Iroquoia - Sydenham Rd. to Snake Rd.Km 58.6 to 67.6 August 11, 2016

Hikers: David, Andy, Christine,  Ann, Helgy, and Steve (Leader)
Weather:  Hot, sunny and muggy

Given the weather we got an early start, hitting the trail by 8:45.    We were all wondering where the name Sydenham came from so David undertook to research this with the following result:

"Lord Sydenham: Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada between 1839–1840 and Governor General of the Province of Canada 1840-1841.  [The Province of Canada was the union of Upper Canada and Lower Canada]

Sydenham introduced a vast expansion of the Province of Canada state apparatus through the introduction of municipal government. Areas not already governed through civic corporations or police boards would be governed through centrally controlled District Councils with authority over roads, schools, and local policing."

After a brief look at the spectacular view from the lookout we began the hike.

The trail is luckily largely in the shade as the direct sun was steamy as this photo of Hamilton harbor in the distance indicates.

A brief early stop to admire the view and read the info markers.

Our next stop was to stand at the top of Borer's falls which had disappeared!

And an alternative view of the "Falls".

Hamilton Harbor still looking hot.

We soon began the descent down the escarpment....

and into a mature forest on a series of hills and creek valleys.

A brief water break and respite from the heat was enjoyed as we crossed yet another dry creek bed.

We didn't stop to read this plaque so I include it for your reading pleasure.

A steep climb up was quickly followed by a steep climb down.

And further down.

After crossing under Highway 6 we had elevensies by an old abandoned farm house

Back on the trail for the final 3 km.

After climbing back up on top of the Escarpment we stopped to observe some ducks in a pond, catch our breath, and drink more water.

We finally found a creek with some water in it but just barely.

And a final dry creek bed before we reached the car just before noon.  After shuttling back to the start we were off home.