Hiking with Pride: Fern Hike at Hope Bay Nature Reserve

Registration Required:

Click here to register for this hike (18 spots remaining)

Hosting Club: Peninsula
Category: Rainbow Hike
Location (Google Maps): Hope Bay Nature Reserve. Meet at the south end of Cathedral Drive, at the entrance to Hope Bay Nature Reserve. Arrive a few minutes early, please.

Hike Leader(s): Marg Glendon & Tainin Hopkinson 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: Easy: Flat forested sections or lowland trails., Moderate: Rolling hills, mild slopes and rocky paths.
Distance: ~4 km

Description

Ferns can tell you a lot about the forest habitat. They are considered an “eco-indicator” – telling us about the type, moisture, nutrients and temperature of soil. The type of fern can also tell you about what kind of wildflowers to look for in the same area. Ferns are one of the oldest plants on earth. Did you know they existed at the time of dinosaurs, some growing to over 100 feet tall! While you won't see ferns that tall, PBTC Conservation Ambassador Rhiannon Carruthers will help us to identify ferns on this hike. We like to learn from one another too – so please share your Nature knowledge throughout the hike, too. Ferns identified on this hike will contribute toward the PBTC Fern Badge. You can learn more about the Fern Badge here: https://pbtc.ca/badges/.  If time allows, we will see the Hope Bay Glacial Potholes located here, too. This hike is a hike-stop-talk paced hike over uneven and at times more demanding terrain. Good balance is required.

Bring a back pack for snacks and lunch, water bottle. Wear sturdy footwear with closed toes, hat, sun-protective clothing. Bring sunscreen. Hiking poles, binoculars, insect repellent (optional),

For those wishing to remain after the hike, consider staying for refreshments with us at a nearby farm or visit nearby Hope Bay Ice Cream Shop.

The closest public toilet is at the Hope Bay  parking lot  at 10 Hope Bay Road (about 10 minute drive).

Bruce Trail Reference Guide: Map 37 Edition 31.