Bruce Trail: Forks of the Credit area (12/12/2009)

Forks of the Credit Provincial Park is where the cliffs and crevasses of the rugged Niagara Escarpment meet the rolling hills of the Oak Ridges Moraine. The park features the excitement of the Credit River, as it narrows and rushes through a deep gorge, plunging over a falls. Geological features that were deposited or carved out by retreating glaciers, such as kame hills and kettle lakes, surround the river. The park also includes some of the upland, rolling pasture land that is typical of much of southern Ontario.

From Forks of the Credit, we'll follow the main Bruce Trail through F of C PP, along Puckering Lane and then onto Escarpment Sideroad, ending at the parking lot east of St Andrew's Rd. The distance covered will be approximately 20 km. The terrain will be rocky in places and there will be some steep grades. We'll pick a nice spot to eat lunch on the trail.

Note that this hike will be at a good steady pace of around 4.5kph. It will also involve an end-to-end shuttle so there can be no drop-outs. All participants must be able to hike continuously at the stated pace to come on this event. Bring a spare fleece or sweater to wear at the end of the day while the drivers retrieve the cars.

At this time of year, it is likely to be wet - rain or snow - so hiking boots with good ankle support are required; anyone showing up at the carpool without proper footwear will be sent home.

We'll head to a local establishment after the hike for a bite to eat.

TOC or equivalent experience at this level is required - if you have not completed any D4 TOC hiking events, please indicate your equivalent experience in the notes when you sign up.

All particpants must meet at the carpool. If you feel you have extenuating circumstances, contact the event coordinator however, be forewarned, she may not be swayed by your argument...

• The hike will go ahead unless weather conditions pose a threat to hiker safety