.

A major goal of the TBTC Biodiversity Team is to foster an appreciation of the flora and fauna that thrive along the Bruce Trail. We also strive to protect native species from threats, such as the encroachment of invasive species.

“Native plants offer everything pollinators need: nectar, pollen and habitats that match their life cycles. Native plants also bloom at the perfect time for pollinators, making them essential allies in the effort to protect biodiversity.” ~ David Suzuki Foundation newsletter

Car Hike/Bus Hike: Sauntering around Silver Creek: MODERATE Hike

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: TBTC Special Events
Location (Google Maps): We will meet at the Silver Creek Outdoor Education parking lot – coordinates are 43.692615, -79.968433. (Map 13 of the Bruce Trail Reference Guide, Edition 31).

Hike Leader(s): Monica Pasquali 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: 6 km

Description

This hike is considered BOTH a “Bus Hike” AND a “Car Hike” because it is for people traveling by the TBTC bus leaving from York Mills and for people traveling by car.  If traveling by bus then please ensure you also register and pay for the bus using this link: https://hikesstaging.brucetrail.org/event/bus-hike-2025-tbtc-agm-hike-and-meeting/2025-04-26/

Join me and my family for a stroll through Silver Creek Conservation Area before the Toronto Bruce Trail Club’s Annual General Meeting on Saturday, April 26, 2025.  We will use the main Bruce Trail, the Roberts Side Trail, the Irwin Quarry Side Trail, and a small portion of the Bennett Heritage Trail to make a 6 km triple loop.  We will go up and down the Escarpment a few times, enjoy the view over Silver Creek Valley, look for wetland critters as we walk along the edge of a pond, cross Owl Creek, and observe the beginnings of spring deep within mature forests.  We will complete our hike by walking about 400 m on 27th Side Road in order to return to the Silver Creek Outdoor Education parking lot, admiring the little waterfall underneath the road bridge along the way.

Children under 13 years of age are encouraged to join their parents/guardians on this hike so they can fulfill the requirements 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.  My own two children (ages are 11 and 14) will be participating in the hike so please feel free to bring children along as long as they can complete the 6 km distance at a moderate average pace of approximately 3 km/h.

You should bring enough water and food for a 2-hour hike, comfortable footwear with good traction, appropriate clothing for the weather, and a big smile because we’re going to have a terrific time together!

Car Hike: Northeast Trail in Rouge National Urban Park

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Car Hike
Location (Google Maps): Rouge National Urban Park, Black Walnut Day Use Area, Parking Lot
7445 Elgin Mills Rd E, Markham

Hike Leader(s): Kerry Seong, Jacquie Van Dyke Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat, Variable
Distance: 10.7 KM

Description

Please join us a car hike on Northeast Trail in Rouge National Urban Park. This trail passes through a variety of landscapes such as wetlands, forests, meadows, and farmland. Along the route, we will find seven boardwalks, including a pergola seating area with views of a marsh. Constructed with a durable fiber-glass substructure designed to last for centuries, these boardwalks represent one of Rouge National Urban Park’s latest eco-friendly projects.

This is a shuttle hike from Glasgow Trailhead to Black Walnut Day Use Area.

Please

• be prepared to use your vehicle to transport hikers
• bring a garbage bag for your dirty boots and clean footwear to change into for the ride back the start. We will leave those things in the cars at the start so you don’t have to carry them on the hike.
• wear a comfortable boots and layers for the weather.
• pack hiking poles, icers, bug spray and sunblock.
• bring 2 L of water, snack/lunch.

Scotsdale Farm Duff Pit loop

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Meet roadside on 8th Line at 9:15 am (at the Great Esker Side Trail start)

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: 11 kms

Description

Hiking the main trail and side trails: Great Esker, North Rim, Duff Pit, Reservoir, and Trafalgar Rd. Through forest and meadow and on rocks and roots. Come with water and a snack.  I expect we’ll see some spring wildflowers.

Dufferin Hi-Land 60th Anniversary Badge End-to-End Hike #3

Hosting Club: Dufferin Hi-Land
Category: Special Events
Location (Google Maps): Roadside parking on the south side of 30 Sideroad, west of where the Main Trail meets the road. Please park 60 metres away from private driveways. BTC Map 20. Km 12.2.

Hike Leader(s): Stuart Law Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: 14.1

Description

Join us on the third of four hikes to cover the necessary 60 kms of the Dufferin Section in 2025 to earn the coveted Dufferin Hi-Land 60th Anniversary Badge.  This is a shuttle hike from 2nd Line E to 30 Sideroad.  Please be prepared to use your vehicle to transport hikers and please bring a garbage bag for your dirty boots and clean footwear to change into for the ride back to the start.  We will leave those things in the cars at the start so you don’t have to carry them on the hike.  Please make sure you are wearing comfortable boots and layers for the weather.  Please pack your icers just in case as well as bug spray and sunblock.  Please bring two litres of water, a snack, a lunch and a smile.  Please arrive at 9:30 to be ready to shuttle at 9:45 sharp.