- HikeType Health & Nature Hike
- PaceTypes Leisurely: 3 km/h or less
- TerrainTypes ,Moderate: Some hills and/or poor footing,Strenuous: Hilly with steep climbs and some poor footing.
- PaidOuting No
Hosting Club: Sydenham
Category: Health & Nature Hike
Location (Google Maps):
Hike Leader(s): Margaret O'Dell 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.
Distance: 4.8 km
Description
Join us on a Rainbow Hike for 2SLGBTQ+ folx and allies, while we explore the Woodford Escarpment.
This hike begins at the Woodford Community Hall in the hamlet of Woodford.
We will enter a mixed hardwood forest, passing the stone foundation of a Pioneer Church, then the remnants of an old limestone kiln ingeniously constructed from a glacial pothole. The trail continues through the forest, passing over a "disappearing waterfall" (dry at this time of year), then alongside the foundation of a settler's barn and cabin, before reaching a narrow crevice.
Woodford crevices are exciting to explore slowly. It is a short, very narrow passage through the escarpment with strenuous terrain. In the summer the passage walls are cool. You'll feel the air-conditioning emitting from the rocks of the crevice. At the same time, its a short but adventurous exploration! If anyone is claustrophobic or chooses not to follow the narrow crevice, there is a By-Pass trail to follow instead. At the end of the first section of crevices, the trail climbs up to the top of the escarpment where hikers can visual follow the passage from above. Once through both sections of crevices, the trail reaches the Woodford Escarpment Side Trail which will will follow to return to the parking area. Together with the main trail, this forms a 3 km loop hike.
Once back to Woodford Community Hall, we'll continue south, crossing Hwy 26 and following the main trail for about 500 metres before reaching the Crevice Springs Side Trail. This trail descends the talus slope and continues northward through a mature cedar forest, crossing numerous springs before ascending through an interesting crevice, known locally as "the hole-in-the-wall". Together with the main trail, this forms a 1.4 km hike.
What to Bring: Please carry a backpack with snacks and at least one litre of water and/or electrolytes. Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended.
What to wear: Light sweat-wicking clothing is best in summer to keep you cool. Sturdy shoes with a good tread on rocky surfaces with socks. No open-toed shoes or "croc" style please.