Spring 2016 THE QUARTERLY OF THE TORONTO BRUCE TRAIL CLUB Vol. LIII No. 1

www.torontobrucetrailclub.org | 416-763-9061 | [email protected] Todd Bardes: An Appreciation by John Grandy

2015 ended on a very sad note for our club, with the news that our highly respected President, Todd Bardes, passed away suddenly on New Year’s Eve while on vacation in Costa Rica.

Todd was an inspiration to us all, and a true leader. He joined our club in 1994 and was an active volunteer for at least twenty years, a hike leader since 1996 and a member of our Board of Directors since 1999. He served as club President twice, from 2001 until 2003 and once again from 2012 until now. He filled other volunteer roles within the club too numerous to mention – almost every volunteer position we have at one time or another. At the Bruce Trail Conservancy, he was a member of the Board from 2011-2012, and also served as Chair of the Land Stewardship Committee, where he worked actively to protect the many properties that the BTC has acquired. Todd trained an entire generation of volunteer land stewards over a term of six years.

Outside the BTC, Todd was a passionate advocate for hiking through his role as President of Hike Ontario. Todd managed to combine all this volunteer work with his active career at the Royal Bank of Canada and as a management consultant. Todd had planned to retire from his position as President at our next Annual General Meeting. Magical Manitoulin Island When I last spoke to him, just two weeks before his death, he was excited about moving on to the next stage in his vol- Come discover the natural beauty of Manitoulin and unteer career. He wanted to take his Bruce Trail stewardship spend three days with us hiking and learning about the experience and use it to help other environmental charities indigenous culture. We travel by coach and get to the in Canada. It is a real tragedy that now all that experience world’s largest freshwater island on the Chi-Cheemaun and enthusiasm has been lost. ferry. Accommodation is in Little Current.

He told me once that the work he was most proud of at the club was leading hikes for disadvantaged young people. You August 26 to 28, 2016 could tell that he took real pleasure in helping these city kids get exposure to the outdoors. This tells you the kind of (Friday to Sunday) person he was.

For those of us who remain behind, the best way we can honour Todd is to redouble our own volunteer efforts and This special event is organized in honour of TBTC make him be proud of us. August Hike-A-Thon fund raising campaign. Please join me in expressing Check out the Hike Calendar for details. our sympathy and support to

Christina Bardes. Hike Leader Lucy Leung [email protected] www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

Table of Contents Footnotes Toronto Bruce Trail Club is published quarterly by the Board of Directors Todd Bardes: An Appreciation P1 Toronto Bruce Trail Club Magical Manitoulin P1 PO Box 597 President: 2938 Dundas Street West John Grandy President’s Pen P3 Toronto, Ontario M6P 4E7 [email protected] Past President: Hiking Director’s Notes P3 [email protected] Peter Leeney, 905-822-1877 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org [email protected] Announcements & Events P4 ISSN 0380-9354 BTC Director: A member of the Bruce Trail Conservancy Marlis Butcher, General Information P5 [email protected] Many thanks to all the volunteers who Hiking Director: Activities Calendar P6 helped in the production of this issue. Wayne Crockett, 647-786-4537 Looking Forward P18 Send address changes to: [email protected] The Bruce Trail Conservancy Secretary: Other Hikes P22 PO Box 857, Hamilton, ON L8N 3N9 Vacant www.brucetrail.org 1-800-665-4453 Treasurer : Looking at Plants in Ontario P23 Malcolm Sanderson, For missing copies of Footnotes 905-294-5866 The Ultimate Treasure Hunt P24 call 1-800-665-4453, [email protected] Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Public Relations & Education: Volunteer Appeal P26 Magdalena Van Der Kooy Opinions expressed in Footnotes are not 647-983-7938 Ganaraska Reunion P27 necessarily the views of the TBTC unless [email protected] stated as such. Advertising does not Trail Maintenance: Wildflower Meadow P27 imply endorsement by the TBTC. David Paape, 416-445-9028 [email protected] Exercise P28 Land Owner Relations Footnotes Resource Support Paul Vanhanen, 905-877-1294 2015 Badge Recipients P30 (not members of the Board) [email protected] Footnotes Editor: Brent Michaluk Land Stewardship: 2016 AGM P32 Proofreaders: Marilyn MacKellar Vladimir Bosnar, 905-273-7569 Kathryn Emirzian [email protected] Advertising & Mail Coordinator: Fundraising: Jude Keast Patricia Peel, 416-436-2710 Publication Deadlines Activities Editor: Victor Ramautar [email protected] ISSUE: ADVERTISING/EDITORIAL Webmaster: Stephen Kamnitzer Land Management Committee Chair; e-Notes Editor: Brent Michaluk Land Securement Secretariat BTC Summer 2016: March 11/March 18 Archivist: John Drew Representative: Fall 2016: June 15/June 24 Information Line: Judy Leeney David Tyson, 416-966-1379 Winter 2016-17: Sept. 15/Sept. 24 City of Toronto Liaison: [email protected] Spring 2017: Dec.15/Dec.20 John Hough Volunteer Co-ordinator: Halton Hills Chapter: Kevin B. Warburton, Send advertisements to: Janet Le Lievre 416-717-4163 [email protected] [email protected] Membership: The Toronto Bruce Trail Club is one of nine clubs Sima Patel, 416-844-5640 Member at Large: making up the Bruce Trail Conservancy, which Oonagh Maley is dedicated to the conservation of the Niagara Escarpment. You are invited to visit the Toronto Club’s website at www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

2 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org President’s Pen by Todd Bardes

Where do we go from here?

For the past few years we have been Well, over the past few years, we have been our section of Trail while recording some celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the working to seek these ends. There have been of the worst weather conditions in the BT’s Bruce Trail. It started out with the birthday the creation of the Conservation Committee history (ice storm and many trees down). party for the Toronto Bruce Trail Club and the celebration of the Earth Day (known as the Mid-Ontario Club back Events. There has been the planting of trees, then). We had the Founder’s Dinner in June milkweed, and wild flowers. There has been After six years, I plan to step down as of 2012, with Ian Lamont Smith, Doug the addition of new properties as we work President of the Toronto Club but will Brown, Philip Gosling, Howard Wills, with our partners (land owners, conservation continue with my work on the Bruce Trail Doug Campbell and Jim Allan. At that authorizes and BT donors) towards the goal as a Trail Captain and Land Steward. Also I time in the “President’s Pen” , I raised the to secure the “OR” (optimal route) of the would like to spend more time sharing our question…”where will we be going, over the Bruce Trail. knowledge from the Bruce Trail. Something next 50 years? Will future generations be new for me will be the study and protection able to look back to 2012 and remark about of the over 69 endangered/threatened the progress and development of the years We have been working to share, the ‘Best species that depends on the Escarpment now and 2062?” Kept Secret’ in southern Ontario, The habitat for their survival. Bruce Trail. We are working to improve the communications with the community. An interesting comment from that issue of We have developed a new front-end to So the real question is: “Where are we going Footnotes reads, “ We have so many issues the TBTC Website, Facebook and Twitter from here?” It’s up to you! that will need to be resolved in order to accounts. We also undertook a major study conserve the Escarpment and preserve the of the GTA market with the help of Ipsos- Editor’s Note: Todd submitted this to me prior Bruce Trail, including dealing with the Reid and surveyed the outdoor recreational to his passing. growing population, the impact of global needs of Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton warming, and the increasing demands for and Halton Hills. This survey was followed water and green space.” by the creation of the 4000 Committee (with the mandate to raise the membership of the Toronto Club to over 4000 members). “Keeping in mind the original goals of the club, we plan to move forward over the next few years with an emphasis on We have continued with our hiking program education, conservation, and respect for the with over 500 organized hikes per year led environment, while having fun.” by trained leaders. We have also maintained

Hiking Director’s Notes

by Wayne Crockett

Welcome to the spring hiking season. I’m In the coming months I would like leaders and the members on how to looking forward, after the winter woods, to to concentrate on how we can use the accomplish this. Please contact me at some greener vistas. I hope you had a great website to improve how we offer car hikes, [email protected] if you have any winter and are looking forward to new particularly in organizing car pools. I know comments or input on this idea. adventures in the outdoors. that many people who don’t have their own vehicles find it difficult to participate Have a fun, safe time on the trail. Please check out the many urban, car and in these outings which significantly bus hikes listed in this issue of Footnotes. reduces their potential. From practical But don’t forget to regularly check the organizational matters to reducing our website calendar for additions to the carbon footprint, the greater number of Log in to the Members section of schedule. The flexibility provided by the people we carry in the smallest number of online presentation of events allows us to vehicles the more we promote conservation the Club website using your BTC make a greater variety of events available to of the trail and the environment. In the membership number and your our members and potential members. spring and summer months I hope to own password present some specific ideas to the hike

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 3 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org 2016 Toronto Section End-to-End

Come and challenge yourself. Complete the 49.5 km Toronto section in two days.

Sat. October 1 and Sunday October 2 You will hike 28.2 km on Saturday and 21.3 km on Sunday. Meet both days at Limehouse at 7:45 am. The cost is $20 for the two days.

The costs cover transportation, badges and refreshments. Volunteers will be posted at checkpoints along the way to cheer you on and pro- vide sustenance.

To register for the event, please send your cheque (You may post-date it to October 1st) payable to the Toronto Bruce Trail Club along with your name, address, telephone number and e-mail address to: Nijole Mockevicius 107 Wembley Rd Toronto ON M6C 2G5

Alternatively, this year we will be offering payment through Interac money transfers for your convenience. Please contact Nijole to arrange payment. When your payment is received, you will be sent complete information about meeting places, etc.

If you have questions about registration, contact Nijole at [email protected] For any other questions about the event, including volunteering inquiries, contact the coordinator, Molle Dorst, at 647-448-5258 or [email protected] Celebrating Earth Day

EXPLORING WETLANDS ON THE ESCARPMENT Sunday April 24, 2016 Location To Be Announced

You, your family and friends, TBTC members and guests, are invited to our 3rd Annual Earth Day celebration. PRESENTATIONS AND GUEST SPEAKERS: Learn about the importance of protecting and conserving wetlands: marshes, swamps, vernal pools and bogs on the Niagara Escarpment. NATURE RAMBLE: Plant and animal identification specific to these complex and important ecosystems. • DEMONSTRATIONS • BBQ Presented to you by the Toronto Bruce Trail Club Conservation Committee

The BTC Calypso Orchid Environmental Award

Nominations For The Annual BTC Calypso Orchid Award - The recipient of the BTC Calypso Orchid Environmental Award may include individuals, volunteer groups, institutions and commercial companies that have demonstrated a significant contribution to the restoration and preservation of the Bruce Trail and/or the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve, or significantly enhance the education of users or potential users of the Trail and/or the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve.

Recipients do not have to be members of the Bruce Trail Conservancy. Exemplary actions by the recipients can have either a direct and/or indirect effect on the Bruce Trail. Meritorious actions can be a single event or undertaken over several years.

At the AGM, award recipients are presented with a certificate and their own engraved walking staff. The recipient must demonstrate a significant contribution to the restoration and preservation of the Bruce Trail and/or the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve, or signifi- cantly enhance the education of users or potential users of the Trail and/or the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve.

How to Nominate - If you know of a worthy recipient for 2016, nomination forms are available online from the BTC website or from the BTC Head Office. Completed forms must be submitted to the BTC Head Office byJune 1, 2016. For further information contact Paul Toffoletti, Chair, Environmental Committee, at [email protected]

4 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

Comfortable General Information Hiking Holidays Bus Hikes Hikers are discouraged from meeting bus hikes at the Trail in their own vehicles, unless the hike (416) 445-2628 description includes this option. www.letshike.com

Meeting Place: CORFU, GREECE For maps, see www.torontobrucetrailclub.org under General Information on Bus hikes. May 9 to 21, 2016 • York Mills subway station: buses park on Old York Mills Road near the south exit of the This Greek island is the perfect station (not the exit for TTC buses) combination of European flare and • Islington subway station: buses wait at the Beer Store on Bloor Street, two short blocks west tranquil sea-side living. Hike to the heavens to visit holy monasteries and of the subway station and opposite the TTC parking lot trek in shade of ancient olive groves. • Clarence Square: located south of King Street, north of Front Street, at 49 Spadina Avenue We promise - you will never tire of the on the east side (south of the gas station). Buses wait at the west side of the Square. deep, deep blue of the sea that surrounds you. Opa! Return: • usual return time is 6 pm; late returns are noted in the listing IRELAND Seating: June 7 to 17, 2016 • based on a first-come, first-seated basis — guests are welcome but they must pre-register With more shades of green than you • check the listings for exceptions — leaders may give priority to defined groups can imagine, the Emerald Isle lives up to its deserving reputation. From • some outings involve extra costs; some require advance registration historical Dublin to picturesque Killarney & parts in between, we will Bus Fare (includes $1 donation to the Escarpment Legacy Fund): take you hiking through some of the • $17 members, $23 non-members; $5 children under 12 most sought-after scenery the country • Long distance fares (over 140 km one-way) $22 for members and $28 for has to offer - and we'll even make a few pub stops along the way! non-members

MACHU PICCHU Car Hikes September 16 to 28, 2016 • meet at the point stipulated in Footnotes and travel by car shuttle to the starting point; contact Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas Hike Leader if you have questions by hiking through the famed salt pans of Maras, the ancient ruins of Pisac, Car-Pool Hikes and trekking high up into the Urubamba mountain range. Then that • meet at the point listed in Footnotes and ride or drive to the starting point as a group; save fuel all important day arrives when we hike and reduce pollution into Machu Picchu – rounding the • passengers are expected to contribute to the driver’s costs (the suggested amount is $10, which corner of the Sun Gate and seeing should be offered — the driver should not have to request it) Machu Picchu with your own eyes will give you goose bumps! (Note: This trip does not involve ANY Map References camping – all accommodations are in • the 28th edition of the Bruce Trail Reference is used hotel & lodges.) Do not to delay in making your Things to Remember reservation. Changes are also posted in the Members section of the website (www.torontobrucetrailclub. Inca permits must be booked now to ensure we get into Machu org). Picchu on our desired date! Members log in using their BTC membership number and their own passwords. • all Club events are non-smoking TURKEY • carry your BTC membership card at all times October 15 to 26, 2016 • bring a lunch, 2 litres of water, suncreen and insect repellent Hike in Cappadocia with its secret • arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure time for any hike frescoed churches, underground cities • dogs are not permitted on bus hikes with the exception of registered guide dogs. Dogs may and volcanic tuff sculpted into fairy only be taken on urban and car hikes if published in advance by hike leaders. chimneys. Visit ancient ruins, shop the bazaars of Istanbul and take a history lesson through time. Steeped in tradition and a masterpiece of nature, Pre-registration ( Online, Email or Phone )

Turkey will impress you. You must pre-register even though the meeting time and place may be listed.Please register

TICO # 50018498 using the listed method before the deadline.

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 5 Activity Calendar www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

the Uxbridge-Pickering Townline (then Monica Feran, (416) 736-6636 Before 9 pm Spring 2016 proceed as above). or [email protected] Charlie Atkinson, (905) 642-2408 or Larry Haigh, (416) 432-1239 before 8 pm Notice to Participants (day of hike) mobile (416) 668-2734 or We will walk from Leslie subway station, All Hike Leaders are volunteers. You [email protected] north along the East Don River, to Steeles. are welcome to take part in their A late winter woodland hike, consisting of Lunch at Cummer Community Centre. activities, but you do so at your a There and Back/Loop in the Goodwood, The walk will continue with an optional own risk. Only written complaints Secord sections, combining four side trails loop, north of Steeles, finishing at Steeles against a Hike Leader or end person with the main trail. Hike pace and distance and Don Mills. Bring lunch. Ice footware will be considered. Complaints (or may be adjusted depending on the trail recommended. Please check with the commendations) may be addressed to conditions. leader if it is a very cold day. the Hiking Director, Toronto Bruce Trail Club, PO Box 597, 2938 Dundas Saturday, March 5 -- Wasaga Nordic Friday, March 18 -- Iroquoia, St. W., Toronto, ON M6P 4E7. The Peter Leeney, [email protected] Rattlesnake Point, Crawford Lake (Map focus of the complaints policy is on Luisa Lee 11) improvement rather than discipline. Martina Furrer, 705-768-3250 or [email protected] Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 15 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Please note that the maps and kilometre Snowshoers: You can explore the resort’s Terrain: Variable, hilly with a couple of references in this listing are from trails on your own or join Peter and Louisa hilly sections. No dropout, Refreshments the 28th Edition of the Bruce Trail for a guided snowshoe hike. This will be after, Ice footwear (or possibly snowshoes) Reference. approximately an 8.0 km Level I snowshoe hike on the Blueberry Plains loop trail. in case required, Please note that there The group will be walking through an area is a (per person) entry charge into the Friday, March 4 -- Oak Ridges of Rare Pine Savanah and Sand Dunes conservation area (bring the appropriate Trail, Uxbridge (Map 5 ORTA) (hopefully covered with snow). Depending coins with you), Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 15 km, on snow conditions the group hike may Pre-registration by Email to Leader. Pace: 4 km/hr, also include part of the Ganaraska Trail Depart 9:30 am, Rattlesnake Point Terrain: Variable. No dropout, in this area. Skiers: Explore the Wasaga Conservation Area (upper parking lot) Refreshments after, Ice footwear or Dunes on 30 km of trails groomed for [GPS coordinates: N43 28.164 W79 snowshoes (in case required), classic skiing. 54.811]. Pre-registration by Email to Leader. Take Hwy 401 to Milton (interchange Depart 9:30 am, Glasgow tract parking Saturday, March 12 -- Scenic Caves 320), drive south 1.2 km on Reg. Rd 25 to area [GPS coordinates: N43 59.485 W79 Sophie Chuchra, [email protected] Steeles Ave (Reg. Rd 8) then drive west for 12.191]. Martina Furrer, 705-768-3250 or 5 km to where it ends at Appleby Line (5th From Hwy 401, exit at Markham Rd [email protected] Line). Turn south (left) and drive 2.3 km (interchange 383) and drive 10.3 km north, Join us for a great winter day at Scenic to the Rattlesnake Point C.A. entrance on then 6.9 km east on Hwy 7, then 8.4 km Caves. Snowshoers: Join Sophie for a the right. north on York-Durham Line, then 1.9 km guided hike or explore the resort’s trails on Charlie Atkinson, (905) 642-2408 or east on Uxbridge-Pickering Townline, then your own. Skiers: Explore 27 km of trails (day of hike) mobile (416) 668-2734 or 1.8 km north on Concession Rd 2 to the groomed for classic and skate skiing with [email protected] parking area on your right. Alternately; spectacular views of Georgian Bay. We will hike from Rattlesnake Point via from Hwy 407, exit at Markham-Pickering the Nassagaweya Canyon to Crawford Townline (interchange 98) and drive 9.6 Sunday, March 13 -- Toronto, Along the Lake, loop around the lake and then return km north (on York-Durham Line) to East Don River to our starting point via the Crawford Lake Level I/II Urban walk and Leech-Porter Side Trails. Some scenic Duration of Hike: 3.5 lookouts along the way. hrs, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, The Toronto Hiking and Conservation Club Terrain: Mostly flat, Saturday, March 19 -- Moore Park organizes Sunday hikes in the countryside Variable. Dropout, surrounding Toronto Ravine and the Brickworks Beginners, Families, Level I Urban walk Duration of Hike: 3.0

Hiking boots. hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, Hikes leave each Sunday at 10:00 a.m. (unless stated otherwise in Depart 11 am, Leslie the program) from the parking lot on the northwest corner of Terrain: Mostly flat. No dropout, Yonge and York Mills, via car-pools. Hikes usually end around 3 subway station. Beginners, Families, No dogs, p.m. and return to York Mills around 4 p.m. See our program at Leslie subway station, Refreshments after, www.sproulephoto.ca/thcc or call 416-693-8639 for more Leslie exit. Meet on the Pre-registration Online using Website. information SW corner of Leslie Depart 10 am, Davisville Subway and Sheppard. entrance. 6 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Activity Calendar

Wayne Crockett, [email protected] Nicely varied scenery for a gently paced Friday, April 1 -- Oak Ridges Trail, Join me for a pleasant walk from Mount hike with the “Walking Wounded” group. Whitchurch-Stouffville (Map 4 ORTA) Pleasant Cemetery to the Brickworks. Length may be adjusted in accord with Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 18 Possibly muddy but should be a good trail conditions. km, Pace: 4 km/hr, start to the season. Registration is Terrain: Variable. No dropout, recommended but not mandatory. It saves Saturday, March 19 -- TBD Refreshments after, Ice footwear (just in time. Martina Furrer, 705-768-3250 or case). [email protected] Pre-registration by Email to Leader. Join us for the last ski and snowshoe Depart 9:30 am, Hall Tract parking Saturday, March 19 -- Caledon Hills, outing of 2016. area [GPS coordinates: N44 02.547 W79 Caledon Trailway, Annual Spring Pizza 19.366]. Hike From Hwy 404 (interchange 45), drive 7 Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 12 km, Saturday, March 26 -- Iroquoia, km east on Aurora Rd (York Rd 15), then Pace: 4 km/hr, Crawford Lake (Map 11) drive 1 km north on McCowan Rd (York Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout at 8 km, Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 15 km, Rd 67), keeping a lookout for the (easy to Refreshments after, Pub stop after, at Pace: 4 km/hr, miss) parking lot on your right. Trailside Bistro and Cafe, Terrain: Rocky, Variable. Dropout at 8 km, Charlie Atkinson, (905) 642-2408 or Pre-registration Online using Website. Hiking boots, Refreshments after, (day of hike) mobile (416) 668-2734 or Depart 8:30 am, York Mills. Pre-registration Online using Website. [email protected] Larry Haigh, (416) 432-1239 before 8 pm Depart 9 am, Islington. We will do a short shuttle to the Pangman Ruth Dorey, [email protected] Wayne Crockett, [email protected] Springs area and then hike back through We skipped this annual hike in 2015 Join me for a spring hike comprising a 5 of the York Regional Forest tracts using because of low turnout in 2014. By request loop on the Main Trail and the Crawford a combination of the main ORT and a few we will try again in 2016. This will be the Lake Side Trail. A little rocky in places but side trails. Some road walking. 20th pizza hike. If the bus is full, free hot great scenery. pizza delivered to us on the trail. If the bus is NOT full you pay $5 over and above the Saturday, March 26 -- Caledon Hills, bus fare. Bring your friends, pre-register, Caledon Trailway (Maps N/A) arrive early and fill the bus. Back in Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 16 km, Saturday, April 2 -- Elmira Maple Toronto about 5:00 pm. Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Syrup Festival Terrain: Mostly flat. No dropout, Hiking Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 12 km, Saturday, March 19 -- Toronto Section, boots, Refreshments after, Pub stop after. Pace: 4 km/hr, Scotsdale Farm (Map 13) Depart 10 am, Parking lot behind Town of Terrain: Variable, Icers, microspikes Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 12 km, Caledon offices east of arena. or crampons are required on icy trails. Pace: 3 km/hr, North on Airport Rd to Caledon East. East Dropout, Hiking boots, Late return (after Terrain: Variable. Dropout, Hiking boots, on Old Church Rd about 1 km to town 6pm), trails may be icy depending on pack your ice footwear. offices on your right. weather conditions, Long distance bus fare Depart 9 am, McDonalds, Georgetown. Alex Brown, (905) 764-0812 or applies, North west corner of the junction between [email protected] Pre-registration Online using Website. highway 7 and Mountainview Road. Come out for an early spring hike and Depart 8 am, York Mills. Vladimir Bosnar, (905) 273-7569 7-9 pm stretch your legs. Late winter conditions Lucy Leung, (647) 280-8868 or P. Lynn McFerran, (905) 791-9156 may be expected. We will hike from the old [email protected] Larry Haigh quarry on Mississauga Rd to Caledon East. Hike Difficulty Levels Trail Users’ Code

Our level of difficulty ratings follow these general guidelines: • Hike only along marked • Camp at designated camp routes. Do not take short cuts. sites. Level Average Pace Distance Terrain • Do not climb fences - use the • Leave flowers and plants for I 3 km/hr 10 km Easily managed stiles. others to enjoy. II 4 km/hr 15 km Variable • Respect the privacy of people • Do not damage live trees or III 5 km/hr 20 km May be difficult living along the Trail. strip off bark. • Leave the Trail cleaner than • Keep dogs on a leash and These are general guidelines. In rating their hikes, hike leaders you found it. Carry out all under control at all times. use a “two out of three” rule. For example, a Level II hike could litter. • Do not disturb wildlife. correspond to the table above for average pace and terrain but be • No open fires are allowed on • Leave only your thanks and considerably longer or shorter than indicated there. Be sure you the Trail. Use a portable stove. take nothing but photographs. look at both the rating and the description to decide whether the • Obey all signs. hike suits your abilities and preferences.

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 7 Activity Calendar www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

Elmira’s Maple Syrup Festival is considered The first section of the hike has great views after, No Dogs, a true sign of spring, come and join the from the Escarpment. We’ll visit Borer’s Pre-registration Online using Website. fun. We start the day wandering along Falls then follow the Ray Lowes Side Trail Depart 9 am, York Mills. trails in Woolwich Township, winding into the RBG Arboretum where we’ll visit Fred Berktin, 416 520 3797 or fberktin@ through an oasis of rural tranquility, and the interpretive centre and walk along rogers.com make our way to Elmira where we explore the shoreline of Coote’s Paradise. Perhaps Victor Ramautar, 905-294-6718 Before 9 a local sugar bush and take in all the sights there will be a few early signs of spring. pm and aromas at the annual Elmira Maple or [email protected] Syrup Festival; recognized by the Guinness Saturday, April 2 -- Caledon Hills, This hike is mainly on the Hilton Falls Book of World Records as the World’s Palgrave (Map 17) Side Trail, that takes hikers through the Largest Single Day Maple Syrup Festival. Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 11 km, falls. This time of year the falls will be Admission to the festival is free. On our Pace: 3 km/hr, gushing with water as the spring flowers way home, enjoy a visit to the picturesque Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout at optional, start to show their heads. It is a lovely time West Montrose Kissing Bridge, built in Hiking boots, pack your ice footwear. of the year, before it gets too hot and the 1881 and is best known for being the last Depart 9 am, Tim Horton’s. bugs come out. There will be an option to remaining historical covered bridge in on the north side of Highway 9 50 m from stop at 15km for those hikers who wish Ontario. the junction with Airport Road. to cut the hike short, but they will have Peter Tomlin, (905) 791-9156 Mon-Wed, to sit on the bus until the rest are finished 7-9 pm P. Lynn McFerran, (905) 791-9156 (app. 45 minutes). Bring a good book or Saturday, April 2 -- Iroquoia, Rock or [email protected] magazine. We will start from the Pear Chapel to Cootes Paradise. (Map 8) On the Palgrave side trail with the Tree Park parking lot and head south, and Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 14 km, “Walking Wounded” group. This side trail end at the Hilton Falls Conservation Area Pace: 3.5 km/hr, links the Bruce trail with the Oak Ridges parking lot on Campbelville Rd. Please Terrain: Variable. Dropout, Beginners, trail. Hike length may be adjusted to take note that, we will give hikers a choice Families, Hiking boots, Refreshments account of conditions. as we near the end of the 15km hike to after, Pub stop after, Ice footwear may be continue for about another 3+kms around needed, Sunday, April 3 -- Toronto Section the reservoir, also very scenic. Those who Pre-registration Online using Website. Level I Urban walk Length of Hike: 9 km, chose not to continue this extension can Depart 9 am, Islington. Pace: 4 km/hr, stay on the bus and wait for the others Barbara Euler, (416) 695-1838 before 10 Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout at Can to finish. If that is your intention bring a pm dropout anyt, Refreshments after. good book or magazine or socialize with or [email protected] Depart 10 am, St. Clair West subway fellow hikers.. We’ll stop near Milton for station (in front of Loblaws on refreshmants. north side of St. Clair). Note: this is not the St. Clair station but the St. Clair West station. Sunday, April 10 -- Iroquoia, Danny Pivnick, (416) 484-6824 Dundas Valley (Map 8) or [email protected] Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 12 km, Join us for a nice casual walk Pace: 3.5 km/hr, up through Cedarvale Park and Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Beginners, along the Beltline Trail ending Families, Refreshments after, in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery Pre-registration Online using Website. (Yonge and St. Clair area) where Depart 10 am, Islington. we will look at the gravestones Sufiya Mary Reid, (416) 767-7571 or of some famous Canadians. Be [email protected] sure to dress warmly for this Barbara Euler, (416) 695-1838 before 10 early spring walk. pm We’ll hike the headwaters trail, and a short section of the rail trail. Lunch Saturday, April 9 -- indoors at the trail centre. Ice footwear Toronto Section, Hilton Falls recommended. (Map Maps 11) Level II Bus hike Length of Sunday, April 10 -- Lynn Valley Trail Hike: 19 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 24 Terrain: Mostly flat, Variable. km, Pace: 4.5 km/hr, Dropout, Hiking boots, Terrain: Mostly flat. No dropout, No dogs. Refreshments after, Pub stop Depart 9:30 am, Memorial Park, Simcoe.

8 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Activity Calendar

Hwy 24 South through Simcoe to Pre-registration Online using Website. Sunday, April 17 -- Iroquoia, Crawford Woodhouse Ave. to Memorial Park, Depart 9 am, York Mills. Lake, Wildflower Hike (Maps 10/11) parking. If not familiar with the area leave Wayne Crockett, [email protected] Level I/II Car hike Length of Hike: 16 km, extra time. Sophie Chuchra, (416) 482-9843 or Pace: 3 km/hr, Gregory & Jeanette Vincent, vincent.greg@ [email protected] Terrain: Hilly, Rocky. No dropout, Hiking gmail.com Join me for an easy walk around the trails boots, No dogs. Jeanette Vincent at the Kortright Centre. After the walk Depart 9 am, Kelso Conservation Area This rail trail in Carolinian Canada is one you can enjoy the lunch and the TBTC south access. of Canada’s best following the Lynn River Annual General Meeting. The bus fare for From Hwy 401, take Hwy 25 south to to Lake Erie. Spring flowers will welcome members is $10 which we will be collecting Steeles Ave, west (right) on Steeles to Bell us as we hike from Simcoe to Port Dover on the bus. School Line. The parking lot is on the right and retrace our steps to Simcoe. side. Parking fee applies. Saturday, April 16 -- AGM Hike at Andrew Negus, (905) 510-0929 or Tuesday, April 12 -- Toronto Kortright Centre [email protected] Level II Urban walk Length of Hike: 16 Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 10 km, The first of two hikes in this area to see km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Pace: 4.5 km/hr, the arrival and development of the spring Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout at Anywhere, Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Hiking wildflowers. The pace will be leisurely Hiking boots, Refreshments after. boots. through the wildflower sections and Depart 10 am, St. Clair West Subway Depart 9:45 am, Kortright Centre outside moderate where there are few wildflowers. Station, Tichester Rd. street level entrance. Visitor Centre. Taizo Shinkoda, (416) 423-4454 7-9 pm Kortright Centre is located at 9550 Pine Sunday, April 17 -- Paris to Cambridge Johanna Lanfranco, (416) 961-4701 7-9 Valley Dr 3km west of Hwy 400, north Rail Trail pm of Rutherford Rd and south of Major Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 20 oin us for a relaxing hike through the Mackenzie Dr. km, Pace: 4.5 km/hr, Cedarvale Park, the Belt Line, the Mt. http://www.kortright.org/visitor- Terrain: Mostly flat. No dropout, No dogs. Pleasant Cemetery, Moore Park Ravine information/directions.dot. Depart 9 am, Trail Head Parking. and the David Balfour Park ending at Lucy Leung, (647) 280-8868 or Trail Head parking on west side of Hwy 24 Yonge and St Clair. [email protected] (Water St.) just south of Cambridge beside Join us to explore woodlands and gas station. meadows, from the boardwalk through Gregory & Jeanette Vincent, vincent.greg@ Friday, April 15 -- Iroquoia, the marsh to scenic lookout points at gmail.com Kilbride, Mount Nemo (Map 10) Korthright Centre. We walk for approx. Jeanette Vincent, Mon-Thur 7-9 pm Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 18 10 km at a steady pace of 4.5 km/hr before This is it, my favorite rail trail, Cambridge km, Pace: 4 km/hr, enjoying lunch and attending the Annual to Paris, walking beside the Grand River. Terrain: Variable, rocky. No dropout, General Meeting. We meet outside the Note a car shuttle will be required at the Refreshments after, Visitor Centre and start the hike at 9.45 start and end of this outing, all participate. Pre-registration by Email to Leader. a.m. Depart 9:30 am, Walker’s Line (near km Saturday, April 23 -- Toronto, Theater 87.0) [GPS coordinates: N43 25.132 W79 Hike 51.662]. Sunday, April 17 -- Trans Canada Level I/II Urban walk Duration of Hike: From Hwy 401, exit at Guelph Line Trail, Walker Woods 3.0 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, (interchange 312) and drive 7.6 km south, Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 12 km, Terrain: Mostly flat, 4 steep staircases. Pace: 3.5 km/hr, then 1.4 km east on Derry Rd, then 6.2 km Dropout at any time, Beginners, Families, Terrain: Variable. Dropout, Beginners, south on Walker’s Line to roadside parking No dogs. on your left. Families, Hiking boots, Refreshments after, Charlie Atkinson, (905) 642-2408 or Pre-registration Online (day of hike) mobile (416) 668-2734 or using Website.  [email protected] Depart 10 am, York Mills.  We will shuttle to km 102.5 and hike back Monica Feran, (416) 736-  6636 Before 9 pm  (via the River and Ruin side trail).  or [email protected] Tessa Shelvey, 416-320- 8555   Saturday, April 16 -- Easy AGM  Hike at Kortright Centre Beautiful walk in the  forest, relatively easy, good  Level I Bus hike Duration of Hike: 2.0 hrs,  Pace: 3 km/hr, for an early spring hike.     Terrain: Mostly flat. No dropout, We may see some spring    Beginners, Families, flowers. E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 9 Activity Calendar www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

Depart 3 pm, South east corner of Scarlett hidden path with obstacles. Depart 9 am, Islington. Rd and Eglinton Ave. West. Wayne Crockett, [email protected] From Runnymede subway station take Saturday, April 23 -- Toronto Section Join me for a beautiful walk beginning the 79 bus to the meeting place. For bus Level I Urban walk Length of Hike: 8 km, at the Mount Nemo Conservation Area. frequency and times call the TTC at: Pace: 4 km/hr, The hike will follow the Main Trail down 416 393 4636 (416 393 INFO) Parking is Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout, Beginners, to Great Falls near Waterdown and then available east of Runnymede station, north Families, Hiking boots, Dogs welcome. into town for refreshments. After doing of Bloor on side streets. Do not park at Depart 10 am, Corner of Yonge and the loop in the Mount Nemo Conservation the starting point of the hike. We finish Heath St. (in front of the Yorkminster Park Area we will reboard the bus to cut out 4 the hike at the south side of Bloor and Baptist Church at 1585 Yonge St.). km of road walking. Runnymede. Danny Pivnick, (416) 484-6824 or Miriam Stevens, (416) 443-6242 6-10 pm [email protected] Saturday, April 23 -- Caledon Hills (Map or [email protected] Join us for a pleasant walk through the 17) THIS HIKE IS FOR MEMBERS ONLY. Rosedale Ravine. We will take an extended Level I/II Car hike Length of Hike: 11 km, Bring your valid Bruce Trail Conservancy break to have some lunch and enjoy the Pace: 3.5 km/hr, card. Will walk along the Humber River Brickworks Farmers Market (you can Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Beginners, Park southbound and Swansea Village either bring or buy your lunch). **Note Hiking boots, No dogs. via ravines and city streets. We will have that the ravine will likely be wet so please Depart 10 am, Coolihans Sideroad where dinner at 6 PM at a local restaurant and be prepared for possible mud. After the the trail crosses the road, km 37.4. then attend the Village Playhouse Theater market, we will loop back up to the Yonge From Hwy 7 go north on Airport Rd to the at 2190 Bloor Street West (lower level) at 8 and St. Clair area where we will finish the Town of Caledon East, then continue north about 9 km to Coolihans Sdrd. Turn right PM to see “Fox on the Fairway” a comedy walk. on Coolihans for 2 km, then park on the by Ken Ludwig. Call the theatre directly road at intersection of Coolihans and Glen 416 767 7702 to reserve your ticket ($22.00 Haffy Rd. Cell on day of hike 416-320-8555. regular and seniors) and state that you are Saturday, April 23 -- Iroquoia, Tessa Shelvey, 416-320-8555 or tjshelvey@ with the Bruce Trail Hiking Club. You may Mount Nemo, Mount Nemo to yahoo.com hike only, join in for dinner or just come Waterdown (Maps 9/10) Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 16 km, Pretty hike along the Palgrave Side Trail to the theatre performance - or, do all. The (now part of the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail). only reservation required is for your ticket Pace: 4 km/hr, Terrain: Variable. Dropout at 9 km, Hiking We will car shuttle over to the Palgrave to the show with the Village Playhouse. Forest on Hwy 50 just north of the town Please bring a flashlight. It gets dark early boots, Pub stop after, Pre-registration Online using Website. of Palgrave and hike back to Coolihans and there are a few steep staircases and one Sideroad.

ECO-Knowledgeable Tours for 2016 and Beyond

Black Sea and Danube Birding: Exploring the Wild Side of Romania: Kristen Martyn of Natura Tours escorts this small group to the relatively unknown, western shores of the Black Sea, one of Europe's major migration areas. Farmland along the Black Sea coast feeds an excellent array of birds on their way from and to their breeding areas in Northern Europe and also a diversity of birds that breed in the area. The wonderful Danube Delta with it’s extensive reed beds, channels and lakes is one of the little known birding areas with ever changing conditions featuring local harbor wetland birds, a large variety of passerines and birds of prey. We also go in search of Eurasian Brown Bears and visit “Dracula’s Castle” in the village of Bran! Departing Toronto on September 10, this inclusive tour for 16 travellers is attractively priced at $3,495 p.p. double.

Walking the Carpathians: Foothills in Romania: You are invited to join Charles Whitlock of Walkaway Treks as he explores the Eastern European treasures of Romania. Departing September 24 from Toronto our fully-escorted tour includes return air flights, very interesting accommodation, almost all meals, and some of the most scenic walking in Europe. The tailor-made itinerary will be especially well-received by those looking for a visually spectacular late fall tour in the company of a small group of walkers. September 24 to October 5 priced at $3,680 p.p. double.

Andalusia “An Exploration of Moorish Spain”: We return with Charles Whitlock in March of 2017 to southern Spain walking and visiting Granada, Alpujarras (Sierra Nevada Natural Park), Doña Mecia, Cordoba, Medina Azahara, Seville, Antequera, "Caminito del Rey", Malaga (Costa Del Sol) and Gibraltar. Very limited number of travelers will enjoy this tour and information will be available by the time of this publication on our web site. A popular destination and an outstanding tour! We recommend (suggest) you act fast as our last tour in Spain sold out in under 2 months!

Frederick Travel Waterloo Worldwide Central Trips

572 Weber Street North, Unit 1, Waterloo, On N2L 5C6 TICO: 50015067 (519) 745 1860 ext 303 (800) 578 8958 e-mail to: [email protected] Scott cell (519) 897 9673 10 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Activity Calendar

or [email protected] a stop at the Hilton Falls viewpoint and A pleasant spring hike at Silver Creek and there are also some nice views from the Saturday, April 23 -- Dufferin Hi- Scotdale Farm. We will hike the main trail, escarpment edge. Land, Mono Cliffs (Maps 19/20) the Bennett Heritage Trail and the Roberts Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 19 km, Side Trail. The trail may be muddy if we Pace: 3.5 km/hr, have a wet spring. Saturday, April 30 -- High Park to Terrain: Hilly, Variable. Dropout, Fort York History Walk. Beginners, Hiking boots, Refreshments Sunday, April 24 -- Kissing Bridge Trail Level I Urban walk Duration of Hike: 3.5 after, Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 20 km, hrs, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Pre-registration Online Using Website. Pace: 4.5 km/hr, Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout at 6 km, Depart 8 am, York Mills. Terrain: Mostly flat. No dropout, No dogs. Beginners, Families, No dogs, Pub stop Alex Brown, (905) 764-0812 or Depart 9 am, Trail Crossing Regional Rd. after, [email protected] 21. Pre-registration Online using Website. We will hike from Mono Cliffs Provincial Where rail trail crosses Regional Rd 21/ Depart 10 am, Grenadier Restaurant, High Park to Murphy’s Pinnacle, through the Arthur St, 500 metres north of the main Park. Boyne River Valley. This section is one of intersection in Elmira. If you are not Wayne Crockett, [email protected] my favorites. Wet conditions expected. familiar with this area leave additional Join me for my annual history walk from Refreshments in Primrose after the hike. time. High Park to Fort York and Victoria Gregory & Jeanette Vincent, vincent.greg@ Memorial Park. Along the way I will Saturday, April 23 -- Caledon Hills, gmail.com describe the Battle of York in 1813 and Hockley Valley (Map 18) Jeanette Vincent point out a few of the historical sites in Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 12 km, Today we hike from outside of Guelph High Park and along the waterfront. After Pace: 3 km/hr, to Elmira past rich Ontario farm land, we the hike those who wish can join me at Terrain: Hilly. No dropout, Hiking boots. pass over the Grand River on the West Toronto’s oldest tavern for refreshments. Depart 9 am, McDonalds, Orangeville. Montrose covered bridge. A car shuttle will Registration is not mandatory but it does At the north west corner of the junction be required at the start and end of this hike. speed up the sign in. between Highway 10 and Broadview. All participate. Vladimir Bosnar, (905) 273-7569 7-9 pm Mike Dhesi, (416) 760-2602 4 to 7 pm Mon-Wed Friday, April 29 -- Toronto Section, P. Lynn McFerran, (905) 791-9156 Hilton Falls, Speyside (Maps 11/12) With the “Walking Wounded” group Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 18 km, through hilly country. With luck we may Pace: 4 km/hr, even see some spring flowers. Length may Terrain: Generally level, be adjusted depending on trail conditions. but rocky. No dropout, Refreshments after, Pre-registration by Email to Sunday, April 24 -- Toronto Section, Leader. Silver Creek (Map 13) Depart 9:30 am, Pear Tree Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 17 km, parking lot (km 11.2, map 12) Pace: 4 km/hr, [GPS coordinates: N43 34.671 W79 58.630]. Terrain: Rocky, Variable. No dropout, s From Hwy 401 (interchange p Hiking boots, No dogs, Refreshments after, oo 320), drive 8 km north on L Cell number for day of hike 647-918-4180. 37 Regional Rd 25, then 270 m k – Depart 9 am, Parking is on the roadside on C eboo 10th Line, north of Side Road 27 (km 38.5 west on 15th Sideroad to the aledon’s New Guid on map 13). meeting place on your left. North on Windston Churchill Blvd. Charlie Atkinson, (905) 642- (County Road 19) to where it meets 2408 or (day of hike) mobile County Road 9. Continue north, the road (416) 668-2734 or becomes Side Road 27 and veers west. Turn [email protected] right on 10th Line and park on the road at After a short shuttle to the main trail entrance on your left. the (south) parking area Maureen McFarland, (416) 489-3703 Not on the 6th Line, we’ll hike later than 9 pm back, combining (in a CCW direction) the Hilton Falls or [email protected] Buy your copy at NicolaRoss.ca Jim Vanderlip, (416) 925-9134 7-10 pm and Al Shaw side trails with the main trail. We will make E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 11 Activity Calendar www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

Saturday, April 30 -- Toronto Section Saturday, April 30 -- Caledon Hills, Caledon Trailway crosses. Level I Urban walk Length of Hike: 10 km, Hockley Valley (Map 18) Vladimir Bosnar, (905) 273-7569 7-9 pm Pace: 4 km/hr, Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 13 km, Mike Dhesi, (416) 760-2602 4 to 7 pm Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout, Beginners, Pace: 3 km/hr, Mon-Wed Families, Dogs welcome. Terrain: Hilly. No dropout, Hiking boots, Join the “Walking Wounded” group for Depart 10 am, Old Mill subway station. Refreshments after, Pub stop after. a shorter hike in the varied terrain in the Danny Pivnick, (416) 484-6824 or Depart 10 am, Parking lot on Hockley Rd conservation area and through a nicely [email protected] east of provincial nature preserve. wooded ravine. Please join us for a lovely spring walk Drive north on Hwy 10 to past down the Humber River Trail to the Orangeville. Turn right onto Hockley waterfront and then into High Park to Rd. Drive east about 5 km to parking lot hopefully view Cherry Blossoms at or near located east of the entrance to the reserve. their peak. Bring along a lunch to enjoy in Alex Brown, (905) 764-0812 or Sunday, May 1 -- Toronto Section the park or buy something there. [email protected] (Maps 11/ 12) We will hike through the Hockley Valley Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 12 km, Provincial Nature Reserve, one of the Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Saturday, April 30 -- Iroquoia, hilliest sections of the Bruce Trail. Spring Terrain: Rocky, Variable. No dropout, Dundas Valley, Dundas Valley flowers including Trilliums should be in Beginners, Families, Hiking boots, Conservation Area (Map 8) full bloom. Refreshments at the Hockley Refreshments after, Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 13 km, Valley resort after. Also plan on a visit to Pre-registration Online using Website. Pace: 3.5 km/hr, the Eagles Nest honey shop. Depart 10 am, York Mills. Terrain: Rocky, Variable. Dropout, Hiking Monica Feran, (416) 736-6636 Before 9 pm boots, Refreshments after, or [email protected] Pre-registration Online using Website. Saturday, April 30 -- Caledon Hills, Glen Haffy (Map 17) Tessa Shelvey, 416-320-8555 Depart 8:30 am, York Mills. Beautiful section along the top of the Victor Ramautar, 905-294-6718 Before 9 pm Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 10 km, escarpment with good views. A few rocky or [email protected] Pace: 3 km/hr, sections. Spring flowers, maybe trillium. Fred Berktin, 416 520 3797 or Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Hiking [email protected] boots. Spring is here and the water levels should be Depart 9 am, Trailside Bistro and Cafe. at its maximum flow; so imagine the falls. On the west side of Airport Road in the Dress for the weather, Bring a lunch and lots village of Caledon East near where the of water and lots of expectations.

12 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Activity Calendar

Sunday, May 1 -- Iroquoia, Crawford stop and walk south bound to the ferry. Lake, Wildflower Hike (Maps 10/11) Miriam Stevens, (416) 443-6242 6-10 pm Level I/II Car hike Length of Hike: 16 km, FOR MEMBERS ONLY with valid Saturday, May 7 -- Fort Erie, Pace: 3 km/hr, membership card rain or shine after a Lundy’s Lane Historical Walk Terrain: Hilly, Rocky. No dropout, Hiking days work come and “cool off” on the Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 13 km, boots, No dogs. Islands where there are no fumes. Enjoy Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Depart 9 am, Kelso Conservation Area the view of the city skyline. Bring dinner Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout at 6 km, south access. for a sit down picnic. A warm jacket and Beginners, Families, Refreshments after, From Hwy 401, take Hwy 25 south to a flashlight.You can not buy food on the Long distance bus fare applies, Steeles Ave, west (right) on Steeles to Bell Islands. Ferry cost return approx. $8 for Pre-registration Online using Website. School Line. The parking lot is on the right adults and less for seniors. No reservation Depart 8:30 am, Islington. side. Parking fee applies. required. Just show up on the day of the Wayne Crockett, [email protected] Andrew Negus, (905) 510-0929 or hike.This hike is repeated each Thursday Join me for the annual walk and talk along [email protected] in May and June 2016. the southern portion of the Niagara River. The second of two hikes in this area to see We will begin at Old Fort Erie where I the arrival and development of the spring Friday, May 6 -- Algonquin Park will describe the siege and battle of 1814. wildflowers. The pace will be leisurely Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 5 km, We will then reboard the bus and drive through the wildflower sections and Pace: 4 km/hr, to a point near the Battle of Chippawa moderate where there are few wildflowers. Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Hiking Battlefield and from there we will walk boots. on to Niagara Falls. Participants will have Sunday, May 1 -- Kissing Bridge Trailway Depart 1:30 pm, Cedar Grove Lodge. an opportunity to have refreshments and Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 15 km, cedargrove.on.ca 1-800-461-4269. do photography while at the Falls. The Pace: 4 km/hr, Larry Haigh, (416) 432-1239 before 8 pm final stop of the day will be at the Battle of Terrain: Mostly flat. No dropout, No dogs. Join Haigh’s Happy Hikers. Split Hikes, 4 Lundy’s Lane Memorial. An easy walk and Depart 9 am, Trail crossing Regional Rd. Hike Leaders: Larry Haigh, Ruth Dorey, painless history lesson. 21. David Royle, Kent Breen. Where the trail crosses Regional Rd 21/ Arthur St 500 metres north of the main intersection in Elmira. If you are not Friday, May 6 -- Dufferin Hi- familiar with the area leave additional Land, Mono Cliffs, Primrose (Maps time. 19/20) Gregory & Jeanette Vincent, vincent.greg@ Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 18 gmail.com. Jeanette Vincent km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Today we hike from Linwood to Elmira on Terrain: Variable, hilly. No dropout, Refreshments after, SUSQUEHANNOCK LODGE and TRAIL CENTRE the Kissing Bridge Trailway through rich Hiking in the Highlands of North Central Pennsylvania Ontario farmland. This is the railbed of Pre-registration by Email to the now out of service Guelph to Goderich Leader. CPR line. My uncle Percy was the CPR Depart 9:30 am, Parking area agent at Walton on the line and the train on east side of Prince of Wales crews would bring “packages” from “wet Rd (map 20) [GPS coordinates: Guelph to “dry” Walton. A car shuttle will N44 06.006 W80 08.241]. From the Primrose junction at be required at the start and end of this EASTER March 25-28 hike. All participate. Hwys 89 and 10, drive 1.1 km Welcome Spring on the trails. north on Prince of Wales Rd CANADA DAY July 1-4 Celebrate two national holidays! Thursday, May 5 -- Toronto, Toronto (Dufferin Rd 19) to just over Islands the bridge. The Lodge is located in Potter County, Pennsylvania, Charlie Atkinson, (905) 642- 2.5 hours south of Buffalo. There is no agriculture or industry Level I/II Urban walk Duration of Hike: in the area, just great trails. Daily hikes of 10 to 15 km are 3.0 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, 2408 or (day of hike) mobile led through hardwood forest, many beside mountain (416) 668-2734 or streams. Our lodge provides comfortable accommodation & Terrain: Mostly flat, drop outs, beginners. excellent meals for $70.00 semi-private or $75.00 private Dropout, Beginners, Families, No dogs. [email protected] USD per day per person. These outings have proven to be popular with the lodge filling quickly. Depart 6 pm, At the Ferry Docks near the We will shuttle to the 2nd gate to Wards island. Line EHS (at Splitrock For more information, including driving directions, please Narrows) and hike back via a see hikevincent.wordpress.com or contact Greg Vincent From Union station take the LRT at 519-579-8210 or [email protected] (street car) to the stop Docks. Then walk combination of the main trail southbound over to the ferry on the south and several side trails, plus the For reservations call Carol Szymanik at 1-814-435-2163 side of Queens Quay at the foot of Bay st. customary stop at Murphy’s Or take bus number 6 to the Ferry Docks Pinnacle.

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 13 Activity Calendar www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

LRT (street car) to the stop docks. Then walk southbound over to the ferry on the Saturday, May 7 -- Caledon Hills, Sunday, May 8 -- Iroquoia, Three south side of Queens Quay at the foot of Hockley Valley (Map 18) Falls: Borer’s, Tews, Webster’s. (Map 8) Bay st. Or take bus number 6 to the ferry Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 14 km, Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 14 km, docks stop and walk south bound to the Pace: 3 km/hr, Pace: 4 km/hr, ferry. Terrain: Hilly. No dropout, Hiking boots, Terrain: Hilly, Rocky. Dropout at several Miriam Stevens, (416) 443-6242 6-10 pm Refreshments after, Pub stop after, location, Hiking boots, Refreshments after, FOR MEMBERS ONLY with valid Pre-registration Online using Website. Pub stop after, membership card rain or shine after a Depart 8:30 am, York Mills. Pre-registration Online using Website. days work come and “cool off” on the Alex Brown, (905) 764-0812 or Depart 9 am, Islington. Islands where there are no fumes. Enjoy [email protected] Barbara Euler, (416) 695-1838 before 10 the view of the city skyline. Bring dinner This is a loop hike through one of the pm for a sit down picnic. A warm jacket and hilliest sections of the Bruce Trail. We or [email protected] a flashlight. You can not buy food on the should see spring flowers in bloom. We’ll explore three waterfalls, see great Islands. Ferry cost return approx. $8 for Refreshments in the Hockley Valley resort views over the Dundas Valley and look for adults and less for seniors. No reservation after the hike. early wildflowers along a varied part of the required. Just show up on the day of the Bruce Trail. We’ll also visit the ruins of the hike.This hike is repeated each Thursday in Hermitage. May and June 2016. Saturday, May 7 -- Algonquin Park Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 15 km, Sunday, May 8 -- Algonquin Park Pace: 4 km/hr, Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 8 km, Saturday, May 14 -- Heritage walk to Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Hiking Pace: 4 km/hr, Black Creek Pioneer Village boots. Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Hiking Level I Urban walk Duration of Hike: 3.0 Depart 9 am, Cedar Grove Lodge. boots. hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, cedargrove.on.ca 1-800-461-4269. Depart 9 am, Cedar Grove Lodge. Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout at 4 Larry Haigh, (416) 432-1239 before 8 pm cedargrove.on.ca 1-800-461-4269. km, Beginners, Families, No dogs, Join Haigh’s Happy Hikers. Split Hikes, 4 Larry Haigh, (416) 432-1239 before 8 pm Refreshments after, Hike Leaders: Larry Haigh, Ruth Dorey, Join Haigh’s Happy Hikers. Split Hikes, 4 Pre-registration Online using Website. David Royle, Kent Breen. Hike Leaders: Larry Haigh, Ruth Dorey, Depart 9 am, 9 am at the Jane Street David Royle, Kent Breen. Subway bus platform or ca 9:20 at the corner of Jane and Wilson Ave. NE corner. Thursday, May 12 -- Toronto, Wayne Crockett, [email protected] Toronto Islands Join me for a walk through Toronto Level I/II Urban walk Duration parkland to Black Creek Pioneer Village SKYLINE HIKERS OF THE of Hike: 3.0 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, near York University. Because of a bridge CANADIAN ROCKIES Terrain: Mostly flat, drop outs, closure we will have to do a 45 minute Celebrating 83 years of backcountry hiking beginners. Dropout, Beginners, detour through residential areas but most Families, No dogs. of the day will be in parkland. After the Join us for an incredible Depart 6 pm, At the Ferry walk you can join me for a few hours in wilderness experience in 2016 Docks near the gate to Wards Black Creek Pioneer Village to experience The camp fee includes return bus transportation from Banff to island. 19th century life in Ontario. the trailhead, 5 nights in the backcountry, tent accommodation with heating stoves, wholesome meals, camp support staff, day From Union station take the hikes and an evening campfire program. Hikers carry only a daypack, but must be fit for mountain hiking. 4 Easy Steps to get Footnotes, hike schedules Details on camp location and fees will be available soon! and updates by E-mail Visit our web page at www.skylinehikers.ca, call 1-866-445-3774 or email us at [email protected]. Registrations open January 2, 2016. 1. Visit brucetrail.org and click on “Subscribe to Newsletters” https://brucetrail.org/subscribers/new 2016 Camp dates: 2. Login as a member (or create a member login first) Camp 1 July 11 to July 16 3. Add or update your email address Camp 2 July 18 to July 23 4. Choose to receive any or all of the following by Camp 3 July 25 to July 30 email: BTC eNews, Trail Change Notices, Footnotes Camp 4 August 1 to August 6 Camp 5 August 8 to August 13 Newsletter, E-mail Updates from the Toronto Club

Skyline Hikers is a not-for-profit organization

14 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Activity Calendar

will transport us to the Goodwood Tract and we’ll go through the Secord Forest and Wildlife Area, including the Secord Pet Saturday, May 14 -- Toronto Section, Limehouse (Map Cemetery. Lots of wildflowers and great views over the Moraine. Map 12) ORTA Map 5. Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 14 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Terrain: Variable. Dropout, Hiking boots, Refreshments after, No Saturday, May 14 -- Dufferin Hi-Land, Mono Cliffs (Map 19) Dogs, Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 12 km, Pace: 3 km/hr, Pre-registration Online using Website. Terrain: Hilly. Dropout, bug spray might be useful. Depart 9 am, York Mills. Depart 9 am, McDonalds, Orangeville. Fred Berktin, 416 520 3797 or [email protected] North west corner of the junction between Highway 10 and Victor Ramautar, 905-294-6718 Before 9 pm Broadview. or [email protected] Vladimir Bosnar, (905) 273-7569 7-9 pm Spring flowers coming out, still no bugs, and no humidity. Ideal P. Lynn McFerran, (905) 791-9156 conditions to do this hike. We’ll start from St Helena Rd and Join the “Walking Wounded” for a gentle hike when we hope to hike north through the Pear Tree Park parking lot, through some see lots of spring flowers if the weather has been warm. farmers’ fields, around Black Creek, visit the Lime Kiln, Powder house, Black Creek Rapids and hike through the Hole In The Wall Saturday, May 14 -- Grand Valley Trail, Kitchener, Black Walnut and end up in the parking lot of the Limehouse Conservation Section Area. We’ll stop in the Hamlet of Glen Williams or in Georgetown Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 21 km, Pace: 4.5 km/hr, for refreshments. Terrain: Variable. No dropout, End to End #9 of 18, No dogs, Refreshments after. Depart 9 am, GVTA map 10, KM 39.9 close to the intersection of Saturday, May 14 -- Oak Ridges Trail, Uxbridge Section. Otterbein Rd & Forwell Rd (GPS 43.60237,-80.420112). Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 16 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Directions: To access this parking area from Hwy 7 (Victoria St North, Terrain: Mostly flat, Some challenging hills. Dropout at 7, 9.5, Kitchener) you should drive south from Hwy 7 on either Lackner 13 km, Hiking boots, Refreshments after, Pub stop after, Pre- Rd or Forwell Rd. If you are using Lackner Rd follow it south to its registration Online using Website. intersection with Ottawa St North and turn left (east) onto Ottawa St Depart 9 am, Islington. North. Follow east to its intersection with Forwell Rd/ Otterbein Rd Barbara Euler, (416) 695-1838 before 10 pm (Forwell is to your left and Otterbein to your right). Turn right onto or [email protected] Otterbein and follow to parking area. If you are using Forwell Rd, Explore two parts of this section of the trail. We’ll walk follow it south from Hwy 7 through its intersection with Ottawa St through forests in the North Walker Woods. Then the bus North and continue on Otterbein Rd to the parking area.

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E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 15 Activity Calendar www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

Charles Whitlock, (519) 742-7435 or in their quest to walk the 280 kilometer trail along the Grand [email protected] River. Please feel free to join us for any or all of these hikes. Jim Vanderlip, (416) 925-9134 7-10 pm Be prepared to have a great time. We welcome hike leaders in or [email protected] training. Refreshments after. The main trail mileage for today is Join Jim and Charles for the continued 280 kilometer trek on the approximately 15 kilometres due to the loss of approximately 7 Grand Valley Trail. Please feel free to join us for any or all of these kilometres of main trail in the Snyder’s Flats area. If the weather hikes. Be prepared to have a great time. We welcome hike leaders permits and the hikers are enthusiastic we can add mileage on in training. Refreshments after. the side trails and conservation area trails in Snyder’s Flats not affected by the closure.

Sunday, May 15 -- Iroquoia, Cootes Paradise (Map 8) Thursday, May 19 -- Toronto, Toronto Islands Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 13 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Level I/II Urban walk Duration of Hike: 3.0 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, Terrain: Variable. Dropout at 5 km, 8 km, Beginners, Families, Terrain: Mostly flat, drop outs, beginners. Dropout, Beginners, Refreshments after, Families, No dogs. Pre-registration Online using Website. Depart 6 pm, At the Ferry Docks near the gate to Wards island. Depart 10 am, Islington. From Union station take the LRT (street car) to the stop Docks. Sufiya Mary Reid, (416) 767-7571 or [email protected] Then walk southbound over to the ferry on the south side of Victor Ramautar, 905-294-6718 Before 9 pm Queens Quay at the foot of Bay st. Or take bus number 6 to the We’ll hike some of the South Shore trails of Cootes Paradise. ferry docks stop and walk south bound to the ferry. Varied scenery. Miriam Stevens, (416) 443-6242 6-10 pm FOR MEMBERS ONLY with valid membership card rain or shine Sunday, May 15 -- Caledon Hills, Hockley Valley (Map 18) after a days work come and “cool off” on the Islands where there Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 14 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, are no fumes. Enjoy the view of the city skyline. Bring dinner for Terrain: Rocky, Challenging. Dropout, Families, Hiking boots, No a sit down picnic. A warm jacket and a flashlight. You can not buy dogs. food on the Islands. Ferry cost return approx. $8 for adults and Depart 9 am, We will meet at the parking lot just off Hockley less for seniors. No reservation required. Just show up on the day Road and past 3rd Line. of the hike.This hike is repeated each Thursday in May and June Go north on Hwy 400, turn west (left) on Hwy 9, then north on 2016. Airport Rd, then west (left) on Hockley Rd. The parking lot is just past 3rd Line. We will depart promptly at 9:00am and hike both blue trails and the main/white trail. Friday, May 20 -- Blue Mountains, Nottawasaga Bluffs, Remi Fahy, 416 903-7572 before 9:00pm Ganaraska Trail (Maps 22/Gan25) or [email protected] Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 18 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Brandon Fahy, (416) 903-7572 before 9:00pm Terrain: Variable, with rocky, muddy or rough bush sections. No or [email protected] dropout, Refreshments after, Come out for some fresh air and exercise and enjoy some time Pre-registration by Email to Leader. with friends and family. Depart 9:30 am, Gowan Park in Creemore (Edward and Library Streets) [GPS coordinates: N44 19.473 W80 06.137]. Sunday, May 15 -- Grand Valley Trail, Conestogo, Black Walnut From County Rd 124 (north of Shelburne) or Airport Rd section (County Rd 42), take County Rd 9 into Creemore. In Creemore, Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 15 km, Pace: 4.5 km/hr, drive south on Mill St, then turn left at Edward St to roadside Terrain: Variable. No dropout, End to End #10 of 18, No dogs, parking by the park. Refreshments after. Charlie Atkinson, (905) 642-2408 or (day of hike) mobile (416) Depart 9 am, Meet at George Priddle Park at 40 Golf Course Rd, 668-2734 or [email protected] Conestogo off Sawmill Rd (43.541594-80.492750). This parking We will shuttle to km 16.3 (map 22) and start off with a main area is near mile marker 61.3 on Map # 11. trail/side trail combination in the Nottawasaga Bluffs area before To reach this parking area from Hwy 7 you should turn north joining the Mad River section of the Ganaraska Trail - and then onto Ebycrest Rd North to the north of Breslau. Follow Ebycrest continue on over a combination of farmland, pastureland and Rd north passing Rosendale where the road changes name to rolling countryside on our way to Creemore. Sawmill Rd. Continue north on Sawmill Rd until you reach the intersection of Golf Course Rd to your right. Parking is to the Saturday, May 21 -- Toronto, Leslie Street Spit north of Sawmill Rd. Level I/II Urban walk Duration of Hike: 6.0 hrs, Pace: 1 km/hr, Charles Whitlock, (519) 742-7435 or Terrain: Mostly flat, Educational and eye opening!. Dropout at [email protected] any time, Beginners, Families, No dogs, Bring a lunch. Jim Vanderlip, (416) 925-9134 7-10 pm Depart 10 am, gate at Leslie St at Unwin Ave. or [email protected] TTC directions: take the Queen streetcar from east or west and Continue to join Jim and Charles and other hardy walkers get off at Leslie and (long) walk south; OR from Donlands subway

16 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Activity Calendar station take Jones #83 bus to Leslie & Commissioners St and walk south. (For TTC Holiday service call 416.393-4636) Parking is Sunday, May 22 -- Orangeville, Island Lake Conservation available at the entrance to the spit. area Ray Berzins, (647)207-4954 before 9:30 pm Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 12 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, or [email protected] Terrain: Mostly flat. No dropout, Beginners, Families, A popular Victoria Day hike. Bob Kortright of the Toronto Field Refreshments after, Naturalists Club will narrate this slow walk around Tommy Pre-registration Online using Website. Thompson Park on the Leslie Street Spit as we observe nature Depart 10 am, York Mills. during spring migration. Bring lunch, water and binoculars Monica Feran, (416) 736-6636 Before 9 pm to view birds (whimbrels if we are lucky, warblers for sure), or [email protected] butterflies, flowers, ferns, fungi, and the skyline. We will visit a Tessa Shelvey, 416-320-8555 bird banding station. Lots to photograph at an unhurried pace. A Easy hike through a beautiful conservation area, going around donation to the Escarpment Legacy Fund would be appreciated. the Island lake and exploring the other trails.

Thursday, May 26 -- Toronto, Toronto Islands Level I/II Urban walk Duration of Hike: 3.0 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, Saturday, May 21 -- Toronto Section, Silver Creek (Maps Terrain: Mostly flat, drop outs, beginners. Dropout, Beginners, 14/15) Families, No dogs. Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 15 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Depart 6 pm, At the Ferry Docks near the gate to Wards island. Terrain: Hilly, Variable. Dropout at TBA, Hiking boots, From Union station take the LRT (street car) to the stop docks. Refreshments after, Pub stop after, Then walk southbound over to the ferry on the south side of Pre-registration Online using Website. Queens Quay at the foot of BAY st. Or take bus number 6 to the Depart 9 am, York Mills. ferry docks stop and walk south bound to the ferry. Alex Brown, (905) 764-0812 or [email protected] Miriam Stevens, (416) 443-6242 6-10 pm We will hike from Scotsdale Farm area to Boston Mills Rd ending FOR MEMBERS ONLY with valid membership card rain or at the Spirit Tree Cidery for post hike refreshments. shine after a days work come and “cool off” on the Islands where there are no fumes. Enjoy the view of the city skyline. Bring dinner for a sit down picnic. A warm jacket and a flashlight. You can not buy food on the Islands. Ferry cost return approx. $8 for Saturday, May 21 -- Niagara Glen to the Whirlpool adults and less for seniors. No reservation required. Just show up Level II Bus hike Duration of Hike: 4.5 hrs, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, on the day of the hike.This hike is repeated each Thursday in May Terrain: Rocky, Variable. Dropout at after 2.5 hrs., Hiking boots, and June 2016. Refreshments after, Long distance bus fare applies, Pre-registration Online using Website. Depart 9 am, Islington. Saturday, May 28 -- Dufferin Hi-Land, Boyne Valley, Wayne Crockett, [email protected] Boyne Valley (Map 20) Join me for a beautiful walk through the trails of the Niagara Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 13 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Glen and along the edge of the river to the Whirlpool. Rocky and Terrain: Hilly, Variable. Dropout, Hiking boots, Refreshments possibly wet conditions but worth the effort. after, Pre-registration Online using Website. Depart 8:30 am, York Mills. Saturday, May 21 -- Iroquoia, Dundas Valley (Map 8) Victor Ramautar, 905-294-6718 Before 9 pm Level I Car hike Length of Hike: 9 km, Pace: 3 km/hr, or [email protected] Fred Berktin, 416 520 3797 Terrain: Variable. Dropout at after 1 km, Beginners, Hiking boots, It is getting warmer and no one can turn the clock back. Besides it No dogs, Refreshments after. is the right time to get back into hiking if you took the winter off. Depart 10 am, Tiffany Falls parking - Map 8, km 45. Bring water, lunch and the other essentials. Take Hwy 403 to Hamilton. At exit 64 take Mohawk Rd (becomes Rousseaux). After 2 km turn right at Wilson and follow for 2 km to parking on right at Tiffany Falls. Free parking with BTC Saturday, May 28 -- Iroquoia, Upper Spencer Creek membership card on dash. Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 13 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Peter Leeney, (905) 822-1877 Mon-Thur before 10 pm Terrain: Variable. Dropout at 7 km, 10 km, Beginners, Families, or [email protected] Refreshments after, A shorter hike for prospective members, new members, and old Pre-registration Online using Website. members getting back into harness. Depart 9 am, Islington. Sufiya Mary Reid, (416) 767-7571 or [email protected] Marilyn MacKellar, 416 653-4120 6-9 pm We’ll hike through Crook’s Hollow, to Webster’s Falls, Tews Falls, and Dundas Peak. E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 17 Activity Calendar www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

Saturday, May 28 -- Dufferin Hi-Land, Boyne Valley (Map 20) Sunday, May 29 -- Oak Ridges Trail, Long Sault Conservation Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 14 km, Pace: 3 km/hr, Area (Map ORTA 7) Terrain: Challenging, bugs could be bothersome. No dropout, Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 15 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Hiking boots, bring bug repellent. Terrain: Rocky, Challenging. Dropout, Families, Hiking boots, No Depart 9 am, Pete’s Donuts cafe in Primrose. dogs. At the south east corner of the junction of Highways 89 and 10. Depart 9 am, Long Sault Conservation Area parking lot. Vladimir Bosnar, (905) 273-7569 7-9 pm Hwy 401, exit 431 at Waverly Rd, travel north for 17 km on Mike Dhesi, (416) 760-2602 4 to 7 pm Mon-Wed Regional Rd 57. turn right at Regional Rd 20. After 2 km, turn left Through very hilly terrain but at a gentle pace. There are several on Woodley Rd and travel 2km to the conservation parking lot. spectacular viewpoints on this part of the main trail. Bring some toonies and loonies for the parking meter, you might need about $5.00. Saturday, May 28 -- Grand Valley Trail, Kitchener, Black Remi Fahy, 416 903-7572 before 9:00pm Walnut Section or [email protected] Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 19 km, Pace: 4.5 km/hr, Brandon Fahy, (416) 903-7572 before 9:00pm Terrain: Variable. No dropout, End to End #11 of 14, No dogs, or [email protected] Refreshments after, Car Shuttle.. A loop hike in forest-covered rolling hills. No car shuttles Depart 9 am, Meet at GVTA map 12, West Montrose, Pinnacle required. We will return to the parking lot for lunch so that people Section close to km 3.00 on 8th Line West, Centre Wellington can leave if they only want to hike for half day. (GPS 43.627093, -80.450910). Roadside parking. Watch for a series of trail signs for Elmira, Fergus, Elora. Sunday, May 29 -- Grand Valley Trail, Elora/Fergus, Pinnacle From West Montrose travel west on Line 86 (old Hwy 86) across Section the Grand River to its intersection with Middlebrook Rd. Turn Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 19 km, Pace: 4.5 km/hr, right (north) onto Middlebrook Rd and follow towards Elora. Terrain: Variable. No dropout, End to End #12 of 14, No dogs, When you reach 8th Line West turn right and follow to meeting Refreshments after, Car Shuttle. place near the old tree nursery where the trail leaves the road to Depart 9 am, Meet at Km 22.3 on GVTA Map 13 (Elora /Fergus) the left and enters the fields. near the intersection of 2nd Line and Wellington Rd 19 (Belwood Charles Whitlock, (519) 742-7435 Rd). This parking area is near the hamlet of Spier (GPS 43.738622, or [email protected] -80.363598). Jim Vanderlip, (416) 925-9134 7-10 pm To access this parking area you should follow Belwood Rd north or [email protected] from Fergus to its intersection with 2nd Line where the Elora Slowly and with every step of the way we are nearing the Cataract Trailway crosses the road. This point is to the west of completion of our GVTA end-to-end walk. Distance is 19kms. Belwood Lake near the Shand Dam. During this hike we will hike north along the Grand River Charles Whitlock, (519) 742-7435 or walkaway.treks@sympatico. from Conestogo through the Village of West Montrose with its ca renowned Kissing Bridge, Ontario’s last remaining covered bridge. Jim Vanderlip, (416) 925-9134 7-10 pm Please feel free to join us for any or all of these end-to-end hikes. or [email protected] Be prepared to have a great time. We welcome hike leaders in Every pace draws us closer towards the completion of our 280 training. Refreshments after. km walk along the Grand River. Today’s walk will continue north along the Grand River and through the picturesque villages of Elora and Fergus. We will resume the completion of the end-to- Saturday, May 28 -- Beaver Valley, Eugenia Falls (Map 26) end on October 29 & 30, 2016. Level III Car hike Length of Hike: 22 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Terrain: Hilly, Variable. No dropout, Hiking boots, No dogs, Trekking poles highly recommended, Looking Forward Pre-registration by Email to Leader. Depart 9 am, Eugenia Falls Conservation Area parking lot, km Thursday, June 2 -- Toronto, Toronto Islands 56.2. Level I/II Urban walk Duration of Hike: 3.0 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, Go north on Hwy 10 to Flesherton. Turn right at County Rd 4 and Terrain: Mostly flat, drop outs, beginners. Dropout, Beginners, then left at County Rd 13 to town of Eugenia. Turn left at Pellisier Families, No dogs. St to Eugenia Falls Conservation Area parking lot. Depart 6 pm, At the Ferry Docks near the gate to Wards island. Luisa Lee, (647) 770-9977 before 9 pm From Union station take the LRT (street car) to the stop docks. or [email protected] Then walk southbound over to the ferry on the south side of Smiti Gupta Queens Quay at the foot of Bay st. Or take bus number 6 to the A 22-km loop hike with lots of ups and downs in the upper Beaver ferry docks stop and walk south bound to the ferry. Valley. The trail passes through spectacular lookouts and views of Miriam Stevens, (416) 443-6242 6-10 pm Eugenia Falls, Hogg’s Falls, Cuckoo Valley and Beaver Valley. FOR MEMBERS ONLY with valid membership card rain or shine after a days work come and “cool off” on the Islands where 18 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Activity Calendar there are no fumes. Enjoy the view of the city skyline. Bring dinner crossing over the Beaver Valley twice via the Valley Crossover Side for a sit down picnic. A warm jacket and a flashlight.You can not Trail and the Campbell’s/Graham’s Hill Side Trail. buy food on the Islands. Ferry cost return approx. $8 for adults and less for seniors. No reservation required. Just show up on the Sunday, June 5 -- Toronto, Cedarvale Ravine Plant ID Hike day of the hike. This hike is repeated each Thursday in May and Level I Urban walk Length of Hike: 3 km, Pace: 1 km/hr, June 2016. Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout, Beginners, Families, No dogs. Depart 10 am, St. Clair West Station, Heath St. exit. Marilyn MacKellar, 416 653-4120 6-9 pm Saturday, June 4 -- Blue Mountains, Devil’s Glen (Map 22) Glynn Richardson, (905) 426-5600 7-9 pm Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 15 km, Pace: 3 km/hr, This hike will follow the Cedarvale Ravine north from St. Clair Terrain: Hilly, Variable. Dropout, Hiking boots, Refreshments Ave. It will be very slow. It will focus on plants in the area and after, Pub stop after, Long distance bus fare applies, some of the historical background, since the Eglinton Crosstown Pre-registration Online using Website. has an older history in Cedarvale (and so do the Spadina Line and Depart 8 am, York Mills. the Allen Expressway). We will stop and go for the length of the Alex Brown, (905) 764-0812 or [email protected] hike, so be prepared for a slow progress. The distance we travel will We will hike through the Devil’s Glen area. Some serious hills to depend on what we see. Bring lunch and water. challenge us. Refreshments in Creemore after the hike. Sunday, June 5 -- Beaver Valley, Epping (Maps 26/27) Saturday, June 4 -- Caledon Hills, Forks of the Credit, Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 18 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Descending Devil’s Pulpit (Maps 14/15) Terrain: Hilly, Challenging. No dropout, End to End #2 of 6, Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 17 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Hiking boots, be prepared for ice and/or snow. Terrain: Hilly, Rocky. Dropout at 9 km, Hiking boots, Depart 8:30 am, same as Saturday’s hike km 92.5 parking lot of Refreshments after, John Muir Lookout, Epping. Pre-registration Online using Website. on 7 (Eric Winkler Parkway) north of Sideroad 19. Depart 9 am, Islington. Brenda D, 416-729-1373 or [email protected] Wayne Crockett, [email protected] We will car shuttle to km 74.8 and hike north through Wodehouse Join me for a more challenging walk: The Main Trail down Devil’s Karst and other areas. Pulpit and along The Ring Kiln Side Trail and then along the Credit River. Always great photographic opportunities on this Thursday, June 9 -- Toronto, Toronto Islands walk. After the hike we will visit the Spirit Tree Cidery. Level I/II Urban walk Duration of Hike: 3.0 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, Terrain: Mostly flat, drop outs, beginners. Dropout, Beginners, Families, No dogs. Saturday, June 4 -- Beaver Valley, Blantyre (Maps 28/29) Depart 6 pm, At the Ferry Docks near the gate to Wards island. Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 21 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, From Union station take the LRT (street car) to the stop docks. Terrain: Hilly. No dropout, End to End #1 of 6, Hiking boots, be Then walk southbound over to the ferry on the south side of prepared for ice and/or mud. Queens Quay at the foot of Bay stt. Or take bus number 6 to the Depart 9 am, km 92.5 parking lot of John Muir Lookout, Epping. ferry docks stop and walk south bound to the ferry. on 7 (Eric Winkler Parkway) north of Sideroad 19. Miriam Stevens, (416) 443-6242 6-10 pm Brenda D, 416-729-1373 or [email protected] FOR MEMBERS ONLY with valid membership card rain or shine We will car shuttle to the end of the Beaver Valley section (km after a days work come and “cool off” on the Islands where there 113.8) and hike back south. are no fumes. Enjoy the view of the city skyline. Bring dinner for a sit down picnic. A warm jacket and a flashlight. You can not buy food on the Islands. Ferry cost return approx. $8 for adults and less

Saturday, June 4 -- Beaver Valley, Eugenia Falls (Map 26) for seniors. No reservation required. Just show up on the day of the Level III Car hike Length of Hike: 20 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, hike.This hike is repeated each Thursday in May and June 2016. Terrain: Hilly, Variable. No dropout, Hiking boots, No dogs, Trekking poles highly recommended, Pre-registration by Email to Leader. Saturday, June 11 -- Beltline Trail, Mount Pleasant Depart 9 am, Eugenia Falls Conservation Area parking lot, km Cemetery and the Vale of Avoca to the Brickworks. 56.2. Level I Urban walk Duration of Hike: 4.5 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, Go north on Hwy 10 to Flesherton. Turn right at County Rd 4 and Terrain: Mostly flat. Dropout at 5 km, Beginners, Families, No then left at County Rd 13 to town of Eugenia. Turn left at Pellisier dogs, Refreshments after. St to Eugenia Falls Conservation Area parking lot. Pre-registration Online using Website. Luisa Lee, (647) 770-9977 before 9 pm Depart 9 am, Eglinton West Subway main entrance. or [email protected] Wayne Crockett, [email protected] Smiti Gupta Join me for a stroll along the central part of the Beltline Trail into A 20-km lollipop hike with lots of ups and downs. We will be Mount Pleasant Cemetery and and through the Vale of Avoca.

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 19 Activity Calendar www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

have already experienced the exhilarating Cave of the Winds Saturday, June 11 -- SEATON HIKING TRAIL, tour in previous outings would have the opportunity to visit PICKERING Terrapin Point overlooking the Canadian Falls and Three Sisters Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 14 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Islands which offers a great view of the Upper Rapids. You must Terrain: Hilly, Challenging. Dropout, Hiking boots, Refreshments BRING A VALID PASSPORT for border crossing. The toll to after, Pub stop after, No Dogs, cross the Rainbow Bridge is 50 cents (two quarters exact change). Pre-registration Online using Website. Admission to the Cave of the Winds is US$14; and the Niagara Depart 9 am, York Mills. Falls Observation Tower is US$1. Fred Berktin, 416 520 3797 or [email protected] Victor Ramautar, 905-294-6718 Before 9 pm Saturday, June 11 -- Beaver Valley, Hogg’s Falls (Map 26) or [email protected] Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 19 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Established in 1970, and brought back to life only a few years Terrain: Hilly, Challenging. No dropout, End to End #3 of 6, ago, Short drive from the City, in Pickering, let me introduce you Hiking boots, poles recommended, bring lots of water. to this gem if you have not been on this hike with me before.. It Depart 9 am, km 56 parking lot of Eugenia Falls C.A. is the perfect time of the year to hike this well maintained and go to Flesherton on Highway 10 and then to Eugenia on Country blazed trail where I work as a trail maintenance volunteer. We Rd 13. will hike from south to north, although the trail’s tendency is Brenda D, 416-729-1373 or [email protected] uphill the challenging hills are in the beginning. I will slow down We will car shuttle to km 74.8 and hike back around the Hoggs on the hills and allow fast hikers to pass and wait for the slower Falls loop to Eugenia. Very scenic. hikers at the top. The trail visits two spectacular lookout points on top of a glacial till, where you can see how the West Duffins Sunday, June 12 -- Beaver Valley, Old Baldy (Maps 25/26) Creek has carved the glacial till for over ten thousand years. Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 18 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Trail follows this creek which is in the Duffins and Caruthers Terrain: Hilly, Challenging. No dropout, End to End #4 of 6, Creek watershed and it is one of the most widely studied riparian Hiking boots, poles recommended, bring lots of water. habitat watersheds in Ontario if not Canada. This is a Level II/III Depart 8:30 am, same as Saturday’s hike km 56 parking lot of terrain but we will hike at a slower pace. Refreshments will be at Eugenia Falls C.A. an outdoor complex where there is a very hiker friendly British go to Flesherton on Highway 10 and then to Eugenia on Country sports bar, Swiss Chalet and Tim Hortons. Rd 13. Brenda D, 416-729-1373 or [email protected] We will shuttle to km 37.6 and hike back to Eugenia past Old Saturday, June 11 -- Niagara Glen, Ontario and Cave of the Baldy. Some road work. Winds on Goat Island in New York State Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 15 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Thursday, June 16 -- Toronto, Toronto Islands Terrain: Variable. Dropout, Hiking boots, Late return (after 6pm), Level I/II Urban walk Duration of Hike: 3.0 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, Long distance bus fare applies, Terrain: Mostly flat, drop outs, beginners. Dropout, Beginners, Pre-registration Online using Website. Families, No dogs. Depart 7:30 am, York Mills. Depart 6 pm, At the Ferry Docks near the gate to Wards island. Lucy Leung, (647) 280-8868 or [email protected] From Union station take the LRT (street car) to the stop docks. Luisa Lee Then walk southbound over to the ferry on the south side of Enjoy the day exploring the Niagara River gorge and getting a Queens Quay at the foot of Bay st. Or take bus number 6 to the glimpse of the majestic beauty of the falls within the Niagara Falls ferry docks stop and walk south bound to the ferry. State Park in the United States. Our hike begins at Niagara Glen Miriam Stevens, (416) 443-6242 6-10 pm on the Canadian side, an enchanting nature reserve deep in the FOR MEMBERS ONLY with valid membership card rain or Great Gorge with its tangle of giant boulders. We meander along shine after a days work come and “cool off” on the Islands where the river edge and reach the Niagara Whirlpool, a mesmerizing there are no fumes. Enjoy the view of the city skyline. Bring natural phenomenon formed at the end of the rapids. Walking dinner for a sit down picnic. A warm jacket and a flashlight. You across the Rainbow Bridge to the oldest state park in the United can not buy food on the Islands. Ferry cost return approx. $8 for States, we explore the uninhabited Goat Island surrounded by adults and less for seniors. No reservation required. Just show up fast running shallow waters and offering a magnanimous view of on the day of the hike.This hike is repeated each Thursday in May the falls. From atop the Niagara Falls Observation Tower, we look and June 2016. directly out into the cascading waters of the American Falls and peer into the raging torrents below. Discover the thrill of walking right up to the base of Niagara Falls in the Cave of the Winds tour. Clad in a souvenir rain poncho and sandals, we follow wooden walkways to the Hurricane Deck, a mere 6 metres (20 feet) from the billowing torrents of Bridal Veil Falls and face tropical storm- like conditions. This is a truly amazing experience. Those who

20 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Activity Calendar

Brenda D, 416-729-1373 or [email protected] Saturday, June 18 -- Dufferin Hi-Land, Mono Cliffs (Map We will shuttle to km 18.4 and finish off the Beaver Valley section. 19) Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 13 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, Thursday, June 23 -- Toronto, Toronto Islands Terrain: Hilly, Variable. No dropout, Families, Hiking boots, Level I/II Urban walk Duration of Hike: 3.0 hrs, Pace: 3 km/hr, Refreshments after, Terrain: Mostly flat, drop outs, beginners. Dropout, Beginners, Pre-registration Online using Website. Families, No dogs. Depart 8:30 am, York Mills. Depart 6 pm, At the Ferry Docks near the gate to Wards island. Victor Ramautar, 905-294-6718 Before 9 pm From Union station take the LRT (street car) to the stop docks. or [email protected] Then walk southbound over to the ferry on the south side of Fred Berktin, 416 520 3797 Queens Quay at the foot of Bay st. Or take bus number 6 to the Indeed a beautiful time of year to hike Mono Cliffs Provincial ferry docks stop and walk south bound to the ferry. Park with Splitrock Side Trail in our sights. Bring the essentials Miriam Stevens, (416) 443-6242 6-10 pm including a lunch and lots of water. FOR MEMBERS ONLY with valid membership card rain or shine after a days work come and “cool off” on the Islands where there are no fumes. Enjoy the view of the city skyline. Bring dinner for Saturday, June 18 -- Kelso through Hilton Falls (Map 11) a sit down picnic. A warm jacket and a flashlight. You can not buy Level II Bus hike Length of Hike: 16 km, Pace: 3.5 km/hr, food on the Islands. Ferry cost return approx. $8 for adults and less Terrain: Hilly, Variable. Dropout at 9 km, Pub stop after, for seniors. No reservation required. Just show up on the day of the Pre-registration Online using Website. hike. This hike is repeated each Thursday in May and June 2016. Depart 9 am, Islington. Wayne Crockett, [email protected] Join me for a hike with great views and the beauty of Hilton Falls. Saturday, June 25 -- Beaver Valley, Blue Mountain (Map 24) The hike will take in a part of the Main Trail plus a portion of the Level I/II Bus hike Length of Hike: 13 km, Pace: 3 km/hr, Hilton Falls Side Trail. Terrain: Variable. Dropout, Hiking boots, Refreshments after, Pub stop after, Late return (after 6pm), Long distance bus fare applies, Saturday, June 18 -- Toronto Section, Scotsdale Farm Pre-registration Online using Website. Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 13 km, Pace: 3 km/hr, Depart 7:30 am, York Mills. Terrain: Rocky, Variable. No dropout, Hiking boots, Refreshments Alex Brown, (905) 764-0812 or [email protected] after, Pub stop after. Edmond Brown, (416) 535-1059 Depart 10 am, Parking lot at Scotsdale Farm. This is the annual berries and beach hike. We will hike a section North on Trafalgar Rd past the west side of Georgetown. Turn of the trail with excellent views of Georgian Bay. After the hike we North onto Hwy 7 and continue to Silver Creek. Go right at will drop in to a berry patch if in season (we will buy berries only) stoplight back onto Trafalgar Rd. North 1.5 km to entrance to then visit Wasaga Beach. Bring your bathing suit. The expected Scotsdale Farm. Parking area near old farmstead. return from this hike is 8:30 pm to allow all to enjoy the beach. Alex Brown, (905) 764-0812 We will complete a loop hike including the Bennett and Great Sunday, June 26 -- Caledon Hills, Hockley Valley (Map 18) Esker side trails and the main Bruce Trail. Refreshments in Level II Car hike Length of Hike: 14 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Georgetown after the hike. Terrain: Hilly. No dropout, Hiking boots, No dogs, Refreshments after, Cell number for day of hike is 647-918-4180. Saturday, June 18 -- Beaver Valley, Kolapore (Map 25) Depart 9 am, Hockley Road Parking Lot. Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 19 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, Take Hwy 410 north, continue north on Hwy 10 north of Terrain: Hilly, Challenging. No dropout, End to End #5 of 6, Orangeville to County Road 7. Hockley Road veers off on the Hiking boots, bring lots of water. left. Continue on Hockley Road to just east of 2nd Line EHS. The Depart 8:30 am, km 18.4 roadside along 12th Sideroad between 2 parking lot is on the north side of the road. and 6th line. Maureen McFarland, (416) 489-3703 Not later than 9 pm Note the earlier start time to beat the heat. or [email protected] Brenda D, 416-729-1373 or [email protected] Jim Vanderlip, (416) 925-9134 7-10 pm We will car shuttle to km 37.6 and do the road work early in the or [email protected] day. Duncan Crevice Caves and Metcalfe Rock make it worthwhile. Come out and enjoy an early summer hike in the Hockley Valley, where there is usually a breeze to blow the bugs away. We will hike Sunday, June 19 -- Beaver Valley, Blue Mountain (Maps 24/25) a loop including the Tom East Side Trail, the Isabel East Side Trail Level II/III Car hike Length of Hike: 18 km, Pace: 4 km/hr, and the Cam Snell Side Trail. Terrain: Hilly. No dropout, End to End #6 of 6, Hiking boots, Refreshments after, bring lots of water. Depart 8 am, km 0 of Beaver Valley, km 66 of Blue Mountain parking lot at end of Maple Lane in Swiss Meadows. Note earlier start time to beat the heat. E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 21 Activity Calendar www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

honour of the TBTC August Hike-a-thon fund raising campaign; Friday, August 26 -- Magical Manitoulin Island August 26 albeit not on the Bruce Trail, all participants are asked to make a to 28 (Friday to Sunday) special donation of $35 to the BTC; a tax receipt will be issued. Level II Bus hike Duration of Hike: 4.0 hrs, Pace: 4 km/hr, Our goal is to raise over $1,000 towards securing the remaining Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Hiking boots, Long distance bus 50% of the Bruce Trail corridor still vulnerable to development. fare applies, If you are interested to join our Manitoulin Island hiking venture Pre-registration by Email to Leader. or would like more information, please contact Hike Leader at Depart 6:30 am, York Mills. [email protected]. Group size is limited to 32. Lucy Leung, (647) 280-8868 or [email protected] Manitoulin is a magical and remote place; it is the largest freshwater island in the world where Native life and legend Saturday, August 27 -- Magical Manitoulin Island August blend with European history to provide a unique and enchanting 26 to 28 (Friday to Sunday) experience. Join us to explore this idyllic retreat and let the spirit Level II Bus hike Duration of Hike: 7.0 hrs, Pace: 4 km/hr, of this place capture your soul. We depart early on Friday and Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Hiking boots, Long distance bus our comfortable coach will take us across the Bruce Peninsula to fare applies, Tobermory where we catch the Chi-Cheemaun ferry for a cruise Pre-registration by Email to Leader. to South Baymouth at the southern tip of Manitoulin. There is Depart 6:30 am, York Mills. incredible natural beauty with intriguing landscape in Manitoulin. Lucy Leung, (647) 280-8868 or [email protected] We hike each day on select scenic trails and many of which are This is our second day in Manitoulin as described for August 26. on the Niagara Escarpment, including the Cup and Saucer Trail We have a full day to experience the unique beauty and nature the which is the highest point on Manitoulin and has spectacular Island offers. views. We also have time to experience the history and enjoy the culture from an Aboriginal perspective. After spending the Sunday, August 28 -- Magical Manitoulin Island August weekend exploring Manitoulin; we leave on Sunday afternoon 26 to 28 (Friday to Sunday) crossing the historic swing bridge from the northeastern tip and Level II Bus hike Duration of Hike: 4.0 hrs, Pace: 4 km/hr, return to Toronto late in the evening. Bus fare is $170 for BTC Terrain: Variable. No dropout, Hiking boots, Long distance bus members and $210 for non-members; this includes the Chi- fare applies, Pre-registration by Email to Leader. Cheemaun ferry cruise and three days travel in an air-conditioned Depart 6:30 am, York Mills. coach with washroom. Accommodation is at comfortable hotel Lucy Leung, (647) 280-8868 or [email protected] in Little Current and will be booked directly by each participant. Our last day on Manitoulin Island we explore a nature reserve The rate per person is $154 Twin, $116 Triple, $97 Quad and located on an ancient flat rock sea bottom. See the write up of $289 Single for two nights accommodation and two hot buffet August 26 for more information. breakfasts with taxes included. This special outing is organized in

Other Hikes Friday, May 20 -- Lower Bruce Peninsula 1. Independent outings: Victoria Day Weekend in the Lower Bruce Peninsula. The Spring wildflowers will Independent outings are not welcome us on three hiking days on the Bruce Trail and its side trails to form loops. sanctioned by the Toronto We stay and have our meals at a comfortable resort on Lake Huron, the outing is Bruce Trail Club (TBTC). The restricted to those joining us at the resort. Our daily walks of approx. 15 will be at TBTC accepts no responsibility a moderate pace to take pictures of the great views of Georgian Bay and the Spring for how these events are run, nor flowers. More information hikevincent.wordpress.com is it involved in the collection of leader Greg Vincent [email protected] funds or administration of these events. The events listed here are not commercial operations but are offered by members of the TBTC on a cost shared For membership information, call the basis. Bruce Trail Conservancy Head Office at 2. Commercial Trips: 1-800-665-HIKE (1-800-665-4453) FOOTNOTES has a number 8:30 am -4:30 pm of advertisements from Monday - Friday commercial hiking and outing or visit www.brucetrail.org organizations.

22 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Looking At Plants In Ontario

by Marilyn MacKellar

This year I began looking at the plants in a local ravine. What started on a spring walk, where nothing was at the stage I expected and many things were a total mystery, has developed into a plant list for that ravine. It has been an interesting experience, since this small ravine has a range of plants I hadn’t expected. It has also been an interesting experience because, within some species, there is a vast amount of diversity, not all of it easy to separate. Goldenrods, for example, are often similar to each other. Asters are worse. This fall has been a revelation.

How does one begin to look at plants more closely? 1. Start with a basic plant book and concentrate on one kind of plants: wildflowers, trees, bushes, grasses (save this one for later!), ferns…. I will include a few good book titles at the end, and many are available at the Public Library. 2. Invest in a small magnifying glass. 3. Take your camera and a notebook.

I start out with my camera and notebook handy. When I see a plant I don’t know I try to find it in the guidebook. It helps if there are flowers, since many guidebooks are divided by the colour of the flower, but you may just have to look through the whole book for some of them. You will learn to look at leaves, the height of the plant, the habitat, the shape of the stem….it’s a whole new world! If I can’t identify the plant immediately, and I don’t want to spend all my time on one plant, I will take a photo of it. You may need more than one photo to include the flower and the leaves and the way it is placed (e.g. with lots of others, in a bog, about 4 ft high). Write in your notebook where you found it and what the numbers are for the photos and any other info you think may help. Use your magnifying glass to see if there are hairs on the leaves or stems and what the flowers really look like (especially useful for goldenrods!). Then you can take the photos home and look more closely at what you have seen. A little map sometimes helps place the plant.

It is also interesting, with the help of the guidebooks, to find out how many of our plants have come from outside the country (called ‘Alien’ in the books). I’ve been surprised by many.

Looking at plants has been very good for me. I have spent more time during the week walking into the ravine and around the area and it has improved my fitness, even when it’s such a slow walk. Curiosity has led me to appreciate some plants more than before. Asters used to be white or blue to me before this year. Now they are much more diverse and when I see them I really look at them. They will be in my garden next year. I have met some new people as a result of this interest. And I have a long list for next year.

Sources (a basic list): Dickinson, Richard & France Royer Plants of Southern Ontario. Lone Pine 2014 Farrar, John Laird Trees in Canada. Fitzhenry & Whiteside and Canada Forest Service, 1995 Soper, James H. & Margaret L. Heimburger Shrubs of Ontario, ROM, 1982

[Be sure to note Marilyn’s plant hike on June 5th; see the Activity Calendar for more details - Ed.]

Trout Lily and Orchids along the Trail. Photographs by Brent Michaluk.

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 23 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org The Ultimate Treasure Hunt

by Kevin Warburton

Birding is the ultimate treasure hunt and one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in North America. It is an excellent way to learn more about whom we share the Niagara Escarpment environment with and can be a great way to enhance your hiking experience. All you need are: binoculars (nothing fancy or expensive), a check list, a field guide for Eastern North American birds and a little patience. If toting a field guide is too much of a hassle, there are numerous excellent IPhone apps available.

Early spring is a great time to get started. There are far fewer birds in the various Niagara Escarpment habitats but there are always some around. Stop and quietly listen for a short time and they will begin to reveal themselves to you. Listen for the faint tap-a-tap-tap of the little Downey Woodpecker (he may be closer than you realize). If you hear a soft “zeet zeet” it could be a Brown Creeper. Look for a small bird that spirals its way up a tree trunk from bottom to top, then flies down to begin again on another tree. Nuthatches and Black-capped Chickadees are always around too. Pay particular attention to the Chickadees. When they sound excited and happy, it’s a good indicator that other interesting birds are nearby, possibly early migrants.

Male Downy Woodpecker

Some of the other winter visitors and year round residents of the Niagara Escarpment you are likely to hear and see include: - Hairy Woodpecker - a larger cousin of the Downey Woodpecker - Pileated Woodpecker - our largest woodpecker. It is the size of a small crow and often chips out a somewhat rectangular shaped hole in tree trunks. - Northern Cardinal - American Tree Sparrow - Red Tailed Hawk - Blue Jay - Dark-eyed Junco Some say winter is never really over until the Dark-eyed Juncos disappear in the spring.

From spring to fall escorting you along the trail are more than 150 species of birds. Many rely on the Niagara Escarpment for breeding, oth- ers for building up fat reserves needed to continue their migration. Most of these birds can be challenging to spot but with a little practice you can learn to recognize their songs.

Some of the more common birds that migrate to the Niagara Escarpment to breed are listed below. It would be a very rare day during the spring and summer to not hear most of these birds while on a hike.

24 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

Forest and Forest Edge:

- Red-eyed Vireos are one of the more common birds nesting along the Bruce Trail from spring to early fall. Their song is a little like a soft spoken American Robin. - Ovenbirds are warblers that build a domed nest on the ground out of leaves and grass. The side entrance hole is shaped like the opening of an old outdoor oven, hence the name Ovenbird. Like other ground nesting birds, the nests are well camouflaged so stay on the trail to avoid trampling. - Baltimore Orioles - Rose-breasted Grosbeak - Great-crested Flycatcher - a cavity nesting bird with a lemon yellow breast that weaves snake skin into the nesting material. - Eastern Wood Pewee - Black-throated Green Warbler - Indigo Bunting - White-Throated Sparrow - Chipping Sparrow - House Wren - Winter Wren (A personal favourite) - Wood Thrush (Another personal favourite) - Red-bellied Woodpecker - Northern Flicker (Woodpecker)

Open habitat, wetlands and new growth wooded area birds:

- Bobolinks - Savannah Sparrow (a personal favourite) - Field Sparrow - Song Sparrows - Yellow Warbler - Common Yellow-Throated Warbler - Swamp Sparrows - Red-winged Blackbirds - American Kestrel AKA Sparrow Hawk. This small falcon nests in tree cavities.

American Kestrel

Why not take the remaining weeks of cold weather to learn a little about our feathered friends that share the Niagara Escarpment with us. To see and hear what these birds look and sound like visit All About Birds at www.allaboutbirds.org. YouTube is also a great resource. Be sure to check E-notes for spring migration time tables.

Bird Survey The Toronto Bruce Trail Club’s Conservation Committee is looking for experienced birders to assist with a bird survey of TBTC managed properties in June 2016. If you are interested please contact the TBTC Conservation Committee at [email protected]

People with little or no experience who are willing to learn are welcome and will be paired with more experienced birders.

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 25 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Our Club Needs Your Help!

by Magdalena Vander Kooy

Our much-loved former President, Todd Bardes, used to say: “There are more activities than the Toronto Bruce Trail Club can currently handle”. “That’s the message we need to get to our members. We need more of our members to come forward and help us in order to keep our club going.”

Our Club, like all the other Clubs in the Bruce Trail Conservancy, relies completely on volunteer support. This is remarkable when you think about what we achieve every year. We conduct a busy hiking program, we maintain the main trail and side trails in our section, we run a Hiker Initiation Program, we organize the Toronto Section End to End, we run a Hike-a-thon that raised more than $20,000 last year. All of this is done by a crew of fantastic volunteers. “If we want to continue,” said Todd, “we need to engage a lot of new volunteers.”

There are many ways to offer help. According to Kevin Warburton, our Club’s Volunteer Coordinator, “Often people start by just assisting. They come and they’re part of the team at the End to End. Or they join one of the maintenance crews. Or they become part of the Conser- vation Committee and help at the Earth Day event. And it’s a way for them to get a sense of what’s going on in the club. For some people, that’s what they want to keep doing, no particular responsibility, just tell me what to do and I’ll do it. But for others, they start seeing places where they can contribute from their particular skill set, or particular passion for the trail. And that’s how the club gets stronger, from both sets of people.”

What would you like to do? We have a job for you! Contact Kevin Warburton today to say how you can help: [email protected]. You can also visit the TBTC website and fill in our online application form.

More information about volunteering with TBTC Some of our volunteer roles require meetings, some require physical work, and some can be done from home. Some are occasional commit- ments, others require ongoing regular commitment.

Most TBTC volunteer opportunities do not require special skills, but if you have a particular interest or skill you are willing to share with the Club, we would love to know. Here are examples: Conservation & the environment Flora, Fauna, Birding Teaching/presentations Organizing & archiving Photography Writing/editing Project management Business management Media relations Hiking

In terms of the kinds of jobs to volunteer for, consider joining the TBTC Volunteer Pool. You will receive an email message when volun- teers are needed for a particular activity. If you are able to help just let us know, it’s as easy as that.

Or, sign up to help us with one or more of the following tasks and responsibilities: Board of Directors Publicity and promotion Publications Social media Event Planning Team Event Day assistants Website team Social Committee Treasurer Secretary Bookkeeper Trail Maintenance Director & assistants Volunteer Coordinator Trail Maintenance Team Membership Team End to End Event team Archives Team Fundraising Team AGM Planning Team Trail Captains Species Monitoring Team Conservation Team (on and off the trail) Event reporters Event photographers GPS team Land Stewardship Team Project manager Hike leaders

With your help, we can make sure the Toronto Bruce Trail Club remains vibrant and strong. We look forward to working with you. 26 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Ganaraska End-to-End Hikers Reunion

Were you part of the group of hikers who slogged through water, mud and snow on the end to end with Peter Tomlin and Don Priestman in 1995 through to the fall of 1996? It does not seem like it was 20 years ago that these hikes started until you look at the photos! Do you recognize any of those in these photos? The group that started in 1995 and the group on that final hike in October 1996.

Peter and I thought it would be fun to try and get the people who walked this trail together for an afternoon catch up on what you have been doing for 20 years and renew friendships. NO we are not going to try and walk the Trail again! But think there have been many more hikers on it since you hiked it.

Before we started planning we thought we would put this in Footnotes and see what the response is to having a get together in the fall of 2016. Please send us a note or call and we will start planning. It would be fun to see those who walked it all or parts of it. As Maureen Smith remembers the Wilderness section hike Labour Day weekend 1996 “The Hike from Hell” Who could forget that backpacking ven- ture!

Contact Lynn or Peter 905-791-9156 [email protected] or [email protected]

A Wildflower Meadow in the Making by Nancy McGlone; TBTC Conservation Committee

Serendipity; the faculty of happening upon fortunate discoveries when not in search of them. The TBTC Conservation Committee hap- pened upon Sandy Gillian and vice versa. Sandy is an avid gardener with a mighty green thumb! After attending a workshop on native plants, Sandy planted hundreds of tiny seeds, and tenderly watched them grow. Meanwhile, the Conservation Committee hosted an EARTH DAY event, with the theme Pollinators – birds, bees and butterflies, where the committee and guests planted over 1200 milkweed plants on a property owned by the Bruce Trail Conservancy near the town of Limehouse. Sandy happened to be one of the guests of this event, and she thereby discovered a home on the Springle property for most of her seedlings. Bruce Trail ecologists Brian Popelier and Adam Brylowski were consulted to ensure they were locally native plants. Tarps were laid out in early spring in five areas on the property – the perfect place for Sandy’s plants! The Conservation Com- mittee members spent a wonderful sunny late summer day transporting 516 wildflowers from Sandy’s house to the five planting beds. The plants include swamp milkweed, New England asters, mountain mint, coreopsis and rudbeckia. Spades, shovels and watering cans were put to good use and many seedlings found a home that day. Mother Nature co- operated with a gentle shower the following day. We are hoping that approximately half of these wildflowers will survive the winter. The property is now registered as a Monarch Waystation. All in all, a great success story.

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 27 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org Exercise for Health and Longevity

by Victor Ramautar

Life is a journey and for most of us health is an important part of that journey, because if you have health challenges your ability to manifest your passions will be seriously impaired. There’s no denying that exercise and proper nutrition will have a profound impact on our health, and a major part of its benefit lies in its ability to prevent disease. Most people are well aware that if you want to be optimally healthy and happy with energy and vitality to spare, exercise is essential. Yet many still don’t make the time for it. Excuses abound; from “I don’t have enough time,” to “if you can’t be consistent, then there’s no point in even beginning.” Exercise can boost your health in seemingly infinite ways, but a fear of fitness can stop you from experiencing the benefits. With the right tools, and a few tricks, you can overcome your fears and make exercise a positive part of your life.

As we age it becomes more difficult for many to continue or to start an exercise program but research suggests that as mobility decreases over time, modern humans developed increasingly lighter, more brittle bones. It is now a fact that putting bones under the ‘stress’ of walk- ing, lifting and running leads them to pack on more calcium and grow stronger. So for strong, healthy bones, weight-bearing exercises like strength training should be a regular part of your fitness routine. Bone-building is a dynamic process, and you need to exert enough force on your bones to stimulate the development of new bone.

Exercise with good nutrition needs to be a lifelong commitment because bone is living tissue that requires regular physical activity in order to renew and rebuild itself. As you build more muscle, and make the muscle that you already have stronger, you automatically put more constant pressure on your bones. Depending on your current level of fitness, a walking lunge, is a good weight-bearing exercise to incorpo- rate into your routine, as it helps build bone density in your hips, even without any additional weights.

Exercise Boosts Youthfulness, Even with Advancing Age Age does not matter, because exercise can provide enormous benefits for your health, and if you’re over that magical 40, it’s especially important to either start or step up your exercise program. Apparently it has been noted that this is the time of life when your physical strength, stamina, balance, and flexibility start to decline, and exercise can help to counteract most age-related decline. Exercise is one of the “golden tickets” to preventing disease and slowing the aging process.

If you make the wise decision to engage in some intense exercise a couple of times a week, you’ll also boost your body’s natural production of human growth hormone (HGH)—a biochemical often referred to as “the fitness hormone” for its invigorating, age-defying effects. It not only promotes muscle growth and effectively burns excessive fat; it also plays an important part in promoting longevity. Men will also be pleased to know that high-intensity interval training (HIIT), specifically, also helps boost testosterone levels naturally. That’s unlike aerobics or prolonged moderate exercise, which has been shown to have virtually no effect on testosterone levels.

So, now could be the right time, perhaps with some guidance, to establish a comprehensive exercise and nutrition program that includes hiking, high-intensity exercises, strength training, core exercises, and stretching.

At the gym I talk to many women who are under the impression that weight training will make them too bulky or turn them into a HULK. This is a mistake, as gaining more muscle has many benefits, from losing excess fat to maintaining healthy bone mass, and preventing age- related muscle loss as you grow older. Muscle cells burn more calories than fat cells, so simply carrying more muscle on your frame helps you use up more calories even when you’re not exercising.

Consider the following scientific findings: You are never too old to start exercising. In fact, research shows that, no matter how old you are when you start, you can gain significant improvements in strength, range of motion, balance, bone density, and mental clarity through exercise. Even a small amount of exercise may protect the elderly from long-term memory loss and even help reverse some of the effects of aging. Women between the ages of 75 and 85, all of whom had reduced bone mass or full-blown osteoporosis, were able to lower their risk of falling with strength training and agility activities. Moderate exercise among those aged 55 to 75 may cut the risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which increases heart disease and diabetes risk.

Among those who started exercising at age 50 and continued for 10 years, the rate of premature death declined dramatically, similar to giv- ing up smoking and mirroring the level as seen among people who had been working out their entire lives.

28 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org

A combined aerobic and resistance exercise program improved physical function, muscle strength, and symptom severity among heart failure patients.

Well, if you agree with the above whether in part or whole, and are convinced that you should and would like to start an exercise program but you are out of shape physically, you can start by going on a daily walk. At this point it would be prudent to consult your doctor and let him/her know of your exercise program. Your doctor’s advice is very important.

Walking is an excellent option if you’re so out of shape and/or overweight that the very idea of exercising seems too daunting to even at- tempt. Walking is among the easiest exercises to perform, no matter what your age or fitness level. Everyone would benefit from walking, even if you have a regular fitness program. As a start, walk 7,000 to 10,000 steps per day, over and above any regimented exercise you may be doing. A fitness tracker can be a helpful tool to ensure you’re hitting your mark. Once you’re in the habit of walking more, consider switching up the pace, interspersing bouts of speed walking followed by more casual strolling. Modern fitness research offers many potent reminders that physical activity is one of the best “preventive drugs” for many common ail- ments, from psychiatric disorders to heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Make Exercise Part of Life Making time for exercise is an important part of self-care, without which we’ll be less capable of attending to the needs of others. Viewing it as just another part of life, on par with brushing your teeth and washing your hair, can really help improve the quality of your life. Should your weight happen to be an issue, it’s likely to improve providing you incorporate some high intensity exercises. And if you don’t need to lose weight, remember there’s so much more to gain than a few less pounds.

Exercise may mean the difference between being too infirm to move when you reach your senior years or ripping up the dance floor on your 75th birthday. Depression, which affects about one in 10, can also be alleviated with the help of exercise. In fact, a number of studies have found the effectiveness of exercise to meet or exceed that of antidepressants.

In short, exercise is preventive medicine, although you may not realize exactly which diseases you’re preventing in the long run. Beyond that, it also adds to your general quality of life. Sleep and mental health, for example, are two areas that can greatly benefit. Those who succeed at maintaining good health into old age typically have one thing in common: a healthy diet and regular exercise is part of their day- to-day lifestyle.

Along the Trail. Photograph by Brent Michaluk

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 29 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org 2015 End-to-End Badge Recipients Name Issued Joe Verhaeghe January 9, 2015 Ted Wakabayashi August 16, 2015 Susan Masters January 16, 2015 Glynn Richardson August 21, 2015 Elena Domnina January 16, 2015 Grace Panich August 29, 2015 Nick Rodmore January 16, 2015 Lynn Mackenzie August 29, 2015 Terry Grice January 16, 2015 Cathy Burke August 29, 2015 Amine Bou January 16, 2015 Liz Feren August 29, 2015 Louise & Ian Notley January 16, 2015 Patrick & Audrey Gleeson September 4, 2015 Mike Beechey January 23, 2015 Allison Elliott September 4, 2015 Rose Hartnett February 6, 2015 Wayne de Jong September 4, 2015 Mala Ramu February 10, 2015 Marie Maissan September 4, 2015 Patsy Chalmers March 6, 2015 Allen Holloway September 12, 2015 Ernie Fullante March 6, 2015 David Sykes September 12, 2015 Imelda Santiago March 6, 2015 Paul Dixon September 12, 2015 Bree Radtke March 13, 2015 Verna Adams September 25, 2015 Bernie Webber April 17, 2015 Helen Billings October 2, 2015 Karen Nourse April 17, 2015 Walter Boyd October 2, 2015 Steve Kelly April 17, 2015 Cathy Hamel October 2, 2015 Heldy Sinden April 17, 2015 Nick Doralp October 18, 2015 Case Vanderplas April 17, 2015 Susan Simons October 18, 2015 Rick McCoy April 24, 2015 Susan Bate October 18, 2015 Kathy Roberts May 29, 2015 Kathy Rymal October 18, 2015 Paul Roberts May 29, 2015 Isabel Bravo October 18, 2015 Julie Scott May 29, 2015 Dave Pomeroy October 18, 2015 Ruth McMath May 29, 2015 Jeff Hubert October 23, 2015 Annette Rutherford June 5, 2015 Mary Jackson October 23, 2015 Rodney Rutherford June 5, 2015 Smadar Junkin October 23, 2015 Arlene & Gary Van Meer June 5, 2015 Neil McFadgen October 23, 2015 Ursula Hopkins June 13, 2015 Pauline Alderson October 30, 2015 Jan De Grijs June 13, 2015 Pat VandenBerg October 30, 2015 Donna Plyley June 13, 2015 Jeff Mackenzie November 6, 2015 Bert Cocks June 20, 2015 Guy Hillmer November 10, 2015 A.David Williamson June 26, 2015 Ruth Atkinson November 13, 2015 A. Van Dyk July 8, 2015 Margaret Bermingham November 13, 2015 Kim Keckes July 8, 2015 Frances Malloy November 13, 2015 Blossom July 8, 2015 Del Cook November 13, 2015 Lorysa & Mike Cornish July 11, 2015 Morgan James November 13, 2015 Margaret & Gary Ewert July 11, 2015 Scott & Sandra Stone November 13, 2015 Helena Nyland July 11, 2015 Christine Elliott November 13, 2015 Tammy Reis July 17, 2015 Kathryn Sutter November 17, 2015 Colleen Maunder July 17, 2015 Julia Van Ostaalien November 20, 2015 Trish Langton July 17, 2015 Doug Yungblut November 27, 2015 Susan Fraser July 17, 2015 Adele MacGillivray November 27, 2015 Nick Key July 24, 2015 Katherine Halsall December 5, 2015 Mark Nicholson July 24, 2015 Justin Ross December 5, 2015 Robert Johnston July 30, 2015 Stacie-Lynne Graham December 5, 2015 Dan Calder July 30, 2015 Roxane Morrison December 5, 2015 Herb Hastings August 7, 2015 Anthony Riggs December 5, 2015 Margaret Teasdale August 7, 2015 Ginnie Venslovaitas December 11, 2015 Myrna Smith August 7, 2015 Rodger Klarer December 11, 2015 Jacquie Van Dyke August 8, 2015 Linda Scott December 11, 2015 Alina Lin August 15, 2015 Jason Gordon December 11, 2015 Karen Eng August 15, 2015 Salim M December 11, 2015 Alex Feral August 15, 2015 Estelle Wieler December 15, 2015 Christine Bell August 15, 2015 Carlo Aiello December 18, 2015 Mick Canbery August 15, 2015 Doug Cody December 18, 2015 Noushin Biglakbeigy August 15, 2015 Judy Halpern December 18, 2015 Alex Lai August 16, 2015 Rosemary Bowden (+5 Others) December 18, 2015 Debbie Lee August 16, 2015 Tim Al December 18, 2015 Linh Ngo August 16, 2015 Jon Chen December 24, 2015 William Cheung August 16, 2015 Marianne Wigle December 31, 2015 Eric Cheung August 16, 2015 Martina Belter December 31, 2015 30 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org 2015 Side Trail Badge Recipients

Name Date of Issue Fred Berktin May 25, 2015 Gilles Gagnon June 13, 2015 Fiona Nisbet July 8, 2015 Molle Dorst July 11, 2015 Lori Vallie July 11, 2015 Carol Foley July 24, 2015 Anthony Riggs July 24, 2015 Herb Hastings August 7, 2015 Sergey Savchenko August 7, 2015 Joan Richard August 8, 2015 Pat Ferris August 29, 2015 Wendy Mak September 4, 2015 Amanda Mikula September 4, 2015 Smadar Junkin September 12, 2015 Diane Cropp September 12, 2015 Glenda Collings September 25, 2015 Brenda West September 25, 2015 Cathy Kitchen September 25, 2015 Janny Wallbank September 25, 2015 Marty Vert September 25, 2015 David Royston September 25, 2015 Cathie Crukley September 25, 2015 Arthur Last September 25, 2015 Dave Franklin September 25, 2015 Holly Sluiter October 23, 2015 Bree Radick October 23, 2015 Daryl Keays October 30, 2015 Sara Maedel November 6, 2015 Adam McCormack November 20, 2015 Jacquie Van Dyke November 27, 2015 Carlo Aiello December 18, 2015

Lists compiled by Jude Keast. Congratuliations to everyone and keep hiking!!

Red Trillium. Photograph taken by Brent Michaluk.

E-mail: [email protected] Spring 2016 31 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org 2016 Annual General Meeting Saturday, April 16, 2016 Kortright Centre, 9550 Pine Valley Drive, Woodbridge, ON 905-832-2289

This year the Toronto Bruce Trail Club Annual General Meeting will be held once again at the Kortright Centre. Parking is free and the gate will open at 9:15 am.

Last year we asked you whether you were willing to help pay for the cost of the event; most of you said yes – thank you! As a result, we will be asking each attendee to contribute $10 toward the cost of lunch. The money we save will be used to support the BTC’s important work towards land conservation. Members will be asked to make online reservations for lunch. Further information will be provided in E-notes posts.

HIKING

Two guided hikes will be featured on the Kortright Centre property. Wayne Crockett will lead a leisurely walk suitable for beginners while Lucy Leung will lead a fast-paced, invigorating hike for those who desire a workout. The Kortright trails are well marked and are also avail- able for exploring on your own. A free bus will be leaving from York Mills at 9:00 am to transport members to the AGM. Online registra- tion is required to secure a seat on the bus. See details in the hiking section of this Footnotes.

THE AGENDA FOR THE DAY

9:00 am Bus departs York Mills for Kortright Centre 9:45 am and 10:00 am Guided hikes on the Kortright property 11:30 am to 12:30 pm Meet and Mingle; Silent auction display 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm Lunch – cost to members $10.00 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm Business Meeting 3:00 pm to 4:15 pm Keynote Speaker & Questions Bus returns to Toronto after meeting concludes

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Our keynote speaker this year will be Randal Heide, Executive Director of Wildlife Preservation Canada (WPC). WPC saves Canadian animals that are on the brink of extinction. Over two hundred of Canada’s native terrestrial animal species are now considered at risk, and the number is growing every year. Since its founding in 1985, WPC has supported Canadian biologists to help save these species; notable work includes the prairie Swift Fox, the Piping Plover, the Burrowing Owl, the Loggerhead Shrike, and Canada’s many threatened turtles. WPC rescues these animals by breeding them in captivity and returning them to the wild. WPC is affiliated with the global Gerald Durrell Foundation. Having nurtured a lifelong passion for nature, Randal describes himself as “a lapsed fisherman, terminally-intermediate birder (I learn the calls but can’t remember them!), and avid native plant gardener.” His desire to help make a difference for the environment grew with the realization that more than just habitat protection is required to save Canada’s natural ecosystems. Randal holds an MBA from the University of Tennessee, is a past president of Toronto’s Strategic Leadership Forum, and serves on the Board of Directors of Alterna Savings, one of Ontario’s largest credit unions.

DIRECTIONS TO THE KORTRIGHT CENTRE

By car, the Kortright Centre is located 3km west of Highway 400, north of Rutherford Road and south of Major Mackenzie Drive on Pine Valley Drive. Personalized directions online at: http://www.kortright.org/visitorinformation/directions By transit: take the Yonge Subway to Finch. Walk to the York Region-Go Transit Transfer Station and take the VIVA Blue line bus to Yonge St. and 16th Avenue, remember to get a transfer. At 16th Avenue, take the Rutherford/16th Avenue #85 Bus westbound to Pine Valley Drive. Hike North on Pine Valley Drive 1.5 km to the entrance Kortright Centre. Alternate Route is #13 Islington TTC Bus to 16th Av- enue. Pine Valley Drive is approximately 1 km east of Islington. You will have about a 20-minute hilly walk up Pine Valley Drive and into the site. Please support your club with your attendance and keep checking E-Notes and our website www.torontobrucetrailclub.org for additional information.

32 Spring 2016 Club Info Line: 416-763-9061