Friday 29 April 2022

Caledon - 4th Line EHS (55.1 km) to 7th Line EHS (43.4 km) - Apr. 28th 2022

 

We hiked from 4th Line through the Hockley Valley to Airport Road and then headed south to 7th Line for a 11.7 km hike

We had 10 hikers out today with Muris (contributing photographer), Barbara, Michael, Arpi, Frances, Marleen, Laura (contributing photographer), Annette and Doug our photographer.  It was a bright sunny day but cool when we started out at -1 degrees.



The Trail starts fairly flat along the side of a steep hill but there were to be a number of hills to climb today.




Our first Stile of the day with a few on lookers waiting patiently.

First signs of new growth.

Muris had a a bit of a slip resulting in a pulled muscle and after consultation with Annette, Doug provided a tensor bandage to Muris' thigh.  Michael was ready on the phone to call in the medics but none were necessary.

And off we went again.




Only to discover about 4 or 5 of these things. We are advised they are remnants from an old ski resort but for what purpose I do not know.

After crossing 5th Line we came to Dave's Pinnacle followed closely by Sally's.



And the descent begins.



But of course we head right back up again.  I think Michael is politely asking me to keep moving.



First unidentified flowers of the day.  Ron?

We continue on up.


An eerie photo with no sign of green.

But then we found our first Trillium's and Red ones at that!

Elevensie's on the side of hill on soft dry grass in the warm sun.  Perfect.


Then Laura broke out the music and a dance party ensued to the tune of "I will Follow You".
A not so subtle hint that lunch was over and Steve had to get up and start leading again.

Muris stops to remove the tensor bandage as he has been cured!  Miracles do happen on our hikes.



While crossing a stile, we spot this critter! Almost as prickly as Steve before his morning coffee.

Back on the Trail again we try and catch up to Michael who has gone ahead.


Through the Maple Sugar bush.

Where we find Michael relaxing in the Gazebo so everyone takes a quick break.





Back on the Trail


Frances points out we only have 2 km to go.
Doug seems less than enthused by the news.


A last few hills and we are onto 7th Line and heading for the cars.


Barbara completed the Caledon Section with this hike so we had to celebrate her accomplishment with style (no pun intended).







And so ended another great hiking day.