Friday, 19 May 2017

Caledon - from Innis Lake Road to 5th Line/Hockley Valley Road - May 18th, 2017

The hike started from the parking lot on 5th Line just south of Hockley Valley Road and proceeded south to Innis Lake Road for a 19.8 km hike.  The weather was warm but a strong wind kept us cool and more importantly, the flies away.  We were a small but hardy group of 4 hikers, Fran, Michael, Stefan and Steve the photographer (but the good pictures were taken by Fran).


We started with a steep climb from the parking lot to access the main Bruce trail.


The main trail followed a ridge through a mature forest with the leaves filling in nicely.


The trail passes a small pond that was still visible through the trees.


After another long steep climb we took a much needed water/rest break with some of us needing support.


The trail continued to go up and down over a series of hills and valleys.


The trail soon passes a replanted pine forest as it approaches Airport Road.



After crossing Airport Road the trail heads back into the forest with rolling hills.


At a creek crossing we check the sign about the water quality in the creek and decide despite the hot weather forecast for today, we are going to stay with the water we brought along.


The view over the valley was spectacular from this stile if only Michael was looking the right way.


We came across a make shift shelter that incorporated a tree stump and that someone was using for their home away from home.


We soon passed through a maze of Maple sap lines.


We once again entered another beautiful planted pine forest.


But soon emerged onto 5 Sideroad where some of the hikers felt it necessary to check the map to make sure we were where we were supposed to be.


We passed an area of recently planted trees with what looks like tent caterpillars?


A brief stop to admire the view and catch our breath.


A farm that has been built in a reclaimed gravel pit.


Finally elevensies!


And the spectacular view from our rest stop.


We soon passed a pond and shortly thereafter our first mandatory Bridge shot although the bridge is pretty desperate.




Back into the forest and then out again.


We passed a forest floor that was covered with Horsetail?


Finally lunch time/rest time and this time with the luxury of picnic tables and outhouses!


Soon after a lunch a creek to cross with varying levels of success for our hikers.  Stefan said he wanted to clean the mud off his shoes so that is why he stepped in the creek.


As we emerged onto Innis Lake Road we saw this spectacular blossoming tree.


But the cars were almost in sight so we carried on and beat the forecasted rain and summer like temperatures.  However, the iced water waiting in the car along with A/C were certainly welcome.

Sunday, 14 May 2017

Sydenham #2, from 2nd Concession 14.5 km to Bognor Marsh Cons Area 29.7 km, May 12, 2017

 The hike started on Concession 2 ended at the parking lot of the 
Bognor Marsh Conservation Area. There was a lot of road walking 
on this hike but the weather could not have been better.
 Today's crew; Richard; Bill; Annemarie; David; Eric; 
Steve, our leader; Rhonda; Fran; ; Annette; Karen; Stefan and Case
 And the road walking begins, going south on Con. 2. This is the highest point
 in the area and provides views over the Bighead River Valley
 Past a lovely farm setting as we head west along the Holland - Sydenham Townline
 And now we turn north on the 4th Concession
we cross the Bighead River
and turn off the road.
 ""Take us to your Leader."

 The Trail has not dried up yet.
 Lunch break on the 6th Concession
 We dip into the bush for a bit and come out on the 6th Sideroad
I know what these are Ron... Taraxacums
 The Lone Tree and the Lone Hiker 
 The parking lot is at the end of the road !
Richard is going to take this home and add it to his evening meal.
What do you think Ron, should we cancel his motel reservation for next week?

Saturday, 13 May 2017

Sydenham #1, Grey Rd. 12, 0.0 km to 2nd Concession 14.5 km, May 11, 2017

 We parked on Grey Road 12 and hiked west to the 2nd Con. in Grey County.
The weather was perfect for hiking.
 Our hiking crew grew overnight, Annemarie; Rhonda; Karen (back
 from a hip replacement !!); Fran; Annette; Eric; David; Steve our
 hike leader; Bill; Richard; Stefan and Case.
 We strike out along a field of winter wheat.
 The moss covered rock was so green.

 Our mandatory bridge picture .....
 I once promised someone "No more butt pictures."
Well.... I lied.
 221 KM to Tobermory -- Niagara 664 KM
 A stile across Maple Syrup sap lines.
 Red Trilliums (Trillium Erectum) I love that name !


 Lunch break, seems like Richard is leading us in song
It wouldn't be his first time.



 Another hill climb.
 and another descent ....
Walter's Falls
 "Hey, how did you guys get up there?"





Across the creek, past the marsh marigolds, up the hill and back to the cars.