TheGanaraska News - Ganaraska Hiking Trail
Transcription
TheGanaraska News - Ganaraska Hiking Trail
The Link To All Clubs Of The Ganaraska TheGanaraska News Fall (August– December 2015) President’s Report By Bob Bowles crossing over highway 11 on the Memorial Avenue traffic bridge to Forest Home then north through Scout Valley Nature Park to Old Barrie Road. It then travels west along the edge of Old Barrie Road, a heavy traffic area, to Line 12 of Oro-Medonte where it swings north for a short distance then runs off road to the west through the beautiful hills of Oro-Medonte. The Scout Valley link was a recent change since the trail once ran right through the City of Orillia crossing over the busy highway 12 overpass and up the side of the narrow Harvie Settlement Road which has heavy traffic being used by many motorists to by-pass Orillia. It was my dream about ten years ago to change the route of the trail to run through the Scout Valley nature area which provides a safer and more pleasant walk to connect to the old rail trail that runs east to the Narrows. The Ganaraska Hiking Trail was officially opened on April 21, 1968. It begins in Port Hope along the Ganaraska River, eventually connecting to the Bruce Trail near Glen Huron. The Ganaraska Hiking Trail has been expanded to Midland and to Wasaga Beach and with side trails is now about 500 kilometres long. A quick glance at the map will show how important the route through Orillia is to the route of the trail. There are two long lakes that lay in the path of the Ganaraska Hiking Trail that extends from Bradford/Holland Landing in the south, north to Washago on the Precambrian Shield in the north. The larger lake, Lake Simcoe extends north to Orillia and the smaller lake, Lake Couchiching extends on north to Washago. The trail would either have to swing south through the developed area with heavy traffic south of the lakes or north a great distance around the shield country north of the lakes. There is only one feasible option where it could cross the narrow channel between the two lakes known as the Atherley Narrows on the east side of the City of Orillia. I now have another dream. The Ganaraska Hiking Trail needs to be moved off of the busy Old Barrie Road from the Scout Valley exit to Line 12 of Oro-Medonte. The City of Orillia now has a new Westridge Sports Complex with a walking trail around a settlement pond just north of the Scout Valley exit of Barrie Road. This then connects on the north side to the new Lakehead University campus on the old Horne Farm with an old road bed leading west to Line 15. If we could get permission from the City of Orillia and Lakehead University to use these trails then that would bring the Ganaraska Hiking Trail off road to Line 15. The only connecting link needed at this point would be an off road route across private land between Line 15 and Line 12. The Atherley Narrows is not only a key location for the completion of the Ganaraska Hiking Trail but is an important historical site where First Nations people have established fishing weirs to harvest fish that date back to 5,000 years ago. It has long been an important landing site for canoes travelling from Lake Ontario across a land route to Georgian Bay. The first traffic bridge was built across the Atherley Narrows in 1847. There have been a total of three railway bridges that have crossed The Narrows. The Northern Railway (C.N.R.) which came to Orillia in 1872, the Midland Railway (C.N.R.) which came to Orillia in 1873 and the Georgian Bay and Seaboard Railway (C.P.R.) which crossed the Narrows in 1910. Today, only the traffic bridge crosses the Narrows which provides a path along the side of the bridge for the Ganaraska Hiking Trail to cross the Narrows. I am Vice Chair of the Atherley Narrows Bridge Committee which has been working for more than ten years to build a pedestrian and snowmobile bridge over the Narrows at the location of the last railway bridge that remains open and not operational since 1996. The last train to Orillia was in 1996 and the tracks have been removed. Recreational trails were constructed and developed on the old rail bed during the time when I was a member and chair of the City of Orillia Trails For Life Committee from 2000 to 2010. This is where a new learning experience and community engagement comes into the story. A friend of mine is a professor in the Department of Political Science at Lakehead University. He started a new program four years ago where he engages his students in Community Service Learning. I have worked with him during the last four years with students in Scout Valley, the Atherley Narrows, the Lightfoot Trail and several environmental projects, usually about three during each term. I had mentioned to him last year that I would like to see our Ganaraska Hiking Trail have a safer route that connected more with the community running through the Orillia Sports Complex trails and the Lakehead University campus. Last FALL he assigned a team of four of his students who volunteered for this project to work with us to find a route from Line 15 to Line 12 and develop a Memorandum of Understanding between the GHTA and both the City of Orillia and Lakehead University. This student team did great work developing the MOU and are now working this summer with landowners to establish a trail route from Line 15 to Line 12. This community learning experience really is a testimonial to what can be accomplished when community partners all work together toward a common goal. This article is not about this important crossing but the route of the Ganaraska Hiking Trail through the City of Orillia. The trail follows the old railway bed west from the Narrows into the centre of the City then south on the old rail bed to Barrie 1 The Ganaraska News Ganaraska Trail Directors - 2015 President-Robert L. Bowles (705) 325-3149 374 Grenville Avenue Orillia, ON L3V 4P7 rbowles@rogers.com The Ganaraska News Past President-Mike Pidwerbecki (289) 675-0060 26 Sawmill Court Bowmanville, ON L1C 5C2 mike@siberi-inn.ca Is published three times a year for the members of the Ganaraska Trail Association and the generous landowners who permit the trail on their land. Please send your news, stories, poems and pictures to the Newsletter Editor, Rita Zeran, 110 Trefusis Street, Port Hope, ON L1A 4J3 via mail, email (brzeran@gmail.com), diskettes or photos via regular mail. Preferably text files should be stored in “text/doc” format, and electronic images have a minimum of 300 ppi resolution. Vice President-Vacant Treasurer-Chris Rowe Secretary Recording-Bill Zeran (705) 325-5285 (905) 885-2874 222 Westmount Dr. S. 110 Trefusis St., Orillia, ON L3V 6E4 Port Hope, ON L1A 4J3 . bill_zeran@live.ca Membership-Lois Kowal (705) 429-7692 38 Clover Cres., Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z 0G4 walko@rogers.com Web Addresses: GHTA Archivist-Ron Wallace (705) 324-4996 7 Denfield Road, Lindsay, ON K9V 0B4 ronwallace555@gmail.com www.ganaraska-hiking-trail.ca e-mail: admin@ganaraska-hiking-trail.ca GHTA Hike Ontario Rep.-Frieda Baldwin (705) 245-1005 200 Bayfield Ave., Midland, ON L4R 5J5 frieda.baldwin@rogers.com Landowners Relations-Vacant Deadlines for Issues: Winter issue: Spring issue: Fall issue: GHTA Nature Canada Rep.-Joan M. Kell (705) 422-1115 50 Mill Street North, Suite 204, Port Hope, ON L1A 2T2 GHTA Trail Director-Vacant QE II Wildland Prov. Park Rep.-David Royston (705) 645-2573 david398@sympatico.ca Newsletter Editor-Rita Zeran (905) 885-2874 110 Trefusis St., Port Hope, ON L1A 4J3 brzeran@gmail.com Website-Rob Smith (705) 812-7906 5 Fair Street, Collingwood, ON L9Y 2H6 robs@start.ca The GHTA welcomes all donations. Tax receipts for donations will be issued on request. Charitable registration #13450 4075 RR0001 CANADA PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT #40031549 Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association Inc. Box 693, Orillia, ON L3V 6K7 Public Relations Director-Bob Bowles (705) 325-3149 374 Grenville Avenue, Orillia, ON L3V 7P7 rbowles@rogers.com Club Presidents: Barrie Bob Murrell (705) 456-3163 bmurrell@gmail.com Kawartha Barb Rimmer (705) 304-6264 barbrimmer01@gmail.com Mad River Major Jeremy Bonnar (705) 739-7519 bonnar.jh3@forces.gc.ca Midland Marc Vallee (705) 527-1967 marcvallee5@gmail.com Orillia Marion Brophy (705) 327-5366 mbrophy@rogers.com Barb Brady (705) 326-4491 barbbrady@icloud.com Isabelle Lloyd (705) 326-8082 isabellelloyd@hotmail.com November 15 (for hikes starting January 1) February 15 (for hikes starting April 1) June 15 (for hikes starting August 1) In This Edition Club News ........................................................ pages 3 to 6 Celebrity News ......................................................... page 7 Fall 2015 Events ............................................. pages 8 to 18 Fall AGM Meeting .................................................... page 18 Oro-Medonte Wayne Lillico (705) 835-7018 hwlillico@sympatico.ca Pine Ridge Rita Zeran (905) 885-2874 brzeran@gmail.com Wasaga Beach Shirl McArthur (705) 429-7747 smcarthur62@gmail.com Irene Bell (705) 352-1060 irene.bell63@gmail.com Wilderness Club David Royston (705) 645-2573 david398@sympatico.ca The Ganaraska News Your link to all member clubs throughout the Ganaraska Trail. Listings of fall events held by member clubs are listed from pages 8 to18 KEEP IT HANDY!!! 2 The Ganaraska News Barrie Kawartha (cont’d) The Spring Hiking Season started with persistent winter weather in early April but we still managed a few good hikes and summer is fast approaching. Rob Irving was recognized for the tremendous amount of trail maintenance he does and all the End-to-End hikes he leads. Rob has also organized and led 14 wine cycle tours in Prince Edward County. Thank you Rob! Thanks to Jeff Haglund for organizing another good season of Thursday Hikes and to Brian Vink for two well attended cycle rides in Midland and Oro-Medonte. The photo is from our lunch break on the May 6 cycle ride between Midland and Waubaushene, a beautiful day! Tony Tasch was recognized for repainting the markers on the southern portion of our trail from Crosswinds Road to near Fenelon Falls. He also does an awesome job of organizing and leading weekend hikes. Thank you Tony! Please note that the position of Vice President, Director-at-Large and Publicity Director are vacant. Next year we expect to have 2 more vacancies. Please consider volunteering to fill one of these positions so the club can continue to run smoothly. Any additions, changes or cancellations to the hiking schedule must be approved by the hike coordinators – alternately by the president if they are not available. Note the change in the format of the hike schedule in the newsletter. Great idea Tony and Marjorie! Get ready for the Fall Schedule and don't forget the Pot Luck Supper at Midhurst following the hike on October 18 (see schedule). END-TO-END: A core group of about eight (with periodic numbers up to 20) hikers are experiencing the Kawartha section of the Ganaraska Trail. Several of these hikers completed the Port Hope Section and might be developing the Ganaraska end to end infection, which is great to see. As of this writing, they have completed to km 61.9 of Kawartha and will finish the section June 14th at km 76.8. We have had great weather and the bugs have kept their distance. We are graduating from rail trails into semi wilderness. Tony Tasch is an informed leader, who somehow finds someone he knows on each trail section! We have been joined by a young man from Ottawa whose quest is to walk every major trail in Ontario and is currently working on the Bruce, Ganaraska and Oak Ridge trails. It's a great group to walk with. Stay tuned for the finishing photo. Bob Murrell Kawartha We held our AGM/pizza night on June 3rd. Barb Rimmer was elected as our new President and Nick Pratt was elected as our new Membership Director. Thank you to our outgoing directors: Sharleen Pratt served 3 years as Archivist; John Poch served two years as Membership Director and one year as Trail Director; Vince Bitonte served 1 year as Publicity Director. Their contributions to the club are greatly appreciated. Please take the time to thank them personally when you see them on a hike. 3 The Ganaraska News Kawartha (cont’d) Midland (cont’d) EARTH DAY/WEEK: On April 22 on Earth Day thirteen folks volunteered to do a clean up along the Trans Canada Trail near Assumption. It had been a dreary week with lots of rain and cool temperatures and it seemed we were in for much of the same. The longer out of town hikes are very interesting, but get fewer participants. We arrange shorter impromptu local Sunday afternoon hikes as an alternate for those people who do not participate in the longer hikes out of town. But overall we do have good participation. May 17th, Kolapore Trillium Hike was enjoyed by 21 “hot” hikers. It is always the most popular hiking outing, regardless of the long drive, and always so beautiful. Fortunately we were able to pick up several bags of paper, cans, bottles and assorted rubbish. We had no sooner gotten in our cars than we were assaulted by rain, snow and hail - a successful end to our clean up. Marjorie Midland Hikers also explored the Blue Mountain section of the Bruce Trail by hiking so called “End to End” this past spring. We saw some really interesting scenery, climbed through crevices and over boulders, walked along creeks and rivers, through forests (at the height of the trillium blooming season) and also along fields. Some views of Georgian Bay were breathtaking. Congratulations to Dennis Blow for earning a Blue Mountain BTC End to End badge, as well as to Michelle Pilon and Carole Bowen, who almost achieved their badge. We also had our annual trail day in April that was attended by 9 people. Lots of old faces and it was nice to see first timers Roxanne and Ken Heard. We worked on the portion from the Victoria Rail Trail just south of the Pinery Road to the multipurpose trail North of Monck Road. Afterwards, we had a quick bbq in the parking lot and everyone was home by 3pm. Rob P. The Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association has a new and improved website: http://ganaraskahiking-trail.org. It is an interactive site and uses WordPress. Look for more on that later. This newsletter submission will be my last official duty as your Kawartha president. It has been my pleasure to be part of the original Kawartha executive when it was formed in 2012 and to work with each executive after that. It was a learning experience for us all and we helped each other over the bumps along the way. Thank you Kawartha members for all your encouragement and support. Please keep it going for Barb. See you In September. This past spring, we also had 2 Trail Maintenance days, and Frieda will do another one to finish the Hogg Valley to Reeves Road Section. Eveline Stout MIDLAND It appears that the 6pm Wednesday hikes are not well attended. The Canoe and Biking outings are more popular during the summer months and those activities are very well attended. Midland Hikers and Snowshoeing enthusiasts always enjoy our outings in our area. The early spring had very unsettled weather, which ranged from very cold, to rainy, muddy, and buggy days. But we never cancelled a hike. The shorter local hikes seem to be more popular (16 – 20) people show up. 4 The Ganaraska News Midland (cont’d) ORO-MEDONTE (cont’d) We are looking forward to a biking trip to Toronto and 2 camping trips (Six Mile Prov. Park and camping at Doug/Jean’s place in Powassan). Some people will again enjoy the cabin camping at Safe Haven Cottage Resort. We also will ferry over to Christian Island and Beausoleil Island for hiking and swimming. We always enjoy a busy interesting summer schedule and great hospitality. Hiking in Algonguin Park Our Fall Hiking Schedule is full of interesting activities in and out of our area. A big thank you and appreciation go out to all our dedicated hike leaders and participants. Wayne Lillico Life is good when you are part of the Midland Hiking group! PINE RIDGE Edda Zeitel Warm weather sees the start of maintenance activities along the 63 km Pine Ridge Section of the Trail. Currently fourteen teams of twenty-eight volunteers from our club (including three allwomen teams) maintain the blazes along our section. This involves updating the painted blazes by scraping and re painting where necessary and cutting back any growth that may obscure the markings. These teams also check and report on the state of the Trail as part of the GHTA Risk Management Program. ORILLIA Orillia club has temporally stopped Tuesday night hikes, switching to afternoons; see hike details for contacts. Summer has brought camping trips, many bike rides, and Saturday hikes. Fall will bring more fun hikes. Plans are underway with taking part of Orillia section off Old Barrie Road onto trail from Scott Valley crossing to Rotary Place, going behind Lakehead University using service road to go from Line 15 to Line 12. Waiting for permission from landowners; will keep everyone posted. This would be a great bonus; no one likes to walk on a busy road. As fall brings cooler weather beautiful colours let’s get out and hike with friends. Marion Brophy The weather in recent years causes vigorous summer growth along some parts of the trail so it has become necessary for some volunteers to use a grass or brush trimmer two or three times in the summer months in places. Some volunteers also help out with major maintenance projects when necessary. In recent years members have rebuilt boardwalks and bridges and dug ditches to control water flow on the trail. This year at least two such major projects are anticipated. ORO-MEDONTE Generally meets on alternate Sundays at 1:30pm and Mondays at 9am from September to June. Sunday hikes are generally about 2 hours in length and Mondays hikes tend to be farther away and longer. Most hikes are considered to be moderate. Starting September 2015 the club will offer Thursday morning hikes starting at 9:30am which will be about 1 hour long and easy to moderate. For more information contact Wayne Lillico 705-835-7018. In every case "many hands make light work" and any member who is interested in helping out with either routine blaze maintenance, trimming growth, or a major project should contact our Trail Director, David Beevis at (905) 885-7151 or e-mail dbeevis@sympatico.ca. David Beevis 5 The Ganaraska News WASAGA BEACH WASAGA BEACH (cont’d) Group picture on Monument Hill Hike The Ganaraska Club has also "adopted" 2 roads for community cleanup. June 6th is National Trails day and our 20th birthday as a club. We have invited the public to celebrate with us at Schoonertown Park. There will be VIP's, treats, guided hikes/cycles. Ivan and MaryAnne Fraser will be awarded "Volunteer of the Year" by the town. Our "guests" are back at beach 1. The endangered Piping Plovers are sitting on their eggs and the fences are up .We need lots of volunteers. Many of our hikers have risen to the task. If any hikers from other clubs would like to do some 3 hr. shifts, dealing with the public, and have a free (parking) day at the beach, please call Trish at 705-351-0109. Over the winter, many of our hikes have been local snowshoeing. We have 2 Wednesday hikes, a regular hike and a "Leisurely Lois" hike. Gloria Thompson The weather was good for the outdoor hike and picnic on Jan 24th. Bertram and Ida provided a wonderful outdoor setting for the BBQ. We did not know that the 40 day freeze up was around the corner. We Made It! Nine members from the Grand Valley Trails have taken the big challenge of hiking the Ganaraska Trail from End-to-End. Arthur Last said “We really enjoyed hiking on the Ganaraska. I thought it would be easy but it’s not. Thank you to the section volunteers who made the trail great and kept us from getting lost”. Arthur Last We hiked Allenwood Forest, Powerline Rd. East and West, Bluewater beach area and the Dunes this winter. The spring cycle days are back on track, on Mon and Tues.....Tues is casual. Harry and Bertram offered detailed bike inspections (no cleaning!). The Monday cycles include Collingwood trails, Woodland Beach area and usually average 30 km. Spring hikes include Kolapore and Copeland Forest. Remember that wild leeks are "endangered" and pick the largest bulbs only. Our community care continues. The Schoonertown parkette was spruced up by Janet’s team. The town garden on Main St. is being groomed and planted by teams under the leadership of Roz. There may even be a LGBT section (lettuce, greens, beets, tomatoes). In June, The NVCA awarded our Bill Crawford with the "Environmental Watershed Stewardship Award" for his work with the Arbour Day tree sales. And, yet again the sales were fairly successful. GVTA Hikers: Top Row: Arthur Last, Glenda Collings, Cathie Kitchen, Paula Carson, Janny Wallbank, Cathie Crukley Bottom Row: Marty Vert, Brenda West, Georgia Mulholland 6 The Ganaraska News other volunteers, about field marks, wing venation and post-ocular spots. Chasing dragonflies and butterflies with Bob Bowles Frequently, he placed a hand lens in my hand and held up the butt-end of a dragonfly for me to examine its most private appendages, making me describe if I saw a ski slope shape or an inverse curve. Six years later, you can find me soaring across streams and leaping through meadows, butterfly net in hand, exclaiming things like “I need to know if it’s an Atlantis or Aphrodite fritillary!!!” Bob Bowles in the Carden Alvar, ON. Look closely and you'll see a dragonfly on his shoulder – they really do flock to him! (Photo by NCC). What can I say: Bob’s enthusiasm is simply contagious! Written by Kristyn Ferguson, the Nature Conservancy of Canada's (NCC's) Program Director for Georgian Bay-Huronia in Ontario. This post originally appeared on Land Lines, the NCC blog. I met Bob Bowles fairly early in my career at the Nature Conservancy of Canada when I was tasked to run the Carden Alvar butterfly and dragonfly counts in the Georgian Bay–Huronia subregion in 2009. We’d been planning the counts on the phone for weeks and I was looking forward to meeting Bob, whose passion about butterflies, dragonflies and the Carden Alvar was unmistakable. More Celebrity News … On a cool summer Saturday, we spent the day together chasing butterflies across gorgeous alvar habitats and up and down wild backcountry roads. Bob was easily twice my age, but with a net in his hand he was transformed into a nimble sprite, dashing over rivers and across fields and deftly catching any butterfly we spotted but couldn’t identify from afar with our binoculars. I’ve worked with Bob on insect counts and field surveys every year since, and in a number of different locations including the Minesing Wetlands and Pelee Island. His natural history knowledge has been a huge advantage for me to have at my disposal: if there’s ever a species of anything (bird, plant, butterfly) I can’t identify, Bob knows the answer. Bob Short, Paul Archambault of Pine Ridge Hiking Club and Pierre Plante (friend) met up with Clara Hughes on the Appalachian Trail just north of Killington Vermont. Clara (multi medal winner for Canada in both the summer and winter Olympics) was north bound on the Appalachian Trail. She was in the process of completing the entire trail. I told Bob in those early days that I would never be able to learn the different species of butterflies and dragonflies, and maybe I’d be better off just marking them on the tally sheet and keeping an eye on the volunteers. To this, Bob always raised an eyebrow and continued teaching me, and 7 The Ganaraska News FALL (August – December) 2015 Events Schedule All GHTA members are encouraged to take part in any of the hikes, regardless of which club they belong to. The club which is organizing the hike is listed under the date of that hike. Call the leader if the weather is at all questionable in case the outing has been cancelled. Wear suitable footwear and clothing, and bring snacks/drink/lunch. In most cases, the hiking level is indicated as Easy, Moderate, Difficult and, on occasion, Challenging. Hiker's Code Respect private property Stay on the trail Cross fences using stiles Important Notice: Unpaid volunteers conduct events. Anyone participating in these events, or making use of the trail in any way, does so at their own risk. The Wilderness section should only be hiked with an approved Ganaraska Trail leader. Carry out all garbage Event organizers and hike leaders are encouraged to have their hikers/participants sign a Waiver sheet for each event where you or your participants may be exposed to risks or accidental injury. Each area club can arrange how they want to file these, as they should be kept for a couple of years. Never strip bark from trees Walk around the edge of fields Protect wildlife, trees and shrubs When hiking on the trail on your own, keep dogs on a leash near farms and where required by law Dogs are NOT permitted on group hikes unless otherwise specified. Participants’ Responsibilities Participants in events must choose activities suitable to their physical capabilities and skill levels. They must inform the hike leader before the start of an event about any health problems or allergies and the location of any special medications. They must follow leader’s directions. Parents and guardians must supervise their children in their care. Dogs are not permitted on group hikes unless otherwise specified. Club Information: (subject to change) Barrie Club: Thursday hikes are decided during or just after the Sunday hikes. To find out destination and duration for these outings please contact either Brian Williamson at 705-728-6311 or Jeff Haglund at 705-726-7189. Kawartha Club: We hike every Wednesday morning and every weekend except July and August. Wednesday hikes are about 1 ½ hours long. Weekend hikes are generally longer and more challenging. For details on the hikes call the hike leader or John Poch 705-743-9447. Midland Club: Midland Hikers always meet at 6pm at the Zellers Parking Lot, Hwy. 93 in front of the Mountainview Mall. Wednesday hikes are not listed in this schedule, they are decided at random. Contact Edda 427-3460 or Marc 527-1967 for detail. Weekend outings vary depending on destination. Please always contact hike leader for detail or changes before the hike. Our weekly E-Mail service will also notify you of our activities. For Pot Lucks do not forget your plates, etc. Orillia Club: Hikes for about 1.5 hrs every Tuesday evening at 6pm from the greenhouse in Couchiching Park during the winter months. For more information, contact Shirley at 327-9034 or Joyce at 325-3351. Oro-Medonte Club: Generally meets on alternate Sundays and Mondays usually starting at 1:30pm and lasting for about 2 hours. Most hikes are considered to be moderate. Contact Wayne Lillico 705-874-6028 for more information. Pine Ridge Club: Hikes every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday mornings from September to June. There is a short hike and a long hike each weekend. Wasaga Beach Club: Meets every Wednesday at Blueberry Trails, Nordic Centre Parking Lot at 9:45am. While we do not advertise specific hikes in the newsletter we invite all association members to join us. For information on what is taking place on a given day, please contact Harry Regu, our Hiking Trail Coordinator at 705-361-2989. Wilderness Club: Anticipates organizing activities (maintenance trips, hikes, canoe trips) that have not yet been scheduled. For information on what is taking place during the spring and summer season we invite all interested to check the Wilderness Club website from time to time. (Wilderness website is linked to Ganaraska Trail website). 8 The Ganaraska News BARRIE FALL HIKES 2015 BARRIE FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d NOTE: Most hikes on the Bruce Trail require a minimum driving time of one hour each way. Bruce Trail hikes are also in general more demanding making stout footwear important. Also no matter which hike or bike you go on please bring sufficient water, snacks/lunch - it can be a long day. Sunday, October 4, <MODERATE> Hike on the Bruce Trail in the area of Singhampton Caves for approx 4 1/2 hours. Leaving rear parking lot of Canadian Tire on Bayfield Street at 8:30am and Stayner Beer Store at 9:05am. Contact Carol Haglund 705-726-7189 or Cheryl Hannah 705-730-6879 OR Sunday, September 6, <EASY> Hike in the Barrie area at Ardagh Bluffs - easy pace for 2 ½ -3 hours & a few short steep hills. Leaving rear parking lot of Canadian Tire, Bayfield Street at 10am or Holly Community Centre at 10:30am. Contact: Bob Murrell 705-456-3163 Sunday, October 4, <EASY/MODERATE> Shorter hike from Schooner Park in Wasaga Beach near Nottawasaga River for approx. 2 - 3 hours. Leaving rear parking lot of Canadian Tire on Bayfield Street at 9:30am. Contact Brian Vink 705-728-5718 Wednesday, September 9, <EASY/MODERATE> Cycle ride from Hawkstone Monument near rail trail to Orillia and back. Leaving at 10am. Lunch will be at Pizza Hut. Contact Brian Vink 705-728-5718 Sunday, October 11, <MODERATE/DIFFICULT> Hike in the Boyne Valley area for approx. 4 - 5 hours. Attractive area on the Bruce Trail (Dufferin Hi-Land Club Map 20) including three steep ravines. Leaving from rear parking lot of Canadian Tire on Bayfield Street at 8:30am. Contact: Bob Murrell 705-456-3163 Sunday, September 13, <EASY/MODERATE> Hike in the Midhurst area towards Gill Road. Leaving Midhurst Community Centre at 10am. Good paths in pleasant wooded countryside for approx. 4 hours. Contact: Brian Williamson 705-728-6311 OR Sunday, October 11, <EASY> Short comfortable hike local to Simcoe Municipal Buildings on Highway 26 for approx. 3 hours. Leaving car pool lot on right hand side of Hwy 26 immediately after turning left off Bayfield Street at 10:30am. Contact: Min Pinkney 705-797-1989 or Norah Stebner 705-726-3163 Sunday, September 20, <MODERATE> Hike in Limehouse Conservation area for approx. 3 1/2 - 4 1/2 hours. Lovely area of the Bruce Trail (see Toronto Club Map 12) including “hole in the wall”. Leaving rear parking lot of Canadian Tire on Bayfield Street at 8:30am. Contact: Bob Murrell 705-456-3161 Sunday, October 18, <EASY> Hiking in the Midhurst area for approx. 3 hours followed by a potluck supper and slide show. Leaving Midhurst Community Centre parking lot at 11:30am. The Centre will be open from about 2:30pm for food preparation, etc. Don’t forget to bring your own plates, cutlery and food contribution. If in doubt contact Shirley Ummels 705-722-0120 OR Sunday, September 20, <EASY/MODERATE> Shorter hike in the Copeland Forest for approx. 2 1/2 3 hours. Some short hills in attractive wooded area on established trails. Leaving first parking lot on Ingram Road at 10:30am. Contact: Brian Vink 705-728-5718 Sunday, September 27, <MODERATE/DIFFICULT> Hike on the Bruce Trail at Swiss Meadows for approx 4 1/2 hours. Great hike with some steep hills and nice views of Georgian Bay. Leaving the rear parking of Canadian Tire on Bayfield Street at 8:30am and Stayner Beer Store parking lot at 9:05am. Contact Gertrude Besner 705-735-0635 Sunday, October 25, <MODERATE/DIFFICULT> Hike in the Mono Centre area of the Bruce Trail for approx. 4 hours. Varied terrain with some hills. Leaving rear parking lot of Canadian Tire on Bayfield at 8:30am. Contact: Dale Hannah 705-730-6879 Never underestimate the power of the new seniors: reinventing the years beyond mid-life Wednesday, September 30, <MODERATE> Cycle ride from Old 2nd North to Elmvale area and back, approx. 3 hours. Fairly quiet county roads with several hills. Leaving Old 2nd North at 10am. Contact Brian Vink 705-728-5718 When I was president of the Kawartha Chapter (then called the Peterborough Chapter) I got a lot of calls with questions about the club. One question was “What is the age range of the hikers?” I replied: “35 to 80”. I was then asked “What do you do about the 80 year olds? ”I responded “We try to keep up to them”. Linda Chopping 9 The Ganaraska News BARRIE FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d KAWARTHA FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d Sunday, November 1, <DIFFICULT> Hike in the Osler Bluffs area for approx. 4 1/2 - 5 hours. Attractive area of the Bruce Trail. Long fairly steep climb for about the first hour to the highest point of the Bruce Trail then comfortable walking. Leaving from rear parking lot of Canadian Tire on Bayfield Street at 8:30am and Stayner Beer Store at 9:05am. Contact: John Sloane 705-719-0684 Wednesday, September 16, <MODERATE> Bethany Hills. Meet at Crawford Dr. Carpool lot at 9:30am or at Maureen's at 10am (For directions phone or email - macartneymlm@aol.com). Contact: Maureen 705-277-3945 September 17 to 20, Haliburton Hiking Festival This is the largest hiking event in Canada, over 70 themed and guided hikes, 4 concerts, movies and more. When the schedule is posted we will select two hikes as club hikes for the weekend. One will be to Miserable Lake, an oxymoron. It’s a beautiful spot! Information to follow as available. Hiker must register in advance and there are limits on the size of the group for all hikes. Contact: Tony 705-755-0815 OR Sunday, November 1, <EASY> Short hike from Simcoe Museum on Hwy 26 for about 3 hours. Comfortable hiking on established trails. Leaving museum parking lot at 10:30am and Old Second South at 10am. Contact Min Pinkney 705-797-1989 or Norah Stebner 705-726-3163 Wednesday, September 23, <EASY> Fleetwood Conservation Area. Directions, Hwy 7A West through village of Bethany to Porter Rd.#32, left on Porter Rd to Ballyduff Rd., right on Ballyduff to start of Conservation Area, park on side of road. Note, start time 10:15am. Up to 8 km of trails, one with an excellent viewing platform. Contact: Don F. 705-741-4493 Sunday, November 8, <MODERATE> Hike in the Simcoe County Forest on the 8th Line of Oro-Medonte and Bass Lake Sideroad for approx. approx. 4 hours. Leaving rear parking lot of Canadian Tire on Bayfield Street at 9:30am or the parking lot just off the 8th Line north on Old Barrie Road at 10am. Contact Jeff Haglund 705-726-7189 Saturday, September 26, <MODERATE> 12 to 16 km Peterborough Game Preserve. Hike high treeless ridges overlooking Kasshabog Lake to the east and the forests of Petroglyphs and Kawartha Highlands PPs to the west. Great view for little effort! Hike will also follow Jack Creek and may visit Little Jack Lake. Meet at Riverview Park and Zoo at 9am to carpool or on County Rd #6 just north of West Kosh Rd. Bring lunch. Contact: Tony 705-755-0815 KAWARTHA FALL HIKES 2015 Carpool meeting points: Peterborough, ON Portage Place Mall-across the entrance drive from Rexall Drugs (not in front of the store). Crawford Drive Carpool Lot-west of new Visitor’s Centre. Riverview Park & Zoo-north end of Water St. Keene Road Carpool Lot-across from Burnham Gardens (formerly Burnham Mansion). Additional Information Wednesday hikes are generally 1 1/2 to 2 hours in length. If necessary call the contact for hike details at least 1 day prior. The back-up contacts: Wednesday hikes: Marjorie 705-761-8895 Weekend hikes: Tony 705-755-0815 Wednesday, September 30, <EASY> Jackson Park Trail. Meet at parking lot inside Monaghan Road gates at 9:45 am. Contact: Ann K. 705-743-8704 Saturday, October 3, <MODERATE> 12.5 km Dragonfly, Elderberry & Universal trails in the Northumberland Forest. Joint Pine Ridge Club and Kawartha Club. Meet at the Crawford Dr. carpool lot at 9:15am or at the Northumberland Forest parking lot off Beagle Club Road at 10am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Tony 705-755-0815 Wednesday, September 9, <EASY> Lakefield. Meet at parking lot behind arena at 10am. Walk for 1 1/2 to 2 hours around Lakefield. Contact: Roxanne H. 705-927-2711 Saturday, September 12, <MODERATE +> 12.5km New hilly hike in the Mt. Pleasant area! Approximately 3.5 hrs. Meet at Crawford carpool lot at 9:45am or meet at starting point of the hike at the intersection of Bland Line and Shields Rd. at 10:10am. Possible side trip to the headwaters of Jackson Creek. Eat lunch with the lions. Bring lunch, water and sturdy footwear. Contact: Don 705-741-4493 Wednesday, October 7, <EASY> 5km Young's Point Conservation Area. Meet at Riverview Park and Zoo parking lot at 9:30am to carpool or at Young's Point on 3rd Line just past 462 South Beach Rd. at 10am. Explore YPCA trails. Some poison ivy on one section of trail. Optional lunch/coffee in Young's Point. Contact: Richard: 705-7501040 10 The Ganaraska News KAWARTHA FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d KAWARTHA FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d Check the Christmas at Presqu’ile website for information concerning the show. For hike info Contact: Rob I. 705-639-2206 Saturday & Sunday October 10 & 11 Thanksgiving Weekend. No hikes scheduled. Wednesday, October 14, <EASY> North of Trent. Meet at the small parking lot at the extreme north end of River view Park and Zoo, across from University Hts. Blvd. at 10am Hike through area north of Trent. Contact: Sharlene 705742-5994 Wednesday, November 11, <EASY> Robert Johnson Conservation Area. A memorial hike for Orm Kemp. Meet at Parkhill Rd. and Auburn St. at 9:30am to drive to RJCA. Contact: John and Pat 705-7439447 Saturday, October 17, <EASY / MODERATE> 12 km Lang Village Area. Joint hike with Pine Ridge. Meet at 9:30am at Burnham Carpool or at 10am on Baseline Rd. just west of Heritage Line. Loop hike on the Trans Canada Trail and quiet county roads with some hills to provide good views. Bring lunch to eat on the bank of the Indian River at the Hope Mill. Contact: Rose 705-639-2431 Saturday, November 14, <MODERATE> 12.5 km New Hike! Mt Pleasant Area #2. Meet at Crawford parking at 9:30am to carpool or at the starting point at 9:55am. The second hike starting from Shields Dr. and Bland Line. This time walking east to Mount Pleasant then south on County Rd.10 to Wilson Line then back west on Wilson Line to Shields Rd. and the starting point. Part of Wilson Line is an unopened bush road with rocky hills and the possibility of ruts and mud. Bring lunch, water and good footwear. Contact: Don 705-741-4493 Wednesday, October 21, <EASY> Jackson Park. Meet at Jackson Park parking lot inside the Monaghan Road Gates at 10am. Contact: Maureen A. 705 740-2424 Wednesday, November 18, <MODERATE> Harold Town Conservation Area. Hike the trails for one and a half hours, some hills, 10am Contact: Carole B. at johnberry@nexicome.net Saturday, October 24, <EASY> 11 km Warsaw Caves Conservation Area. Meet at 9:30am at Riverview Park and Zoo to carpool or at 10am at the park entrance. Bring lunch and water. Shorter versions of the hike will be available. Contact: Nick 705-742-5994 Saturday, November 21, <MODERATE> Peter's Woods Provincial Park (Burnley Block). Meet at Crawford Drive Carpool Lot at 9am to carpool or meet at 10am at Burnley Block on Pratt Road. Explore about 8-10 km of mostly forested trails. Poison ivy is abundant on some sections of trail. Bring a lunch and water. Contact: Richard 705-750-1040 Wednesday, October 28, <EASY> Millbrook Mystery Hike. Meet at Crawford Drive carpool lot at 9:30am. Contact: Linda P. 705748-2274 Sunday, November 1, <EASY> 6km Eel’s Creek. Hike along the bank of Eel’s Creek from Haultain, past High Falls to parking lot on Northey’s Bay Road. Meet at Riverview Park and Zoo at 9:15am to carpool or in a provincial parking area where Eel’s Creek crosses Northey’s Bay Road at 10am to shuttle to start of hike. Bring a lunch. Contact: Ross 705-745-6586 Wednesday, November 25, <EASY> Activity Haven. Meet at 10am at Activity Haven at 180 Barnardo Ave. Park on the perimeter of parking lot. Flat walk for about two hours on trails and road with one hill. Optional lunch at Activity Haven after walk. $5.00 for lunch, dessert and tea/coffee. Please confirm. Contact: Eveline 705-874-6028 Wednesday, November 4, <EASY> New Hike! Ballyduff Trails. Meet at Crawford Dr. Carpool lot at 9:30am or 851 Ballyduff Rd., Pontypool at 10am. Explore 5 to 6 km of trails on private land. Contact: Richard 705-750-1040 Saturday, November 28, <MODERATE +>10-14km Hike in the Kawartha Highlands, northeast of Buckhorn. Meet at Riverview Park & Zoo at 9am to carpool. NOTE: There is limited parking at trailhead. Bring lunch. Contact: Barry 705-743-8163 Sunday, November 8, <EASY> Presqu’ile PP and Christmas at Presqu’ile. Hike trails, beach and shoreline of Presqu’ile and visit the three venues of the 24th annual Arts and Craft Show. Meet at Keene Road carpool lot at 8:45am or at the Park entrance area at 10am. Wednesday, December 2, <EASY> 7 km Selwyn Conservation Area. Meet at Riverview Park and Zoo at 9:30am to carpool to Selwyn. Hike for 1 ½ hours. Contact: John B. at johnberry@nexicom.net 11 The Ganaraska News KAWARTHA FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d MIDLAND FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d Sunday, December 6, <EASY> 10km Hike in Havelock Woods north of the Village. Meet at Keane Rd carpool lot at 9:30am or at the Havelock Community Centre, 39 George St., 1 block north of Hwy #7. Contact: Linda C. 705-778-7842 Sunday, August 2, <EASY> Hike, Bike, Paddle, Swim, Pot Luck at Cedar Point Million $$ view! 1pm Contact: Franziska: 705-533-2699 Saturday, August 8, <EASY> Awenda Park/Beach Hike, swim Bring Shore Lunch. 10am Contact: Deb. 705-549-1717 Wednesday, December 9, <EASY> Little Lake Circuit. Meet at Roger’s Cove at 10am. Hike approximately 6 to 7 km around the lake. Contact: Marjorie 705-761-8895 Sunday, August 16, Mystery Hike, 9:30am Contact: Kim 705-327-2033 Saturday, December 12, <EASY> 5km Historic Walk#2-along west side of Otanabee River north of Hunter St. Meet at 10am at Auburn and Parkhill for a 1 ½ to 2 hour guided walk to look briefly at the history and architecture of several homes in the area. Contact: Ken 705-745-9043 or Tony 705-755-0815 Sunday, August 23, <MODERATE> Hike/Swim Christian Island Ferry and Parking Fees apply. Car pooling / Bring Lunch. 8:30am Contact: Marc 705-527-1967 Wednesday, December 16, <EASY> East City. Park at No Frills on George Street. Meet at 10am. Walk East City. Contact: Barb 705-304-6264 Saturday, August 29, <EASY> Beach Hike and swim and Corn Roast at Tiny Beaches Waterfront. Bring your own Weenies/ Refreshments/ etc., 1pm Contact: Gerolf: 705-533-3547 Late December Pre and Post Christmas hikes to first build an appetite for and then to “shake down” your holiday meal. Details will be made available in early December. Contact: Barb 705-304-6264 Sunday, September 6, <MODERATE> 9am (at Zellers) or meet at 9:30am at Hwy 92/ County Rd. 29. FALL Hike at Kolapore area. Bring lunch, all day outing. Contact: Emilio: 705- 735-2583 MIDLAND FALL HIKES 2015 Midland Hikers always meet at the old Zellers Parking Lot on County Road 93, Midland. Wednesday hikes start at 6pm, until end of September and at 1pm from October to December. We do not list destinations, as they are decided at random. These hikes are moderate and usually 2 hours long. Weekend, September 11-12-13-14 Cabin Camping / or optional Tent Camping at Turkey Point – Port Dover area. Hike/Bike/ Historical Re-enactment Book your own cabin / campsite (see website) Contact: Kim 705-327-2033 Sunday, September 13 Optional local hike for non cabin/campers 1pm. Contact: Dennis 705-322-2612 Weekend meeting times vary, depending on destination. It is always recommended and very important to contact the hike leader for details or changes before the hike. Our weekly E Mail will also notify you of our activities. For Pot Luck get-togethers, please don’t forget your plate, cutlery, beverage glass or cup, etc. Saturday, September 19 Hike along the historic Nine Mile Portage from Barrie’s Kempenfelt Bay to Fort Willow. Re-enactments along the way and at Fort Willow. 14 km through valleys, forests, quiet residential and country roads. Details to follow. Contact: Frieda 705-245-1005 Recreational Biking Outings. Monday and Thursdays. Departure at 10am. Weather permitting. Location announced via E-Mail. Contact: Gord 705-533-9949 “You need special shoes for hiking – and a bit of a special soul as well.” Recreational Canoe/Kayak outings. Weather permitting, meet at 9:30am Wednesdays at the Esso Station in Waubaushene on Hwy. 12 (The Moose). Contact: Terry 705-835-2823 Emme Woodhull-Bäche 12 The Ganaraska News MIDLAND FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d MIDLAND FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d Saturday, September 26 Hike Beausoleil Island, Georgian Trail/Huron Trail. Georgian Bay National Park. Meet at 9am for carpooling. Ferry Dock departure Honey Harbour at 10:30am. Cost approx. $14.00 p.p. Must commit by August 26. Maximum 12 people. Bring Lunch. Contact: Beth 705-361-2644 Sunday, November15, <EASY> Hike Sturgeon River Loop. 1pm Contact: Sigi 705-528-1593 Weekend, September 25-26-27 El Camino Hike along the Maitland River (challenging due to distance) 49 km from Auburn to Goderich in 2 days (or shorter distance). See www.maitlandtrails.ca Cost $25 early bird registration fee till September 1. Contact: Frieda Baldwin 705-245-1005 to arrange accommodations & carpooling. Sunday, November 29, <MODERATE> Hike/Snowshoe Elmvale area. 1pm Contact: Dennis: 705-322-2612 Sunday, November 22, <MODEATE> Hike/Snowshoe Copeland Forest. 10am Contact: Marc: 705-527-1967 Sunday, December 6, <EASY> Hike/Snowshoe Subway Rd/ Wye Marsh. 1pm Contact: Janet 705-527-1967 Wednesday, December 16 Hikers Christmas Light Hike / Sing along 6pm, social to follow. Contact: Cecilie 705-245-1233 Sunday, October 4, <MODERATE> Hike Bracebridge Management Resource Centre Forest hike with scenic vistas of the Mukoka River. 9am. Contact: Frieda: 705-245-1005 or Sherry Kelly 705-718-8784 Saturday, December 19 Hikers Christmas Party at Tiffin Pier Party Room Santa re-gifting, Food Bank donation, 5pm. Pot Luck. Contact: Edda 705-245-1122 Saturday, October 10 Balm Beach Swinging Senior Club Octoberfest hosted by Midland Hiking Group. 5pm Hiking on the Dance Floor!! Contact: Edda 705-245-1122 Sunday, December 20 Walk off the stress - Pre-Christmas Hike. 1pm Contact: Frieda 705-245-1005 Monday, October 12 Thanksgiving Walk off the Turkey hike. 10am. Contact: Deb. 705-549-1717 Sunday, December 27 Walk off the Turkey - After Christmas Hike/Snowshoe, 1pm Contact: Susan 705-549-4927 Sunday, October 18 Meet at Zellers Midland for carpooling at 10:15am Inter-Club Hike – Pot Luck at the Midhurst Community Centre. (See Barrie Club detail) Contact: Marc 705-527-1967 Friday, January 1, 2016 New Year’s Hike and Soup Party Hosted by Margaret McCauley, 353 Aberdeen Blvd, Midland 705-528-7449 Sunday, October 25, <EASY> Hike Wildman Forest, 1pm Contact: Kim 705-327-2033 ORILLIA FALL HIKES 2015 Our usual meeting place is Willow Court Plaza, located at West St and Highway 12 South. We meet, car pool and leave cars at the far end, beyond “The Learning Centre”. Saturday, October 31 Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association Annual General Meeting (Orillia), 9am Contact: Marc 705-527-1967 EVERY TUESDAY: Starting in the FALL, a small group will be doing 1½–2 hr daytime hikes every Tuesday. Any members interested in joining the group may contact Paul at 705-325-6001 for details. PLEASE WEAR BRIGHTLY COLOURED CLOTHING FOR ALL HIKES. Sunday, November 1 Hike Terra Cotta and Badlands–Cheltenham, 9am Contact: Marc: 705-527-1967 Sunday, November 8 Meet at 9am at Zellers or meet at 9:45am (Canadian Tire/Barrie) Hike Caledon Contact: Emilio 705-735-2583 13 The Ganaraska News ORILLIA FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d ORILLIA FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d Saturday, September 5, <MODERATE> 8 km Hike on the Trans Canada Trail between Riley Rd and Cooper's Falls Rd. This is a rugged but relatively short hike. Boots are recommended. Meet at Willow Court at 9am. Contact: Heather at 705-329-2403 Saturday, October 24, <MODERATE> Hike in the Bracebridge and Wilson’s Falls area. We will do 2 or 3 short hikes. There is one set of steep stairs. Meet at Willow Court at 9am. Contact: Barb 705-326-4491. Saturday, September 12, <EASY> SHORT HIKE in the La Fontaine area. We will visit Bonnie Bee Honey, tour a bee yard, talk with a bee keeper, Joe Devillers, and walk to Baie Sable for lunch. Meet at Willow Court at 9am. Contact: Marion 705-327-5366 Saturday, October 31, <DIFFICULT> Hike #1 of the Dufferin Section of the Bruce Trail. th Hike from Lavender to 39.8 km on Map 21 (20 Side Rd). The terrain is varied; boots are recommended. This hike involves a car shuttle and will take most of the day; bring a lunch. Meet at Willow Court at 8:00am or the Stayner Beer Store at 9am. Contact: Wendy 705-238-7217 OR LONG HIKE <DIFFICULT> Hike #4 of the Blue Mountain Section of the Bruce th Trail. We will hike from 45.4 km on Map 23 of the 27 edition of the trail guide to 60.1 km on Map 24. This may be a little longer (or we'll leave a car a little closer) depending on whether the reroute has been completed. This is a linear hike (about 15 km.) requiring a car shuttle. Meet at Willow Court at 8am or at the Stayner Beer Store at 9am. Bring a lunch. Contac: Isabelle 705-326-8082 Saturday, November 7, <MODERATE/DIFFICULT> Hike in Algonquin: Track and Tower Trail, 3½–4 hr. We will car pool and share park entrance fees. This is a great hike at any time of year. Bring water and lunch, etc. Meet at Willow Court at 8am. Contact: Heather at 705-329-2403 We will continue to hike on Saturdays in November. Hikes will be closer to home and moderate. Any volunteers to lead would be appreciated. Contact: Isobel 705-325-6578. Saturday, September 19, <MODERATE> 8 km Hike at Hardy Lake. Meet at Willow Court at 9am. Contact: Carol 705-325-1065 Saturday, December 5 Christmas Pot Luck and short hike. Donations for “The Sharing Place” and ideas concerning hikes for spring would be great! 2pm. Contact: Isobel 705-325-6578. Saturday, September 26, <DIFFICULT> 12 km Hike the Ganaraska Wilderness: Montgomery Creek. This is a difficult loop hike. Boots are recommended. Meet at Willow Court at 9am. Contact: Isobel 705-325-6578 ORO-MEDONTE FALL HIKES 2015 Beginning September 10, every Thursday morning the club will be offering a one hour relatively easy hike starting at 9:30am. For more information please call June at 705-721-0621. Please bring water on all hikes. Good hiking shoes are recommended. Saturday, October 3, <MODERATE> Hike Torrance Barrens, a 3–4 hr hike. Meet at Willow Court at 9am. Contact: Rosa 705-300-4132 Saturday, October 10, <MODERATE> Hike on the Ganaraska Trail starting from Rugby th Estates and going to the 8 Con. Return on the same trail. Meet at Willow Court at 9am or Con 11 at 9:15am Contact: Dave 705-331-9441 Monday, September 14, <EASY/MODERATE> 8 km Hike in Hardy Lake Provincial Park in Gravenhurst/Torrance area, on mostly flat terrain. Bring water and lunch. Meet at 9am at the Crown Hill Highway car park, junction of Hwy 11 & 93 Contact: Bob 705-728-8985 or June 705-721-0621 Saturday, October 17, <DIFFICULT> Hike #5 of the Blue Mountain Section of the Bruce Trail. Hike from 60.1 (Map 24) to the end of the Blue Mountain Section, on varied terrain. We will add some of the Beaver Valley Section to make the hike about 15 km. Meet at Willow Court at 8am or the Stayner Beer Store at 9am. Contact: Isabelle 705-326-8082 Sunday, September 20, <MODERATE> Circle hike in Pine Ridge area of Copeland Forest, hilly terrain, followed by corn and wiener roast at 4pm at 5 Bunker Place in Horseshoe Valley, just off Alpine Way. Bring a lawn chair and $5. For the hike meet at the east end of Pine Ridge Trail at 1:30pm. Contact: Wayne or Holly 705-835-7018. 14 The Ganaraska News ORO-MEDONTE FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d ORO-MEDONTE FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d Monday, September 28, <MODERATE> Hike trails at the north end of Georgian Bay Islands National Park (Beausoleil Island). The fee for park entrance and water taxi from Honey Harbour is approximately $15. Bring lunch and water. Meet at Dalston Church at 8:30am to carpool. Must register with Bob or Lois 705-728-8985 with a $15 deposit no later than September 20 Monday, November 30, <MODERATE> Hike or snowshoe in the Tottenham Conservation Area, lunch in Tottenham followed by a short hike or snowshoe in Earl Rowe Provincial Park. Meet at 9am at the Crown Hill Highway Car Park (junction Hwy 11 and 93) to carpool. Contact: Wayne 705-835-7018 or Sue 705-722-0395 Sunday, December 6 Mystery Hike, meet at 1:30pm. Snowshoe or ski. Contact: Wayne 705-835-7018 or Marjorie 705-722-8732 Sunday, October 4, <MODERATE> Hike on the Ganaraska Trail from Oro-Medonte Line 11 (Rugby Estates) to Line 8 (approx. 6 km). Meet at 1:30pm at Rugby Estates just north of the Old Barrie Rd. at Oro-Medonte Line 11; a car shuttle will be arranged. Contact: Noel 705-527-0620 or Christine 705-733-3825 Monday, December 14, <EASY> Ski, snowshoe or hike plus potluck supper. Meet at the Marshall’s, 2407 Oro-Medonte Line 3 N. Ski, snowshoe or hike at 4pm; potluck at 5:30pm followed by music and fun. Contact: Bob or Lois 705-728-8985 Monday, October 19, <MODERATE> Hike the Nottawasaga Bluffs Loop Trail (3.5 km) plus the Key Hole Trail (0.5 km). Bring a lunch. Meet at 9am at Dalston United Church to carpool. Contact: Bob 705-728-8985 or Sue 705-722-0395 PINE RIDGE FALL HIKES 2015 NOTE: We use the following ratings for Level of Difficulty (terrain) of our hikes: Sunday, October 25, <MODERATE> Hike on the Ganaraska Trail in Copeland Forest from Oro-Medonte Line 5 to Ingram Road. Meet at 1:30pm at #3600 on Oro-Medonte Line 5, about ½ km north of Horseshoe Valley Rd. A car shuttle will be provided. Contact: Wayne 705-835-7018 or Mary 705-725-6252 EASY – Well-defined trails and/or roads, gentle inclines. Hiking boots not required, but trails may be wet. MODERATE – Generally on trails and/or roads; may be hilly with some rough spots or obstacles. Boots are recommended. Monday, November 2, <MODERATE> 9 km Hike in the Forks of the Credit Provincial Park. Meet at 8:30am at the Crown Hill Highway Car Park (junction Hwy 11 and 93) to carpool. Bring lunch Contact: Wayne 705-835-7018 or Christine 705-733-3825 MODERATE + – Generally on trails; rough terrain and/or steep sections and/or long climbs and descents. Boots are highly recommended. CHALLENGING – Rough terrain; one or more of extensive bushwhacking, steep sections, long climbs and descents, beaver dams or other obstacles, or rock scrambling. Boots essential; long pants and sleeves recommended. Sunday, November 8, <MODERATE> Hike on trails in Springwater Park. Meet at 1:30pm at the entrance to the park just off Hwy 26 Contact: Christine 705-733-3825 or Holly 705-835-7018 N.B. Monday, November 16, <MODERATE> Hike the Swiss Meadows area of the Bruce Trail, near Collingwood, great views. Meet at 9am at Dalston United Church to carpool. Bring lunch. Contact: Bob 705-728-8985 or Mary 705-725-6252 1. “Bring a snack” indicates that there will be a break of only 5 to 7 minutes for refreshments. “Bring a lunch” indicates a longer stop for refreshments. 2. Anyone choosing to leave a hike before the end must be accompanied by another hiker. 3. No dogs are allowed on group hikes. Sunday, November 22, <MODERATE> Hike in the Ardagh Bluffs in Barrie. Meet at 1:30pm at the Holly Recreation Centre at 171 Mapleton Ave. Contact: Christine 705-733-3825 or Wayne 705-835-7018 Wednesday, August 5, <EASY> 6 km Short town hike around Port Hope. Meet at Port Hope Town Hall at 6:30pm Contact: Rita Zeran 905-885-2874 15 The Ganaraska News PINE RIDGE FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d PINE RIDGE FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d Wednesday, August, 19, <EASY> 6 km Circular evening walk mainly through woodland and parkland in Cobourg finishing at the Oasis restaurant for refreshments in their beer garden. Meet at the Cobourg Water Garden, corner of Division and Ewart (free parking opposite) at 7pm. Contact: Tim Hay 905-885-2203 Saturday, October 3, <MODERATE> 12.5 km Dragonfly, Elderberry & Universal trails in the Northumberland Forest. (Joint Pine Ridge Club and Kawartha Club) Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope (approx. ½ km south of Hwy. 401 interchange 461) at 9:30am to carpool or at the Northumberland Forest parking lot off Beagle Club Road, approximately 10 km north of Cobourg on Cty. Rd. 45, at 10am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Stan Muldoon 905-885-9310 Saturday, September 19, <MODERATE> 13 km Northumberland County Forest Purple Finch, Black Oak & Sweet Fern Loops. Meet at Home Hardware in Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or at the parking lot on the east side of Highway 45, opposite Woodland Road, at 10am. Bring a lunch and drink. Contact: Bruce Williamson 905-753-2602 Sunday, October 4, <EASY> 5 km Racetrack Road area, southeastern Hamilton Township. Rural road route that is almost flat with very slight inclines. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 10am to carpool or on Racetrack Rd. at the intersection with Dale Rd. at 10:15am. Bring a snack and a drink. Contact: Mary Brinklow 905-372-6298 Sunday, September 20, <EASY> 6 km Rural roads west of Canton. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Road, Port Hope at 10am to carpool. Bring a snack and drink. Contact: John LeBlanc 905-885-5214 Wednesday, October 7, <MODERATE +> 12.5 km Perrytown Circuit. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: David Beevis 905-885-7151 Wednesday, September 23, <EASY> 12 km Lakeshore Rd. / Port Britain area, in western Port Hope. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: John Kurowski 905-885-8776 Saturday, October 10, <MODERATE> 6 km Ganaraska Trail and unmaintained roads between th th the 6 and 7 Lines of Hope Township. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool. Bring a drink; soup & bread at Bruce’s end. Contact: Bruce Williamson 905-753-2602 Saturday, September 26, <EASY> 6km Back roads of Grafton. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Road, Port Hope at 9:30am or at the Highway #45/401 carpool parking lot at 9:45am to carpool. Bring a snack and a drink. Contact: George Atto 905-377-8363 Sunday, October 11, <MODERATE> 6 km Port Hope Conservation Area. Meet at the fish ladder parking lot off of Cavan St. just below the 401, at 9:30am. Bring a snack and a drink. Contact: Tim Hay 905-885-2203 Sunday, September 27, <MODERATE> 10 km Northumberland Forest Ski Trails. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or at the parking lot off Beagle Club Road, approximately 10 km north of Cobourg, at 10am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Graeme Coxon 905-342-3270 Wednesday, October 14, <MODERATE> 10.5 km Baltimore Community Centre Rd. Country roads east of Baltimore. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am or at the Hwy 45/401 commuter parking lot at 9:45am, to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Elke Williams 905-377-0573 Wednesday September 30, <EASY> 10 km Courtice Town Trails. Flat trails, some created as a Millenium project, and some bush. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or at the Courtice Community Complex, west side of Courtice Rd., 200 metres north of Hwy. 2 at 10am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Jim Osborne 905-436-2499 Saturday, October 17, <MODERATE> 12 km Lang Village Area. (Joint Pine Ridge Club and Kawartha Club.) EARLY START. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:15am or at the start of the hike at 10am on Base Line Rd. just west of Heritage Line (Cty. Rd. 34). Loop hike on the TCT and quiet country roads with some hills to provide good views. Bring a lunch and a drink to eat on the bank of the Indian River at the Hope Mill. Contact: Rose Millett 705-639-2431 “There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” Sir Rannulph Fiennes 16 The Ganaraska News PINE RIDGE FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d PINE RIDGE FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d at 8:45am to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink. Parking Fee $4 ORTA Contact: Garry Niece 905-655-8040, Cell (day of hike only) 905-809-5138 Pine Ridge Contact: Bob Short 905-885-1420 Sunday, October 18, <EASY> 8 Km The Rolling Hills of the Leckie Property. Meet at Home Hardware in Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or at the Hwy 45/401 commuter parking lot at 9:45am Bring a lunch and drink. Contact: Maria Siemiaszko 905-396-4540 Saturday, November 7, <MODERATE> 12 km Goodrich Loomis Conservation Area. EARLY START TIME. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Road, at 9:15am. or at Hwy 45/401 commuter parking lot at 9:30am to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink.Contact: Colin Banfield 905-372-7120 Wednesday, October 21, <MODERATE> 13 km Haldimand Township (Creighton’s Hill). Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool, or at the intersection of County Rd.2 and Shelter Valley Rd. at 9:50am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Rita Zeran 905-885-2874 Sunday, November 8, <EASY> 12 km Camborne Area. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: John Kurowski 905-885-8776 Saturday, October 24, <MODERATE> 12 km North East Campbellcroft, roads and trails. (Joint Pine Ridge Club and Oak Ridges Trail Assoc.) Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Road, Port Hope (approx. ½ km south of Hwy. 401 interchange 461) at 9:30am to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink.Contact: David Beevis 905-885-7151 Wednesday, November 11, <MODERATE> 15 km Bethany North loop. EARLY START. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9am to carpool or in Bethany at the intersection of Hwy 7A and Cty. Rd 38 at 9:45am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Bob Short 905-885-1420 Sunday, October 25, <EASY> 6 km th th 5 & 6 Lines of Hamilton Twp. Meet at corner of th 5 Line and Irving Goheen Rd. at 9:30am. Bring a snack and a drink. Contact: Andy Maxton 905-373-7029 Saturday, November 14, <EASY> 12 km View the two lakes. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Rita Zeran 905-885-2874 Wednesday, October 28, <EASY> 10 km Osaca area hike. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Bob Short 905-885-1420 Sunday, November 15, <EASY> 8 km “Over-the-Hill” Farm, Newtonville. Fields, farm lanes, bush, pastures and some road walking. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or at the Hwy. 401/Newtonville Rd. Commuter parking lot on the east side of Newtonville Rd., 100 metres north of Hwy. 401 at 9:45am. Bring a snack and a drink. Contact: Jim Osborne 905-436-2499 Saturday, October 31, <EASY> 12 km Bewdley Area East. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or at the Bewdley overflow parking lot on the west side of Rice Lake Drive at Cavan Rd. (approx 0.6 km east of Rhino’s or 0.8 km north of Cty. Rd. 9) at 9:50am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Adjourn to Rhino’s afterwards. Contact: Phil Mabey 905-377-0485 Wednesday, November 18, <EASY> 8.5 km Cornish Hollow loop. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or on Cornish Hollow Rd. at Dale Rd. at 9:40am. Bring a snack and a drink. Contact: Judy Harris 905-342-388 Sunday, November 1, <EASY> 5.5 km Oliver’s Lane-Forest Hill area north of 401 Cobourg. Mix of rural and light residential with a couple of hills. Meet at Hwy 45/401 commuter parking lot (start point of hike) at 10am. Bring a snack and drink. Contact: Paul Archambault 905-885-7139 Saturday, November 21, <EASY> 7 km Bewdley area. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or at the Bewdley overflow parking lot on the west side of Rice Lake Drive at Cavan Rd. at 9:50am. Bring a snack and a drink. Contact: Paul Archambault 905-885-7139 Wednesday, November 4, <MODERATE +> 17 km Trails of the Long Sault Conservation Area. Varied hilly terrain. (Joint Pine Ridge Club and Oak Ridges Trail Assoc.) EARLY START. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope 17 The Ganaraska News PINE RIDGE FALL HIKES 2015 cont’d WILDERNESS HIKES 2015 Sunday, November 22, <MODERATE +> 12 km Upland Vistas near Cold Springs. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or at the bottom of Taylor’s Rd. in Camborne (approx. 0.5 km west along Kennedy Rd. from County Rd. 18) at 9:50am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Colin Banfield 905-372-7120 Wilderness Fall Backpacking Trip September 12th and 13th. Hike Leader Larry Columbo. Route to be determined. Participation limited to those who have been approved by the hike leader in advance. Contact: Larry at lcolumbo@rogers.com for further details. Wilderness Fall Day Hike Saturday October 3rd. Moore Falls to Devil’s Lake (approx. 19k). Hike Leader David Royston. Meet at Devil’s Lake parking lot at 9am. Contact: David at david398@sympatico.ca to let him know you will be participating. Wednesday, November 25, <MODERATE> 15 km Russ’s Creek area, eastern Alnwick/Haldimand Township. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am or at the Hwy. 45/401 commuter parking lot at 9:45am to carpool. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Bob Short 905-885-142039 Saturday, November 28, <MODERATE> 14 km with drop-out after 7 km Eddystone Loop with Frying Pan Extension. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am or at the Highway 45/401 commuter parking lot at 9:45am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Jim Edwards 905-885-7839 Sunday, November 29, <MODERATE> 6 km Jamieson Road area Hilly Rural Rectangle. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool. Bring a snack and a drink. Contact: Stan Muldoon 905-885-9310 Wednesday, December 2, <MODERATE> 16 km Back Roads of Cramahe Twp. Visit Red Cloud Cemetery. Meet at Home Hardware parking lot, Toronto Rd., Port Hope at 9:30am to carpool or at the Hwy. 45/401 commuter parking lot at 9:45am. Bring a lunch and a drink. Contact: Elke Williams 905-377-0573 Annual General Meeting Saturday, October 31, 2015 Saturday, December 5, <EASY> 5 km PRHC AGM and Pot Luck Lunch at Ruth Clarke Centre preceded by a short hike starting at 9:30am. Contact: Rita Zeran 905-885-2874 9:30 am sharp Regent United Church 175 Oxford Street, Orillia Please arrive at 9:00 am and socialize with the members over coffee and donuts. Saturday, December 26, <EASY> 5 km Boxing Day mystery walk around Port Hope, finishing at a local pub. 1½ hrs. Meet at Port Hope Town Hall at 1:30pm Contact: Rita Zeran 905-885-2874 Directions: From Hwy. 11, turn onto Hwy. 12 East, Gill Street, then right on oxford. Those coming via Hwy. 12, take Hwy. 12 West to Forest Avenue, turn right on Forest, then left on Oxford. For more information on Pine Ridge Hiking Club please visit our website at http://pineridgehikingclub.ca/ 18 The Ganaraska News Comfortable Hiking Holidays Toll free 1 (866) 449-1908 info@letshike.com = FREE TOW + up to $500 tax receipt www.letshike.com OPEN HOUSE Simcoe County Trails recycles vehicles for trail funds! You’re invited! Recycle your old car, truck, motorcycle, snowmobile, RV or farm equipment Usable parts are recycled or scrapped in an environmentally friendly manner The Help Trails Grow project receives up to $500 cash from the recycler. Funds are shared with a trail initiative of your choice in Simcoe County, or with the Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association. See photos, hear commentary, learn about new and exciting adventures, and maybe even win a door prize! th Sunday, August 30 at 3:30 pm Crescent School Auditorium 2365 Bayview Ave, Toronto (1 light north of Lawrence Ave. E on the east side of Bayview) FREE PARKING! Call 705-728-4110 to arrange the free tow Please advise the recycler which trail or group should benefit from your donation. Corfu ● Patagonia ● Amalfi Coast ● Ireland ● Iceland Machu Picchu ● Israel ● Turkey ● New Zealand Japan ● Camino de Santiago For more information, check our website at http://www.simcoetrails.ca PATAGONIA March 5 to 17, 2016 Explore both Chilean and Argentinian Patagonia – each with its own culture, climate and allure. In Chile, visit penguins on Isla Magdalena, then journey far south into the heart of Torres Del Paine NP for magnificent views of the central lakes and the Paine’s Horns, a stunning hike on the shores of Grey Lake to witness the icebergs floating in the water, and the famed hike up to “The Towers”. In Argentina, travel to El Chalten and El Calafate for hikes in Los Glaciares National Park, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hike over to view Mt. Fitz Roy and even visit the sheer wall of ice that is the renowned Perito Moreno Glacier. This adventure concludes in the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires. Membership Renewal Form for 2015!! The membership year runs from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015. To renew your membership, simply photocopy this form, or clip it from your newsletter. Print clearly your complete address, sign the form and mail it to the address below, along with a cheque in the amount of $25.00. Payment to be made to: Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association Inc. Box 693, Orillia, ON L3V 6K7 AMALFI COAST Name: ________________________________ April 18 to 30, 2016 October 10 to 22, 2016 Address: ______________________________ ______________________________ Italy never fails to captures the hearts (and stomachs) of its visitors, and the Amalfi Coast lives up to that reputation towns perched impossibly on mountainsides, one of the most famous stretches of coastline in the world, sapphireblue water in every direction, an infamous volcano and some of the finest Limoncello anywhere. Come hike in Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and on the posh island of Capri. ______________________________ Phone #: ______________________________ Club: __________________________________ E-mail Address: ________________________ CORFU, GREECE Check this box if this is a change of address or club. May 9 to 21, 2016 This Greek island is the perfect combination of European flare and tranquil sea-side living. Hike to the heavens to visit holy monasteries and trek in shade of ancient olive groves. We promise - you will never tire of the deep, deep blue of the sea that surrounds you. Opa! I, the undersigned, agree that participating in events, or making use of the trail in any way, do so at my own risk. Signature: ___________________________ TICO # 50018498 19 The Ganaraska News Merchandise Order Form Know the Ganaraska Hiking Trail – make sure you have a Guidebook! Proudly display your support of the Ganaraska Trail Association by purchasing any of the merchandise listed below. Just fill out the order form and mail it with your payment, name and address to: Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association Inc. Box 693, Orillia, ON, L3V 6K7 The Guidebook! Has full colour topographic maps, plus a written description of each section along the trail. The guidebook is in a small binder so that it is easy to take out a map or two to bring with you on the trail. Item Cost Shipping Cost Guide Book Inserts Only (members) ..................................$16.00 + $12.00 Guide Book with Binder (members).....................................$19.00 + $12.00 Guide Book with Binder (non-members) ...........................$25.00 + $12.00 Trail Crest .................................................................................$ 4.00 + $ 1.50 Check out the Ganaraska Hiking Trail website for trail changes and re-routes, to keep your guidebook up-to-date. Section Badge End-to-End badge ........................................$ 3.00 + $ 1.50 Special Wilderness End-to-End badge .................................$ 7.00 + $ 1.50 Your name badge ...................................................................$ 5.00 + $ 3.00 Sweatshirts (Green or Blue) (S, M, L, XL, XXL) ............................$20.00 + $12.00 Please use the order form on the back of this newsletter. Follow payment instructions as indicated. Sweatshirts with End-to-End logo (S, M, L, XL, XXL) ...............$32.00 + $12.00 Vest (Red, Forest Green, Navy Blue) (S, M, L, XL) ..................$40.00 + $12.00 Cream T-shirt (M, L, XL, XXL) .....................................................$15.00 + $10.00 Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association Inc. Box 693, Orillia, ON, L3V 6K7 www.ganaraska-hiking-trail.ca e-mail: admin@ganaraska-hiking-trail.ca Notes: 1. Make cheque (including shipping cost) payable to: Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association Inc. 2. Be sure to specify size and colour of shirts. 3. Section badges are for members who have hiked a complete section of trail. 4. Name badges will be your first name plus club affiliation. Qty. Items Price Plus Shipping Also available for purchase at the following outlets: Mountain Co-op, Sojourn and Bird House Nature Company Donations Total Postmaster: Please return undeliverable mail to: Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association Inc. Box 693, Orillia, ON, L3V 6K7 20