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The Bruce Trail |
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| Starting with a proposal to the Federation of Ontario Naturalists
by a true visionary named Raymond Lowes in 1960, to the reality we
see today, the Bruce Trail is a remarkable achievement. Carving a
continuous slice of wilderness from a highly populated area which
encompasses major urban centers is a phenomenal undertaking. The trail
follows the Niagara Escarpment which is one of Ontario's most interesting
and unique geological features. ( Location Map for the Bruce Trail ) |
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| The escarpment runs from the tumultuous falls of Niagara in the
south, to the Bruce Peninsula, then to its underwater passage across
Lake Huron to Manitoulin Island. The trail follows the escarpment,
revealing some of Ontario's best natural features and habitat, aptly
demonstrating the power of vision and determination. ( Links for the Bruce Trail
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It is Ontario's longest trail, at almost 800km, providing endless
outdoor opportunities. Backpackers can choose from easy overnight
trips to a full fledged through-hike, which can take well over a
month. Campsites are available along the trail's length. Many are
located in provincial parks or conservation areas along the route.
There are innumerable access points along the trail for day
hikes and many of these provide parking. |
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| Tired feet at the end of a hike on the Bruce
Trail near Shelburne Ont. |
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| In the winter, most sections of the trail lend themselves to great
cross country/backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Winter access is
very good in most areas. Downhill skiers take advantage of the the
escarpment in several areas along its length which will soon include
the much anticipated development at Blue Mountain.
In addition to the main trail, there are over 100 side and connecting
trails. These include short spurs to areas of interest as well as
intersections with major trails such as the Ganaraska,
which will take you deep into eastern Ontario. |
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| Backpackers on the Bruce |
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| Each of these side trails can provide excellent hiking or even backpacking
opportunities. In addition, they allow for alternative access to the
Bruce. The side trails are listed and mapped out in the "Bruce
Trail Trail Reference". Some of the best climbing in Ontario
can also be found along the Bruce at Rattle Snake Point and at Lions
Head. |
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| Climber at Lions Head |
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| It's taken for granted that the most beautiful stretch of the trail
is along the Bruce Peninsula where the green waters of Georgian Bay
contrast sharply with the Dolomite cliffs of the escarpment. Having
hiked several sections I know that there are hidden treasures in almost
every section, including caves, cliffs, white stone beaches, waterfalls
and beautiful ponds. |
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| One of the caves on the Peninsula |
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Flora and Fauna and the Environment |
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| The escarpment provides a refuge for some of Ontario's "stressed"
and endangered species. The trail and areas directly adjacent to the
trail offer a small oasis for species whose habitat is being reduced
or eliminated due to development. The northern intrusion of the Carolinean
Forest in the south has a unique impact on the life forms as does
the sheltered micro-climates formed by the escarpment's cliffs. In
addition, the moderating effect of the massive bodies of water which
surround the region have a major impact areas ecology.
There are several areas along the trail which are well known for
the extensive variety of orchids and wildflowers. One of note is
the Singing Sands area of Bruce Peninsula National Park. These areas
are very delicate, so ensure that you tread softly. |
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| A winding, wooded path on the Bruce Trail
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| The upper reaches of the trail are one of the few areas where the
remaining Massasauga Rattle Snakes still exist in Ontario. Contrary
to what you might suppose, the rattler is shy and retiring and usually
only poses a threat if its escape routes are blocked or it's startled.
If you come across one, observe it from a good distance and try not
to disturb it in any way. These beautiful animals deserve a chance.
Some of the other creatures which share the region around the Bruce
Trail are: |
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| Massasauga Rattle Snake |
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Black Bears, White Tailed Deer, Coyote, Wolf, Raccoon,
Fox.
A variety of birds of prey along with Turkey Vultures ride the
cliff's thermals. Raptor migration is an awesome sight in the south,
as the birds, dependent on thermals, funnel through the the Niagara
peninsula to avoid the vast expanses of water presented by the Great
Lakes |
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Access points
to the Trail (Alphabetical) / Access points to the Trail
(Listed from South to North) / Escarpment Plans / Links
/ Literature / Clubs
Location Map for the Bruce Trail
Towns/Cities/Regions
Out-There's Central Ontario North
- The Muskokas, Bruce, Grey and Simcoe Counties
Out-There's Greater Toronto
Out-There's Southwestern Ontario - Coming soon!
Out-There's Ontario
Other Regions in Ontario
Out-There's Prince Edward County
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