Hiking Clubs Trek the Bruce Trail in Milton, ON

Where To Hike at Rattlesnake Point, Crawford Lake, and Hilton Falls

Aug 31, 2009

Crawford Lake Conservation Area, Lori Bosworth

With a backdrop of the Niagara Escarpment, Rattlesnake Point and Crawford Lake Conservation Areas in Milton provide spectacular scenery for experienced and casual hikers.

Fall is so short in Ontario that it is best to capitalize on the season by getting out for a fall colour hike in Milton, along some of Ontario's most scenic routes that interweave with the Bruce Trail. Milton's beauty is due primarily to its intersection with the Niagara Escarpment, the geological formation that has been designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, one of 12 in Canada.

For many, the appeal of hiking is the fact that it is a relatively low maintenance activity; participants can hike at paces that suit their individual fitness level. For individuals new to the activity, hiking really only requires the following items:

a good pair of hiking boots
hat
sunscreen
insect repellant
trail map
water, snacks
camera

The following conservation areas in Milton are popular spots for hiking, particularly because the Bruce Trail can be picked up at several locations throughout the area. It is common to see many individuals and families on a group hike close to Thanksgiving when the leaves are in full colour:

Crawford Lake Conservation Area

With a 15th century Iroquoian village reconstructed on site, Crawford Lake Conservation Area has trails that wind through the Nassagaweya Canyon. As its name indicates, the conservation area's focal point is a pristine lake with a surrounding boardwalk. There are 19 kilometres of hiking and cross-country ski trails. Located at 3315 Steeles Avenue at Guelph Line, the conservation area is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until October when it is open weekends and holidays only. Adults $6.50, Seniors $5.50, Children $4.50, Children 4 and under Free. 905-854-0234

Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area

Perched high upon the Niagara Escarpment, Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area provides a spectacular panoramic view of the GTA including Lake Ontario from the Rattlesnake Point Lookout. There are three designated sites for experienced rock climbers to climb cliffs, as well as group campsites. Located at 7200 Appleby Line, 1 km north of Derry Road. Open from 8:30 a.m. Mon to Fri, and at 8:00 a.m on weekends and holidays. Call 905-878-1147 for closing times. Adults $5.50, Seniors $4.75, Children $4.00, Children 4 and under Free.

Hilton Falls Conservation Area

With large forests harbouring rich habitats for diverse plants and animals, Hilton Falls Conservation Area is a destination of discovery for naturalists. Situated in the woods is a 10-metre waterfall surrounded by mill ruins. Mountain biking permitted. Located at 4985 Campbellville Road (also called 5 Side Road), just 3 km east of Guelph Line. Open from 8:30 a.m. every day. Call 905-854-0262 for closing times. Adults $5.50, Seniors $4.75, Children $4.00, Children 4 and under Free.

Hiking Clubs Toronto

For individuals who prefer to hike with others, there are several hiking groups in the GTA, many of which organize hikes in the Milton area:

The Toronto Outdoor Club is a volunteer run organization with members ranging in age from 20 to 60 and 73% of members in the 20-39 age range. Activities include hiking, canoeing, cycling, social events. Events are rated easy, moderate, and difficult. Free.
The Outing Club of East York offers day and weekend trips for hiking, canoeing, kayaking and skiing, as well as restaurant, theatre and museum visits. $30 annual fee.
The University of Toronto Outing Club accepts memberships from U of T students, alumni, and staff, and will consider non-U of T members. The group is involved in hiking, cycling, camping, kayaking, rock climbing, skiing, and snowshoeing. $15 to $30 annual fee.

A drive out to Milton for a fall hike is certain to please the casual hiker, experienced hiking club members, and individuals and families wishing simply to take in the glorious colours of fall. Whether viewing the cityscape at the heights of the Niagara Escarpment on Rattlesnake Point, following the boardwalk around Crawford Lake, seeking tranquility at the waterfall at Hilton Falls, or intersecting the Bruce Trail, the conservation areas in Milton offer nature's best.

For information on mountain biking and cycling clubs in Toronto, read here.

For information on things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake, read here.

The copyright of the article Hiking Clubs Trek the Bruce Trail in Milton, ON in Ontario Travel is owned by Lori Bosworth. Permission to republish Hiking Clubs Trek the Bruce Trail in Milton, ON in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.