Welcome to the Iroquoia Bruce Trail Book Club – “Boots and Books”

Our book is A History of Canada in 10 Maps by Adam Shoalts. Please check your local library for available copies of this book.

We will hike from the parking lot westbound along the Chedoke Radial Trail and return – about 8km which will take about 2.5-3 hours approximately. Please wear suitable foot wear, dress for the weather and bring poles if you use them. Please bring enough snacks and water suitable for the length/duration of the hike. It is not necessary to bring the book.

Our July book will be “A History of Canada in 10 Maps” by Adam Shoalts and the August book will be “Woman, Watching” by Merilyn Simonds. It may be a good idea to reserve this book now from your local library.

The hike is open to everyone whether you have read the book or not but there may be spoilers, if you haven’t read it. It will be open to 10 people to keep it more intimate for discussing the book.

If your plans change, please cancel your registration so that people who are waitlisted may join.

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Ruth Moffat

Hike Leader

The first of our Club’s Passport To Nature series. Namaste! We will meet behind Tim’s on 1st Street in Collingwood and carpool to the Three Stage parking at the top of Pretty River Provincial Park. We will hike a moderate trail of 3-5 km through beautiful hardwood forest, accompanied by a qualified Yoga instructor leading us in Yoga stretches and movements. Great views to the west! This hike is has some hills and rocky footing, so hiking boots or trail runners are recommended. Bring water.

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Helen Stukator

Hike Leader

Sydenham Bruce Trail Club (SBTC) is excited to celebrate a Rainbow Hike on the Bruce Trail and the trails at the Inglis Falls Arboretum! The Event will be based at the Pavilion at the Grey Sauble Conservation Administration Centre.

Bring your own lunch and drinks to enjoy after the hike at the picnic tables in the shade of the Pavilion. There are washrooms at the Pavilion.

This inclusive, family-friendly 2SLGBTQIA+ hike offers a safe and supportive space for trans, gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, 2Spirit, intersex, asexual people, as well as allies and friends.

The day includes two hiking options. We’ll begin with a short introduction at the Pavilion at 11 a.m., then walk an easy section of the Arboretum Trails with Arboretum Interpreter, Nan Brown, and SBTC Hike Leaders. Arboretum interpretation will include an introduction to this unique ecosystem of woody and herbaceous plants using a queer ecology perspective.

The guided Arboretum tour offers 2 km of winding trails through 20 acres of the Trees of the World section and the Grey-Bruce Native section both of which are adorned with interpretative signs of interesting details. Among the woody plants, there are intentional brush piles and meadows of native herbaceous plants which provide homes and food for butterflies, bees, birds and other animals in a sustainable, ecologically diverse habitat.

Back at the Pavilion about 12:45 p.m., participants can choose to stay there and socialize, or to continue for a 30-40 minute hike along the Bruce Trail to the bridge at the Sydenham River and along the the river a short distance, then return. We will follow the sparkling waters of the Sydenham River that flow past the forested paths.

Everyone will meet together by 1:30 p.m. at the Pavilion for a bring-your-own lunch and social time. Plan for about 3.5 hours until 2:30 p.m. for the hike and lunch.

You are welcome to stay after 2:30 p.m. at the Pavilion for as long as you would like. Also, consider visiting spectacular Inglis Falls or nearby Harrison Park. Or spend the rest of the day in Owen Sound and explore its River District.

All participants will receive a Bruce Trail Conservancy Pride Badge which represents a celebration of 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion.

There are no parking fees at the Administration Centre of Grey Sauble Conservation.

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Stewart Brown

Hike Leader

Discover the geology of the Vinemount Ridge wine sub-appellation and the beauty of the waterfalls at Louth Conservation Area. We will see some interesting geologic features and evidence of glaciers. We will follow Sixteen Mile Creek and get a great view of both the upper falls and lower falls as Sixteen Mile Creek makes its way over the Niagara Escarpment.

We will use a slow pace and stop and discuss geology along the way. It will take us 2-2.5 hours to cover the distance. There are three small hills we will climb, otherwise the terrain is generally flat. However, some of the footing is rocky and uneven with holes and gaps between the rocks we are walking on. It may be wet and muddy. Hiking poles may give more stability on uneven footing. After about 2.9km, we will arrive at Louth Falls where will stop to enjoy it. The falls are in a shady area with a nice breeze and a fantastic view. We will return to the parking lot via the main Bruce Trail and walk a short distance along Staff Road. Parking is free at Louth, but spots are limited. There are no washrooms or facilities.

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Kristin Hanson

Hike Leader

A drop-in, indoor workshop, perfect for those new to hiking, which demystfies
getng started on the Bruce Trail. Build your confidence and find new ways to
connect to nature along the Niagara Escarpment.

More details to come, check back for updates!

Ruth Moffat

Hike Leader

A full moon hike around Splitrock Narrows is your chance to turn an ordinary evening into an adventure. Come with us as we take a short hike through the Dufferin Hi-lands to experience hiking by moonlight. Throughout the hike our guide Megan Logeman will teach us about phases of the moon and key constellations drawing our attention to notable features of the summer night sky. This is a short, easy hike suitable for all adults and children over 6 years old.

The hike will start promptly at 8:30pm . Please wear long sleeved tops and long pants to avoid any mosquitos or ticks and bring bug spray. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a headlamp or flashlight which we will use only if necessary. Please bring a drink also. Pre-registration is required.

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Helen Bailey; Margery Cruise

Hike Leader

A hands‐on volunteer event to help manage invasive plants on a Bruce Trail Conservancy Nature Reserve. We’ll be removing invasive European Buckthorn to make room for native species and improve biodiversity in the Beaver Valley. Many hands make light work…and the teamwork is loads of fun!

Date, time and location to be determined for this Fall 2026 event.

Please check back for details and updates!

Hike Leader

A mushroom‐themed interpretive hike!

From the forest floor to trunks of trees, we’ll learn to spot and identify mushrooms and other fungi. If we find 20 species, participants may wish to purchase the Beaver Valley Bruce Trail Club Mushroom Hunter badge ($10). Remember, foraging is not permitted on the Bruce Trail so we’ll be looking and learning, but not collecting.

Date, time and location to be determined for this September 2026 event.

Check back for further details and updates!

Hike Leader

A kid‐friendly walk including stories and art. We will begin our adventure by reading the storybook “Sometimes I Feel Like an Oak” by Canadian Indigenous author Danielle Daniel. We will talk about the different trees mentioned in the book, including how they can be identified, so we can find some of them as we complete a 3 km loop hike. We will finish the day with a tree‐themed art activity.

The hike leader will bring the storybook and art supplies as well as a first aid kit and FREE Toronto Bruce Trail Club Youth Badges for children aged 13 and under who participate in the day’s activities.

Participants should bring something to sit on (e.g., folding chair, picnic blanket, etc.) to be used before and after the hike which can be stored in the car during the hike.  Participants should also bring their own water and nut-free snacks.  Please note that children should be accompanied by an adult, and all participating children and adults should register for this hike.

The 3 km loop hike will be hiked at a leisurely pace so it will take us approximately 1.5 hours to complete.  The trail is rocky and hilly in places and is therefore not stroller-friendly so all participants should be capable of walking on their own.  Please wear clothing appropriate for the weather and comfortable shoes with good traction.

Event Link

Monica Pasquali

Hike Leader

Join geologist Lynda Bloom and hike leader Julie Daley for an unforgettable trek through Rock Hill Park. An interpretive hike with a rocky focus at the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s Rock Hill Corner protected natural area.

We’ll explore stunning limestone caverns carved by ancient glaciers, wander through cool rock crevices lined with ferns and mosses, and visit the remains of old lime kilns once vital to local farming. Along the way, enjoy stories about the area’s surprising past, including the rock concerts that took place here in the 1960s.

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Lynda Bloom

Hike Leader

An easy and beautiful 8.5 km hike steeped in the history of the Welland Canal. Starting at Woodend Conservation Area, we’ll pass four locks (13, 14, 15, and 16) and a lift bridge. We’ll visit the St Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre at Lock 3 to watch ships from the viewing platform. Finally, we’ll visit the Fallen Workers Memorial before returning to Woodend.

Check back for updates and more details.

Hike Leader

A weekend of guided hikes, expert‐led experiences and a shared celebration of the Bruce Trail and the people connected to it. Choose from a wide range of unique events, including our keynote dinner, and build your own Festival experience. This year’s theme is Common Ground: A Celebration of Trail, Place, and Belonging. Tickets range from $90 to $150 for this three‐day event.

Please check the link for additional dates and timings of events.

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Randy Vanderlaan

Hike Leader

A hands‐on volunteer event to plant native trees at the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s Rockview Bluffs Nature Reserve. This will be a wonderful opportunity for volunteers of all ages to help naturalize and reforest this small but key part of the Bruce Trail conservation corridor northwest of Owen Sound.

Please check back for updates and further details.

Hike Leader

Join us for the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s biggest event of the year. Bruce Trail Day is an annual Trail‐wide celebration and a wonderful way to get to know the Bruce Trail and the people who care for it.

Each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs hosts a family‐friendly event unique to their section. You’ll enjoy free on‐Trail hikes and activities, explore Canada’s oldest and longest public footpath, and learn more about the amazing variety of life along the Niagara Escarpment. All are welcome!

Bring your friends and family ‐ let’s come Together on the Trail.

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Hike Leader

A group volunteering event to remove the highly invasive Common Buckthorn from a protected natural area. We’ll use the fun and effective ‘extractigator’ tools to remove these shrubs, giving native species room to grow and thrive.

No experience necessary. Training and tools provided. Wear a long sleeve shirt and long pants and bring gloves.

Hike Leader

An evening hike to celebrate the winter solstice and the waxing gibbous supermoon on the Bruce Trail and Inglis Falls Arboretum trails. An astronomy interpreter will guide us around the sky as we hike along the snowy paths. Hot chocolate to follow at the Pavilion.

Check back for further details and updates.

Hike Leader

A kid‐friendly winter walk. We’ll read the storybook “Snow Day” by Canadian Indigenous author Lindsay Gloade‐Raining Bird.

We will talk about some fun activities that can be done in the wintertime, including hiking the Bruce Trail. We will then complete a 3 km loop hike and finish by enjoying some hot chocolate before we all head home.

The hike leader will bring the storybook and hot chocolate as well as a first aid kit and FREE Toronto Bruce Trail Club Youth Badges for children aged 13 and under who participate in the day’s activities.

Participants should bring their own water and nut-free snacks to be enjoyed during the hike as well as a reusable heat-safe cup if they’d like some hot chocolate after the hike.  Please note that children should be accompanied by an adult, and all participating children and adults should register for this hike.

The 3 km loop hike will be hiked at a leisurely pace so it will take us approximately 1.5 hours to complete.  The trail is rocky and hilly in places and is therefore not stroller-friendly so all participants should be capable of walking on their own.  Please wear clothing appropriate for the weather and comfortable shoes with good traction.

Event Link

Monica Pasquali

Hike Leader

A series of walks in Niagara‐on‐the‐Lake honouring the experiences, achievements and enduring contributions of Black communities in Canada. Focusing on Black history in Niagara‐on‐the‐Lake these walks are offered by volunteers who have committed to their own learning to be able to offer informative and contemplative hike experiences. This series is open to all and offered in a spirit of mutual learning and inclusion.

Dates and times to be determined for this February 2027 series.

Please check back for further details.

Hike Leader

A fun and adventurous 5 km winter hike through the forest to celebrate Family Day.

Enjoy scenic lookouts, explore fascinating cracks and crevices, and take in the crisp seasonal beauty together. This guided outing is perfect for all ages, offering a mix of exploration, fresh air, and memorable moments in nature.

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Rob Johnston

Hike Leader

Multiple winter hikes in celebration of Family Day.

The Caledon Hills Club will host a campfire and hike event at the BTC’s Akela and Scouters Heather and Ross Hamlin Nature Reserve at Riverside Woods. Come dressed for the weather and choose from several hikes of different lengths.

Hike Leader

An early evening hike through the forest, illuminated by the glow of the full moon.

As we walk along snow‐covered trails, learn to identify constellations and celestial features overhead while tuning in to the quiet beauty of nighttime sounds. This peaceful, guided hike offers a unique way to connect with nature after dark.

Event Link

Annette Sandberg

Hike Leader

A guided interpretive hike that weaves local Indigenous history, settlement, and Bruce Trail Conservancy conservation stories.

Walk and explore how people have interacted with this landscape over time. A guide will share stories of Indigenous presence, early European settlement, transportation and industry, and the modern conservation movement that led to the creation of the Bruce Trail and BTC’s protected natural areas.

Date and time to be determined for this February/March 2027 event.

Check back regularly for more details.

Hike Leader

A welcoming introductory course (3-day series) for those new to hiking.

Learn the essentials—where to go, what to wear, and what to pack—through three engaging afternoon sessions. Each session includes a practical workshop followed by a guided hike along the Bruce Trail. Build your skills and enjoy the outdoors. $40 for non‐members.

Planned for April & May 2027. Dates, times and locations to be determined.

Check back for updates.

Hike Leader

A birding hike at one of the best spots to look for raptors on the Niagara Escarpment.

Join expert spotters from Niagara Peninsula Hawkwatch for a guided hike during the peak of the spring raptor migration.

Planned for April 12 or 19, 2027. Date to be confirmed.

Check back for details.

Hike Leader

A series of themed outings that invite you to slow down and notice more on the Bruce Trail. Each hike highlights a different aspect of the escarpment—wetlands, forest ecosystems, mindful “forest bathing,” and creative nature sketching—led by hike leaders and naturalist volunteers.

Planned for April 30, May 30 & 31, 2027. Times and locations to be determined.

Check back for updates.

Hike Leader

A kid‐friendly walk including stories and art.

We’ll read “Sometimes I Feel Like a Fox” by Canadian Indigenous author Danielle Daniel. We will talk about the different animals mentioned in the book, including where they might be found and why they are important, before we look for some of them on a 3 km loop hike. We’ll end with an animal‐themed art activity before heading home.

The hike leader will bring the storybook and art supplies as well as a first aid kit and FREE Toronto Bruce Trail Club Youth Badges for children aged 13 and under who participate in the day’s activities.

Participants should bring something to sit on (e.g., folding chair, picnic blanket, etc.) to be used before and after the hike which can be stored in the car during the hike.  Participants should also bring their own water and nut-free snacks.  Please note that children should be accompanied by an adult, and all participating children and adults should register for this hike.

The 3 km loop hike will be hiked at a leisurely pace so it will take us approximately 1.5 hours to complete.  The trail is rocky and hilly in places and is therefore not stroller-friendly so all participants should be capable of walking on their own.  Please wear clothing appropriate for the weather and comfortable shoes with good traction.

Event Link

Monica Pasquali

Hike Leader

The third in our Passport To Nature series!

Please join us for this birding hike, led by birding enthusiast Jim Lewis. We will meet at Tim’s on 1st Street in Collingwood and carpool to Concession 10 Nottawasaga and follow the Bruce Trail east past a beautiful meadow where Bobolinks nest. We will look for singing males defending their territories. There is a mix of hardwoods, cedars, and a sparkling stream that should provide more birds and spring wildflowers. We will loop back to our cars having completed about a 5 km hike.

Spaces will be limited to 15 hikers, so please register in advance.

(Note change in date from the printed Passport to Nature.)

Event Link

Jim Lewis

Hike Leader

A guided hike to enjoy the first signs of spring.

Bathe in the beauty of a sea of trilliums and an accompanying chorus of spring ephemerals that grace a vibrant woodland with early season flowers. This hike on the Bruce Trail passes through a mature maple forest and along the spectacular Escarpment edge which boasts impressive geological formations.

Hike Leader

A rewarding tree planting day on a Bruce Trail Conservancy nature reserve on the Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula.

Help restore native habitat, support biodiversity, and make a lasting environmental impact alongside fellow volunteers. We’ll learn about local ecosystems while enjoying fresh air, teamwork, and the satisfaction of giving back to nature.

Location to be determined.

Check back regularly updates.

Hike Leader

A fun and memorable day for the whole family on the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s stunning Splitrock Narrows Nature Reserve. We’ll explore rock formations and look for specially marked trees of the Niagara Escarpment along the “Tree Trail”. Find eight unique native species in this tree scavenger hunt!

Event Link

Margery Cruise; Helen Bailey

Hike Leader

A tree‐themed interpretive hike in the beautiful Beaver Valley section of the Bruce Trail. Guided by an experienced volunteer, explore diverse forest ecosystems, learn to identify native tree species, and uncover their ecological roles. This engaging, moderate walk is perfect for nature lovers eager to deepen their connection to the forest.

Planned for late May or June 2027. Date, time and location to be determined.

Check back regularly for updates.

Hike Leader