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Caledon Comment
Vol 50 No 1 Spring 2012
All Day p.m. 4 p.m. 3 p.m. 2 p.m. 1 a.m. 10 WHERE:Caledon Village Place WHEN: . Annual General Meeting – - - -
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Potluck DinnerPotluck
Special Presentation Silent Silent Auction merchandise BTC and table
River Hike: Annual General Meeting Refreshments at SocialCaledon Hour & Village Place
pace. Car (Charleston SideRoad) On east the sideof Hwyjust10 south of #24 18313 HurontarioSt/Hwy Caledonin 10 Village donate silentto the auction Checkyour closets and bring yourunwanted treasures to withthose sensitivities.food Bringyour favouritedish withlist a of the ingredients for Conservancy. theBruceAnniversary of Trail Dr.Philip Gosling ofto the in 50th Recognition decision Participate inelections tothe board and in club Meetparkingin the lotat Caledon Village Place, Sunday, April1,2012 — - Photo by courtesy of Steve Arscott (CHBTC website) Arscott (CHBTC Steve by of courtesy Photo
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2011—2012 EXECUTIVE Two Easy Ways to Get the Caledon PRESIDENT LAND STEWARDSHIP Jean Kerins Dave Moule 416-245-8662 416-225-2069 (home) Comment to Appear in Your INBOX [email protected] 519-940-9258 (farm) [email protected] BTC DIRECTOR 1. SEND AN EMAIL Jean Kerins PUBLICITY 416-245-8662 Louise Carberry [email protected] [email protected] Send an email to Laura [email protected]
VICE PRESIDENT VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR at the BTC office with a request to sign up for Vacant Colleen Darrell 519-833-2311 the electronic version of the Caledon Com- SECRETARY [email protected] Robert Gillespie ment. Make sure to include your full name so [email protected] SOCIAL CONVENER Greg Huffman she can find you in the membership directory. TREASURER 519-833-2311 Irmgard Richter [email protected] 2. SIGN UP YOURSELF FROM THE 905-828-6984 [email protected] FUNDRAISING COORDINATOR Vacant WEBSITE HIKE COORDINATOR Joan Richard PAST PRESIDENT Go to the Club website 416-767-7550 Janice McClelland [email protected] 519-833-7261 www.caledonbrucetrail.org and click on this [email protected] TRAIL COORDINATOR button. Joan Richard DIRECTORS AT LARGE 416-767-7550 Peter Leeney [email protected] 905-822-1877
[email protected] MEMBERSHIP/ CORRESPONDENCE Diane McKenzie This will take you to the BTC main sign up Brenda Tipper 519-855-6651 [email protected] [email protected] page. Sign in with your membership Informa-
LANDOWNER RELATIONS Gary Hall tion and follow the directions. Carol Sheppard 905-880-4037 519-942-9864 [email protected] Thank you to everyone who has already [email protected] signed up for the electronic version of the newsletter. 2010-2011 Support Volunteers WEBMASTER TUESDAY HIKE COORDINATOR Cal E-News is our club email newsletter that keeps members David Lamb Marilyn Ross up to date on major club activities between editions of The [email protected] 905-453-2254 [email protected] Caledon Comment.
ARCHIVIST If you are interested in receiving Cal E-News, contact: Helen Billing EDITOR, CAL E-NEWS [email protected] 416-225-8448 Kristina Zeromskiene [email protected] [email protected] Over 500 subscribers and growing!
ASSISTANT HIKE COORDINATOR EDITOR, CALEDON COMMENT ADVERTISING Farrukh Husain Leslie Bissegger [email protected] [email protected]
ADVERTISING COORDINATOR TYPE RATES Louise Porter [email protected] Business Card (3.5 x 2.0) $30
Quarter Page (3.75 x 5.0) $60 DEADLINE FOR THE SUMMER EDITION: April 1, 2012 Send copy by email to: [email protected] Column (3.0 x 9.0) $70 Opinions expressed in Caledon Comment are not necessarily the views of Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club unless stated as such. Half Page (7.5 x 5.0) $85 Advertisements do not necessarily imply endorsement by Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club or The Bruce Trail Conservancy. Full Page (7.5 x 9.5) $145 Send address changes to The Bruce Trail Conservancy at PO Box 857 Hamilton, ON L8N 3N9 Rates do not include HST Caledon Comment is the quarterly publication of Terms: Cheque with order CALEDON HILLS BRUCE TRAIL CLUB one of the nine member clubs of the Bruce Trail Conservancy. Cheque must be made payable to: Please visit Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club’s website at “The Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club” www.caledonbrucetrail.org
Spring 2012 2 Notes from the President <<< Jean Kerins
An Update on The Cheltenham Badlands Some of you may have seen the traffic control measures that were implemented along Olde Base Line Road near the Cheltenham Badlands during September and October. These parking controls and traffic counting measures were all part of the background work being done by the Cheltenham Badlands Management Planning Committee which is hard at work to develop a sustainable management plan for the Badlands property. Many of you will agree that the property appears tired and neglected. Rogue trails, vandalism, illegal activities, unsafe vehicular traffic and great quantities of garbage present continual problems that must be resolved. It is our duty as stewards of the land to do as much as we can to preserve and protect this wonderful piece of Ontario for future generations to enjoy. It is the mandate of the Management Planning Committee to develop a workable plan to achieve this goal.
I can tell you that this is my first experience being involved in the development of a management plan, which is a very detailed document developed in part to outline the future permitted uses of a property. The plan must be approved by all the stakeholders, and in this case there are many, including Ontario Heritage Trust, Credit Valley Conservation Authority, the Bruce Trail Conservancy, the Region of Peel, the Town of Caledon, the Caledon Countryside Alliance, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Niagara Escarpment Commission. With so many levels of co-operation required, Cheltenham Badlands—photo Steve Arscott combined with busy schedules all around, it is a wonder that (CHBTC website) any progress gets made, but I am pleased to say that in 2011 there was a strong momentum from everyone involved to come up with a workable plan for the Badlands property.
The process has been both interesting and educational to me. Each stakeholder has actively followed their own mandates to ensure that the best possible recommendations are brought forth to the public for consideration. As previously mentioned, the Region of Peel has conducted extensive traffic studies and has provided considerable expertise on different parking options. Ontario Heritage Trust has conducted archeological studies to ensure that the history of the site is protected. The University of Toronto was brought in to conduct soil erosion studies which will be ongoing over the next few years. Complete inventories have been done of the property to ensure that any and all endangered species are protected in the future plans for the property. The property has been surveyed, and Ontario Heritage Trust has had preliminary concept drawings developed for a viewing platform. In fact, the various stakeholders are continually in the process of conducting their own “due diligence” based on all the information provided as the process moves along. One goal of the Management Planning Committee is to contact local universities to conduct a design competition which should bring out some of our best young architectural talents to help create a viewing platform we all can enjoy that does not seem out of place with the natural splendor of the site.
A public meeting will be held this spring to discuss the latest work done by the Management Planning Committee. Various options on ways to proceed will be presented for discussion. Your input into how the Cheltenham Badlands property can best be cared for in the future is important. Please plan to attend. Full details will be available in an upcoming Cal e-news and on our website as soon as they are available. I hope to see you there.
3 Spring 2012 Special invitation to 2012 Caledon Hills Annual General Meeting < On the front cover of this edition of the Caledon Comment you will have seen the notice about the upcoming Annual General Meeting on Sunday, April 1st. Groundhog Day is behind us and April Fools’ Day is the perfect day to attend our AGM, proving that you are anything but a fool because you are taking an active role in the running of your Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club. 2012 is a very special year for the Bruce Trail Conservancy as it begins five years of 50th Anniversary celebra- tions. From 1962 until 1967 the BTC had many firsts that we are celebrating 50 years later from 2012 to 2017. You can be a part of history at this year’s AGM as the Caledon Hills Club helps the Bruce Trail Conser- vancy kick off the 50th Anniversary celebrations with a very special presentation to a very special Bruce Trail pioneer, Dr. Philip Gosling. Dr. Gosling’s involvement in the founding of the Bruce Trail is legendary, and his lifetime of contributions to our treasure of a trail are truly worthy of recognition. Dr. Gosling took a year off work in 1962 to lay out the trail from Niagara to Tobermory, meeting with landowners along the entire route, organizing local clubs, and plotting land to lay out the best route possible. As it would turn out, Dr. Gosling became the first president of the Caledon Hills Club along the way. Quite fittingly, the Board of Directors of the Caledon Hills Club unanimously approved the bestowing of this honour on Dr. Gosling. I am extending a personal invitation to you as a member of the Caledon Hills Club to attend this year’s Annual General Meeting where you will be able to meet Dr. Gosling and chat with him after the presentation. To quote Ross McLean, another long-time Caledon Hills member and BTC supporter, “We all owe an immense debt to Philip for his vitally important role in establishing the Bruce Trail on the ground in the 1960’s”. Please join fellow club members in honouring and thanking Dr. Gosling for helping to create the trail we all love and enjoy so much today. Jean Kerins, President Welcome New Members << Brenda Tipper We’d like to extend a warm welcome and thank-you to the new members who have joined the Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club since July of last year. We hope you will find your membership and participation in club activities re- warding. And a big THANK-YOU to over 100 members who have renewed their membership or rejoined the CHBTC over the same time period. Your continuing support helps to keep our club and the Bruce Trail strong. Editors Note: New Hikers and those with legs that are not quite ready for the fast hikes, be sure to read the article on page 8 “Spring 2012 Introductory Hiking Large group of end to enders Program” 4 Spring 2012 Call for Award Nominations Hundreds of volunteers donate time, talent, and 2. The award may be given for an exemplary demon- countless hours to the Caledon Hills Bruce Trail stration of dedication and commitment to the Club. Club so that we can all enjoy the beautiful trail. 3. The recipient of this award will have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the club, having served as a On Sunday June 3, 2012, we honour our dedicated volunteer for a minimum of ten years. volunteers with a special Volunteer Recognition Picnic. This fun-filled day features a morning hike, delectable potluck lunch, and finishes with a presentation of our club awards including: The Isabel East Award, The Barry Westhouse Award The Ross McLean Award. We hope you will join us at our Volunteer Recogni- tion Picnic in June for a time of fellowship and fun as we show our appreciation for the hard work of Caledon’s dedicated volunteers. The Club’s Nominations Committee is currently accepting the names of volunteers for the awards. Please read the awards criteria below, and e-mail nominations to Colleen Darrell at [email protected] or by phone 519-833-2311 by April 15, 2012. THE ISABEL EAST AWARD 1. Must be a member of CHBTC. 2. The successful candidate will have demonstrated the club’s values of transparency, excellent commu- nication and inclusiveness. 3. The recipient of this award has clearly helped CHBTC members to enjoy club activities. The award may be given for an exemplary demon- stration of enthusiasm in a particular project, office or year. It also may be awarded for continued demonstration of enthusiasm over a number of years and/or variety of activities. THE BARRY WESTHOUSE AWARD 1. Must be a member of CHBTC. 2. The successful candidate will have demonstrated active involvement in the physical work of trail maintenance and development. 3. Must have a long-standing volunteer commitment to trail work. The award best exemplifies an unsung volunteer commitment to the trail. THE ROSS MCLEAN AWARD 1. Must be a member of CHBTC. Spring 2012 5 Spring 2 Day Bed & Breakfast Hikes on May 28 and 29 < This time we will hike in the Kingston area in eastern Ontario on the Rideau Trail on Monday, and Marble Rock on Tuesday. Monday – a challenging 13 km. loop hike north along the Main Trail, on to the Mine Loop and then return on the Ridgewalk south to the Main Trail, back to the meet point. Evidently, one of the most scenic sections of the Rideau Trail. Lunch on the trail. Meet: 9.20 a.m. at the Gould Lake Conservation Area. See note 2 below! Monday evening group dinner at 6.30 p.m. at a location to be advised when you register for the hikes. See note 2 below! Tuesday – a challenging 11 km. double loop hike at Marble Rock Conservation Area, called Blue Loops. Much of the trail is on or near exposed bedrock, which is part of the Canadian Shield. Marble Rock Conserva- tion Area gives hikers challenging and picturesque terrain, featuring breathtaking views at the lookouts along both the North and South Trails. The diversity of the biosphere is evident here, rich with flora and fauna. Deer, otter, beaver, blue heron, grouse, frogs, interesting insects and wild turkeys can be seen along the trail. Wildflowers, fungi, mushrooms, lichens, mosses, ferns and many species of trees including mature birch are sights to be seen throughout the area. Snack stop only at about 11.30 Meet: 9.15 a.m. at the Marble Rock Conservation Area. See note 2 below! Notes: 1] Hiking boots are very necessary for these hikes! 2] Directions to both the Monday and Tuesday hikes and group dinner location will be emailed to you on receipt of your registration! Please copy and bring with you! Also carpool for Monday’s hike, if possible! 3] Accommodations: there are many B&B’s in Kingston and Gananoque areas; check Ontario Bed and Breakfast Accommodations on the internet. Leaders – Dave Platt [email protected] or 905 859 4704 Ray Matsalla [email protected] or 905 727 6168 Please register with Ray no later than May 14 for the hikes and the group dinner on the Monday night, as space for our group dinner maybe limited. Please, no late registrations accepted! Fifty years in the making... The Bruce Trail Conservancy will celebrate a series of 50th Anniversary milestones between 2012 and 2017. All past and present volunteers are encouraged to join us on June 9, 2012 to share in 50 years of Bruce Trail memories and the celebration of 50 years of Bruce Trail volunteering. Location Dundas Valley Conservation Area, Hamilton, ON Trail Centre building via Governor's Road entrance Date - June 9, 2012 Time - 11 am to 4 pm Program - Lunch, live entertainment, historical displays and hiking on your magnificent Bruce Trail. RSVP by May 1 2012 to: Jackie Randle Director of Volunteer Programs [email protected] or 905 525 1978 Spring 2012 6 Christmas Tree Sales < A BIG THANKYOU Christmas tree sales have been a big fundraiser over the years for our club. All the work is done by volunteers. This year’s sales crew was organized by Marilyn Ross. The crew were: Diane McKenzie, Louise Carberry Ann Broadhead, Pat and Dave Platt, Peter and Judy Leeney, Claire Devlin, Ken and Carol Shepherd, Ross McLean, Bob and Gail Douglas, Alison Pollitt, Don Christenson, Irmgard Richter, Trevor Stock, Dave Hull, Phil Kidston, Jean Trask and Sallie Smythe. Thanks to all. While it can be fun and very Christmasy, it can also be cold and tiring, and your time is appreciated at a very busy time of year. An extra big thank you to Peter Moule who was “volunteered” to pick up any slack if people were late or had to leave early, and all other fetching and helping, and did so cheerfully. As well, we could not do this at all without the full support of Sally Cohen and Dave Moule, and the whole Marilyn Ross, Ross McLean, Peter Moule family who graciously allow so many people on their property for Moulec the sake of the Bruce Trail. Day 1 By Diane McKenzie Day 1 of Christmas Tree Sales featuring our own Kris Kringle McLean----if we had sat him out on Airport Road, I'm certain that we would have had a traffic jam. Thanks to Ross McLean and Peter Moule for taking over the afternoon shift! Christmas Tree Sales Report by Louise Carberry The first day of Christmas Tree Sales dawned bright and sunny. It was perfect weather to put Marilyn and Diane in the mood for making wreaths and filling pots with evergreen displays to sell to potential customers. These two club members have made a tradition of creating colorful displays, enticing customers not only to cut their tree of choice, but to add variety to their home decora- tions. When I arrived on the second day of sales, the snow had disappeared and a light misty rain was falling. But our spirits were high as we built up the fire, collected more evergreen boughs for the pots, and brought out the hot apple cider to give a homey atmosphere to the day. After a slow start, 5 cars arrived within 10 minutes of each other. Each family wanted something a little different, and they all went away with the tree of their choice. One family had not had a fresh tree at home since they arrived in Canada 20 years ago. They had a little car, so a little tree was all they could manage. Another family knew the routine and came prepared with rope to tie their perfect tree on top of the car. The best part of the day is talking with people and sharing the joy of making this season special. Total sales for the season exceeded $2,000.00, better than expected. Once again, it is one of our best fundraisers, as well as great outreach to spread the word about the BTC to the community. Christmas tree sales continue to be a popular fundraiser for our club, as well as a fun place to volunteer and to find a tree. While the weather was very changeable, the pleasure families find in picking that perfect tree is constant. Carol Sheppard has provided us with pictures of two of the happy families she met on her shift; the Brennans from Brampton and the Kovachs from Orangeville. Spring 2012 7 Spring 2012 Introductory Hiking Program << Robert Gillespie If you are new to hiking or looking for a gentle way to ease back after an illness, this is the place for you. Nine introductory hikes will be held on Saturdays and Sundays from April 7 to May 6, 2012 with the exception of Easter Sunday, April 8. You will have an opportunity to learn how to follow trail blazes, chat with the leader and others about gear and make new friends. Since the ground on a hike is generally uneven and rocky and may be muddy in some sections, hiking boots or shoes are preferable but since new hikers may not have access to such equipment, just be sure you wear comfortable walking shoes. You may wish to bring bottled water, snacks or extra clothes. Please consider carrying these in a knapsack or fanny pack so your hands are free making walking more comfortable. There will be an optional refreshment stop after most of the hikes. Please note, that unless otherwise stated in the description, dogs are not allowed on the group hikes. Each hike is unique. Choose the ones that appeal to you or attend them all! Here is a brief description of each hike: Saturday, April 7, 2012: Caledon Hills – Hockley Valley: Hike Distance: 5.3 km Type of hike: Loop Leader: Vic Davis Start Time: 10:00 a.m. Approximate Duration: 2 hours. Saturday, April 14, 2012: Iroquoia – River & Ruin Side Trail: Hike Distance: 5.5 km Type of hike: Loop Leader: Robert Gillespie Start Time: 10:30 a.m. Approximate Duration: 2 hours. Sunday, April 15, 2012: Limehouse: Hike Distance: 9 km with drop-out at 4 km Type of hike: Loop Leaders: Peter &Judy Leeney Start Time: 10:00 a.m. Approximate Duration: 4.5 hours for full 9km with lunch break on trail. Saturday, April 21, 2012: Humber Valley Heritage Trail: Hike Distance: 15.5 km with drop-out at 8 km Type of hike: Car Shuttle Leader: Bob Slack Start Time: 9:30 a.m. Approximate Duration: 6 hours for full 15.5 km with lunch break on trail. Sunday, April 22, 2012: Palgrave Forest and Wildlife Area: Hike Distance: 8 km with drop-out at 3 km Type of hike: Loop Leader: Gary Hall Start Time: 9:30 a.m. Approximate Duration: 3 hours for full 8 km Saturday, April 28, 2012: Caledon Hills – Mono Cliffs Provincial Park: Hike Distance: 8 km Type of hike: Loop Leader: Robert Gillespie Start Time: 9:30 a.m. Approximate Duration: 2.5 hours. Sunday, April 29, 2012: Glen Haffy Caledon Hills Section: Hike Distance: 6 km Type of hike: There & Back Leader: Jean Kerins Start Time: 11 a.m. Approximate Duration: 2 hours. Saturday, May 5, 2012: Silver Creek: Hike Distance:11 km with drop-out at 6.6 km Type of hike: Loop Leaders: Peter &Judy Leeney Start Time: 10 a.m. Approximate Duration: 4 hours for full 11 km. Sunday, May 6, 2012: Forks of the Credit: Hike Distance:8 km Type of hike: Loop Leader: Gary Hall Start Time: 9:30 a.m. Approximate Duration: 3 hours. See Spring Hike listing for further descriptions and hike leader contact information 8 Spring 2012 Accessible Ontario << Joan Richard, Hike Coordinator The Accessible Ontario Disability Act sets the Accessibility Standard for Customer Service which applies to all organizations (public, private and non-profit) that provide goods or services either directly to the public or to other organizations in Ontario and that have one or more employees in Ontario. The customer service standard requires training to staff and volunteers on providing customer service to people with disabilities. This includes hike leaders, who have been asked to take an online training through a government of Ontario website. http://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/ documents/en/mcss/accessibility/Tools/AO_TrainingResource.pdf Hike leaders are now asked to follow the guideline from the BTC: While there are a few portions of the Bruce Trail within Conservation Areas that are wheelchair accessible, use of the majority of the Trail is suitable for foot traffic only. To participate in an organized hike, you need to be able to complete the specified length of the hike on your own or with your own support person within the time allowed. Please refer to the hiking schedule for hike details. This statement will now be part of all the hike listings, and appears on our website. SUSQUEHANNOCK LODGE and TRAIL CENTRE Trail Work Continues in Winter Hiking in the Highlands of North Central Pennsylvania << Dave Moule Even in winter, the work of maintaining and improv- ing the Trail goes on. During the Christmas holiday break, Quadrant Leader Dave Moule was walking the Trail just east of Airport Road (km 50.9) and noticed a wet area about 20 metres long. A culvert was bringing water under the road and dumping it right next to the Trail. This had always been the case, but the abundant precipitation this Fall meant Easter April 6-9 that flooding was occurring on the Trail, where it had The snow will be gone, time for some Spring not occurred before. Fortunately, an alternate route training on the trails. Ed promises a full Polish on higher ground was available just a few metres to Easter dinner. the east, in a stand of Scots pines. The new route was quickly flagged, then cut open by removing the Canada Day June 27-July 4 lower branches from some of the pines. Since the Celebrate two holiday, stay as few or as many weather was below freezing, and snow was falling days as you choose. at the time, paint blazes could not be applied. The Lodge is located in Potter County, Pennsylvania, 2.5 However, the installation of 4 temporary metal hours south of Buffalo. There is no agriculture or industry in blazes and the scraping off of the old paint blazes the area, just great trails. Daily hikes of 10 to 15 km are led through hardwood forest, many beside mountain streams. soon had the new route open. For good measure, Our lodge provides comfortable accommodation & excellent the pine boughs that were cut to open the new route meals for $60.00 semi-private or $70.00 private U.S. per day were placed on the old route to block it. Two hours’ per person. These outings have proven to be popular with work equals 45 metres of new, dry trail, plus a the lodge filling up quickly. bonus: the old trail was in an open grassy area that For more information, including driving directions, please see www.execulink.com/~gvincent or contact Greg Vincent needed to be mowed in summer. The reroute is at 519-579-8210 or [email protected]. shaded by the pines and will not need mowing, so For reservations call Carol Szymanik at 1-814-435-2163 our future maintenance responsibilities will be reduced. Spring 2012 9 SPRING HIKING SCHEDULE FRIDAY MARCH 2: Oak Ridges dropouts. Ice footwear (in case NOTES TO HIKERS Trail, Uxbridge, Map 5 (ORTA). required). Refreshment stop after- Moderate, 16 km, 4.75 hrs. Variable wards. terrain. Fast pace. A Loop hike with no Depart: 9:30 a.m., BT Parking area at Please arrive 15 to 20 minutes th before departure time. dropouts. Ice footwear or snowshoes Airport Rd and 7 Line (km 45.1). (in case required). Refreshment stop Directions: From Hwy 9, drive 1.7 km afterwards. north on Airport Rd to 7th Line, then Bruce Trail map and kilometre Depart: 9:30 a.m., Durham Forest turn right. We will link the Oak Ridges references are taken from the (main tract) parking area. Directions: Trail with the Palgrave Side Trail and 26th edition of the Bruce Trail From Hwy 401, exit at Brock Rd (exit then continue on the main trail. The Reference. 399), drive north to Durham 21 (at hike will start in the Palgrave Forest Always carry your Ontario Health Coppins Corners), then 4 km east to and finish up in the Humber Heights Card. Concession 7, then 700 m south to the area. Carry an adequate amount of forest entrance on the east side. A late Leader: Charlie Atkinson water and food. winter woodland hike, consisting of a 905.642.2408 (Before 9 p.m.) or email If you have to carry an auto- figure-8 loop, joining the Durham [email protected] injector or other medical device, Forest main tract, Walker Woods and part of the Glen Major Forest. Hike FRIDAY APRIL 6: Toronto Section, make sure someone on the hike pace and distance may be adjusted Terra Cotta, Map 14. knows about it. depending on the trail conditions. Moderate to Strenuous, 19 km, 5.25 Unless stated otherwise, hiking Leader: Charlie Atkinson hrs. Variable, rocky terrain with boots are required and no dogs 905.642.2408 (Before 9 p.m.) or email muddy sections. Fast pace. A Loop are allowed. [email protected] hike with no dropouts. Ice footwear (in case required). Pub stop afterwards. While there are a few portions of FRIDAY MARCH 16: Oak Ridges Depart: 9:30 a.m., km 47.9 (Boston the Bruce Trail within Conserva- Trail, King East, Map 2 (ORTA). Mills Rd, just west of Mississauga Rd). tion Areas that are wheelchair Moderate to Strenuous, 18 km, 5.5 hrs. A there and back/loop combination – accessible, use of the majority of Variable terrain with some hills. Fast tying together the main trail with the the Trail is suitable for foot traffic pace. A Shuttle hike with an optional Rockside and Winston Churchill Side dropout at 9km (phone leader for Trails. only. To participate in an organ- dropout arrangements). Ice footwear Leader: Charlie Atkinson ized hike, you need to be able to (in case required). Refreshment stop 905.642.2408 (Before 9 p.m.) or email complete the specified length of afterwards. [email protected] the hike on your own or with your Depart: 9:30 a.m., 18th Sideroad, just own support person within the east of 8th Concession. Directions: SATURDAY APRIL 7: Iroquoia, time allowed. Please refer to the From Hwy 400 (exit 43), drive 5.4 km Rattlesnake Point C.A., Map 11. hiking schedule for hike details. west on King Rd (York Rd 11), then Moderate, 14 km. Variable terrain. th drive 8.2 km north on 8 Concession Medium pace. A Loop hike with no th Hike Levels (Easy, Moderate, or to the 18 Sideroad. We will shuttle to dropouts. Hiking boots required. Strenuous) are assessed by a Dufferin St and hike back via Eaton Please note that there is an entrance combination of pace, distance, Hall, Mary Lake and the rolling King charge at Rattlesnake Point Conserva- countryside. Hike pace and route may tion Area. and terrain. be adjusted depending on the trail Depart: 9 a.m., the upper parking lot conditions. of Rattlesnake Point Conservation Hike Pace Leader: Charlie Atkinson Area. From there we will then hike Leisurely 3 km/hr or less 905.642.2408 (Before 9 p.m.) or email over to Crawford Lake and back, via Medium about 4 km/hr [email protected] the Rattlesnake Point Access trail, the Fast about 5 km/hr Leech Porter Side Trail, Canyon FRIDAY MARCH 30: Caledon Bypass Trail, and the Main Trail. This Hills, Albion Hills, Map 17. is your opportunity for a warm up hike Moderate to Strenuous, 20 km, 6 hrs. to get the muscles moving for a new Variable terrain with hilly sections. season of hiking. Dogs permitted, but Fast pace. A Shuttle hike with no (Continued on page 11) 10 Spring 2012 SPRING HIKING SCHEDULE Continued Leaders: Bob Humphreys INTRODUCTORY HIKING must be leashed, and owners scoop the 519.883.1840 (7-10 p.m.) or email PROGRAM: We will follow the poop. [email protected] Black Creek Side Trail to the village of Leaders: Bob Humphreys Limehouse then do a loop north of the 519.883.1840 (7-10 p.m.) or email SATURDAY APRIL 14: Iroquoia, village, returning on the Main Trail [email protected] River & Ruin Side Trail, Map 10. through the interesting ―Hole in the Introduction to Hiking. Wall‖ feature. SATURDAY APRIL 7: Caledon Easy, 5.5 km, 2 hrs. Flat terrain. Leaders: Judy and Peter Leeney Hills, Hockley Valley (Hockleycrest Leisurely pace. A Loop hike with no 905.822.1877 (Before 10 p.m.) or area), Map 18. dropouts. New Hikers and Families email [email protected] Introduction to Hiking. are welcome. Refreshment stop Easy, 5.3 km, 2 hrs. Hilly terrain. afterwards. FRIDAY APRIL 20: Iroquoia, Leisurely pace. A Loop hike with no Depart: 10:30 a.m., Lowville park Mount Nemo/Kelso, Maps 10/11. dropouts. New Hikers and Families public parking lot. Directions: Take Moderate to Strenuous, 22 km, 6.25 are welcome. Refreshment stop Guelph Line into village of Lowville hrs. Variable, rocky terrain with hilly afterwards. just north of the intersection with sections. Fast pace. A Shuttle hike Depart: 10 a.m., Small parking lot on Britannia Rd. Where Guelph Line with no dropouts. Refreshment stop 5th Sideroad. Directions: From the turns west in front of the Lowville afterwards. Please note that there is an intersection of Hwy 9 and Airport Bistro restaurant there is a short entrance charge at Kelso Conservation Road (Mono Mills), go north on entrance road into the Lowville Park Area. Airport Road for 3 km. Then turn right public parking lot. The hike leader’s Depart: 9:30 a.m., Km 119.1, Kelso (east) on the 5th Sideroad and drive car will have a Canadian flag attached C.A. (west parking lot near the 0.6 km to the small parking lot where to the window behind the driver’s seat. pedestrian railway bridge). Directions: the Bruce Trail crosses the road. We will leave all cars in this parking Take Hwy 401 to Milton (exit 320), INTRODUCTORY HIKING lot while we complete this loop hike. then drive 1.2 km south on Reg. Rd 25, PROGRAM: We will be hiking north INTRODUCTORY HIKING then 2.3 km west on Steeles Ave (Reg. from the parking lot, doing a loop, and PROGRAM: We will hike a short Rd 8), then 1.9 km north on Tremaine returning south to the cars. distance along Guelph line and into a Rd (Halton Rd 22), then turn left on Leader: Vic Davis 905.895.3944 private access road/trail to the River & Kelso Rd and proceed to the conserva- (Before 9 p.m.) or email Ruin Side trail where we will hike the tion area entrance gate. We will shuttle [email protected] loop of 5.5 km. to km 95.3 and hike back (using a Leader: Robert Gillespie couple of the side trails when we cross SATURDAY APRIL 14: Dufferin Hi 905.824.1240 or email the Nassagaweya Canyon). Some fine -Land, Mono Centre/Primrose, [email protected] views along the way. Maps 19/20. Leader: Charlie Atkinson An Adventure to Tobermory. End-to SUNDAY APRIL 15: Toronto, 905.642.2408 (Before 9 p.m.) or email -end series Limehouse, Map 12. [email protected] Moderate, 15 km. Variable terrain with Introduction to Hiking. muddy sections. Medium pace. A Easy, 9 km, 3 hrs. Flat terrain. SATURDAY APRIL 21: Humber Shuttle hike with no dropouts. Hiking Leisurely pace. A Loop hike with an Valley Heritage Trail. boots required. No dogs please. optional dropout at 4 km. New Hikers Introduction to Hiking. Depart: 9 a.m., km 15.2, the junction and Families are welcome. Refresh- Easy, 15.5 or 8 km. Hilly terrain. of Highway 89 & Hurontario Street. ment stop afterwards. Medium pace. A Shuttle hike with an Directions: Take Highway 10 north Depart: 10 a.m., Ball Park on Fifth optional dropout at 8 km. New Hikers from Orangeville to Primrose, turn Line near km 20.5 Map 12. Directions: and Families are welcome. Refresh- right onto Highway 89 and drive east From Hwy 401 take Trafalgar Rd (exit ment stop afterwards. one kilometre to Hurontario Street and 328) north for 10 km to 15 Side Road. Depart: 9:30 a.m., Dick’s Dam Park, turn right, parking 30 metres south of Turn left then after 3 km turn right at near downtown Bolton. Directions: the junction. We start the second of Fifth Line. Follow for 3 km and watch From Highway 50 (Queen Street in three years with a 15 km hike. We will for Ball Park on right. Bolton), turn west on Hickman Street, shuttle to the start and hike back. (Continued on page 12) Hikes may be added or changed after the Comment goes to print. Check the website, www.caledonbrucetrail.org for the most up-to-date hike listings. Spring 2012 11 SPRING HIKING SCHEDULE Continued th Medium pace. A Shuttle hike with no cleared for agriculture in the 19 century then north on Glasgow Road to Dick’s dropouts. but was abandoned due to its infertility and Dam park. We will carpool to the Depart: 9 a.m., the parking areas at the isolation. northern terminus of the HVHT on Burritts Rapids Swing Bridge on the River Leaders: Jim Vanderlip 416.925.9134 (7- Humber Station Road, at the Caledon Road on the south side of the Rideau River 10 p.m.) in the hamlet of Burritts Rapids. There is Charles Whitlock 519.742.7435 or email Rail Trail. Persons who wish to hike ample parking on the main street north of [email protected] only 8 km. can easily leave their cars the Burritts Rapids Swing Bridge as well Gusti Matei 519.822.9745 on Castlederg Road during the car as a gravel lot south of the bridge on the shuttle. Arrange with leader. east side of the road with space for three or SATURDAY APRIL 28: Rideau Trail, INTRODUCTORY HIKING four vehicles. It is Spring again and time to Kettles Road to Richmond, Maps 13/14 PROGRAM: This hike is mainly join Charles Whitlock, Gusti Matei and (Rideau Trail Guidebook). Hike 13 of through forest, with stretches along Jim Vanderlip for the final third of the 15. farm fields, for good variety. Well Rideau Trail End-to-End hikes. This year Strenuous, 20 km. Variable terrain. behaved dogs are most welcome. we will complete the descent into the Medium pace. A Shuttle hike with no Leader: Bob Slack 905.584.2360 or Ottawa River Valley and finish this series dropouts. of hikes at the new terminus of the Rideau Depart: 9 a.m., km 263.1 where there is email [email protected] Trail in the City of Ottawa adjacent to the parking near the intersection of Eagleson Parliament Buildings. Come out for all or Road & Barnsdale Road to the east of the SUNDAY APRIL 22: Caledon Hills, some of these hikes as you wish. A good hamlet of Richmond. We are now entering Palgrave Forest and Wildlife Area, time will almost certainly be had by all. the flatter and much gentler farmland of Map 17. We will car shuttle back to the community the Ottawa River Valley. We will cross Introduction to Hiking. centre parking area on the west side of farm fields and follow a re-route around Easy, 8 km, 3 hrs. Variable terrain. Rosedale Road South immediately south much of the built up area of the commu- Leisurely pace. A Loop hike with an of the intersection of Rosedale Road South nity of Richmond. optional dropout at 3 km. New Hikers & Guthrie Road. We will hike through an Leaders: Jim Vanderlip 416.925.9134 (7- area known as the ―Long Bush‖ since 10 p.m.) and Families are welcome. settlers’ times (a mix of swamps and Charles Whitlock 519.742.7435 or email Depart: 9:30 a.m., Parking lot off lowland mixed woods) and then along [email protected] Duffy's Lane. Directions: Highway 50 roads and road allowances to the historic Gusti Matei 519.822.9745 - 11 km north of Bolton. Turn West on community of Merrickville. We will hike Patterson Sideroad. Continue west one along the Rideau River through Nichol- SATURDAY APRIL 28: Dufferin Hi- concession to Duffy's Lane, then north son’s Locks to Burritts Rapids. Land, Mono Cliffs Provincial Park, on Duffy's Lane for about 2km. Leaders: Jim Vanderlip 416.925.9134 (7- Map 19. Parking lot will be on right about 500 10 p.m.) Introduction to Hiking. metres north of the point where the Charles Whitlock 519.742.7435 or email Easy, 8 km, 2.5 hrs. Hilly terrain. Palgrave Side Trail crosses Duffy's [email protected] Leisurely pace. A Loop hike with no Gusti Matei 519.822.9745 dropouts. New Hikers and Families are Lane. INTRODUCTORY HIKING welcome. Refreshment stop afterwards. FRIDAY APRIL 27: Rideau Trail, Depart: 9:30 a.m., Mono Community PROGRAM: The hike will consist of Burritts Rapids to Kettles Road, Maps Centre parking lot. Directions: Take Hwy two loops in the Palgrave Forest and 12/13 (Rideau Trail Guidebook). Hike 12 10 north to Dufferin Road 8 about 10 km Wildlife Area. The first loop will be of 15. north of Orangeville. Follow Road 8 to about 3km. and the second one about 5 Strenuous, 23 km. Variable terrain. Mono Centre. The hike leader’s car will km. Dropout possible following the Medium pace. A Shuttle hike with no have a Canadian flag attached to the first loop. dropouts. window behind the driver’s seat. We will Leader: Gary Hall 905.880.4037 Depart: 9 a.m., km 244.3 where the hiking leave all cars in this parking lot while we (Before 9 p.m.) or email gary- trail enters onto Kettles Road east of the complete this loop hike. intersection of Munster Road with Kettles INTRODUCTORY HIKING PRO- [email protected] Road. There is road side parking on GRAM: We will hike into Mono Cliffs Kettles Road in the vicinity of the Park along the Spillway Trail and back THURSDAY APRIL 26: Rideau Canadian National Railway crossing. From along the Cliff Top Trail to return to the Trail, Rosedale Road South to Burritts Rapids we follow Dwyer Hill Mono Community Centre parking lot Burritts Rapids, Maps 10/11/12 Road until we enter and pass through the around noon. (Rideau Trail Guidebook). Hike 11 Marlborough Forest. This area is managed Leader: Robert Gillespie 905.824.1240 or of 15. by the City of Ottawa and consists of email [email protected] Strenuous, 25 km. Variable terrain. wooded and wetland habitats (including alvars). This forested area was once (Continued on page 13) 12 Spring 2012 SPRING HIKING SCHEDULE Continued (Before 9 p.m.) or email onto Prince of Wales Road, and follow SUNDAY APRIL 29: Rideau Trail, [email protected] through to River Road. Turn right and Richmond to the Corkstown Road, follow for 1.5 kilometres to the meeting Maps 14/15 (Rideau Trail Guidebook). MONDAY APRIL 30: Rideau Trail, point in Kilgorie. We will shuttle to the Hike 14 of 15. Corkstown Road to the Parliament start and hike back. Strenuous, 23 km. Variable terrain. Buildings, Maps 15/16 (Rideau Trail Leaders: Bob Humphreys 519.883.1840 Medium pace. A Shuttle hike with no Guidebook). Hike 15 of 15. (7-10 p.m.) or email walk2tober- dropouts. Strenuous, 22 km. Variable terrain. [email protected] Depart: 9 a.m., the Corkstown Road west Medium pace. A Shuttle hike with no of Moodie Drive (Regional Road # 59) dropouts. SATURDAY MAY 5: Toronto, Silver north of Highway # 417 in the former Depart: 9 a.m., in front of The Keg Creek, Map 13. municipality of Nepean. There is a parking Restaurant at 75 York Street in the Byward Introduction to Hiking. lot at the Conservation Area on the north Market area of the City of Ottawa. We will Easy, 11 km, 4 hrs. Flat terrain. Leisurely side of Corkstown Road just west of where arrange to park cars in a nearby parking pace. A There and Back hike with an the trail exits from the subway under the facility and car pool back to the meeting optional dropout at 6.6 km. New Hikers 417. This point can be accessed from exit # point for hike # 4. Today we complete the and Families are welcome. Refreshment 134 from the Queensway. We will odyssey which we began three years ago in stop afterwards. continue our gentle descent through the Kingston. We will hike along the Ottawa Depart: 10 a.m., Scotsdale Farm parking. fields, forests and swamps into the River through city parks until we arrive at Directions: From Hwy 401 take Trafalgar increasingly urbanized areas alongside the the new terminus of the Rideau Trail at the Rd (exit 328) north 17 km. At traffic Ottawa River before our final advance into Federal Parliament Buildings. lights, Trafalgar joins Hwy 7. Very soon the old City of Ottawa and the end of the Leaders: Jim Vanderlip 416.925.9134 (7- Hwy 7 curves left but continue straight trail. 10 p.m.) ahead on Trafalgar Rd. About 2 km north Leaders: Jim Vanderlip 416.925.9134 (7- Charles Whitlock 519.742.7435 or email of 27 Side Road watch for sign for 10 p.m.) [email protected] Scotsdale Farm on right opposite a Charles Whitlock 519.742.7435 or email Gusti Matei 519.822.9745 driveway with large stone blocks. [email protected] INTRODUCTORY HIKING PRO- Gusti Matei 519.822.9745 FRIDAY MAY 4: Caledon Hills, GRAM: This is a two-part hike for new Hockley Valley, Map 18. hikers. Part A is 6.6 km in total on the SUNDAY APRIL 29: Caledon Hills, Strenuous, 21 km, 6.25 hrs. Hilly terrain. Main Trail and Duff Pit Side Trail Glen Haffy, Map 17. Fast pace. A Shuttle hike with no dropouts. returning to the parking lot. Part B is a 4.1 Introduction to Hiking. Refreshment stop afterwards. km loop on the Main Trail and Side Trails. Easy, 5 to 6 km, 2 hrs. Variable terrain. Depart: 9:30 a.m., km 47.2, map18. Leaders: Judy and Peter Leeney Leisurely pace. A There and Back hike Directions: From Hwy 9, drive 3.5 km 905.822.1877 (Before 10 p.m.) or email with dropouts anywhere. New Hikers and north on Airport Rd, then 0.6 km east on [email protected] Families are welcome. Refreshment stop 5th Sideroad to the parking area on the afterwards. north side. We will shuttle to the 3rd Line SUNDAY MAY 6: Caledon Hills, Forks Depart: 11 a.m., where the main trail access point and hike back – using a of the Credit, Map 15. crosses Coolihans Sideroad near Glen combination of the main trail and a few Introduction to Hiking. Haffy Road. Directions: From the side trails, plus some off trail. Easy, 8 km, 3 hrs. Hilly terrain. Leisurely intersection of Highway #9 and Airport Leader: Charlie Atkinson 905.642.2408 pace. A Shuttle hike with no dropouts. Road, go south on Airport Road approx (Before 9 p.m.) or email CA- New Hikers and Families are welcome. 3km to Coolihan's Side Road. Turn east [email protected] Depart: 9:30 a.m., Forks of the Credit (left) on Coolihan's Side Road and drive Road & Dominion Street. Directions: approximately 1.75km to the roadside SATURDAY MAY 5: Dufferin Hi- Follow Forks of the Credit Road for about parking. Land, Primrose, Map 20. 4 km. west of Highway 10. Roadside INTRODUCTORY HIKING PRO- An Adventure to Tobermory. End-to- parking on north side of Forks of Credit GRAM: We will hike on the main trail in end series. Road at Dominion Street. a beautiful forested corner of Caledon and Moderate, 19 km. Variable terrain with INTRODUCTORY HIKING PRO- you will have an opportunity to learn how muddy sections. Medium pace. A Shuttle GRAM: From the meeting point, we'll car to follow the trail blazes, learn names of hike with no dropouts. Hiking boots pool to the Forks of the Credit Conserva- some of the spring flowers and make new required. No dogs please. tion Area parking lot on McLaren Rd. friends as you stroll along the trail. Depart: 9 a.m., km 34.1 in Kilgorie. (parking fee). During this leisurely hike, Leader: Jean Kerins 416.245.8662 Directions: Take Highway 10 north from Orangeville to Primrose, go straight across (Continued on page 14) Hikes may be added or changed after the Comment goes to print. Check the website, www.caledonbrucetrail.org for the most up-to-date hike listings. Spring 2012 13 SPRING HIKING SCHEDULE Continued TUESDAY HIKING Honeywood, turn north on Prince of Tuesday Mar 6: Caledon Section we'll learn about the natural and human Wales Road, then east on Mulmur- Glen Haffy, Map 17, history of the Credit Forks area and how Nottawasaga Townline to the cemetery Moderate level 11 km hike at a the natural resources of the area led to the 0.5km east of Lavender. Do not park medium pace, some hills, 3.5 hrs. early economic development of Caledon. in the village of Lavender. We will Loop hike with no drop-out. Hiking For keen hikers, the hike may be extended for another 3 km. (steep strenuous climb) shuttle to the start and hike back. boots and icers required. to investigate the Lime Kiln ruins on the Leaders: Bob Humphreys No dogs please. Bring water and side of the escarpment (an extra hour). 519.883.1840 (7-10 p.m.) or email lunch/snack. Those not wanting to extend the hike [email protected] Depart: 9:30 a.m. from roadside will return to their vehicles and call it a parking area at corner of Glen Haffy day. FRIDAY MAY 18: Dufferin Hi- and Leader: Gary Hall 905.880.4037 Land, Boyne Valley, Map 20. Coolihans Sideroad (km 38.7). (Before 9 p.m.) or email gary- Strenuous, 21 km, 6 hrs. Hilly terrain. Directions: Coolihans Sideroad is [email protected] Fast pace. A Shuttle hike with no south of Hwy 9 running east off dropouts. Refreshment stop afterwards. Airport Rd. SUNDAY MAY 6: Iroquoia, Depart: 9:30 a.m., km 18.7, map 20. We will hike north on Glen Haffy Side Crawford Lake C.A., Maps 11. Directions: From the Primrose junction Trail to Main trail and hike south to the Easy to Moderate, 10 km, 4 hrs. Hilly, at Hwys 89 and 10, drive 3.3 km north cars through the beautiful Glen Haffy rocky terrain. Medium pace. A Loop on Prince of Wales Rd (Dufferin Rd Conservation Area. Refreshments hike with no dropouts. New Hikers 19), then 1.3 km east on Sideroad 5, afterwards. are welcome. Hiking boots suggested. then south on Centre Rd to roadside Leader: Marilyn Ross No dogs please. Refreshment stop parking at the dead-end. A shuttle, [email protected] 905-453-2254 afterwards. Please note that there is an there and back/loop combination - before 9:00 pm. entrance charge at Crawford Lake which will include the Primrose Loop, Conservation Area. Boyne Valley and Oliver Creek side Tuesday Mar 13: Dufferin Hi-land Depart: 10 a.m., Crawford Lake trails. Mono Cliffs, Map 19. Conservation Area Parking Lot. Leader: Charlie Atkinson Moderate level 11 km loop hike (3 hrs) Directions: Take Hwy 401 west to 905.642.2408 (Before 9 p.m.) or email on variable terrain Guelph Line in Milton, go south on [email protected] at a medium pace. No drop-outs. Guelph Line to Conservation Rd Hiking boots and (formerly Steeles Ave), turn left and SATURDAY MAY 26: Blue icers required. Bring water and snacks. follow to end. We'll hike from Mountain, Black Bank/Devil’s Glen, No dogs please. Refreshment stop Crawford Lake down the Nassagaweya Maps 21/22. afterwards. Canyon and up the other side to An Adventure to Tobermory. End-to Depart: 9:30 a.m. from the Mono Rattlesnake Point Park and then loop -end series. Community Centre. around back. There are some nice Moderate, 21 km. Variable terrain. Directions: Take Hwy 10 north to lookouts on this hike. Coffee after at Medium pace. A Shuttle hike with no Dufferin Rd 8 Trail Cafe. dropouts. Hiking boots required. No about 10 km north of Orangeville. Leader: Tessa Shelvey 905.850.1507 dogs please. Follow Rd 8 to (Before 9 p.m.) Depart: 9 a.m., the cemetery in Mono Centre parking which is on the Lavender, km 54.8. Directions: Take right before SATURDAY MAY 12: Dufferin Hi- Highway 124 north from Shelburne to the stop sign, park in the gravel Land, Primrose/Black Bank, Maps Redickville, turn east on County Road parking lot. 20/21. 21 through Honeywood, turn north on We will do a scenic hike around the An Adventure to Tobermory. End-to Prince of Wales Road, then east on Mono Cliffs Park. -end series. Mulmur-Nottawasaga Townline to the Leader: Albert McMaster 519 942 Moderate, 20 km. Variable terrain. cemetery 0.5km. east of Lavender. Do 8624 (before 9 pm) Medium pace. A Shuttle hike with no not park in the village of Lavender. We or [email protected] dropouts. Hiking boots required. No will shuttle to the start and hike back. dogs please. Leaders: Bob Humphreys Depart: 9 a.m., the cemetery in 519.883.1840 (7-10 p.m.) or email Lavender, km 54.8. Directions: Take [email protected] Highway 124 north to Redickville, turn (Continued on page 15) east on County Road 21 through Spring 2012 14 TUESDAY HIKING SCHEDULE CONT’D Tuesday Mar 20: Toronto. Section. Tuesday Apr 3: Caledon Hills Section Tuesday Apr 17: Caledon Silver Creek, Map 13/14. Hockley Valley, Map 18 Section A 15 km moderate level shuttle hike on Moderate 13 km (3.5 hr) loop hike Work Party variable rocky on variable hilly Time: 9:30 a.m. Location of job to terrain at a medium pace. Drop-out terrain, at a medium pace, hiking boots be determined. possible. required. Check email or web site close to Hiking boots required and no dogs No dogs please, and bring water and date for details. please. lunch/snacks. Bring water and lunch. Depart: 9:30 a.m. from the Hockley Tuesday Apr 24: Toronto Depart: 9:30 a.m. parking lot at parking area. Section Scotsdale Farm Directions: Take Hwy 10 north of Speyside, Map 12. Directions: The entrance to the Farm is Orangeville to A 14 km moderate level loop hike from Trafalgar Rd Hockley Valley Rd. Go east on Hockley at a medium pace, about 1 km north of where it separates Valley Rd on hilly, flat terrain which may be from Hwy 7. past 2nd line. Parking is .25 km past 2nd muddy. Terra Cotta to Scotsdale Farm using the line on the Drop-out possible at 9 km. Main Trail and side trails. north side. Hike suitable for families, hiking We may encounter either winter or We will hike the south side of Hockley boots required, spring conditions so come Valley and no dogs please. prepared. The area is lovely in both through the golf course along 3rd line Depart: 9:30 a.m. from parking seasons. If there is heavy and return area at end of 17 Sideroad. snow or tricky ice, pace will be slower via Glen Cross and Main trail. Refresh- Directions: 17th Sideroad runs and distance shortened. ments afterwards. east off Hwy 25, north of the 401 Leader: Barb Euler [email protected] Leader: Albert McMaster 519 942 8624 Hwy. 416-695-1838 before 10:00 pm before 9:00pm A double loop to explore some or [email protected] unique properties stewarded by Tuesday March 27: Iroquoia Section BTC. Crawford Lake and Nassagaweya Tuesday April 10: Toronto Section We will be looking for early signs Canyon, Map 11 Silver Creek Area, Map 13 of spring, especially frogs and Moderate 11 km, mainly flat, loop hike. An easy level 10 km loop hike (2.5-3 wildflowers. Refreshments 3.5 hours, no dropouts. No dogs. hrs) at a medium pace on afterwards. Bring water and lunch/snack. Hiking variable terrain. Hiking boots recom- Leader: Barb Euler: boots required. mended. Trail can be muddy. [email protected] 416-695- Depart: 9:30 a.m. from the Twiss Rd Bring icers, or snowshoes if required. No 1838 before 10:00 p.m. parking area. (km 102.3) dogs please. Bring water Directions: Twiss Road is parallel to and and snacks. Tuesday May 1: Dufferin Hi – one road west of Guelph Line. Depart: 9.30 a.m. from the roadside Lands Section Take Guelph Line south from Highway parking area at km 38.4 on the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park, 401 through Campbellville for 3.4 km. 10th Line of Halton Hills, north of 27th Map 19 Turn right on Conservation Rd. and left Sideroad. Moderate level 12 km hike at a on Twiss Rd. There is ample space Directions: 10th Line is one line west of medium pace, 3.5 hour loop hike, to park on the right beside the pond. Winston Churchill Blvd., with no drop-outs. Wear hiking We will hike through the Crawford north of Georgetown. boots, and bring water and Forestry Tract over Guelph Line and We will walk south on the Main Trail to lunch/snack. No dogs please. along the west side of the escarpment the Irwin Quarry Side Trail to Fallbrook Depart: 9:30 a.m. from the overlooking Nassagaweya Canyon. Trail Road. Crossing the road we will do roadside parking on 2nd line EHS, We will then take the Crawford Lake a short loop via the Main Trail and the 1 km north of Mono Centre. Side Trail to the Crawford Lake Visitors 27th Side Road before returning to the Directions: Mono Cliffs Provin- Centre for an in-door lunch break. After start using the Roberts Side Trail and the cial Park is east of Highway 10. lunch we will retrace our steps to Main Trail. Go north from Orangeville and Twiss Road. Leader: Hamish Duthie: 905-877-2341 turn right on Dufferin Road #8 at Leaders: Bob & Gail Douglas, 519-927- evenings. Email: [email protected] Camilla. 3916 15 Spring 2012 Tuesday Spring Hikes Continued Follow Dufferin Road 8 east then go Directions: From Hwy 5 (Dundas Directions: The location is 150 m south north on 2nd Line EHS. St), turn south on of the intersection of Wellington Street After the stop sign in Mono Centre, Brock Rd for approx. 2 km. Turn left (Hwy 7) and Gordon Street. It is 14.2 km travel for an additional kilometre into the parking lot, north of Exit 299 on Hwy 401 via Brock and park on the right side near the road just before Brock Rd meets Hamilton Road (Wellington Road 46) which -end barrier. Rd 8. becomes Gordon Street at the south end From the parking area on 2nd line EHS A double loop including Tews and of Guelph. Parking is free. we will hike Blue and White Webster's Falls, Dundas We will hike north along the Speed River trails up to the Lookout, down the Peak and an exploration of Crooks past the River Run Centre where we will Walter Tovell Trail then up the Hollow. Great views, join the Guelph Junction Railway right Outlier Trail and back along the White interesting history and spring of way. This multi-use path will take us Trail to complete the loop. wildflowers. Lunch at the Falls. to Riverside Park. We will walk through Leader: Bob & Gail Douglas, 519-927 Leader: Barb Euler the park and then join the Guelph City -3916 before 9:00 p.m. [email protected] 416-695-1838 Trail to Victoria Road (7 km). At before Victoria Road we will turn around and Tuesday May 8: Elora Parks 10:00pm head back to Riverside Park for a picnic A 10-12 km moderate level loop hike lunch. After lunch we will return to the at a leisurely pace Tuesday May 22: Caledon Section bowling club parking lot. Refreshment on variable terrain with no drop-outs. Hockley Valley, Map 18 stop after the hike. (approx 4 hrs) A moderate level 14 km loop hike at Leaders: Jean McKenzie Leiper and Hiking boots suggested. Bring water a medium pace on very Doug Leiper: 519-836-1645 and lunch. hilly terrain. No drop-out possible. [email protected] Depart: 10:00 a.m. Victoria Park in Hiking boots required. downtown Elora. No dogs please. Bring water and Note the later than usual start time lunch. to accommodate people coming from Depart: 9:30 a.m. from parking lot afar. on the north side of Hockley Directions: Heading north on the main Road about 0.25 km east of 2nd line Hiker Courtesy street of Elora EHS. (Metcalfe/Geddes St), cross the river Directions: From Hwy 10, turn east Reminder and go up the hill onto Hockley Valley Rd, turn left on Henderson St and proceed and go .25 km past 2nd line EHS. to the parking at the Hockley Valley Rd is north As a courtesy to oncoming entrance to Victoria Park. of Orangeville (Hwy 9). traffic, especially on Elora is north of Guelph and just west We will hike the Tom East and the narrow country lanes and of Fergus. Glen Cross side trails using roads, please walk as close We will explore short sections of the the Bruce Trail as the connection. Grand Valley Trail and Leader: Jim Garrow 519 941 1182 to the left edge as possible. both sides of the Grand River Gorge in mornings. [email protected] Victoria Park and Elora Some of the cars you Gorge Park. Refreshments afterwards. Tuesday May 29: Guelph Urban encounter may be local Leader: Phil Kidston 519-843-3704 Hike along the Speed River Valley An easy 14 km hike at a medium landowners - please re- Tuesday May 15: Iroquoia Section. pace on even ground. Hiking boots spect their right to pass. Spencer Gorge, Map 8. or running shoes are appropriate. No A 14 km moderate level loop hike, on dogs please. Bring water, lunch, sun hilly screen and bug spray. muddy terrain at a medium pace. (5hrs) Depart: 9:30 a.m. from the city Drop-out possible at 8 km. Hiking parking lot on the north side of the boots required. Lawn Bowling Club at 114 Gordon Bring water and lunch. No dogs please. Street, adjacent to the Boathouse Depart: 9:30 a.m. at Greensville Restaurant. public parking. 16 Spring 2012 Profiling our Volunteers DAVE SARGINSON << Ross McLean Several years ago the Caledon Hills BTC introduced a system of Quadrant Leaders, each of whom took charge of trail maintenance responsibilities for a quarter of the club’s length. One of the volunteers Colleen recruited was Dave Sarginson, and he remains one of our steadfast workers along the entire Trail. Two memories stand out in my mind: about two years ago I was hiking in the northern Peninsula at the National Park. It was a bright beautiful fall day and along the boulder beach came this smiling face with a group of close friends. It was Dave with his Probus Club hikers. They were enjoying their annual outing in this spectacular landscape. My other memory is a spring 2010 work team on the Palgrave Side Trail where a lengthy boardwalk had to be built over wet ground. It was probably the worst time of the year to be building there, because all the time we had to be working deep in mud. Now I am not a good carpenter and my goal is to simply get things nailed together so that they do not fall apart. Here though I saw a woodworker with the skills to complete things properly. At the end of the project, the boardwalk looked better than my kitchen cupboards. Dave was first introduced to the Bruce Trail when, after he retired, he was sponsored by a fellow Habitat for Humanity volunteer to join the Brampton Flowertown Probus Men’s Club. With much apprehension he joined their hiking group, led by long-term BTC member Ross Wood. (Dave was concerned that he might not be able to keep up.) Ross recognized Dave’s interest in the Trail and introduced him to the longer walks with the Tuesday hikers. To Dave’s surprise, he was not left behind the others! It is the custom of the Probus hiking group to spend one Thursday almost every year to work on the Trail. (That is the type of “pay-back” that the BTC really likes!) His first experience was loading limestone chips for wheel-barrowing on the “old” main Trail in the Badlands (now a side trail to provide access). As Dave says, “on reflection, I realized that we were working on only 500 m, but this type of effort must go along the whole length of the Trail.” As a result, he became involved with various activities with the CHBTC, trimming Christmas trees and working on the 2009 rerouting on the south side of the Hockley Valley that took us off a lengthy stretch of road. Dave has been a loyal volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. While working on the restoration of an 1861 farm house in Brampton that would house two families, he met experienced CHBTC volunteer Jim Graham. Naturally, they talked about trail (continued page 20) Spring 2012 17 End to enders tramp through displayed was a very busy and crowded place. Soon the odours from the kitchen announced that the pot Caledon << Joan Richard luck was ready. And that was perhaps the most popular time of all. During the afternoon, I counted Hike leader Bob Humphreys very naively started 70 plus participants, but by the supper, there were leading a second end to end series of hikes last over 80 at table. It is always surprising, in a very spring. He had just completed a three year expedition good way, that a pot luck with no regime of who in August 2010. Right from the first week in Niagara, brings what should turn out so well. No one went he attracted 50 plus hikers, some from as far away as away hungry, in fact, quite the opposite. There were Sarnia. Have you tried to car shuttle that many a couple of draws, including one for a large framed hikers? And parking that many cars is also not always photo donated by Gary Hall. Gary also sold note easy. I joined him for two of four hikes in Caledon. He cards with his photos and donated his earnings to still had 40 to 50 people coming out. BTC. Calendars and general merchandise were also available. Together with the silent auction, this event Bob attracted a variety of hikers, from very fast to a netted a tidy profit for the club’s projects. little slow with sore knees. While hiking near the back, I was impressed with how devoted his fans When the silent auction was closed, there was a lot of were, and how well cared for the hikers felt. One lady celebration by some of the “winners” who outfoxed told me how after the first week, she and her husband their competitors and snagged the favoured item. were going to drop out, because she couldn't keep Thanks to Greg, and his assistants, Colleen and up. Bob encouraged them to stick it out, and so they Nicole, and the many who prepped and cleaned. did and 17 hikes later, they'd made it to Mono Centre. Thanks to Peter for the show, Gary for the portrait As if this is not enough, Bob has other hikes listed to draw and card sales, Albert for leading the hike, keep his hikers in shape in the off-season. Come out everyone who brought items for the silent auction and and see what all the excitement is about. Look for everyone who bought items. And to everyone who the Adventures to Tobermory hikes in the hike came, for making it such a success. Same time, next listings, as they head north through Dufferin year; save the date. Hi-Lands. December Social a popular event << Joan Richard In spite of the blasts of cold artic air blowing down from the north, over 30 intrepid hikers braved the wind chill to follow our fearless hike leader, Albert McMaster through the wilds of Alton, including parts of the Alton Side Trail maintained by CHBTC, and parts of the trails of the Alton Grange, the Grand Valley Trail Association and Millcroft Inn. While we didn’t climb the Alton Pinnacle, Albert did manage to have us skirt the base and come out at a partially frozen pond. Of course, by this time, we were warmed up and enjoying the sunshine. Returning to Caledon Village Place, the hikers were greeted with warm drinks and refreshments, and joined by several other members who came for the entertaining slide show about hiking trips in Newfoundland, ably produced by Peter Leeney. Following a question and answer session, there was an hour or so for socializ- ing, meeting new friends and catching up with old ones. During this time, there was not a space to be Lots of pot luck to go arouhd had in the parking lot. There were so many items at the silent auction, that the stage where they were Spring 2012 18 Unveiling of Dorothy Medhurst Side Trail << Joan Richard On a sunny Sunday in late October over 30 people gathered in the Forks of the Credit Park area to celebrate the life of a dedicated volunteer and champion of the Bruce Trail and to share in the unveiling of the Dorothy Medhurst Side Trail. The former Brimstone Side Trail was renamed to honour a special person who from the very beginning was one of our club’s strongest supporters and tireless volunteers. Among those in attendance were Dorothy’s children who spoke of her love of the trail and her love of telling stories about her time on the trail. Ross McLean regaled everyone with memories and also read recollec- tions from Dr. Philip Gosling and Garland cutting ceremony memories and poetry from Sallie Smyth, all of whom had close connec- tions with Dorothy over a span of decades. CHBTC President Jean Kerins spoke on behalf of our club, while BTC President Ed Hazell brought greetings from the Conservancy. Finally a garland of vines and flowers was cut by family and guests to mark the official opening. The event was organized by our enthusiastic landowner relations coordinator, Carol Sheppard, and credit goes to her for a very successful day. When asked how she managed to get such lovely weather, Carol modestly passed this credit to Dorothy. Jeju Olle and BTC Friendship Trail Update You can watch a video of highlights from the Jeju Olle and Bruce Trail twinning hike . http://brucetrail.org/pages/trail/ friendship-trail AND you can see another version from a Korean TV Station on YouTube http://youtu.be/3ekHUnho4i4?t=20s COSTA RICA VILLA RENTAL One bedroom, living room, kitchen and spa- cious terraces, backing on pri- mary forest, overlooking roll- ing hills and Pacific Ocean. On tranquil 280 acre eco resort property with trails, birding, riding, nearby beaches. Large swimming pool, maid service included, bar and luxury dining available. For rent Apr. to Dec. Call 519-599-5210 or email [email protected] PARADISE FOR NATURE LOVERS Spring 2012 19 Dave S cont’d from page 17 maintenance and development. Jim, knowing Dave’s carpentry skills, got him introduced to Laurence Christie in the retrofit of the northerly of the three river bridges in the Hockley Valley Nature Reserve. As Dave says. “Well, one thing led to another and I got volunteered to build another bridge! Since then I have worked with Dennis Gallant, John Maxwell, Frank Chow and many other members of a multi-talented team.” Dave continues, “When I first started hiking on the Trail, my image was one of a gorgeous way to spend a day in the outdoors. That has certainly changed into helping develop a conservation corridor on the Escarpment that also happens to contain a hiking trail.” I asked Dave’s “boss”, Trail Director Joan Richard for some comments about Dave. She wrote: “dedicated, skilled carpenter, always ready to help out….Dedicated Probus hiker so don’t ask him to build a boardwalk on their hiking day.” Joan tells a good story about Dave. He was hiking with the Tuesday group in the Hockley Valley and took the time and initiative to tell them about the building of the bridges. It was important for the hikers to understand that there are people behind the Trail. (It is still amazing how many people think that government “does it”.) We have to get out the message that the entire Trail is the result of volunteers giving of their time and talent. Dave tells a story that is personal and heart-warming; it is a testament to the pride that he feels in his contribution. His co-workers “named” one the bridges in the Hockley Valley “Cordelia”, although you will not see that name on any plaque or Guidebook. His granddaughter Cordelia was born (seven weeks early) on the day that the heavy stringers for bridge 4926 were hoisted over Canning's Creek. Cordelia is already getting out on the Trail; with her grandmother she came out to see a recent build of our four new boardwalks in the Badlands. Notice that as Joan comments on Dave, the word that she repeats is “dedicated.” All hikers on our Trails should echo that sentiment, even if they do not know the volunteers who have created the footpath. We all benefit from such dedication. Received from Fred Nix Oct 23/11 Also, and by-the-by, if you need a 'good news' story, Franca and I fixed the blaze post on Section 18 today and we were trudging back the approximately 1 km to the car when we came across a group of about 20 hikers standing at the top of the ski hill taking pictures of the beautiful view of the valley from that point. "Hey, can you take a picture of all of us?" Of course we did and then we got talking. They could see the post-hole digger, the shovel and the big steel pry bar we were carrying. So, I told them that Franca was trail captain of this section. Well, talk about a love fest. They had to get their cameras out again and we all stood around while Franca and I joined the group, carrying our tools over our shoulders so that we looked professional, and trying to get a bit of sweat to appear on our foreheads so that people who saw the picture would get the idea - - you know the routine. Anyway, there is nothing nicer than going out to do a bit of trail maintenance and coming across a group of 20-or-so people who love you. Made us feel good. 20 Spring 2012 Another Piece in the Jigsaw Puzzle: END-TO-END Our Latest Acquisition BADGES AWARDED << Dave Moule IN 2011 The BTC and the Caledon Hills Club made a significant step forward in our quest to secure a continuous conservation corridor The following people were awarded with the acquisition on January 3, 2012 of a 23 acre parcel of Caledon Hills End-to-End badges in land on the west side of Airport Road just south of Finnerty 2011. Sideroad. The BTC had been pursuing this particular piece of Our apologies if anyone has been land for over 10 years. During that time it was bought and sold missed. twice, but amazingly became available again and was still Congratulations to all! undeveloped. Daniel Wilson The property features a lovely hardwood bush on rugged “knob Joe Mergl and kettle” moraine topography. This is the area where the Lloyd Hayward Escarpment proper is buried under glacial till – in this case a Mary Hayward moraine that has been “bulldozed” by the glaciers up against the Nick Torra face of the Escarpment, beginning near Gibraltar (in the Blue Barb Chester Mountain area) and ending when it intersects the Paris Moraine George Chester just to the south of this property. The forest was logged about 5 Carolyn Williams years ago by the previous owner, but there is still a good canopy John Hamilton of mature trees (maple, ash, beech, cherry, ironwood) and a Nadia Rochon healthy understorey of saplings. Carole Redden Donna Paige This property will provide a conservation corridor and trail route Bob Humphreys across the eastern half of the 6th Concession of Caledon. It will Bill Graat now be our goal to obtain a handshake, or an agreement of Wendy Dupuis purchase, with one of the adjacent owners to the west in order to Liz Kossek make a connection to Mountainview Road. If this can be Mary Lynn Swagerman achieved, then almost 3 km of the main trail can be removed Kathleen Henry from Escarpment Sideroad and Airport Road. We’re not there Ann Beniusis yet, but we are one step closer! Sharlene Hesselink Cherie Jackson In the meantime, a loop side trail may be built on the property to Nora Zylstra-Savage explore its interesting topography and beautiful hardwood forest. Holly Westell Depending on how well the previous owner has cleaned up, Kevin Westell some stewardship actions may also be required once we have Abby Westell had a chance to fully explore the property. At the time of our Thomas Smith inspection in the fall of 2011, there were two deer-hunting blinds John Mikiver and an assortment of old lawn and garden furniture on the site. Robert Sears Nancy Cooper Anyone wishing to become the Land Steward for this interesting Anthea Ashfield property may contact Dave Moule at Katie Lundon [email protected] or phone 416-225-2069 Robert Gordon and their 3 children The Mono Nordic Club honours Laurence Christie Adapted from Mono Nordic website (http://mononordic.com/) The Mono Nordic Club recently created an award to annually recognize a member who has made an excep- tional volunteer contribution to the club. CHBTC member and volunteer, Laurence Christie is the first ever recipient. He was presented with a certificate at Mono Nordic’s AGM in June 2011 The Mono Nordic Executive, thank Laurence for being such a valuable part of Mono Nordic. We at CHBTC who also enjoy Laurence’s talents and diligence congratulate Laurence on this honour. 21 Spring 2012 St. Francis boardwalk build << Joan Richard When I took the job of trail coordinator last April, I was told it was largely an administrative role, but instead of course, I found myself out on the trail quite a bit, meeting the people who are actually doing the work. My theory is if they know you, it’s harder to ignore your email. This past November, I was busy in the city and unable to get to the trail, so I was able to test the purely administrative function of the trail coordinator and it does work, but only because Caledon Hills BTC is blessed with an extraordinary team of dedicated volunteers. Here’s how it works. A trail captain reports a perennial wet spot on her section of trail. The quadrant leader recognizes this problem and feels a boardwalk will be required, as other less involved fixes have not worked over the long term. However, he’s busy and suggests that this is a job for the Trailblazers. However, I still need a lead person. Laurence Christie, who fills his spare time by looking for projects on the Trail, picks up the gauntlet along with Dave Sarginson and Norm Randle. However, I Boardwalk work team knew in advance that none of them would be available for Thursday (the usual Trailblazer day). Again the call goes out before any work starts to find someone to lead the group on the work day. As well, we must alert the landowner and be sure the chosen work day is not a problem. Meanwhile Laurence, Dave and Norm assess, measure, determine how they should approach the job (not all projects are located right beside an easy access), purchase and pick up the wood, pre-cut it and treat the ends. Jim Graham has agreed to lead the work party. Our landowner relations whiz, Carol Sheppard, negotiates with the landowner for access through their property and parking for our crew. The story only gets better. On the work day, Norm was able to attend and deliver the wood. The crew of 12 work their magic, and finish ahead of the rain, even with a break for home-made cookies and fresh coffee, supplied by the landowner. So it is possible to organize a boardwalk build from the comfort of your desk, but I missed out on the home-made Tree Planters November 10 goodies!! Thanks to everyone who made this build possible. Tree Planting with a local landowner << Carol Sheppard On a drizzly day in November, 10 die-hard Caledon Club, and one from our neighbouring Toronto club, trail building and maintenance people answered a call for help at a landowner, the St. Francis Centre. http://www.stfranciscentre.org/ The Centre had received a grant through Ontario Streams for 235 trees and shrubs to be planted alongside their branch of the Humber River. Ontario Streams works with landowners to rehabilitate the buffer around streams and rivers to improve native fish habitat. http://www.ontariostreams.on.ca/ Christine Pritchard, Project Biologist with Ontario Streams, was on hand to guide the damp but cheerful crew and to answer the many questions that everyone had about her organization. The St. Francis Centre is a very supportive landowner, and we were most happy to help out, especially since their thank you was serving the workers a homemade lunch of BBQ'd hamburgers, cookies and warm drinks. 22 Spring 2012 Working Together Conference < Following the BTC President Ed Hazell’s welcome, we separated into meetings / breakout sessions offered for each club-level executive position, meaning presidents met with other presidents, hike coordinators met with other hike coordinators, and were offered a program of interest in their area. Following lunch, special presentations were offered which included: Facebook – Learning how the power of social media builds communities and its potential use by the BTC and clubs; Understanding the Accessible Ontario Disability Act and how it impacts the BTC, which information has been provided now to many of our frontline volunteers; and 50th anniversary plans of the BTC 2012-2017 presented by Beth Kummling the BTC Executive Director, including a big event on June 9, 2012, described elsewhere. A great deal of important and valuable information was presented / shared / learned over the course of the day. This type of day is also a chance for renewal for volunteers, and encouragement from seeing others with the same goals. A day well spent. St. Francis Environmental Award presented to a BT founder << Ross McLean St. James the Apostle Anglican Church in Guelph in its annual celebration of St Francis Day presents an award to a person who has Skyline Hikers of the Canadian Rockies made a significant contribution to the environ- mental health of their community. St Francis is Picture yourself hiking deep into the mountains with a recognized as the saint of animals and the group of friends. You carry only a day-pack and don’t environment. Central to his belief was a deep have to cook or set up a tent. This is the scenario the reverence for the natural world and a motivation to work for its preservation. non-profit organization of the Skyline Hikers of the Canadian Rockies provides for the 5 weekly base camps th The 2011 winner was Philip Gosling. His from July 9 – August 6, 2012, our 80 anniversary. introduction emphasized the role which Philip Location: Sunset Pass, Banff National Park. played in the creation of the Bruce Trail. One of Cost approximately $950 per person per camp. the founders of the BTC, Philip also was the first Includes return bus transportation from Banff to trailhead, president of the Caledon Hills BTC. When Philip tent accommodation with stove, wholesome meals, hot received an honorary doctorate from the water, camp staff, guided day hikes and evening camp fire University of Guelph, he was recognized as a program and sing songs. “visionary in the conservation and environmental NOTE: Individual camp dates & camp fee structure is protection movement in Ontario,” and the Bruce available at the website www.skylinehikers.ca Trail’s creation was called a “keystone move- ment in Ontario history” in its protection of our For more information and a free brochure natural heritage. contact: 1-866-445-3774 e-mail: [email protected] Philip continues today as the Honorary Presi- Ontario residents please contact volunteer: dent of the BTC, and is a major contributor to the land acquisition program working to acquire Harry Moerschner 1-705-445-0267 in perpetuity a conservation corridor along the entire Escarpment. 23 Spring 2012 Don’t miss a single Club event! Check out these Bruce Trail Website Save these Dates: Hiking Resources and Family For up-to-date information on club activities, check our Friendly Activities website, www.caledonbrucetrail.org April 1 ~ AGM , potluck and presentation to Learn how to read the blazes on the Dr. Philip Gosling (refer to cover page) trail. http://www.caledonbrucetrail.org/blazing.htm Bruce Trail Heritage Tree Scavenger April 1 ~ Deadline for summer edition of Hunt How many Heritage Trees can you find on the Caledon Comment Bruce Trail? http://brucetrail.org/pages/scavenger-hunt April 7 ~ May 6 Introductory Hikes Try out an Alphabet Hike or Earn Blaze (refer to page 8) Points http://brucetrail.org/pages/family-fun/games April 15 ~ CHBTC awards deadline (refer to page 5) Is my Bruce Trail Map Up to Date? April 17 ~ Tues Hikers Workparty The 26th Edition (published in 2010) is the definitive resource for exploring the Bruce Trail . It is your key to a safe and June 3 ~ CHBTC Annual Volunteer Picnic enjoyable time on the Trail. (Refer to page 20) Any changes to the Trail since the publication of this edition are June 9 ~ Bruce Trail Conservancy Celebration available on the Bruce Trail Conservancy website at: http:// of 50 years of volunteering (see page 6 or brucetrail.org/trail_changes . http://bit.ly/zkeaje) For the latest information, please check for updates before your hike. Bruce Trail Conservancy Mission Statement The Bruce Trail Conservancy is a charitable organization committed to establishing a conservation corridor containing a public footpath along the Niagara Escarpment, in order to protect its natural ecosystems and to promote environmentally responsible public access to this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve Return undeliverable copies to: The Bruce Trail Conservancy P.O. Box 857, Hamilton, ON L8N 3N9 Thank you to all who have ‘gone green’ - you are helping the club put more funds to trail building and maintenance, by taking your Caledon Comment electronically. Spring 2012 24