Hike Schedule

Car Hike: Jefferson Forest and Bond Lake (Richmond Hill)

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

1245 Bethesda Side Rd, Richmond Hill, ON L4E 1A2 ( Bethesda Trail Head Parking lot)

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

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat, Hilly, Level 2 (Intermediate – some hills and uneven surfaces, rocks and roots underfoot)
Distance (km): 14-15 km

Description

Let’s roll the hills of the Jefferson Forest and around the Bond Lake. Every week we hike in Jefferson Forest, located in the heart of Richmond Hill, it boasts numerous hiking trails. This 3.5 hour hike can range from 14 to 15 kilometres, depending on the weather conditions. Remember to bring water, snacks, hiking boots, poles, and your camera. Not recommended for beginners. Park in the free Bethesda parking lot and avoid parking along the road. Dress appropriately for the weather. Difficulty Level: 2 (Moderate).

Please arrive @8:15AM for start of 8:30AM.

This is a joint hike with the Oak Ridges Trail Association (ORTA).

what3words:

https://w3w.co/twisting.mailer.awakes

Sunday Side Trails / Colpoys Bluff and Wicher Side Trails

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Peninsula Blue Series
Location (Google Maps): Bluewater Park, Wiarton. Meet at main parking lot where washrooms are located.

Hike Leader(s): Barbara Reuber 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: Easy: Flat forested sections or lowland trails.
Distance: 13 km

Description

Sunday Side Trails

Peninsula BTC is offering a series of hikes covering all of the side trails on the Peninsula section of the Bruce Trail.  These hikes are a great opportunity for those who want to do some hiking but don’t want to commit to a full end-to-end; for those who have completed an end-to-end and want to explore more of the beautiful trails on the Peninsula and for locals and visitors who want to get out on the trail on the weekend.

The series will include 27 hikes on Sundays (and maybe the odd Saturday) over 2026 and 2027, covering more than 150 km of side trails or 78 trails!  We will be offering hikes on a roughly biweekly basis, with hikes posted approximately two months in advance. The hikes will generally be loop hikes, although car shuttling may be required for a few hikes. Register for each hike individually, no need to commit to all 27 hikes!

For those who would like to earn the Peninsula Side Trails badge, these hikes provide a chance to join a group for some or all of the side trail hikes.

This hike includes 5 side trails featuring the Wicher and Colpoys Bluff Side Trails and three small connecter trails; Crawford Drive, Gatis and Mallory Beach Side Trails. Much of the hike will follow an old logging road through forest and meadows, past the disappearing stream and occasionally out to the main trail where we will have some views of Colpoys Bay.

Hikers should be prepared for cool weather and possible wet trails. Bring a lunch, water and snacks. Hike leader will contact registered hikers one week before the hike.

If you would like to be notified when the side trail hikes are posted, go to the bottom of the Hikes page on the PBTC website to sign-up for hike notifications.

Scotsdale Farm Great Esker

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Scotsdale Farm main parking lot

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

Meet in the main parking lot at Scotsdale Farm at 9:15 am. We’ll hike the Bennet Heritage Side Trail to the main trail and around the Great Esker Side Trail, back to the main trail and the Maureen Smith Side Trail for a total of about 11 kms.  There are some hills.  Bring water and a snack.

10:00 am Side Trail Challenge #3 - Wetland Ridge, Niagara College, Margaret Kalogeropoulos

Hike open to BTC Members only.

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

Woodend Conservation Area. Park in the first parking area off Taylor Road

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

Pace: Fast 5+ km/hr
Terrain: Moderate: some hills and some poor footing
Distance: 7 km

Description

Take the Side Trail Challenge and hike all 24 of Niagara’s side trails in 9 hikes to earn the Side Trail Badge.

Meet at Woodend Conservation Area. Hike to the Wetland Ridge side trail, in and out along the Niagara College side trail; back along the Wetland Ridge side trail until it meets the main trail; Margaret Kalogeropoulos side trail and back to the main trail. Required photos include: outdoor classroom, First Nations, Métis & Inuit garden, constant gardener bench, wood duck nesting box, lime kiln ruins, and Margaret Kalogeropoulos side trail sign.

Bring poles, dress according to the weather, and bring water and a snack.

Trillium Hunt - Family Friendly Hike - Kinsmen to Quarry

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: Leisurely
Location (Google Maps): Kinsmen Park, main parking lot, Beamsville 3820 Frost Rd, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B7

Hike Leader(s): Angela Lytle Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely <3 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate: some hills and some poor footing
Distance: 3-4 km

Description

Join us for a leisurely, family-friendly Trillium Hunt hike along the Niagara Bruce Trail!

We will meet at the main parking lot inside Kinsmen Park in Beamsville and head towards Quarry Rd along the Bruce Trail to search for trillium and other short-lived spring ephemeral woodland flowers blooming right now such as trout lilies, bloodroot, jack-in-the-pulpit, dutchman’s breeches and more.

This is a leisurely-paced hike that is family-friendly.  We will take our time looking for and at flowers.  The trail is rocky and has some ups and downs along the escarpment that may pose challenges for anyone with mobility limitations.  Good hiking shoes are a must and hiking poles help navigate the ups and downs.

Children are welcome accompanied by a responsible adult.  Please arrive at 12:50 to check in with the hike leader so we can set out at 1 sharp. There is a parking lot inside Kinsmen Park with free parking but please note there are no bathrooms along this trail.

Frontenac Provincial Park - Perimeter Challenge, Check In May 3, Check Out May 6, 3 days of hiking/multiday trip

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Special Event
Location (Google Maps): Accommodation is at Snug Harbour Resort.
Hiking is in Frontenac Provincial Park, a short distance away from the cabins.

Hike Leader(s): Heather Zrini Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Brisk – 4 to 5 km/hr, Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Dependent on Conditions, Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing, Strenuous – Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing
Distance: 12.5-23.6km daily

Description

This is a special 4 day, 3 night trip to Frontenac Provincial Park.  During this hiking event, we will be hiking the perimeter of Frontenac Provincial Park in three sections and it is called the Frontenac Perimeter Challenge.  It is organised by the Friends of Frontenac Provincial Park each year.  The Park is about 3.5 hours east of Toronto and an hour north of Kingston.  The 3 sections are from 12.5-23.6km in length.  If you have access to the Frontenac map, you will find it helpful so that everyone can follow along and help with way-finding.  The cost for registering for the Challenge in 2025 was $10.  If you are a member of the Friends of Frontenac, the fee is free.  This includes a badge for your first challenge.  Registration for the Challenge starts on April 1 and the hikes must take place during the month of May.  Proof of the hikes is to be submitted in the form of a GPS track and submitted no later than May 31.  If you would like the badge mailed to you, a self-addressed stamped envelope must be left at the park office. If they have them available, they may give them to us on our last day.

Accommodation is at Snug Harbour Resort, a short distance from the park.  There are several two and three bedroom cabins available for May 3-6.  http://www.snugharbour.on.ca.  We will arrive on Sunday, May 3 after 12pm but won’t hike until Monday morning.  The cabins are located on a lake and there is access to canoes and kayaks.  Check out will be on Wednesday, May 6 by 10am.  You are welcome to come earlier or stay later at your own expense.  Please contact Rob at relax@snugharbour.on.ca.  Let Rob know you are with the Bruce Trail Perimeter Challenge Group.  Please review the list of the items you must bring with you for your stay at the cabins and coordinate the list with the other people sharing your cabin.

Once you book a cabin, please share your name and your cabin number with me so that I can share it with everyone else who registers for the Challenge.  It will be up to you, as the cabin coordinator, to pay for the cost of the entire cabin and to collect from everyone else who is sharing the cabin.  The rate is $120 per cabin plus tax, per day (paid by e-transfer).  A $180 deposit is required at the time of booking which should be paid by the cabin coordinator.  The cabin coordinator will collect from everyone else who is sharing the cabin.  Unfortunately, we have had to implement this rule because of late cancellations which can leave the cost of the cabin in the hands of the people who are left sharing the cabin.  If you need to cancel after registering, we will attempt to fill your spot and cost of the cabin with another person but there are no guarantees.

Parking fees at the Frontenac Provincial Park also apply.  For our hikes, we will be carpooling from Snug Harbour over to the park and then shuttling to the trailhead.  We will have the same driver and carpooling groups for the first two days.  Since we will be leaving from the park on Day 3, everyone will have to drive.  We will need a Day Use reservation for the first day and all vehicles will need a reservation for the last day of hiking as most people drive straight home after our last hike.  Borrowing a park pass from your local library, if available, or purchasing an annual pass, is encouraged.  Please Note:  Paid parking is only required on our first day and our last day of hiking – May 4th and 6th.  There are no additional fees for daily usage of the park.

Fees for the parking reservation and a contribution for gas is a shared expense for the people in the shuttle.

More information will be provided closer to the date to those who register.

Share & Learn Invasive Species Merle Gunby loop

Hosting Club: Sydenham
Category: Botany Hike
Location (Google Maps): Near Springmount, ON, 717875 Hwy 6, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N7, Canada, at Owen Sound Transportation Company office/Pottawatomi Conservation Area parking lot.

Hike Leader(s): Carol Graham-Mullin Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely: 3 km/h or less
Terrain: Easy: Mostly flat and good footing., There might be muddy sections., There might be sections with water on the trail.
Distance: 3 km

Description

Have you ever wondered what makes a species “invasive” ? And why this is a concern for the Bruce Trail ? Join Fran and Carol on this “Share and Learn” educational hike as
we learn to identify commonly found invasive species along the Sydenham Bruce Trail. This is a leisurely loop hike with lots of opportunity to discover, photograph and learn together.
We will concentrate on identifying common offenders such as : European buckthorn, Garlic mustard, Wild chervil and also “garden escapees”such as Periwinkle, English Ivy and Goutweed.
And we will discuss why it is important to prevent, control and remove these plants from our trail environment. Please bring water, poles if necessary, and proper footwear. There may be muddy sections.

Hike with Tai Chi

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: Loop
Location (Google Maps): Queenston Heights Parking Lot near the Bruce Trail Cairn. Paid parking. Best to look at the annual parking pass for Niagara Parks.

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

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

Description

Seeking balance, calm and strength without high impact exercise? Join us for a short hike around Queenston Heights Park.  Tai Chi Master, Mike Van Natter will instruct us on the benefits of Tai Chi as well as lead us through several Tai Chi movements along our way.

Car Hike: Spring Birding Hike

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Car Hike
Location (Google Maps): Limehouse – Meet at the parking lot opposite Limehouse Public School, on the south side of 22 Sideroad, just north of Fifth Line.

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

Pace: Leisurely (2-3 km/hr)
Terrain: Variable
Distance (km): approx 3 – 4 km

Description

Join BTC ecologist Mara McHaffie and members of the TBTC Biodiversity Team on a leisurely walk along the main trail and some side trails, listening and watching for birds returning from their southern wintering grounds. You need not be a bird expert – we welcome beginning birders! This area features a mix of open areas, thickets, and forest, so we anticipate encountering a good variety of species. The BTC’s protected natural areas, such as the one we will visit, aim to preserve the Escarpment’s unique biodiversity and provide nature-based solutions to addressing climate change.

During the hike, we will discuss how you can use apps like iNaturalist, Merlin Bird ID and eBird to enhance your birding experience. If you haven’t done so already, please download these apps ahead of time, as cell service can be spotty at this location.

You may also want to record what you see as you earn points towards the TBTC Naturalist badge.

Along with your curiosity, please bring water and snacks/lunch. End time and distance we will travel are estimates, depending on weather, trail conditions and what we observe!Note that due to the slow pace and frequent stops, you may want to dress more warmly than you would for a faster-paced hike.

This hike is brought to you by the TBTC’s Biodiversity Team. We endeavour to promote the critical role we can all play in protecting and conserving the Niagara Escarpment.

Maximum 10 people

Birding with Brian - Glassford Wetland

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Birding
Location (Google Maps): Crooked Toe Road and Boundary Road parking area

Hike Leader(s): Pat Turner 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: ~3 km

Description

Brian Popelier, BTC Ecologist, will lead us on a birding adventure at the Glassford Wetland to
observe the spring arrival of some of our feathered friends. This is a leisurely paced walk-
stop-watch-listen hike. The distance will be determined by our bird observation opportunities.
This property consists of a variety of habitats including forested areas, open meadows, hay fields
and wetlands. A large pond is surrounded by well-developed open aquatic, marsh and willow-
dogwood thickets which provide a diverse array of migratory and breeding birds, including
waterfowl and marsh birds. At least 94 bird species have been recorded on the property. Notable
species observed include Sandhill Crane, Sora, Osprey, Bobolink and Virginia Rail. At least 13 warbler
species have been observed during spring and fall migration.
This is a family friendly hike – all birding experience levels welcome. It is a perfect hike to get started on one of the PBTC Birder Badges:
https://pbtc.ca/badges/

Please carpool if possible as parking is limited.

Bring a light backpack to carry your water bottle, snacks, camera and binoculars. Weather at this
time of year can still be unpredictable – dress according to the weather conditions. Sturdy hiking
shoes/boots, gators and long sleeved protective clothing are recommended
No rain date.

Waterloo Region Wednesday Walks

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills, Peninsula
Category: Nature Walks
Location (Google Maps): The Beer Store, 875 Highland Rd. W, Kitchener, ON. What3Words: dozen.takover.says

Hike Leader(s): Daniel J Patterson Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hour
Terrain: Easy – mostly flat and usually good footing
Distance: 10 km

Description

Interested in hiking the Bruce Trail? Looking for a place to start? How about checking out Wednesday Waterloo Wayfarers? We will explore the urban, suburban and rural trails in the Waterloo Region including parts of the Avon, Guelph to Goderich, and Grand River trails. Speed: 3-3.5 km/hr. Distance 8-12 km. Most will be fairly flat, but some will involve hills. Bring at least 1 liter of water, sturdy hiking boots, snacks and a positive attitude! And hiking poles if you like.

Signs of Spring

Hosting Club: Blue Mountains
Category: Organized Hike
Location (Google Maps): Tim Horton’s First Street, Collingwood

Hike Leader(s): Claire Pearson Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely – 3 km/hr. or less
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: ~4km

Description

**Update: As of May 4th, there are still icy sections in the keyhole area. Grippers are highly recommended. Hiking poles are helpful but not required. It is paid parking in the lots, so please bring $4 to help compensate the driver.

Enjoy a crisp morning exploring for “Signs of Spring” along the trail. We meet at 8:45am in the large parking lot behind Tim Horton’s on First Street. At 9am, we will carpool to the parking lot on 15/16 Sideroad in Singhampton where we will begin our loop hike of the Nottawasaga Bluffs. We will take in the sites at the Lookout and navigate the crevices to get to the Keyhole.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS - Start at the Very Beginning (of BV)

Hosting Club: Beaver Valley

Location (Google Maps): Park at the end of Maple Lane near BV Km 0.0, Map 24, Edition 31

Hike Leader(s): Margaret Yaraskavitch Click here to contact the hike leader.

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate
Length of Hike: 5.0 km

Description

This hike will be a there-and-back walk. Views from the edge of the Escarpment will show Collingwood and Nottawasaga Bay. We’ll pass Craigleith Ski Club and head towards a deep valley but then it is time to return. Often, views look different when walking in the opposite direction, promising another chance to experience wide open views of the shores of Nottawasaga Bay. Please bring water.

Crawford Lake Ramble/Wildflowers

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Good Companions
Location (Google Maps): Crawford Lake Conservation Area. 3115 Conservation Rd. Milton

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. 7 km.

Description

Please join in this favourite hiking area with its spectacular views across Nassagaweya Canyon towards Rattlesnake Canyon, its Meromictic  and at this time of year its wildflower treasures which grown among the rocky parts of the escarpment. Expect one section of rocky terrain with tricky footing. Hopefully the boardwalk around the lake will have reopened. Please bring water, a snack, sunscreen and insect repellent. A reservation is necessary to park here through Halton Parks Reservation System. I will email the day before with my contact information should you need to cancel the morning of the hike.

Afternoon Hike - Duff Pit

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Afternoon/Evening Hikes
Location (Google Maps): Meet roadside on Hwy 7, just after the curve in the road.

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: 5 kms

Description

Meet roadside at 4:15 pm on Hwy 7 north of Georgetown, as you round the curve in the road.  We will hike the Side Trails of Duff Pit, Reservoir, Trafalgar Rd and North Rim (through the old open quarry land) back to Duff Pit. It’s a short hike with lots of variety.

Sydenham End to End in 16 hikes

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Sydenham
Category: Fundraiser
Location (Google Maps):

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

Pace: Leisurely: 3 km/h or less
Terrain: Moderate: Some hills and/or poor footing, Strenuous: Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing., There might be muddy sections., There might be sections with water on the trail.
Distance: 169 km

Description

Sydenham End to End in 16 hikes

Open to Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) Members Only.  Non-members can join by signing up for a one-year BTC membership ($75) before registering at Bruce Trail Conservancy Memberships.

Participant Limit: Maximum of 15 participants, including the hike leader and sweep(s).

Registration Fee: BTC Members: $ 65 – includes Sydenham Stained Glass Fundraiser Badge.  Surplus supports Sydenham Bruce Trail Club’s hike program.   Registration opens Monday, March 2 at 7:00 am.

Note: No hiker substitutions or guest hikers.

Refund Policy:  Refunds may be requested if hike is cancelled more than 30 days before the start of the hike series and are subject to an administration fee and will be issued only if there is a waitlist.

Hike Leadership:

All hikes will have a SBTC leader and sweep.

Average Hike Distance: Approximately 9 – 13 km each day.

Hike Overview:

Complete the Sydenham section of the Bruce Trail over 16 hikes.

Direction: Northbound from Blantyre to Wiarton (direction varies on one hike)

Group Hike Format: Participants must be committed to the entire series.

Series is designed for intermediate hikers comfortable with moderate challenges, including longer distances and elevation gains.

Expected Pace: Up to 3 km/hr over 9 – 12 km.  Average pace may be slower than 3 km/hr, depending upon the experience of the hikers.

Total Distance: Approximately 169 km with no dropout points.

Time allocated for photography and appreciation of local flora and fauna.

Participant Requirements:

Ensure you are physically fit to participate in this series.

Attire: Proper hiking boots, layered clothing for varying weather and wet weather gear.  Hiking poles are recommended.

Essentials: Sufficient food (lunch), snacks and water for a full day; bug spray

Breaks: Morning, 15-30 minute on-trail lunch and afternoon breaks, weather-dependent.

Participant is required to sign a BTC Waiver of Liability

Transportation:

Car shuttles will be used to transport hikers from meeting point (end point of hike) to start point of hike.

All hikers will be expected to participate with transportation and should have a vehicle capable of carrying 5 passengers with seatbelts.

There are parking fees in at least one location and nominal cost to be shared among passengers.

Environmental Responsibility:

Adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

Collective effort in trail cleanliness.

Note: Dogs are not permitted on this hike.

Accommodation Options:

Early reservations are recommended centrally in Owen Sound.

Options include motels, campgrounds, hostels and B&Bs.

Schedule and Communication:

Detailed itinerary will be sent to participants prior to each two-day hike segment.

Schedule subject to change.

Join us for this memorable hiking adventure and be part of a community dedicated to preserving and enjoying the natural beauty of the Bruce Trail.

Urban Walk: Toronto Islands Evening Walk

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

Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, by the gate to the Wards Island Ferry. Please 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, Level 1 (Easy – mostly on flat, well maintained trails with hard-packed surface)
Distance (km): 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. Also bring a warm jacket and flashlight.
Return fare ticket for the ferry is $9.57 for adults, $6.15 for seniors
Please check the hike schedule for weather related cancellations (hike will be updated by 11:00 AM day of the hike if any changes)
Toronto Island evening hikes will take place every Thursday in May and June 2026.
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
Category: Urban
Location (Google Maps): Park on King St near Centre St – at the entrance to Veteran’s Memorial Park, Niagara-on-the-Lake

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

Pace: Medium 3- 4 km/hr
Terrain: Easy: mostly flat, good footing
Distance: 6-7km

Description

Each Friday we will explore historical 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

Peninsula Sunrise Series: Cape Chin Maplecross Reserve

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Sunrise Hike
Location (Google Maps): Cape Chin Maplecross Parking Lot at 388 Cape Chin Rd. N

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: Easy: Flat forested sections or lowland trails.
Distance: ~6 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 photos, or simply reconnect with nature, these hikes offer a unique and inspiring way to greet the day.

On Saturday May 9th, 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.

We will be hiking up the dirt/gravel road to the iconic Cape Chin lookout. This hike is approximately 6 kms in length. Expect to be out for ~2 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

In the event of cloudy/rainy weather, the hike will be held on Sunday, May 11th. Please watch your emails for a confirmation the week of the hike!

RAINBOW HIKE: World Migratory Bird Day + Iroquoia BTC Pre-AGM Hike

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Rainbow Hike
Location (Google Maps): Meet at the start of the Spencer Creek Trail (Dundas St/Cootes Dr (HWY 8))

Hike Leader(s): Shayne Ward Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely – 3km/hr or less
Terrain: Easy – Mostly flat and usually good footing, Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: 5KM

Description

Join us on World Migratory Bird Day for a pre-AGM Rainbow Hike! 🦅 🦉 🦆

This gentle early-morning outing will explore the trails around Spencer Creek and Cootes Paradise, one of the region’s most important bird migration areas.  We will start at the trailhead parking lot on the southeast corner of Dundas Street and Cootes Drive (HWY 8) and hike along the creek, under the HWY 8 (under the bridge does involve some moderate stepping and slight ‘duck’ing for us tall folks).

Plan to arrive for 745AM and we’ll have a small crash course on downloading and using two popular birding apps, Merlin Bird ID and eBird recording our sightings as part of World Migratory Bird Day!  We’ll depart by 8-810AM.  Hoping to catch some Blue Herons, Black-crowned Night Herons, and if we’re lucky, a sighting of the RBG resident Bald Eagles!

🌈 This is a queer-led, 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive Rainbow Hike, welcoming LGBTQ+ hikers, allies, birders, photographers, and anyone interested in connecting with nature and community before the AGM.  This is a short, relaxed hike (approx. 5 km) designed to get everyone back in time for the AGM Meet-and-Greet at 10:30 AM at the Westdale Theatre.

What to Bring
• Water and light snacks
• Weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear
• Binoculars or camera if you have them (optional but fun! And a cell phone counts!)

After the hike, we encourage participants to join fellow members at the Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club AGM just a short walk away at the Westdale Theatre.  Not a Bruce Trail member yet?!  Sign up here!
https://brucetrail.org/become-a-member/

Come enjoy a spring morning on the trail, celebrate migratory birds, and connect with your Bruce Trail community!

🐾 Please leave pets at home for this hike! It’s peak migration season and we’ll be passing through an important bird migration and nesting area, so we want to keep disturbance to our feathered friends to a minimum! 🐦

🚗 🚌 This outing is accessible by car or public transit.

Planning to drive? 
Parking is free but limited at the trailhead.  We also ask for some assistance with shuttling folks back to the Westdale Theatre afterward for the Iroquoia Bruce Trail AGM.

Taking the Bus?
HSR #5 (Delaware) stops near the trailhead entrance!  Map of the bus and it’s schedule can be found here.
https://www.hamilton.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/5-Delaware-apr24.pdf

Free Bruce Trail Rainbow badges and stickers for all participants!
Questions? Simply click “Contact Hike Leader” on the registration form.

Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club Pre-AGM / Westdale to Princess Point

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Special Event
Location (Google Maps): Hamilton Parking Lot #1002
85 Oak Knoll Dr, Hamilton ON L8S 4C2

Hike Leader(s): Joe Borges Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Terrain: Dependent on Conditions, Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: 4.7 km

Description

Join us for a pre-AGM hike.
If you’d like to view the hike route, please click the All Trails link below. It’s approx. 5 km so we should be back in plenty time for the Meet-and-Greet at 10:30, before the AGM.
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-be20ded?u=m&sh=4wexyx

The hike route will start from the Hamilton Parking Lot #1002 heading to Princess Point, and loop back to the parking lot.
From the lot it’s a short walk to the Westdale Theatre, if you are attending the AGM afterwards. Parking is $3 per hour, or all day for $15.

Please bring enough water and snacks for your hike. Trails may be muddy at this time of year, so gaiters would be useful.

We encourage Hikers to register and stay for the AGM after our Hike. Connect with other members, help commemorate a wonderful year for the Club and to celebrate all our amazing volunteers.

Full AGM Details and Agenda below.

AGM LOCATION:
The Westdale Theatre, 1014 King St W, Hamilton, ON L8S 1L4
10:30 – 11:00 AM
MEET-AND-GREET
Connect with your Trail Community
11:00 – 11:45 AM
IBTC AGM & VOLUNTEER AWARDS
Celebrate the Heart of our Club
11:45 – 12:30 PM
HOT LUNCH
Enjoy a delicious meal locally catered.

SPECIAL EVENT // BRUCE TRAIL TALKS / SESSION 1: Indigenous Trails
FREE for all IBTC Members attending the AGM
 
1:05 pm

Welcome & Introduction by BTC CEO Michael McDonald

1:10 pm

First Nations Trail Systems

A historical & archaeological perspective with Martin S. Cooper, Snr Archaeologist, ASI Toronto

1:30 pm

First Nations Priorities

For engagement, education, and reconciliation, a current perspective
with Tim Johnson and Rick Hill

2:00 pm

Panel Discussion

with Tim, Rick, Martin and moderated by Michael McDonald
Key takeaways, challenges, & priorities for action, including audience Q&A

2:30 pm

Closing remarks Michael 

Loop Hike Hockley Rd 5th Line EHS to 3rd Line EHS

Hosting Club: Toronto, Caledon Hills
Category: Car Hike
Location (Google Maps): Bruce Trail parking lot on the east side of 5th Line EHS, just south of Hockley Rd. (873603 5 EHS LINE, Mono, ON L9W 6N3)

Hike Leader(s): Amir Alemohammad

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Hilly, Level 2 (Intermediate – some hills and uneven surfaces, rocks and roots underfoot), Variable
Distance (km): 12-14

Description

Join us for a loop hike along the trails of the Hockley Rd region, one of the most beautiful hiking areas in Caledon. Known for its rolling hills, forested trails, and ever-changing seasonal scenery, this hike takes you through a mixed hardwood forest, providing ample shade—perfect for this time of year. You’ll also encounter moderate elevation changes, with some sections following ridge lines and valleys that offer occasional breathtaking scenic viewpoints. We will hike main and side trails between 5th and 3rd Line EHS. Boots mandatory, poles recommended, bring two litres of water, your snack and dress according to weather conditions.

Woodend to Fireman's and Back

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: Loop
Location (Google Maps): Meet at entrance to Woodend Conservation Area, Taylor Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake

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

Pace: Medium 3- 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate: some hills and some poor footing
Distance: 11-12km

Description

Hike from Woodend Conservation Area to Fireman’s and back.  Mostly main trail of the Bruce.  Water, snack and poles recommended.

Geology Hike and Badge Series - Gravelly Point and Rural Rocks

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Geology Hike
Location (Google Maps): Gravelly Point and Rural Rocks

Hike Leader(s): Beth Gilhespy 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: 8.6

Description

Join the adventure and earn the inaugural Peninsula Geology Badge! Over a stretch of 13 hikes and a couple of extra stops, we will explore the fascinating geology of the Peninsula to learn about the rocks, the shoreline features, glaciation, fossils and all things earthy. The 13 hikes are from the book “Walking Through Time – Exploring the Geology of the Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula”. Having a copy will give you a lot of great information, but you do not have to purchase the book to attend and enjoy the hikes. Just bring your curiosity! We will make sure to hit all the locations that qualify for the beautiful new Walking Through Time – Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula geology hike badge. If you would like to purchase a book I will have some available on the hikes, or you can pick one up from the BTC Head Office, at Ginger Press in Owen Sound, Suntrail Source for Adventure in Hepworth, the Shop at 84 Main in Lion’s Head and at Reader’s Haven in Tobermory.

You are welcome to come on just a few of the hikes or on all of them, and the dates and hikes are as follows:

Date                                         Geology Hike                                                             km

Saturday May 2, 2026         Colpoy’s Bay                                                               9.0

Saturday May 9, 2026         Gravelly Point (am) and Rural Rocks (pm)         8.6

Saturday May 16, 2026       Malcolm Bluff                                                             7.3

Sunday May 17, 2026          White Bluff/Smokey Head                                     11.8

Sunday May 24, 2026        Crooked Toe Road                                                     5.5

Sunday May 31, 2026         Hope Bay                                                                     8.1

Sunday June 14, 2026        Boundary Bluffs                                                         5.2

Saturday July 4, 2026        Cape Dundas                                                              6.2

Saturday July 11, 2026        Beth Gilhespy Side Trail                                          7.6

Saturday August 8, 2026    Lion’s Head                                                               11.0

Saturday August 15, 2026   Dyer’s Bay Loops                                                      7.5

Saturday August 22, 2026   North Saugeen (Bruce) Shoreline                        8.0

Meeting times will vary depending on the hike, but will generally be some time between 9 am and 10 am. Information on exact meeting times and locations will be sent out a few days prior to the hike.

Geology Hike #2 Silent Valley

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

BT roadside parking at dead end of 2nd Concession South, north of Grey Road 18. Map 30, ed. 31, near km 34.5, southern end of Silent Valley Sidetrail. You have an option to meet at the north-east corner of the parking lot at Home Depot on Highway 26 on the east side of Owen Sound and carpool from there. Carol will meet you there at 9:00 am.

Hike Leader(s): Carol Graham-Mullin Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely: 3 km/h or less
Terrain: Moderate: Some hills and/or poor footing, Strenuous: Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing., There might be muddy sections., There might be sections with water on the trail.
Distance: 6.5 km

Description

Loop hike of Silent Valley. Geology Hike # 2 in series of 16 hikes from Beth’s newest book “Walking Through Time”.
Join Carol Graham-Mullin for this exploration of Silent Valley. Fascinating escarpment geology along with ancient cedars, rare ferns, fossils and more ! The final route to be hiked may be slightly altered due to closure of upper main trail flooding. Don’t worry, we will visit all the exciting geological features !

Copies of Beth’s book, “Walking through Time” will be available for purchase at the end of the hike. A special member’s only price of $37.00 , cash or etransfer. This hike can be credited towards the Sydenham Geology Badge.

10:00 NBTC SPRING Nature Hike

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

Louth Conservation Area

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

Pace: Medium
Terrain: Moderate
Distance: ~5km

Description

NBTC SPRING NATURE HIKE

Hiking boots and poles are recommend as the terrain is rocky in sections.

Join us for the NBTC Nature Hike series to learn more about the biodiversity along the Niagara Escarpment.  We will explore the trails throughout Louth Conservation area which offer beauty in all four seasons. Hikes will be held January, 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 Louth Conservation Area Parking Lot on Staff Ave. Hiking boots and poles are recommend as the terrain is rocky in sections.

Note that he hike will be rescheduled in the event of heavy rains or heavy snow.