Hike Schedule

Speyside to Canada Goose (E2E)

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Meet in the Bruce Trail parking lot on 22 Side Road at 9:15 am.

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: 8 kms

Description

Meeting at 9:15 am in the Bruce Trail parking lot at the corner of 22 Side Road and 4th Line, we will carpool to 15 Side Road at Speyside and hike back along the main trail.  There are some rocky parts to this hike.

Urban Walk: Toronto Urban Badge Hike - 3 of 7

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Urban Walk
Location (Google Maps): Toronto Waterfront Trail

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

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat
Distance: 10.4 km

Description

Please join me at the south west corner of Lakeshore Blvd West and Ellis by 10 AM.  We will hike east along the Waterfront Trail to the Distillery District (km 8.3 to km 71.4).  Here is an online map with km markings of our route for all 7 hikes for the Toronto Urban Badge: https://onthegomap.com/s/c2c1hf3n

Please make sure you bring at least 2 liters of water, a lunch, bug spray and sunscreen.

Pre-AGM Corn Hole Tournament

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: Register
Location (Google Maps): Queenston Pavilion, Queenston Heights Park, 14184 Niagara Parkway, Niagara on the Lake

Description

Please go to the registration table at the far pavilion when you arrive.  If you do not already have a Niagara Parks parking pass, a free day pass will be given to you at the registration table.

The corn hole tournament will begin at 2 pm.  There will be two people on each team and 4 people per corn hole board.  Teams will be assigned.   The preliminary games beginning at 2 pm will be 15 minutes long and will end just prior to the AGM meeting.  The championship game for the top two teams will be held once the AGM portion of the meeting is complete.

Wildflower Search

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Wildflowers and Spring Ephemerals
Location (Google Maps): Hilton Falls Conservation Area, Campbellville Rd. between Highway 25 and Guelph Line

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

Pace: Leisurely – 3km/hr or less
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: Approx. 9 – 10 km.

Description

We continue our search for wildflowers in this area, rich in natural beauty, water management and some interesting history. We will use park walking trails as well as some biking trails . Expect some rocky areas. Meet in the. main parking lot at 9:45 am. for a 10:00 am. start. Bring water, sunscreen, a snack and poles is using. You will need to make a reservation with Halton Conservation Area Parks to enter the area.
Leader: Anne Armstrong

Spring Birding: Wetlands, Meadow and Forest Hike

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Birding
Location (Google Maps): Meet at the corner of Crooked Toe Road and Boundary Road. Please carpool, if possible.

Hike Leader(s): Marg Glendon & Miptoon 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: Easy: Flat forested sections or lowland trails., Moderate: Rolling hills, mild slopes and rocky paths.
Distance: ~3 km

Description

Join us for a guided birding hike on the Saugeen Peninsula. Miptoon, a respected Knowledge Holder and local birding enthusiast from Neyaashiinigmiing will share his joy and knowledge of birds throughout our hike. As migrating birds return for the spring and summer, we’ll explore diverse habitats—including wetlands, forests, and meadows—offering a chance to observe a variety of bird species. Bring binoculars, a light backpack with essentials (snacks, water, and ID resources), and dress appropriately with long-sleeved clothing, a hat, and waterproof hiking boots. Be prepared for possible wet terrain. Hiking poles, gaiters, bug net hat and insect repellent are optional. This hike will be ~2 hours in duration. Participants are welcome to linger longer, if they wish. Raindate – May 28th.

Urban Walk: High Park and Toronto Waterfront Trail

Hosting Club: Toronto

Location (Google Maps):

High Park Subway Station Street Level (East Exit – High Park Avenue (by the bus loop)

Hike Leader(s): Miriam Stevens Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely (2-3 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat, Level 1 (Easy – mostly on flat, well maintained trails with hard-packed surface)
Distance: 10 KM

Description

Join us for a leisurely hike through High Park and then east along Toronto’s Waterfront Trail to Harbourfront Centre passing though many small parks including the Music Garden. Refreshments at a coffee shop on Queens Quay at Harbourfront. Bring lunch and drinking water. Dropout any time. We’ll arrive at Harbourfront Centre around 2:00 PM. This will be repeated Tuesday May 13th, Tuesday May 27th, Tuesday June 3rd, and Tuesday June 24th. No pre registration is required. Just show up 15-20 minutes before to departure time to sign in with the hike leader.

Afternoon Hike - Crawford Lake

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Afternoon/Evening Hikes
Location (Google Maps): Meet in the first parking lot at 4:15 pm

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 around the park loop and perhaps the boardwalk.

Niagara Glen Short and Sassy

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Good Companions
Location (Google Maps):

Niagara Glen, 3050 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Hike Leader(s): Craig Sim Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: 6-7k (approximate)

Description

Loop hike in beautiful Niagara Glen, NOT using Whirlpool Trail. We meet in between Niagara Glen parking lot and building near lot.  Pay parking or Niagara parks pass. Trail ranges from moderate to quite rocky, has hills and stairs. Watch footing. Lots of boulders and great views close to Niagara River. We descend steel stairs before and after hike. Wear hiking boots or shoes. Bring water, snack, appropriate layered clothing for the weather and rain gear. Optional beverage/food after.  Niagara Glen is close to both Butterfly Conservatory and Floral Clock.

WEEKNIGHT RAINBOW HIKE: Escarpment Rail Trail plus Stairs

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Afternoon/Evening Hikes
Location (Google Maps): We’ll meet at the bottom of the Wentworth Stairs (below Charlton St.) and follow Escarpment Rail Trail

Hike Leader(s): Doug O’Neill Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Easy – Mostly flat and usually good footing
Distance: 8 km

Description

This all-inclusive LGBTQ-friendly hike is indeed “mostly flat.” But, as your mama no doubt told you: “Men can lie.” 🙂 This weeknight fitness walk actually includes two Escarpment Stairs. The good news: You’ll climb only one and dance down the other.

From the bottom of Wentworth Stairs, we’ll follow the flat Escarpment Rail Trail all the way to the historic Uli Stairs, which we’ll climb up to Mountain Brow. Upon reaching the top, we’ll take a break, stretch, have a snack and gulp some water before we saunter along the Mountain Brow path to Margate Stairs. There, we’ll descend to the Rail Trail, and head back to the starting point at Wentworth.

Bring water and energizing snacks—especially if you’ve come directly from work. Insect repellent is a good idea, too.

Consider this 8-km weeknight hike good training for longer weekend hikes.

Hidden Valley to Hendrie Valley

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps):

Meet at the parking lot at 1137 HIDDEN VALLEY ROAD -east side of Road -by the Hidden Valley Park washrooms(NOT the south lot off Lemonville Rd)

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

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: Approximately 8 kms

Description

We will follow a community trail from Hidden Valley Park in Burlington following Grindstone Creek to RBG Hendrie Valley where we will hike the Bridle

and Grindstone Marsh Trails with some road walking to connect the trails –

Lots of wildlife can be seen in this area -birds, deer, swans and wildflowers too

Spring like conditions-wet areas-dress for the weather, bring water, hiking poles, boots, lunch or snack.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ajsLB5BP3zwBGtCCA

Urban Walk: Toronto Islands Evening Walk

Hosting Club: Toronto

Location (Google Maps):

Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, near the gates to Wards Island Ferry. Arrive 20 minutes prior to departure to check in with hike leader.

From Union Station take the LRT and get off at the stop Ferry Docks.Walk up to the Ferry Docks on Queens Quay West, street level. at the foot of Bay Street.

Hike Leader(s): Miriam Stevens Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely (2-3 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat
Distance: 6-9 km

Description

After a day’s work come and “cool off” on the Toronto Islands free of fumes and traffic. Enjoy the view of the city skyline and Toronto’s beautiful island parkland.
Pack a dinner for a sit down picnic. Food is not available for purchase on the Islands early in the season. Also bring a warm jacket and flashlight.
Return fare ticket for the ferry is $9.11 adults and $5.86 seniors.
Hikes will take place rain or shine.
Toronto Island evening hikes will take place every Thursday in May and June 2025.
Same time and same meeting place. No preregistration is required – just show up at the ferry docks at 5:40 PM and sign in with the hike leader.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Tour

Hosting Club: Niagara

Location (Google Maps): Park on King St, Centre St near 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 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 and Swirls, Community Centre, 14 Anderson Lane, (just off Niagara Stone Rd), NOTL

Peninsula Sunrise Series: Cape Chin Maple Cross Reserve

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Sunrise Hike
Location (Google Maps): Bruce Trail Roadside Parking at 193 Cape Chin North Rd. #301

Hike Leader(s): Kathleen Stahlbaum

Pace: Leisurely (2.0 – 3.0 km/h): A relaxed pace with frequent breaks and a focus on enjoyment.
Terrain: Easy: Flat forested sections or lowland trails.
Distance: ~6km

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 photos, or simply reconnect with nature, these hikes offer a unique and inspiring way to greet the day.

On Saturday May 31st, join us in hiking the Cape Chin Maple Cross property to the edge of the Niagara Escarpment, where we’ll experience the sun rising over the Bay from the iconic Cape Chin lookout. 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 6 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

Falling Water Trail Badge Event - (participants hike independently, no hike leader)

Hosting Club: Beaver Valley

Location (Google Maps): Meet in the Beaver Valley Ski Club Lower parking lot at the far south end of the lot, past the tennis courts (do not park by the private picnic area near the river and bridge). Map 26, Edition 31 N44.357382, W80.543331

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

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate, Strenuous, Some steep sections, Some rocky footing
Length of Hike: 30.1km You set your own pace, however a medium pace will get the job done in a timely fashion.

Description

Come and test your mettle! This is a 30.1 km loop hike that traverses the beautiful, rugged upper Beaver Valley. It’s a challenging hike during which you’ll experience all that spring has to offer, including cascading creeks, waterfalls and possibly muddy conditions.  Registrants should have experience with hiking long distances over strenuous terrain.

Registration will be through the Bruce Trail Conservancy Online Calendar and will open at 8:30 a.m. on March 3, 2025. The $40.00 registration fee covers the cost of the online registration fee, check point refreshments and the badge.

Further details of the event will be emailed to participants once registration is received. For more information contact beavervalleytrailactivities@gmail.com

Exploring beautiful Mono Cliffs Provincial Park in Spring

Hosting Club: Iroquoia, Dufferin Hi-Land
Category: Good Companions
Location (Google Maps): Mono Community Centre – parking lot is the meeting point

Hike Leader(s): Corina Seceleanu Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: 12 to 13 km

Description

Hello Everyone – this is a Spring hike thoughout the beautiful Mono Cliffs Provincial Park, starting from Mono Cliff Community Centre. Hike will be on main BTC trail and side trails,  following white and blue blazes and park trails.  We hike in loops starting on Southern Outlier Loop Trail , intersecting and following Spillway Trail , Walter Tovell, Look Out , McCarston’s Lake and Laidlaw and back to the parking lot. Moreover, we will make a short walk to visit  the famous sheer cliff of the “Mono”  to admire its beauty formation and vista and will continue on the Cliff Top Trail afterwards.

This is a Moderate hike – with hilly sections, rocky in some parts and steep climbing sometimes.

Please be prepared and bring with you the basics:

Hiking boots,  poles,  a lunch / snacks and a minimum 2L of water , rain gear if it’s in the forecast and your enthusiasm. Long pants and sleeves sun protection, bug spray, recommended as well.

The  hike is around 4- 4.5 hours with short breaks and a lunch. We will hike at pace 3-3.5 km/h.

Hike is a go -regardless of the weather conditions (we aim for the sunshine; but we’ll take whatever is given)

If any questions or concerns, please contact the Hike leader through this form.

Happy Trails, everyone!

Urban Walk: Toronto Urban Badge Hike - 5 of 7

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Urban Walk
Location (Google Maps): Finch Hydro Corridor Trail West/East

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

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat
Distance: 9.6 km

Description

Please join me at the north east corner of Bathurst and Finch by 10 AM.  We will hike east on the Finch Hydro Corridor Trail and south along East Don Parklands to Sheppard and Leslie (km 41.6 to km 51.2).  Here is an online map with km markings of our route for all 7 hikes for the Toronto Urban Badge: https://onthegomap.com/s/c2c1hf3n

Please make sure you bring at least 2 liters of water, a lunch, bug spray and sunscreen.