Iroquoia BTC Naturalist Hike Series- Discovering Nature One Hike at a Time – Forest Bathing – Meet in the parking lot at 7:45am

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Iroquoia BTC Naturalist Hike Series : Discovering Nature, One Hike at a Time.
Location (Google Maps): Ancaster Little League parking area at 268 Jerseyville Rd West, Ancaster.

Hike Leader(s): Ruth Moffatt Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely – 3km/hr or less, Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Dependent on Conditions, Easy – Mostly flat and usually good footing, Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: 8-10km

Description

Please join us for an introduction to Forest Bathing as part of our Naturalist Hike Series.

Forest bathing shinrinyoku, is a Japanese practise of spending calm intentional time in nature to improve health, well-being and relaxation. We will use all 5 senses to engage with our surroundings at the Dundas Valley Conservation area. Our movement will be leisurely and slow paced and in peace. We may sit down, we may close our eyes and we will listen without speaking. The benefits of Forest Bathing have been found to reduce blood pressure and boost immune function. Recommended reading is Forest Bathing by Dr. Qing Li.

Please bring snacks and water and mute your phones.

If your plans change, please cancel your registration so that someone from the waitlist can potentially join the hike.

To cancel your registration, here  is a step by step:
– Sign into your account on the BTC website
– Click on My Hikes under your account
– This will take you to a list of hikes you have registered for
– Scroll down to the appropriate hike and cursor over to the far right hand column under the Action column.
– Click Cancel under the hike you wish to cancel

Any questions may be directed through the link on this form.

Geology Hike and Badge Series - Hope Bay

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Geology Hike
Location (Google Maps): Hope Bay

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., Medium (3.0 – 4.5 km/h): A comfortable pace for most hikers with steady progress.
Terrain: Moderate: Rolling hills, mild slopes and rocky paths.
Distance: 8.1

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.

Yoga + Hike Fundraiser

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills
Category: General
Location (Google Maps): Meet at the BTC parking lot, 713377 1st Line EHS, Mono. It is easier to go north on 1st Line from Side Road 5 than it is to go south on 1st Line from Hockley Road. 1st Line is not maintained between the parking lot and Hockley Road. It is best to aim for arriving around 9:15 am, so we can start our yoga session as close to 9:30 as possible. Thanks!

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

Pace: Leisurely – 3 km/hour or less
Terrain: Easy – mostly flat and usually good footing, Moderate – some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: Approximately 4 km

Description

Join us for the CHBTC’s Yoga + Hike Fundraiser happening at Riverside Woods. Led by Elaine Vallevand, we’ll start with an outdoor yoga session at 9:30 am. Bring your mat! Light refreshments will be provided following our yoga session. During this break, you will have time to put your mat in your vehicle and get ready to hike. By 11 am, we should be on the trails. The large group will be divided into two smaller groups to enable hikers to better enjoy our forest bathing inspired hike, approximately 4 km. The Marsh Marigolds are in bloom! Plan to be finished just after 12:30 pm.

100% of the proceeds will support maintaining and preserving the Bruce Trail. Our kind and giving yoga instructor is donating her time, the refreshments are donated by our generous organizing team, and of course, our hike leaders are donating their time. Thank you for your generosity in being part of this event!

There is no separate program for participating children, but all those who aspire to connect with nature in a meaningful way are welcome.

While there are no refunds for this fundraiser, you may name a person who will take your spot. Please message the hike leaders to name the person attending in your place. Thanks!

Things to consider bringing: a water bottle, a mat, a blanket (if you want a larger area on the grass covered), insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, hiking shoes/boots, poles, a snack/lunch.

St Helena Rd to Hilton Falls (E2E)

Hosting Club: Iroquoia

Location (Google Maps): Meet at 9:15 am in the Hilton Falls 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: 8.5 kms

Description

We will meet at Hilton Falls and carpool to St Helena Rd.  For those leaving their car at Hilton Falls, you will need to reserve your time at conservationhalton.ca

Always a popular hike, this is a challenging hike because there are several technical (rocky) spots. We hike on the main trail along the edge of the Escarpment and will stop for a break by the Quarry, finishing along the Philip Gosling Side Trail.

Bring a snack/lunch and plenty of water.

Urban Walk: Humber River & High Park

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Urban Walk
Location (Google Maps): Royal York Subway Station, Grenview Blvd. exit

Hike Leader(s): Ted Moriarty, Felix Wan Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Level 2 (Intermediate – some hills and uneven surfaces, rocks and roots underfoot)
Distance (km): 11 km

Description

Please join Ted on his ‘graduation hike’ to become a certified Toronto Bruce Trail Club Hike Leader. We’ll hike through some of west Toronto’s most scenic green spaces. We will begin by walking through Park Lawn Cemetery and at the Old Mill descend into the Humber River Valley. We’ll follow the valley trail south to the lakefront, walk along the Martin Goodman Trail boardwalk and explore High Park and surrounding neighbourhoods. The hike will conclude at Runnymede Station.

Route map:

https://onthegomap.com/?route=019c9129-e175-7169-8ed0-a3ad904bebfd&context=share

The terrain is mostly flat but please note that we will be walking in to and out of two river valleys so there will be two hills to climb. Please bring a lunch or snacks and at least 2L of drinking water.

Travel to the trailhead:

• By TTC: Meet Ted and Felix at Royal York Station, Grenview Blvd. exit turnstiles.
• By car: Paid parking is available at two Green P lots:
  • 11 Grenview Blvd. N across from the Grenview Blvd. exit.
  • 7 Jackson Ave. – one block west of Grenview Blvd. running north off Bloor St.

Washrooms:

There are no washrooms at Royal York Station. The closest subway washroom is at Kipling Station (two stops west of Royal York). During the 11k hike we will stop at three public washrooms located at kilometres 2, 6 and 8.

Après-hike:

There will be an optional après-hike stop at The Swan & Firkin (2205 Bloor St. West). Alternatively, hikers can explore the Bloor and Runnymede neighbourhood and visit one of the many pubs or cafes in the area.

Side Trails Hike #9 (start at Margaret Reed St finish at

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: Car Pool
Location (Google Maps): Park at Mountainview CA and then carpool to Margaret Reed ST. Beamsville Bench ST)

Hike Leader(s): Lynskie Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Brisk 4-5 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate: some hills and some poor footing
Distance: 10.1kms

Description

Park at Mountainview CA and then carpool to Margaret Reed ST. Take the main trail from Margaret Reed ST to Mountainview ST Follow the main trail until it meets Mountainview ST. Take Mountainview ST until it ends at main trail. Turn right onto Main Trail until it meets Beamsville Bench ST. Take Beamsville Bench ST until it meets Angel ST. Take Angel ST out and back. Turn left back onto Beamsville Bench ST and follow it until it meets the main trail. Go left on main trail and follow it back to parking lot.

Photos: Mountainview ST sign with arrows going in both directions, Beamsville Bench ST sign, LC Jordanne
Winery,

Full Moon Hike - Hendrie After Dark

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Moonlight Hikes
Location (Google Maps): RBG Centre Parking – across from Easterbrook’s 694 Spring Garden Road

Hike Leader(s): Kathrin Koenig Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing
Distance: Approx 6 km

Description

Please be at parking by 8:00 pm as the hike will leave promptly at 8:15 pm.

The Full Blue Moon is the sixth full moon of 2026. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Bring enough water and snacks to suit your needs, and a headlamp or flashlight. Headlamps with a red or green light setting are the most wildlife friendly, and best for preserving your night vision. Please ensure your device is fully charged/fresh batteries to last the duration of the hike.

We will start by following the outer road at Woodland Cemetery and pick up Grindstone Marsh Trail at Sunfish Pond. Following Grindstone Marsh Trail into Hendrie Valley, we will loop our way along the North and South Bridle Trail to Cherry Hill Gate and back to the cars. There is a set of stairs, one steep-ish downhill section, and a couple of smaller hills.

Please leave dogs at home.

This hike will qualify you for the new Iroquoia Full Moon badge! Complete three leader led-hikes in 2026, and you will qualify. Badges are $10 for BTC members/ $15 for non-members.

Any questions may be directed through “Click here to contact Hike Leader” on this form.

In the event you are no longer able to attend, please remove yourself from registration by following these steps:

– Sign into your account on the BTC website
– Click on My Hikes under your account
– This will take you to a list of hikes you have registered for
– Scroll down to the appropriate hike and cursor over to the far right hand column under the Action column.
– Click Cancel under the hike you wish to cancel

Moonlight Hike - Meet time is 8:15pm

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Moonlight Hikes
Location (Google Maps): Parking lot off of Ridge Rd located east of the southernmost portion of Beamer’s Side Trail which is now main trail.
Please park close together. If this lot is full, there are a few more spots a little further west on Ridge Rd. Roadside parking may also be possible.

Hike Leader(s): Ruth Moffatt 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, Strenuous – Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing
Distance: 4km

Description

Earn your Iroquoia Moonlight badge by hiking 3 Moonlight Hikes with a leader.
Tonight’s sunset is at 8:50pm. We will follow the main trail past Beamer’s Falls around to  the Hawkwatch area then the Grimsby Point Side Trail to form a loop back to the parking area onRidge Rd
If you’ve never hiked at night we are sure you will love the way it heightens all of your senses promising a great sleep afterwards.
Everyone must have a headlamp or a flashlight 🔦. Most phones have torches which could also be used as supplemental light. Please ensure your light device is fully charged/batteries to last about 1.5hours. Dress for the weather and bring enough water to suit your needs as well as all the other things you need for a hike – first aid kit, snack, poles (recommended).
This is the third of 3 full moon hikes to be held in Grimsby. After you complete three leader-led hikes, you will qualify for a badge. $10members/$15nin-members. Badges will be on hand – please bring cash.

Any questions may be directed through contact on this form.
If you cannot make it, please remove yourself from registration by following these steps:

To cancel your registration, here  is a step by step:
– Sign into your account on the BTC website
– Click on My Hikes under your account
– This will take you to a list of hikes you have registered for
– Scroll down to the appropriate hike and cursor over to the far right hand column under the Action column.
– Click Cancel under the hike you wish to cancel

NEW Black Bear Badge Peninsula End2End - Hikes 1-5 of 8 hikes, June 1-5 (Hikes 6-8 of 8 July 27-29)

Hosting Club: Iroquoia, Peninsula
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Bluewater Park, Wiarton

Hike Leader(s): Steven White Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Brisk – 4 to 5 km/hr
Terrain: Dependent on Conditions, Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing, Strenuous – Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing
Distance: 13.3kms

Description

Hike Peninsula in 8 hikes this summer and earn the New Black Bear Fundraising Badge!! June 1-5 and July 27-29, 2026. Separate registrations of June 1-5 and July 27-29. We will meet at 12 noon at Bluewater Park in Wiarton and shuttle to Crawford Drive Side Trail and hike back to Bluewater Park. June 2-5, we will be hiking the top part of the Peninsula. We will meet each morning at 7:30am and shuttle to the trail head. Shuttling at the beginning of the day and one shuttle at end of each day to take morning drivers back to their cars, will be shared among all hikers. These start times allow hikers to travel the morning of the hike and finish mid-afternoon. Any parking fees will be shared equally by all hikers. A full itinerary will be shared with hikers the week before our hikes begin.  For those booking accommodation, recommend staying near the top part of the peninsula for June 1-5 and near Wiarton for the July dates.

I expect to have the new Black Bear End to End Fundraising badges for our last hike July 29, to be distributed to those who completed all 8 hikes.

Hikers should bring layered clothing in case of cool, breezy or rainy days. Hikers should have hiking shoes/boots, poles, hat, raingear, sunblock, bug repellant, 2-3 litres of water and snacks/lunch. We will have 2 scheduled breaks each day, except for June1 (1 break) as it is a shorter hike. Anticipate 4 km/hr average pace including breaks, so please be honest with respect to your capability.

Boots and Books - The Iroquoia Bruce Trail Book Club Meet time is 10:30am

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Boots and Books – The Iroquoia Bruce Trail Book Club
Location (Google Maps): Kilbride Park Parking Lot behind the Kilbride School

Hike Leader(s): Ruth Moffatt Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Medium – 3 to 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing, Strenuous – Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing
Distance: Approx 7km

Description

Welcome to the 3rd Iroquoia Bruce Trail Book Club – “Boots and Books”

Our book is “Theo of Golden” by Allen Levi. Please check your local library for available copies of this book.

We will hike from the parking lot north bound to Calcium Pits/Twiss Rd and return – about 7km which will take about 2 hours approximately. Please wear suitable foot wear, dress for the weather and bring poles if you use them and gaiters as the trail may be muddy. Please bring enough snacks and water suitable for the length/duration of the hike. It is not necessary to bring the book.

The June book will be “A History of Canada in 10 Maps” by Adam Shoalts and the July book will be “Woman, Watching” by Merilyn Simonds It may be a good idea to reserve these books now from your local library.

The hike is open to everyone whether you have read the book or not but there may he spoilers, if you haven’t read it. It will be open to 10 people to keep it more intimate for discussing the book.

If your plans change, please cancel your registration so that people who are waitlisted may join.

To cancel your registration, here  is a step by step:
– Sign into your account on the Bruce Trail website.
– Go to the Hike Schedule
– Click on My Hikes tab which you should find at the top of the schedule
– Scroll to the appropriate hike you wish to cancel
– Cursor to the far right of the hike to the Action column
– Click cancel under the hike you wish to cancel.

Harrison Park Loop

Hosting Club: Sydenham
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Harrison Park – northwest of km 89.0 BTC MAP #32. Drive past restaurant.

Hike Leader(s): Ian Mills

Pace: Medium: 3 to 4 km/h
Terrain: Moderate: Some hills and/or poor footing, There might be muddy sections., There might be sections with water on the trail.
Distance: 10 km

Description

We will meet at Harrison Park just past the restaurant (east) and follow Harrison Park Side Trail north to the Main Trail. We will follow the Main Trail south to Inglis Falls pack a light snack and enjoy some amazing views of the Falls. We will follow the Main Trail north  to Creamery Side Trail and circle back to our parking area. Interesting terrain , lovely views and good exercise will be provided by this loop – BTC MAP #32. A walking stick is recommended and proper footwear required.

Halton Forest to Speyside (E2E)

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: General Hike
Location (Google Maps): Meet at the Pear Tree parking lot at Speyside on 15 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

We will meet at 9:15 in the Pear Tree parking lot on 15 Side Road and carpool to 6th Line at the Halton Agreement Forest and hike back along the Hilton Falls Side Trail, Al Shaw Side Trail and the main trail. This trail has some serious rocks and we cross a couple of creeks.  Bring sufficient water and bug spray/bug net.

12:30 p.m. Pack Walk

Hosting Club: Niagara
Category: In and Out
Location (Google Maps): Merritt Island Park, Welland Canal Trail, Welland, ON – parking lot 8 Merritt Island Building

Hike Leader(s): Sam Rutherford Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely <3 km/hr
Terrain: Easy: mostly flat, good footing
Distance: 5 kms

Description

This pack walk is a structured group walk where dogs and their handlers walk together on-lead in a natural environment. It promotes exercise, calm socialization and exposure to other dogs and people in a safe, controlled setting. We will meet at the Merritt Island Building and follow the Welland Canal Trail out to Woodlawn Road and loop back. Dogs must be kept on-lead and under control at all times. Please bring water and treats for you and your dog.

Cancelled: Toronto Islands Walk

Hosting Club: Toronto

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): Tom Swales 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

*** The Thursday June 4th Toronto Island evening hike has been cancelled. There will be evening hikes on May 21st and May 28th, no hike on June 4th, and then resuming the rest of the Thursday evenings in June. from June 11th – June 25th **

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. 

9:00 am Niagara on the Lake Tour & Some Yoga

Hike open to BTC Members only.

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

Veteran’s Memorial Park, park just outside the park on King St.

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

Pace: Leisurely <3 km/hr

Distance: 6 km

Description

Enjoy the benefits of pausing for a yoga practice as we tour through the trails, parkland and Historic Niagara-on-the-Lake. No mat required. Movement will focus on a flow of standing poses designed especially for hikers. Plan to stay for conversation and a warm cup of coffee or tea at Sweets & Swirls, Community Centre, Niagara Stone Road, NOTL.

Blue Mountains End to End Fundraiser for the Stained Glass Badge June 6,7,8, 2026

Hosting Club: Iroquoia, Blue Mountains
Category: Stained Glass Badge End to End Fundraiser Hike
Location (Google Maps): Registered participants will receive a WhatsApp invitation (optional)which can be used for photo share and other pertinent information.

This is a three day fundraiser ETE for the stained glass badge. You must be able to hike at least 4km an hour with hills and rough terrain.

June 6 – Day 1 – Meet in the parking lot parking lot area located 380 m north of the main trail crossing Pretty River Road (40 car capacity) 44.430927, -80.275390 Shuttle to Maple Lane in Ravenna. Park only on the north side 44.504973, -80.331780 (4 car capacity) 20km
June 7 – Day 2 – Meet in the parking lot parking lot area located 380 m north of the main trail crossing Pretty River Road (40 car capacity) 44.430927, -80.275390 Shuttle to $paid parking lot off of 15/16 Sideroad – accessible only from Concession 10 South. 44.342784, -80.210628 (car capacity 7) 24km
June 8 Day 3 – Meet in front of the Lavender Cemetery on Mulmar Nottawasaga Townline 550 meters east of Lavender Hill Road – do not block cemetery gate. 44.268777, -80.156810 (Car capacity 10) and shuttle to $paid parking lot on 15/16 Sideroad 44.342784, -80.210628 (Car capacity 7) 22.50km.

Parking fees are shared by everyone except the drivers.

Hike Leader(s): Ruth Moffatt Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Brisk – 4 to 5 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate – Some hills and/or some poor footing, Slippery and Steep Sections, Strenuous – Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing
Distance: 67.50km spread over three days

Description

Everyone who is registered for this hike series will be invited to join an optional WhatsApp which can be used to share photos and other information.  

Distances will be spread over 3 days as equally as possible depending on the parking. Please bring enough food and snacks for a 20km + day of hiking and 2l of water minimum.
Everyone must have a first aid kit in their backpack as well as all the other items you require for a long day hike (poles, rain gear etc)
The registration fee includes the badge, guidance and organization. The fee supports the club’s infrastructure and the mission of “Preserving a ribbon of wilderness for everyone, forever.” There are no refunds.

This series of hikes is intended for hikers who are used to a multi-day distance of 20+km at a steady pace. We will have a short break around 10am and a lunch break. Afternoon break is dependent on expected finishing time. Please do not over estimate your hiking ability.
Participants can make up one of the three days on their own if you have a scheduling conflict. Please try to do this before we get started.
You must be willing to share in the car shuttle to the start of the hike or driving the drivers back at the end of the day. Please have a minimum 4 useable seats including driver’s.  This is a group hike and it is intended that everyone be present on each day.
Please cancel your registration if your plans change so that someone else who may be on the waitlist can take your place. Paid parking on two days to be shared by non-drivers.

All registered hikers will be invited to join a WhatsApp group. This can be used for sharing photos and other items of interest.

Refunds: https://brucetrail.org/paid-hike-refund-policy/

RAINBOW HIKE: Birding with Pride

Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Rainbow Hike
Location (Google Maps): Royal Botanical Gardens – Hendrie Valley Sanctuary, Cherry Hill Gate

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 as we kick off Pride Month with a colourful morning of birding! 🦅🦉🦆🌈

For this edition, it’s encouraged to come dressed in the colours of your favourite bird! 🌈

This gentle early-morning outing will explore the trails around Royal Botanical Gardens, one of our region’s important migration areas.  We will start at the trailhead parking lot of the Cherry Hill Gate.

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!  We’ll depart by 8-810AM.  Hoping to catch some Blue Herons, Swans, Wood Ducks, and if we’re lucky, a sighting of the RBG resident Screech Owl!

🌈 This is a queer-led, 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive Rainbow Hike, welcoming LGBTQ+ hikers, allies, birders, photographers, and anyone interested in connecting with nature and community.  This is a short, relaxed hike (approx. 5 km) designed to get us moving and birding!

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!)

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 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 3$/hour to a maximum of 15$ if you park at Cherry Hill Gate, or free if you park across the street at RBG Centre.

Taking the Bus?
HSR #9 or BT1 stops near the trailhead entrance!  Map of the bus and it’s schedule can be found here.
https://www.hamilton.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/hsr-9-ROCK%20GARDENS-may10.pdf

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

CANCELLED: Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Cancelled
Location (Google Maps): Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Hike Leader(s): Robin Crombie and Felix Wan Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Hilly, Level 2 (Intermediate – some hills and uneven surfaces, rocks and roots underfoot), Rocky, Variable
Distance (km): 8

Description

This trip has been cancelled and will be rescheduled to a future date – June 6th is a holiday for Nishnaabeg and access to the site will be limited

In recognition of June being National Indigenous History Month in Canada, join us for a visit to Petroglyphs Provincial Park.

The day will be divided into two portions. We’ll begin by touring the exhibits and watching a 20-minute video at the Learning Place Visitor Centre to discover the traditions of the Ojibway (Nishnaabe) people, which will be followed by a 45-minute guided tour of the Kinoomaage Waapkong (aka The Teaching Rocks or the Peterborough Petroglyphs), the largest known concentration of Indigenous rock carvings (petroglyphs) in Canada. Afterwards, we will hike along the Nanabush Trail, stopping near Minnow Lake for a lunch break, then continue our hike along the Marsh and West Day Use Trails.

Although the total hiking distance is short (approximately 8 km), the trails are in the heart of the Canadian Shield and are rugged. There are rocks and roots, and some hilly stretches. Bring hiking boots and poles if you have them. Also bring a lunch and snacks, at least 2L of drinking water, rain/sun protection, and insect repellent.

If time permits, we will have a refreshment stop in the town of Lakefield.

Expect a late return to Toronto (approximately 7:00 p.m., traffic conditions permitting).

9:00 am Walker Creek 5 4 3 2 1 Grounding Hike

Hike open to BTC Members only.

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

Welland Canal parking area at Lock 1 on Lakeshore Road

Hike Leader(s): Suzanne Gourluck Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)

Pace: Leisurely <3 km/hr
Terrain: Easy: mostly flat, good footing
Distance: 9 km

Description

*This hike is one of our new MINDFULNESS series

Join me on this 5 4 3 2 1 grounding hike and learn a simple strategy for managing anxious racing thoughts. We will hike through Malcomson Eco Park along Sunshine beach, up Walker Creek and back, stopping a couple of times along the way to ground ourselves using the 5 4 3 2 1 technique.
*If the parking lot at the canal is full please park in Malcolmson Eco Park (accessed at the Niagara/Lakeshore intersection) and walk up to the canal.

Dr. Philip Gosling Memorial Hike & Founders’ Footpath Plaque Unveiling

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills
Category: General
Location (Google Maps): Akela and Scouters Heather and Ross Hamlin Nature Reserve at Riverside Woods
713377 1st Line EHS, Mono
Google GPS Coordinates: 43.959916, -80.070494

Driving Directions:  
From ON-9, head north onto 2nd Line EHS for 3 kilometres. Turn left onto Side Road 5 for 1.5 kilometres. Turn right onto 1st Line EHS for approximately 1 kilometre. Continue straight into the parking lot.

From ON-10, head east on Hockley Road/Dufferin County Road 7 for 1 kilometre. Continue straight onto Side Road 5 for 1.5 kilometres. Turn left onto 1st Line EHS for approximately 1 kilometre. Continue straight into the parking lot.

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

Pace: Brisk – 4 to 5 km/hour, Leisurely – 3 km/hour or less
Terrain: Easy – mostly flat and usually good footing
Distance: 2 or 3 kilometres

Description

Bruce Trail members and friends are invited to gather in nature to honour the life, vision, and legacy of Dr. Philip Gosling, Founder of the Bruce Trail. A time of reflection and the unveiling of the Founders’ Footpath commemorative plaque will be led by Michael McDonald, CEO of the Bruce Trail Conservancy, followed by a guided walk along the footpath, and a time of fellowship and refreshments.

International Trails Day Hike - Cotswold Way

Hosting Club: Peninsula

Location (Google Maps): BTC Parking Lot, #2461 Bruce County Rd. 9

Hike Leader(s): Marg and Owen Glendon 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: ~6.5 km

Description

Celebrate International Trails Day on June 6 with a hike that connects you to trails around the world.

Step onto the Bruce Trail and discover the spirit of global adventure through the Friendship Trails program, an international network linking trail communities across countries. Like twin towns, these special partnerships bring people together through shared experiences, culture, and a love of the outdoors.

Bruce Trail Conservancy maintains 10 Friendship Trails at different locations along the Bruce Trail. The Peninsula Bruce Trail Club is proud to host two of these international connections: England’s Cotswold Way and South West Coastal Path. Learn more about BTC Friendship Trails here: https://brucetrail.org/International-friendship-trails/.

Kick off our three-part Friendship Hike series on the Cotswold Way Friendship Trail section with a scenic 6.5 km loop hike along the Main Trail and Beth Gilhespy Side Trail, near Barrow Bay. This moderately paced hike features rugged, rocky terrain, a few challenging climbs, and breathtaking views over Georgian Bay and Little Lake, perfect for sparking your next hike-travel dream. Plan on 2 1/2 – 3 hours which includes lots of time for photos and storytelling.

We are thrilled to have two knowledgeable guests join us for the hike! Jackie Randle, BTC Vice President of Operations and President of the World Trails Network, will share inspiring stories and insights about International Friendship Trails and the World Trails Network. Tom Hall, PBTC Trail Maintenance Director, and Friendship  Trail Badge Earner, will also join us to share some of his hiking experiences along the Cotswold Way Trail.

Have you walked the Cotswold Way? Bring your stories and be part of the conversation.

Celebrate trails around the world and the healthy lifestyle that trails inspire!

Ample parking and onsite portapottie available.

Geology Hike #6B Inglis Falls loop

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

Meet in the parking lot behind the Grey-Sauble Conservation Authority head office.
237897 Inglis Falls Road, Owen Sound

Hike Leader(s): Beth Gilhespy 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: 5.5 km. approx

Description

This is part B of Geology Hike #6 (Inglis Falls loop) following Beth Gilhespy’s book  “Walking Through Time” in the Sydenham Bruce Trail Section and BETH GILHESPY will be leading this hike ! This is a loop, starting from the parking lot at Grey Sauble Conservation Area parking lot behind the main building. We will hike in a southerly direction on the main trail towards Inglis Falls, cross the Inglis Falls Road and continue on main trail to join the Creamery Hill sidetrail and back to our cars.

Copies of all of Beth’s books will be available for purchase. Special member’s only price of $37.00 . Cash or etransfer. If paying with cash, please bring exact change.  Please bring water and a snack if  you wish. Proper hiking footwear and hiking poles are recommended.

Urban Walk - Don Valley to The Distillery District (29 KM)

Hosting Club: Toronto
Category: Urban Walk
Location (Google Maps): East Don/Don River

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

Pace: Moderate (3-4 km/hr)
Terrain: Flat
Distance (km): 27.5 km

Description

This hike follows the Don River south from Steeles Ave East at Leslie St through Toronto to the Distillery District, through a series of ravines and several parks.  We will detour to street level when we cross the 401 (trail closed due to construction) and again south of Pottery Rd where we take the Bayview Ave Extension (trail closed due to construction).  Those who register will receive an itinerary.

Please bring a lunch and at least two liters of water.  Be prepared for cool / wet weather.  Pub stop after at The Spaghetti Factory, adds an extra 1.5 KM

Here is an online map of our route:  Don Valley to The Distillery  https://onthegomap.com/s/7og8khua

Here is the itinerary for the day.

10:00 AM
0
Steeles and Leslie

11:45 AM
6
Sheppard and Leslie – east end of subway station at street level

12:48 PM
9.6
Lesmill & York Mills Tim Horton’s)

1:40 PM
12.6
Edwards Gardens (Lawrence and Leslie) – 15 minute lunch break max

2:48 PM
15.6
Underpass of Eglinton, west of Leslie – in the parking lot east end near the bins

3:06 PM
16.6
behind the Ontario Science Centre – we will not be leaving the path

4:40 PM
22
Pottery Rd – at cross walk

5:33 PM
25
Riverdale Park Crossing

6:15 PM
27.5
Distillery District – TTC terminus

6:45 PM
29
The Old Spaghetti Factory

International Trails Day Celebration and Saturday Shorts Hike

Hosting Club: Caledon Hills
Category: General
Location (Google Maps): Meet in the Caledon Public Library – Alton Branch
35 Station Street

Driving Directions: From ON-10, turn west on Charleston Sideroad/Peel Regional Road 24 for 4 kilometres. Turn right/north onto 3 LineW/Main Street/Peel Regional Road/136 for 4 kilometres. Turn right onto Station Street. The library is on the right side.

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

Pace: Leisurely – 3 km/hour or less
Terrain: Easy – mostly flat and usually good footing
Distance: 5.5 kilometres

Description

Plan to join our local celebration of International Trails Day – promised fun for all. Come to the library early (1:00 pm to 2:00 pm) to learn more about local trails, healthy lifestyles, and volunteering through hands-on activities, conversation, giveaways, and fabulous door prizes. A loop around the biodiverse Alton Grange Property will offer many exciting opportunities for nature sightings. Bring a beverage and snack to keep you energized on the trail. This special hiking event is brought to you by the Caledon Public Library, Caledon Hills BTC, Alton Grange Association, and WILD Outside Youth Leadership Group.