Whether you are an avid hiker or just wanting to take a stroll in nature, there are a variety of terrains, ranging from easy to difficult, for you to explore. We have over 73 km of trails spread throughout 11 conservation areas in our watershed.
Spending time in nature has many proven health benefits. In 2018 we launched a healthy hikes initiative of our own called Take a Hike. Through this two-part initiative, we host outdoor based activities that encourage individuals to connect with nature. We rely on partnerships with local groups to make these events possible. Past events have included:
- Forest Therapy Hikes
- Outdoor Yoga
- Waterside Guided Meditation
- Guided Nature Hikes
- Events and Workshops
The second part of this initiative includes a yearly hiking challenge. #StepIntoNature at one of our participating areas. Track how many trails you have completed.
Share your journey with us on Instagram using the hashtag #HikeQCA.
Here are some tips before you head out on the trails:
- Review and familiarize yourself with participating conservation areas and hike safety notes
- Save trail maps to your smartphone or print the pdf version available on each conservation area page found on our website under Outdoor Spaces.
- Start hiking. Look for checkpoint signs. Take a selfie and post on social media account(s) with #HIKEQCA and #HealthyHikes.
- Once you have found all 12 checkpoints at 11 participating conservation areas, complete the submission form. If you have any issues using the form please email Kirsten Geisler, our Communications Specialist.
Participating Conservation Areas:
- Beaver Meadow
- Depot Lakes
- H.R. Frink (Find two checkpoints here. One of the north side trails and one on the south side trails.)
- Little Bluff
- Macaulay Mountain
- Massassauga Point
- O'Hara Mill
- Potter's Creek
- Sheffield
- Sidney
- Vanderwater
Trail maps
Track your position within each participating conservation area with our mobile trail maps.