Hiking

I love hiking and I enjoy finding new places to go hiking.  I'm very lucky to live close to the Trans-Canada Trail and there are lots of places near by to go exploring.

Brantford, Ontario

App's Mill
Whitemans Creek flows through the 266 acre nature centre property of mature forest, fields and plantations. On the property lies the historic 1841 Apps' Flour and Grist Mill and remnants of the millrace and pond. Several walking trails provide an opportunity to explore the area.  Nature trails at the App's Mill Nature Centre have been adapted for use by handicapped visitors.  There are many activities that go on during the year for the family to enjoy; an Owl Prowl in the fall, snowshoeing in the winter, Maple syrup tours in the spring.
Directions: App's Mill lies south of Paris, Ontario and can be reached from Highway 403. Exit south on Rest Acres Road, and turn right on Robinson Road.

Hamilton, Ontario

Albion Falls
Albion Falls is one of the largest of a number of waterfalls in the greater Hamilton region. The area around the falls is also known as Albion Mills or Mount Albion.  The waterfall is composed of two very steep ramp class falls. Each waterfall is perhaps 7 to 8 m in height, falling at an angle of about 80 degrees. A small ledge of thicker dolostone separates the two falls. Large blocks of dolostone litter the base of the waterfall, having broken off of the massive layers found further up the stratigraphic sequence.  There are also come ghost stories to go along with this location. The legend of "Lovers Leap" is a well-known piece of Hamilton's folklore. After a tragic end to a brand new love, Jane Riley flung herself from the top of the falls, in an effort to end her misery. However, it seems her misery is endless. Many claim that Jane Riley has returned to Lover's Leap, frightening many visitors to Albion Falls.
Directions: Follow Hwy 403 south past downtown Hamilton and exit on to the eastbound Lincoln Alexander Parkway. Exit at Dartnell Rd and go south to Stone Church Rd. Turn left (east) on Stone Church Rd, left at Pritchard St, and then left on to Mud St.

Waterloo County

Sudden Tract
The Grand Valley Trail runs through Sudden Tract.  You have a choice of easy to moderate trails, with a few places that have steep climbs.  There is a map of the trails in the parking lot.  Part of the trail takes you through a marshy area and boardwalks have been built for you to walk on.  There is even a large deck with benches for you to sit and enjoy the view.  If you like looking for frogs and salamanders, this is the place for you.  With several ponds along the trails and damp areas, you're sure to find something!
Directions: The entrance to the Sudden Tract is approximately 14.8 km noth of Paris, Ontario on Highway 24A.