- HikeType Rainbow Hike
- HikeIcon https://hikes.brucetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/formidable/7/image.png
- PaceTypes Medium - 3 to 4 km/hr
- TerrainTypes Moderate - Some hills and/or some poor footing
- PaidOuting No
Registration Required:
Click here to register for this hike (12 spots remaining)
Hosting Club: Iroquoia
Category: Rainbow Hike
Location (Google Maps): Hillcrest Loop
Hike Leader(s): Doug O'Neill 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 km, 13 km or 20 km (Beginner to Advanced)
Description
This LGBTQ2SIA+ Rainbow Hike is for hikers of all abilities: beginner, intermediate and more advanced hikers.
You don't have to be a BTC member for this hike.
You get to choose: 8 kms, 13 kms or 20 kms. Each drop-off will be closer to an HRT Bus Stop (for easy trip back to the starting point), or to a parking lot if you've done a car shuttle in advance.
Note: This hike is completely do-able by public transit, if you decide not to drive your car.
We'll rendezvous at 9 a.m. sharp at Hillcrest Loop, Hamilton, near the base of Dundurn Stairs, close to Dundurn and Hillcrest, beside the bus loop.
PHASE I: Hillcrest Loop to Tiffany Falls (8 kms): We’ll follow the Chedokee Rail Trail (Bruce Trail Main Trail) then cross over the pedestrian bridge above HWY 403. Expect at least one steep, rocky climb as we make our way to Tiffany Falls.
- If want to finish at the 8 km mark
there's a nearby bus stop for an easy jaunt back to downtown Hamilton, or wherever you've left your car. Likewise if you're heading to Ancaster.
PHASE II: Tiffany Falls to Dundas Valley Trail Centre (5 kms): After checking out Tiffany Falls, we'll pass by Sherman Falls and Canterbury Falls on our way to the Dundas Valley Trail Centre, where we'll stop for lunch and a good break. (There are flush toilets and a water fountain.) If you're satisfied with your 13-km hike, here's an HRT Bus Stop at Governor and Pirie (about a 15-minute walk from the Trail Centre). Or parking at Dundas Valley (Governors Road Parking lot if you've done a car shuttle there in advance).
PHASE III: Dundas Valley Trail Centre to Downtown Dundas (approx. 7 kms): After an energizing break at the Trail Centre, we'll follow the Bruce Trail all the way to downtown Dundas, via Woolley Lane and Cheryl Duke Side Trail to Sydenham. Potential pub visit in Dundas for those interested. There are two bus routes from Dundas (running approx. every 20 minutes) that will take you back to downtown Hamilton, or wherever you've left your car.
For car drivers: if you're with a friend or family member, you can always coordinate a shuttle and leave one car at your chosen end point. Feel free to message the hiker leader if you have any questions.
Everyone gets a complimentary Bruce Trail Rainbow Badge or sticker.
We're happy to welcome members of the Out & Out Club of Toronto on this hike. You'll have a chance to learn about their outdoor activities—which range from cycling to skiing.
Bring at least 1 litre of water, energizing snacks/lunch, sunscreen and it's a good idea to pack insect repellent. Hiking boots or sturdy footwear are recommended—as well a cap. We will occasionally hike through long grass, where ticks are known to hang out, so long pants are highly recommended. (Avoid wearing shorts in long grass.)
Email any questions to the Hike Leader - "Click here to contact Hike Leader" on this form.