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As the weather warms, the desire to get outside and explore what Mother Nature has to offer only grows! Lucky for us, there are so many hiking trails in Caledon, each with varying degrees of difficulty and breath-taking views.

One of the more popular trails in Caledon is the Bruce Trail.

About the Bruce Trail

The Bruce Trail is one of Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpaths. Running from Tobermory all the way to Niagara, the trail is over 900 kilometres long.

In Caledon, you can enjoy 55 kilometres of this beautiful trail following the glacial moraine deposits on top of the buried escarpment. Mature hardwood forests and wetlands provide wonderful birding opportunities.

The Bruce Trail also passes through the popular natural tourist destination of the Cheltenham Badlands. The removal of vegetation during the land clearing in the 1900s created shale erosion and this unique landscape in the Caledon area was formed.

The Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club organizes hikes of varying difficulty for both members and non-members. Visit their website to learn more.

Before You Hike

Before you decide to hike the trail this season, it’s important to review the Bruce Trail User’s Code:

1. Hike only along the marked routes
2. Obey all signage
3. Use the stiles
4. Respect the privacy of people living along the Trail
5. Leave the Trail cleaner than you found it
6. Use a portable stove
7. Camp only at designated campsites
8. Leave flowers and plants for others to enjoy
9. Do not damage live trees or remove bark
10. Where dogs are permitted, keep dogs on a leash and under control at all times
11. Do not disturb wildlife and farm animals
12. Leave only your thanks and take nothing but photographs

Preparing for your hike

When hiking any trail, it is important that you are prepared. Here is a list of some of the recommended items you should bring with you on a day hike:

1. Water – ensure that you are staying hydrated throughout the hike.
2. Food – snacks or a midday meal are a must!
3. Map – while the trail is marked, having a physical map to reference as you hike can help you get out of worst case scenarios.
4. Sun Protection – don’t forget your sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen.
5. Insulation – always pack extra layers of clothing in case of a change in weather.
6. First-Aid Kit – from bumps and bruises to broken bones or worse, it’s important to be prepared if you’re hiking on trails that are not easily accessible for first responders.
7. Insect Repellant – no one wants to be swatting away mosquitoes instead of enjoying the scenery.
8. Whistle/Flashlight – another important safety addition that can easily be stored in your daypack.
9. Extra Socks – no one likes wet feet.

The Bruce Trail is a great outdoor experience for everyone to enjoy, so make it a part of your plans this summer.

Happy hiking!