GeoHike – Louth Conservation Area

Hike open to BTC Members only.

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: Geology
Location (Google Maps): Louth Conservation Area, 3155 Staff Avenue, St. Catharines

Hike Leader(s): Kristin Hanson Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium 3- 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate: some hills and some poor footing
Distance: 3.8

Description

Discover the geology of the Vinemount Ridge wine sub-appellation, and the beauty of the waterfalls at Louth Conservation Area.  We will see some interesting geologic features and evidence of glaciers.  We will follow Sixteen Mile Creek and get a great view of both the upper falls and lower falls as Sixteen Mile Creek makes its way over the Niagara Escarpment.  We will use a slow pace and stop and discuss geology along the way.  It will take us 2-2.5 hours to cover the distance.  There are three small hills we will climb, otherwise the terrain is generally flat.  However, some of the footing is rocky and uneven with holes and gaps between the rocks we are walking on.  It may be wet and muddy.  Hiking poles may give more stability on uneven footing.  After about 2.9km, we will arrive at Louth Falls where will stop to enjoy it.  Early spring melting should offer us a fantastic view.  We will return to the parking lot via the main Bruce Trail and walk a short distance along Staff Road.  Parking is free at Louth, but spots are limited.  There are no washrooms or facilities.