- HikeType Winter Hikes
- PaceTypes ,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.
- TerrainTypes Moderate: Rolling hills, mild slopes and rocky paths.
- PaidOuting No
Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Winter Hikes
Location (Google Maps): Bruce Peninsula National Park at the Visitor's Centre located at 120 Chi sin tib dek Rd, Tobermory ON. Meet at the front of the Visitor's Centre.
Hike Leader(s): Caley Doran
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: 4.8 km
Description
Family Day in Tobermory! Bruce Trail Hike, Campfire at the Bruce Peninsula National Park Visitor Centre and Family Activities at the Tobermory Community Centre!
Our Family Day hike starts at the BPNP Visitor's Centre. We will hike the Main Bruce Trail to the Burnt Loop Side Trail. This is a lovely winter hike (~4.8 km) through an enchanting forest with pretty views of Georgian Bay, Flower Pot and Bear's Rump Islands taking approximately 2 1/2 hours. We will hike at steady pace with brief stops for drinks/snacks and water views.
The terrain on the first part of this trail is level, however the Burnt Loop Side Trail is a meandering, rocky trail with some short ups and downs and includes a short rocky beach section. If snow is deep, the remainder of the hike may be challenging for some. For those wishing to return to the Visitor Centre after reaching our first lookout (~1 km), a PBTC Hike Leader will return with you while the rest of the hiking group continues.
Winter hikes require extra thought and preparation. Weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared to bring snowshoes, icers and gators (optional). Hiking poles are essential for winter hikes. Make sure to wear layers of clothing, warm winter hat, winter hiking boots and mittens. Bring a light backpack for water and snacks.
Don’t have your own snowshoes? No problem! Arrive early to the Park Visitors Centre to borrow a pair of snowshoes from the Park for this hike (limited supplies).
After the hike, everyone is welcome to gather together by the fireplace or outdoor campfire at the Visitor's Centre. Indoor washrooms are available here. The hike is free. However, park admission and parking fees apply.
Caley Doran, a passionate Anishinaabe Interpretive Guide from Saukiing Anishinaabekiing territory, will lead the hike. Caley is dedicated to his roots, and brings a deep connection to Mother Earth and ancestral wisdom to his guided hikes.