Hiking Explore the South Shore Trails of RBG Cootes Paradise Nature Sanctuary

HIKE TITLE

Explore the South Shore Trails of RBG Cootes Paradise Nature Sanctuary

DATE

Saturday, August 12, 2023

HIKE LEADER(S)

Jane Walker

EMAIL AND CELL NUMBER

Jwhamilton9@gmail.com  905-807-3025

GENERAL LOCATION

Westdale, Hamilton

START TIME

9:15am (hike will leave at 9:30am)

SPECIFIC MEETING PLACE OR PARKING LOCATION

Park in the RBG Aviary parking lot at 85 Oak Knoll Drive.  At the north end of Dalewood Crescent and Oak Knoll Drive in Westdale, Hamilton.  Free parking for RBG members with parking pass or $3/hour for non-members.  Coins or credit.

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Precise+ParkLink 

DISTANCE

5-6km.

PACE:

Leisurely / Moderate / Fast

Moderate

DURATION APPROX

2 hours

TERRAIN:

Easy / Moderate / Challenging

Moderate terrain, varying in type.  Hilly, gravel, boardwalks (slippery when wet), packed earth, tree roots, mud and a flat gravel path in an urban park.   A steep gravel section at the beginning on Caleb’s.  Bring hiking poles if you feel more comfortable/stable with them.

TYPE OF HIKE:

i.e. loop or out and back

Out and back

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Point of interests

Westdale Ravine: Located on the south shore of Cootes Paradise, this deeply incised sand-plain ravine features a spring-fed creek and some of the tallest trees on the RBG property.  A hotspot for birding (Great Blue Herons, ducks, swans, woodpeckers, Arctic Terns), and viewing other wildlife (chipmunks, deer and once a fox).  Bring water and a snack as we’ll take a viewing break at the end of the Sassafras Trail with a beautiful view of Cootes Paradise marsh.  Washrooms – while there isn’t a washroom on this walk, there is a seasonal City washroom in Churchill park closer to the end of the walk.  Mosquitos, ticks and deer flies abound this time of year.  Consider light-coloured clothing including light-weight long pants.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Yes. A Must.  Leaders appreciate early registration and at least 24 hours before the event.

CANCELLATION

•  If your plans change, please self-cancel as soon as possible so that other HOC members may take your spot.

•  The club may cancel due to bad weather that may impact the safety of participants or due to low attendance.

REGISTRATION OPENS

Between 1-2 weeks before the hike

WHAT TO BRING

•  Wear supportive hiking boots with good tread. Hiking poles will be helpful.

•  Dress in layers according to weather.

•  It’s hot out there – bring lots of water in a reusable container, snacks, a hat and waterproof rainwear.

•  Sun and bug protection almost certainly will be needed.