Blue Mountain I - Lavender km 0.0 to Concession 10 and 12/13 Sideroad km 16.3, July 21st, 2016

Hikers: David, Carolyn, Annette, Eric and Steve (our leader)
Weather: Hot and steamy with a fairly strong breeze that made it somewhat enjoyable

As we expected warm weather we got an early start with cars parked and ready to hike by 8:30 or so. The hikers posed for a respectful photo at our starting point for the day.  The hike proceeded along Mulmar Nottawasaga Townline into the "town" of Lavender and then turned north along a dirt road that quickly turned into the trail.

One of many water breaks that were required given the warm weather.  The trail entered the Noisy River Provincial Nature Reserve and followed along the edge of the escarpment with many crevices and lookouts.

The trail descended gradually into the Noisy River Valley where we paused to admire a small lake and drink some water (from our bottles).

At this point we caught up to a group of hikers as we crossed Concession 10 for the first time, who were intending to hike 20 km that day (and we thought we were crazy).  

After crossing the Noisy River, the trail then began a steep and long climb out of the river valley to Simcoe Road 9 followed by about 3 km of road walking.

  

   

Finally reaching the top of a long hill we stopped for water by an old schoolhouse that we speculated that Case may have gone to it at one time.  We proceeded along Side road 6/7 before turning north into a a field and marshy area with an overgrown boardwalk that was barely discernible.

After climbing a gentle slope we found a bridge over a dry creek for our elevensies.

After lunch we proceeded through a series of fields and numerous styles following along the edge of the escarpment which is less dramatic in this area but there are beautiful field vistas.

The grass along the trail was fully grown with footing becoming an issue as we couldn't see our on feet let alone the hiker in front of us at times.  Where is trail maintenance when you need it?

The trail proceeds along the escarpment through a mixed forest with an area of large beech trees.

We came across a picnic table which was appreciated by our weary hikers while some admired the spectacular view down the valley.

A final push through some farmers' fields with ripening grain/wheat and we had completed another segment of our End-to-End.  Only Timmy's and the drive home awaited.