Hike Schedule

Urban Walk: Waterfront Trail 6/11 – Lakeshore East

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

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

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat
Distance: 10.9 km

Description

Please join me at the Tim Horton’s at Lakeshore and Leslie no later than 9:50 am.  We start hiking at 10:00 am.

We will hike east on Lakeshore, along the Beaches Boardwalk, and on Kingston Rd to Brimley Rd.  The estimated distance is 10.9 km.  Here is an online map of our route Lakeshore to Brimley Rd

Bring a snack, at least 2 liters of water, and icers.  Dress for cold weather.

10:30 NBTC WINTER Nature Hike

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: In and Out
Location (Google Maps): Short Hills Parking Lot C at Wiley Rd, Thorold, ON L0S 1E6

Hike Leader(s): Helen Hermansen Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: ~5km

Description

NBTC WINTER NATURE HIKE

Join us for the NBTC Nature Hike series to learn more about the biodiversity along the Bruce Trail.

This time, we will explore the trails throughout Short Hills Provincial Park. Hikes will be held February, May, August & October – it will be amazing to see all the changes throughout the seasons.  Your hike leaders, members of the NBTC Biodiversity Committee, will share their knowledge of the amazing flora & fauna along the trail as well as any biodiversity projects in the works for this year.

Parking is at the Parking Lot C at the end of Wiley Road. Hiking boots, icers and poles are recommend.

Note that the hike will be rescheduled in the event of heavy rains or heavy snow. Lets hope for good cold weather!

Hamilton Soupfest

Hike open to BTC Members only.

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

Hike Leader(s): Jill Parratt Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Easy – Mostly flat and usually good footing
Distance: 6

Description

Meet at 9:45 for 10am start.

Hike to Hamilton Convention Centre via Harbour waterfront trail, Desjardins Trail, Kay Drage Park by the Cathedral Basilica.

The Hamilton Soupfest supports Living Rock Youth Centre.  $20 for 4 soup samples. Ticket can be bought at the event or online in advance at https://www.livingrock.ca/soupfest

After soup and voting we will walk back to our cars as a group or individually.

Please email me with any questions.

Jill Parratt

*Good Companions - Chedoke Radial Trail and Scenic Drive Side Trail

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

Chedoke Golf Club Parking Lot – Hamilton

Hike Leader(s): Ted Bossence 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 km

Description

We will walk up the Chedoke Radial Trail and into the Iroquoia Heights Conservation Area.  We will then loop back and follow the Scenic Drive Side Trail along the top of the escarpment and down either the Dundurn or Chedoke (Leader’s choice) escarpment stairs to the golf course parking lot.   Bring water and icers, in case they are needed.     I will be leaving on time at 10:00 am.  In case of bad weather I will cancel the hike and notify you by email the evening before.  Please check your email.  If you must cancel after 4:00 pm on the Tuesday, please use contact information I will send on the Tuesday.  Please arrive by 9:45 am,  I will be leaving on time.

Winter Badge Wednesdays: Hockleycrest

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills
Category: General
Location (Google Maps): Meet at 10 am at the Mono 5 Sideroad parking area at km 45.4 on the north side of the road where the Trail crosses. This is east of Airport Road. It is best to aim for arriving around 9:45, so we can start hiking as close to 10 am as possible. Thanks!

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

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hour
Terrain: Moderate – some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: Approximately 5 km

Description

Update on the conditions at Hockleycrest: We will be hiking less than 5 km because of the deep snow along some parts of the route. It is a bit narrow in those parts for snowshoes. For other parts, the trail is shared with the cross country skiers. We will be walking to the side of the groomed tracks for the skiers.

Looking to get outside and enjoy nature in another season? You may wish to join in on one Wednesday hike in this winter series or all five! Complete all five as part of the series or do a combination of hikes within the series and your own winter hikes, and you will be eligible to receive the Caledon Winter Hiking Badge (further details below and on the CHBTC website under Club Badges).

Following the main Bruce Trail and side trails, this Wednesday’s hike takes us through Hockleycrest. Be prepared for winter conditions on our approximately 5 km route by bringing warm gear, poles, and icers. You are encouraged to bring water and a snack. No dogs please.

The hike leader for this hike is Elizabeth Ganong. Registrants can expect a reminder/update message one or two days before the hike.

If desired, this hike may be used towards the Caledon Winter Hiking Badge (5 winter hikes in the Caledon section that are 1 ½ hours or longer in length). Please keep a log of your hikes and follow the directions on the CHBTC website under Club Badges to receive your badge.

Lollipop Hike

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Good Companions
Location (Google Maps): Halton Agreement Forest, Guelph Line, across from Elements Casino Mohawk

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 8 – 9 km.

Description

Join us to hike the many trails of this extensive forest with its many hiking and biking trails. With good snow cover we may avoid the rocks. rocks. Meet in the northeast corner of the Elements Casino parking lot at 9:45 am. for a 10:00 am. start. Bring water, a snack, and icers. Poles may be helpful. I will send an email out ahead of the hike to give you my contact information.

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

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: Urban
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

Scotch Block Forest Trails

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Scotch Block and Speyside

Hike Leader(s): Victoria Best Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Dependent on Conditions, Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: 7 to 10 km

Description

We will walk to the end of St Helena Rd. Hike the BT main trail north to the Al Shaw Side Trail. Take forest trails to the Tirion Tract and the BT main trail.
Depending on the time and trail conditions, we can extend the hike along the edge of the escarpment to the McKague Easement and then hike back to the cars via the BT main trail.
Dress appropriately for the weather. We can expect to see snow on the trails. The trail has rocky sections. Hiking boots and icers are required.
Bring a snack & beverage.
No dogs please.
Departure Time: arrive at 9:15 for a 9:30AM departure.

Fun Friday Hike - Cyprus Lake and Georgian Trail

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Winter Hikes
Location (Google Maps): Bruce Peninsula National Park – Cyprus Lake

Hike Leader(s): Marg and Owen Glendon 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: Moderate: Rolling hills, mild slopes and rocky paths.
Distance: 5 – 6 km

Description

Let’s have some winter fun exploring the trails at Bruce Peninsula National Park. Meet at the Head of the Trails at Bruce Peninsula National Park located at 469 Cyprus Lake Rd, Tobermory. Bruce Peninsula National Park showcases some of  Mother Nature’s most beautiful natural ice sculptures and beautiful forest trails. We will hike the Georgian Trail to the Grotto and extend our hike along the Horseshoe Lake or Cyprus Lake Trail, depending on trail conditions. Bring a  backpack to carry a light lunch and water. Weather and trail can be variable at this time of year -be prepared to bring snowshoes, icers, hiking poles, gators. We will aim for a 2 1/2 -3 hour hike with short nutrition break, time for photos and conversation. Please arrive about 15 minutes prior to the hike start time. All park fees apply.

9:00 NOTL Black History SERIES - #4 of 4: The Early Black Community

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

Veteran’s Memorial Park. Park on King St. at Centre.

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

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Easy
Distance: 5 kms

Description

This hike is to make up for one of the Black History hikes cancelled due to poor weather.

Since 1995, the government in Canada officially recognized February as Black History Month; a time when Canadians are invited to reflect, educate and engage in the ongoing fight against anti-Black racism and discrimination. You will find out about some of those who fought enslavement, and how they were pivotal in shaping our society to be as diverse as it is today.

*Dress for the weather. Icers are required. Hiking poles are recommended. We will stop several times at points of interest. Expect hike to take from 1.5-2 hours.

Hike 3 of 4 hikes in this series for the Black History badge.

PLEASE NOTE: Hikes are offered by volunteers who have committed to their own learning to be able to offer informative and contemplative hike experiences. These hikes are open to all and offered in a spirit of mutual leaning and inclusion.

Car Hike: Rouge National Park Trails 14 KM + Noodle House

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

Rouge Park, Glasgow Area Parking Lot

Hike Leader(s): Alina Lin

Pace: Brisk (4-5 km/hr)
Terrain: Challenging, Hilly, Level 2 (Intermediate – some hills and uneven surfaces, rocks and roots underfoot), Variable
Distance: 14KM

Description

Meet at the parking lot southeast of the Webb Rd @ Concession Rd 2, GPS ( 43.991641, -79.203363) . Please arrive before 8:45 am to get yourself ready.

We will leave the parking lot at 9:00am, hike south along Rouge National Park Trails , and then return, map FYI: https://onthegomap.com/s/odgq18ec. Depending on the trail condition, we may adjust the hiking distance to between 12 km – 15 km.

After hike, you are welcome to join the group for late lunch at Hey Moo Moo milk tea shop & noodle house (Unit 8, 18 Ringwood Dr, Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON L4A 8C1).

Notes for your attention:

• MUST have icers/crampons/microspikes as the trails are likely covered by hard snow or ice.
• Wear clothing in layers for the weather.
• Bring hot beverage and snacks.
• No dogs/pets.

Rush Cove Ice Caves Hike

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Winter Hikes
Location (Google Maps):

Rush Cove Road municipal parking lot

Hike Leader(s): Shawn Radcliffe Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium (3.0 – 4.5 km/h): A comfortable pace for most hikers with steady progress.
Terrain: Difficult: Steep ascents/descents, rocky scrambling, and some rugged escarpment paths., Moderate: Rolling hills, mild slopes and rocky paths.
Distance: 9.0 km

Description

Join us for an exciting in-and-out hike to visit the ice caves that form along the escarpment east of Rush Cove. This hike will also feature scenic views of Georgian Bay and walks through snowy forests—perfect for those looking to explore the winter wonderland of the Bruce (Saugeen) Peninsula.

We will meet at the Rush Cove Road municipal parking lot at the top of the hill and hike the side trail down the road to the main trail, at which point we will enter the forest. We will follow the main trail to the Shoreline Access side trail, which will take us to the ice caves. On our return, we will take the Rush Cove side trail to meet up with the main trail and then follow the side trail back up the hill to the parking lot.

Winter Hiking Tips:
Wear appropriate winter footwear and traction devices (e.g., microspikes) for icy conditions.
Snowshoes may be needed, depending upon how much snow is on the ground. Gaiters can also keep the snow out of your boots.
Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Niagara Glen Hike

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

Meet at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre parking lot, 3050 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls. This is located between the Whirlpool Golf Course and the Niagara Botanical Gardens, on the river side of the Niagara Parkway. Parking fees may apply.

Hike Leader(s): Dan Wilson Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Strenuous
Distance: 10km

Description

Hike deep in the Niagara Gorge, along stairways cut into the rock and rugged paths that wind through this pristine pocket of Carolinian Forest. View ancient geological formations and fossils dating back millions of years, while hiking along the turbulent rapids of the Niagara River. This is a strenuous hike and there is a chance hikers will get wet. Depending on weather conditions, bring water, a snack, icers, gaiters and hiking poles, if necessary. Dress in layers. 🙂

Saturday Shorts: Mono Centre

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills
Category: General
Location (Google Maps): Meet at 10 am at the parking lot at Mono Community Centre. The centre is located at 754483 Mono Centre Rd. Please park in the gravel surface lot – which is the first lot as you drive in. You might notice the side trail sign at the edge of the lot. It is best to aim for arriving around 9:45, so we can start hiking as close to 10 am as possible. Thanks!

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

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hour
Terrain: Moderate – some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: Between 4 and 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 takes us to the north end of the Caledon section as we use side trails and the main trail to make a 4 to 5 km route in the Whitetail Refuge Nature Reserve. Be prepared for winter conditions by bringing warm gear, poles, and icers. You are encouraged to bring water and a snack. No dogs please.

The hike leader for this hike is Dan Revington. Registrants can expect a reminder/update message from Dan one or two days before the hike.

If desired, this hike may be used towards the Caledon Winter Hiking Badge (5 winter hikes in the Caledon section that are 1 ½ hours or longer in length). Please keep a log of your hikes and follow the directions on the CHBTC website under Club Badges to receive your badge.

Urban Walk: Waterfront Trail 8/11 – Beechgrove (Port Union) to Pickering

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

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

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat
Distance: 11.9 km

Description

Please meet me at Kennedy Station by 10:04 am.  We will take the 86 Scarborough bus departing 10:19 am. We will transfer to the 54 Lawrence Ave bus, arriving at Port Union Rd at 10:54 am. We start hiking 11:00 am.

We will hike south to Lake Ontario and along the Waterfront Trail through Port Union and Rouge Hill to Pickering GO. The estimated distance is 9.8 km.  Here is an online map of our route – Port Union to Pickering.

Bring a snack, at least 2 liters of water, and icers.  Dress for cold weather.

Youth Hiking Program - Discovery Hike - Cottonwood Loop

Hosting Club: Sydenham
Category: Family Hike
Location (Google Maps):

Roadside parking on the east side of 11 Line, approximately 3 km north of Highway 26, at the entrance to the Cottonwood Side Trail, Map 30, Edition 31

Carpooling may be available upon request.

Hike Leader(s): Jeannine Kralt Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely: 3 km/h or less
Terrain: Easy: Mostly flat and good footing.
Distance: 2.1km

Description

This hike will be a discovery hike along the Cottonwood Loop – we’ll take our time, and see what we can find. This trail is a stand-alone trail, separate from the rest of the Bruce Trail. We’ll hike through forests, past a particularly large cottonwood tree, and to a lookout along a ridge. This property is the original location of the Rows homestead – their farmhouse can be seen at Moreston Village at Grey Roots.

The Cottonwood Loop counts towards the Junior Hiker badge and is also featured in Ron Savage’s new book, Exploring Sydenham. There will be sufficient time to find the related code en route. It’s also a great trail to use for the By the Seasons badge.

As we’ll be taking our time, this hike is suitable for families, new hikers, and anyone wanting a more leisurely hike – all ages are welcome. We’ll likely take an hour or two, depending on the group – dress in layers, bring a snack, and wear good footwear. Given that January can be variable, an email re: trail conditions to expect will be sent out prior to our hike together. There is a chance that snowshoes might come in handy (available to borrow from the local library!).

If you are unable to register, please contact the hike leader via the link above. Parking is roadside. Carpooling may be available upon request.