Otter Lake and Maple Cross Nature Reserve at Cape Chin Birding Hike

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Birding
Location (Google Maps): 388 Cape Chin Road North

Hike Leader(s): Marg 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: Easy: Flat forested sections or lowland trails.
Distance: ~3.5 km

Description

This is a “tandem” birding hike – Otter Lake Nature Reserve and nearby Maple Cross Nature Reserve at Cape Chin. Brian Popelier, BTC Ecologist, will introduce us to the wonders of Otter Lake’s Spring birding season, then at MCNRCC for more birding and to learn about habitat restoration here.

The Otter Lake property is part of a larger provincially significant wetland complex. It is comprised of a variety of wetland habitats including meadow marsh, thicket swamp, deciduous treed swamp, Graminoid fen and the properties namesake, the shallow calcareous Otter Lake. The wetlands support water loving plants and host a variety of wetland and marsh birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles. introduce you to the wonders of Otter Lake’s spring birding season.

With 523 acres of iconic Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula landscape, a breathtaking 270-degree view of Georgian Bay, and 1.8 kilometers of the Bruce Trail’s Optimum Route, the Maple Cross Nature Reserve at Cape Chin is a natural masterpiece and a true conservation gem.

Consider extending your day to enjoy more birding and hiking along the Bruce Trail.

In total, this hike will take about 2 1/2 – 3 hours. Bring binoculars, insect repellent, lunch, water and snacks. Wear sunscreen, hat, and sun protective clothing. We may encounter some wet spots, so wear water proof hiking boots and gators.

This is a perfect opportunity to work on your PBTC Birding Badge: https://peninsula.brucetrail.org/badges/

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

Hike open to BTC Members only.

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: Leisurely <3 km/hr

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

Afternoon hike - Mount Nemo (reservation required)

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Afternoon/Evening Hikes
Location (Google Maps): Meet at 4:15 pm in the main parking lot at Mount Nemo on Guelph Line.

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: 7 kms

Description

Meet in the main parking lot at 4:15 and we will hike around the main loop and into the forest for a bit.  Reserve your time at conservationhalton.ca