GHTC News July 2012

PO Box 1, Guelph, ON Canada N1H 6J6 Volume 40, #2 - July 2012Telephone: 519 836 9147, Internet: www.guelphhiking.com

International Trails DayPlus a Much Improved RLT Section 7

The Guelph Hiking Trail Club celebrated InternationalTrails Day with the grand opening and inaugural hikealong a new section of the Radial Line Trail, our pathwayfrom Guelph to Limehouse that roughly follows the oldRadial Line railroad’s right-of-way. Greg Moroz and hissister Lisa McIlmoyle kindly gave permission for the clubto re-route through their cedar forest, taking this westernsection off-road for almost two kilometers.

Twenty-six people, including members of ActonSeniors walking club, attended the ceremony. Theevent featured Tortoise and Hare hikes, with a 2½hour hike for Hares and an easy 45 minute stroll forTortoises. Both groups headed west through thenewly completed portion of Section 7 passing throughthe Moroz property. The longer hike continuedthrough Section 6 (Dublin Line to 6 Line). Thanksth

to the new routing, the hikes were in wooded countryfor most of the way.

A very Special Thanks to John Fisher and the many volunteers who contributed to this improvement!

Thanks to the new rerouting, the western portion of RLT

Section 7 now goes through wooded country rather than

along the busy Side Road 25 and up the Dublin Line.

With John Fisher, Radial Line Trail Coordinator on her left

and Kathy Somers, the president of GHTC on her right,

Lisa McIlmoyle, the landowner who, with her brother, gave

permission for the new routing across their property,

prepares to cut the ribbon. Photo by Bob Fanning.

GHTC NewsletterVol 40, #2, July, 2012

The GHTC Newsletter, published in March, July and October, is sentto all of the club members, other trail organizations, landowners whoprovide access for our trails, advertisers and club supporters. Opinions and views expressed in this newsletter are those of theindividual writers or advertisers and do not necessarily reflect those ofthe Guelph Hiking Trail Club executive, members, or affiliated bodiessuch as Hike Ontario.

Check the club web site or blog for details on advertising rates,merchandise for sale and club contacts.

www.guelphhiking.comwww.guelphhiking.blogspot.com

Mail: PO Box 1, Guelph, N1H 6J6

Club members and others are encouraged to submit articles, noticesand photographs to the newsletter editor for possible publication inyour club’s newsletter. Deadlines for receiving material for publication from members,hike leaders and other contributors are: Feb. 15 for the Marchissue, June 15 for the July issue and Sept. 15 for the October issue.

President’s Greetings!

It’s exciting to announce thatwe have taken a 2 km portionof the Radial Line Trail off-road. In this newsletter you’llread about the official openingof this re-route, held on June 2,International Trails Day (a dayto recognize the importance oftrails and those who buildthem).

Christine Wenzler and Jalna Colquhoun have done amarvelous job organizing Thursday morning hikes forHomewood outpatients as part of their Habits 4 Healthprogram. Thank you to all of those who volunteeredand helped us with spring hikes and special events likeApril’s Trails Open/Doors Open Guelph, May’s KidsHike, Spring on the Trail (Kissing Bridge Trail), June’sInternational Trails Day, and our Club’s involvementin the Two Rivers Festival. And a special thank you toour trail captains, volunteers, and executive for all ofyour hard work this spring.

Soon we will run out of our current brochures. Canyou assist us in revising and updating the brochure, orsend us colourful hiking photos?

It’s time to renew your membership (if yourmembership card indicates membership expires onAugust 31 of this year). This newsletter contains your

renewal form – please take a few minutes to fill it out. Membership fees keep our trails open (and you get acharitable tax receipt for the full $25). Even if you donot hike on a regular basis, your membership showssupport for free hiking trails in this area (the majorityof our fees goes to the purchase of obligatory liabilityinsurance without which the City, County and privatelandowners would be reluctant to let us and otherwalkers cross their land). We are working on ourwebsite and you will soon have the option to pay yourmembership fee electronically!

Happy hiking, vacationing, camping, barbequing,and/or gardening this summer!

Kathy

More On Radial Line Trail Section 7

In addition to the main rerouting, there is a side trailcalled "the Moroz" sidetrail, in recognition of thelandowners, which leads directly into GreenoreCrescent. This provides direct access to the main trailfor Acton residents .

WantedGHTC members who enjoy outdoors and would like topass on this enjoyment to others. If this is you, entertainthe idea of joining GHTC's Certified Hike LeaderTeam.Start by volunteering to "sweep" a few hikes. By doingthis you will learn GHTC hiking procedures and ourtrails. This will also give you an idea if conducting ahike is meant for you and make you eligible to attendthe next GHTC "Hike Leader Certification" course.All GHTC leaders must attend a 1 day Hike Ontariocourse to become "certified". The course covers "bestpractices" for planning the hike, prehiking the trail andsafely leading hikers on the trail.If interested, please contact GHTC Hike Co-ordinator,Gayle at 519 856-1012.

GHTC Newsletter - July 2012 - Page 2

Habit 4 Health HikesSince mid-April, Jalna Colquhoun and ChristineWenzler, with help from other GHTC hike leaders,organized and led a series of Habits 4 Health Hikes toshowcase trails in or near the City of Guelph. Theseone hour, Thursday morning hikes are for Homewoodoutpatients as part of their Habits 4 Health program.

Homewood obtained support from the CanadianMental Health Association Ontario's Minding OurBodies initiative which helps mental health serviceproviders, together with community partners, developand deliver evidence-based physical activity andhealthy eating programs, improve access to localresources and promote social inclusion. The hikescertainly satisfies almost all of these objectives.

In recognition of club input, GHTC received anhonorarium from the Homewood Health Centre. In theaccompanying letter, Homewood organizer VikkiMadden, wrote, “Just wanted to give you an updateabout our hikes! They are going very well; the weatherhas co-operated; and each hike has been well attended. Jalna has organized us well and the facilitators havedone fabulously and their wealth of knowledge is wellreceived and sought after by our clients.

Starkey Trail UpdateJim Hoare, Starkey trail captain, reports there have

been some notable improvements at Starkey in May.

As reported in the last newsletter Grand RiverConservation Authority (GRCA) received $2000 fromTD Bank, and recently Toyota Motor ManufacturingCanada provided additional funding plus work crewsfrom Cambridge plant.

Earlier in April,some GRCA staffperformed forestmaintenance atStarkey, creatinga substantial pileof wood chips. I n m i d - M a yGRCA staff, Jimand crews fromToyota spreadwood chips onvarious wet sections of trail and built four bridges overthe major wet spots.

Getting material tot h e v a r i o u slocations on the 4km loop was mostchallenging, but wenow have a 12 foot,two 16 foot and a32 foot bridgespanning some ofthe significant wetspots on the trial.

The eleven postsm a r k i n g t h e

corresponding spots of the interpretive trail map havebeen replaced and the QR code graphics added. Theselink people back to GHTC web site for more details ofthat location on the trail. Of course this assumes youhave a smartphone with Internet access and the free appto read QR codes.

Jim would like to thank Martin Neumann at GRCA forhis continued support of Starkey Hill ConservationArea and the trail upgrades. received and sought after

by our clients!

Toyota workers at Starkey.

GCRA’s Moritz Sanio and Jim

finishing bridge #2.


Kids Hikes

Thirty-five kids with their

32 adult partners came

on the February 19 th

Kids Hike at

Preservation Park

Thirty-nine kids and their 31

adults participated in

the May 6 Kids Hiketh

at the Arboretum.Thanks to Victoria

MacPhail and Dave

Culham for the photos.

The next Kids Hike

is on Sunday,

October 14 atth

Starkey Trail.

QR Codes Now at Starkey

QR Code (abbreviated from Quick Response Code) isthe trademark for a type of matrix barcode that hasbecome popular due to its fast readability and largestorage capacity. QR Codes storing addresses andUniform Resource Locators (URLs) now appear inmagazines, on signs, on buses, on business cards, or onalmost any object about which users might needadditional information.

These squares of elaborately arranged boxes are ashortcut around the problem of typing out URLs orother data on tiny cell phone keyboards. Anyone witha camera phone equipped with the correct readerapplication can scan the QR Code image to displaytext, contact information, connect to a wirelessnetwork, or open a web page in the browser.

QR Codes are now in placeat all eleven points ofinterest along the StarkeyHill Trail. Try the exampleto the left and it should takeyou to the Starkey Hill pageon the GHTC web site.


Radial Line Trail Report We’ve been busy! A number of newsworthy activitieshave taken place over the last few months that Ithought would be of interest to club members.

Let me start at Section 1. After very protractednegotiations with the City and Province, the Club hasfinally secured an agreement to install the OR SideTrail. (See separate article from Bill Mungall and standby for work party requests!).

Section 2. Over the last couple years, along withother community groups, we met with the citywaterworks department concerning the closure ofthe dam which used to provide access from SmithProperty to the Arkell Springs grounds. The citysecured funds to rehabilitate the dam and provideseasonal access for public crossing. Such a projectneeds significant regulatory approval and,unfortunately, the plans for public access did notpass muster. Satisfying these demands would haverequired significant additional funding which wasnot available. However, as an indication of thewaterworks desire to share the springs with thecommunity, they asked the city parks department towork with community groups to develop a planformalizing trails and public access to the area, usingexisting infrastructure. Plan development is targetedby year end. The first group “walk about “ was heldin early June and we are working on a response tothe parks department request for input.

Starkey Hill. The Club has had a long history withthis property including its trail founding. For someyears we decided to leave GRCA to manage allaspects of the trail. Several years ago, club memberJim Hoare started to do routine maintenance andactively engaged the GRCA by recommendingimprovements to the trail. This year we extendedour formal maintenance agreement with GRCA andthe Smith Property to include Starkey Hill. GRCAsecured a Trillium grant for $2000 for trailimprovement on the property. (See Jim’s article onthis activity). Our members are also working closelywith GRCA to develop QR code technology on thetrail to replace the interpretative brochures thatwere available when hiking this property. Thisinnovative approach to trail interpretation may haveadditional application to other trail systems.

Section 3. Those familiar with this section know wecross a river on a bridge with a span of about 20ft. It

has shifted several times and is in need of anupgrade. Phil Kidston put his engineering hat backon and is involved in redesigning the bridge. This islikely to be a multi- year project, but the landowner,Ed Parker, has given his blessing for the upgrade.

Section 6. The “Moroz “work party hauled out 3bridges that were abandoned after a trail reroutethat took place a couple of years ago. We hauled thebridges to the 10 tee of Blue Springs golf course andth

they were good enough to take them back to theirmaintenance shop for our convenient pick up. Thesebridges were subsequently reinstalled on the newlyestablished trail on section 7.

Section 7. The big event of course concerned the“handshake agreement “ with the Moroz family thatestablished a new trail replacing 2 km of roadwalking. Bill Mungall deserves credit for trackingdown the landowners and initiating the request. Asa result of those efforts we flagged a cross countryroute through farmland and cedar forest of 1.9 km. Greg Moroz came out and walked the proposed maintrail reroute and a side trail that would link the maintrail to Greenore Crescent in Acton. Greg gave us theofficial approval to proceed and we put out a call fora work party. Fifteen club members responded andcame out to install the trail on May 6. Three teamsworked on different sections and by days’ end wehad a new main trail established and blazed. A gooddays work for all involved. We finished up the trailover the subsequent two weeks with signage andbridges (from section 6). We were ready for theofficial ribbon cutting on International Trails Day(See cover article).

Section 8. We had to close the trail for a short periodwhile the additional hydro line was installed, butwere able to open again in mid May.

Section leader changesSteve Mercer took over Section 1 after AnnMiddletonn’s retirement last year. John Duthiereplaced Andy Cann on the Sugar Shack and BlueSprings side trail. Section 7 is now somewhat moremaintenance intense with the new trail replacing theroad walk, but Joe Jany has recruited a neighbor,Walter Staples, to assist him. Section 6 is in need ofan assistant to help Bob Fanning. Henry Graupner, who shared trail maintenance with Bob, tenderedhis resignation as section leader. Thanks Henry!

John FisherRadial Line Trail Captain


GHTC Online Survey Results

Thanks to everyone that participated in GHTC online

survey. Your responses will help us plan future hike

outings.

The number 1 goal of respondents was exercise,

followed closely by seeing new places and learning

new trails. The Twenty-one percent of respondents

interested in photography should be sure to attend

the garden hike, fall hikes with spectacular views and

leaf colour (Hockley Valley, Mono Cliffs, Crawford

Lake, Dundas Valley) and the river and rock hikes

(Limehouse, Rock Chapel, Irvine Gorge). While none

of these hikes cater to stopping to set up camera to

capture the perfect picture, there are always stops to

admire views and fall colour.

It came as no surprise that b of respondents wanted

to reach trailhead in less than an hour. The majority

want to spend their time on 6-10 km hikes lasting 2-3

hrs at a moderate pace. A quarter indicated they like

hikes of more than 10 km, lasting over 4 hrs. Were

they the 25% that just wanted to go home after the

hike! Only 17% said it was essential to have a social

stop afterwards.

Eighty-One percent liked wilderness trails, followed by

62% liking well-trodden dirt trails.

Saturday and Sunday afternoons were most popular

times for hikes but Wednesday and Monday evenings

were close behind.

Almost half of the respondents wanted more adult

and senior hikes.

Some of the suggested hike locations – urban locations

that make it easy to attend through the week after

work, Cheltenham badlands, Forks of the Credit, new

places, mountain hiking, and Bruce Trail map

10&11(Mount Nemo, Dufferin Quarry, Hilton Falls).

And finally b of the people preferred potluck for theChristmas party.

Blister Control

Blister avoidance involves taking all the basicprecautions like breaking in boots before a trip,wearing thermal liners under wool socks, and gettingboots that are snug fit without cutting off circulation. Outside of that, the best bet is mole skin and in a pinch,even duct tape. Whatever protective padding is used,it should have a slick surface that offers someprotection and, when applied to blister-prone regions,allows them to slide around a little in the boot withoutcausing friction on the skin.

Unfortunately some people are just more prone toblisters. As a last resort, they might cover their feet inVaseline before putting on socks. Make sure the feetare clean and dry. Then smear on a huge goop ofVaseline (i.e. use a lot!) being sure to plaster the areasthat usually blister and even applying some in betweenthe toes. Next, put on a nice silky liner and cover thatwith a thicker sock. Proponents often claim one shouldre-apply a layer of Vaseline for the hike out. They saythat it takes a while to get used to the gooey feeling onyour feet, especially around the toes, but for those whoblister easily, it's worth it!


Mars vs. VenusAmerican women are less likely than men to get at

least 30 minutes of exercise a day.

Current recommendations call for adults to get at least30 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic activitymost days of the week to ward off multiple healthproblems, including an obesity related condition calledmetabolic syndrome (a collection of risk factorsincluding high cholesterol, high blood pressure andextra abdominal fat that increase the risk for heartdisease, stroke and type 2 diabetes).

An Oregon State University study of more than 1,000women and men found that women averaged onlyabout 18 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercisedaily, while men averaged 30 minutes. Participantswore an accelerometer, a device that measured howmuch daily activity they were getting.

People who got at least 30 minutes of exercise a daywere less likely to be depressed, less likely to havehigh cholesterol and less likely to have metabolicsyndrome, the researchers said.

"It's pretty striking what happens to you if you don'tmeet that 30 minutes a day of activity," BradleyCardinal, a professor of social psychology andphysical activity, said in a university news release."Women in our sample had better health behavior --they were much less likely to smoke for instance -- butthe lack of activity still puts them at risk."

"Physical activity has been shown to reducedepression," Cardinal said. "So the key message hereis to get that 30 minutes of exercise every day becauseit reduces a great deal of risk factors."

The complete study results were published inPreventive Medicine (June, 2012).

Brain PowerA few months ago, the You Docs who writemedical/nutritional advice column appearing in manynewspapers, reported that brain power can bemaintained or even improved, when one hit the primeof life: 45 and older. All you have to do is pump upthe little grey cells.

They advocate one’s goal should be to make the heartstrong and keep arteries open, the flexible rivers ofnutrient-delivering blood. This will slow the aging ofthought-transmitting neurons. And grow - or regrow -your neurons with activity and some great foods. Theresult: A brain Real Age that even a Jeopardy! champlike Ken Jennings would envy. So try these:

• Eat brain-fuel foods. To slow age-related mentaldecline, dig into salmon and walnuts (for theomega-3s), blueberries (phytonutrients), kale(carotenoids and flavonoids), mustard (the turmericturns on genes that clean up brain-cell poop) and eggs(selenium rolls back the brain’s RealAge).

• Amp up physical activity, aiming for at least 10,000steps a day, to stimulate production of the brain cells’own miracle grow factor, (brain-derived neurotrophicfactor). One can end up with more brain cells andbetter neural connections, plus also controlling bloodsugar and blood pressure.

So don’t give it another thought just hike more tobetter your brain’s power.


Hanlon Creek Conservation Area By Dave Culham

March 18, 2012, Over 20 degrees and sunny, withjust a few clouds, another beautiful day for a hike! The pleasant weather drew a good turnout with 23hikers showing up, many of them new members andguests. We hiked for about two hours, covering about6.5km of very diverse terrain. The group started byclimbing along the remnants of the esker at the northend of the park and then cut through cedar swampdown to the long, central boardwalk where we spottedour first deer of the day. From there we bushwhackedsouth to the old GHTC trail and gingerly hopped fromlog to log across the creek.

We came across about a half dozen deer at this pointand watched their white tails bounce away from us. Once across, our route came up into pines and thenthrough to the hardwood lots in the south end. Wedropped off Jim Hoare at his vehicle positioned forhis early departure, and then cut back across the creekusing the much more civilized boardwalk on the wayback. This was our last deer spotting of the day, as wewatched about another group retreat from a loud dogthat was off leash and barreling after them.

This boardwalk took us out to the old farm dam andthe frog pond, where the frog choir was so loud that itsounded like a large group of chickens clucking away. We cut east through the meadow, crossed a crystalclear spring, wound through the northeast corner ofthe park, and then headed back north along the newestsection of boardwalk. The snakes, for the first time in

here this season, were everywhere today and we evencame across one taking a stroll on the boardwalk, anda ball of about 20 or so that were all entwined together. From there it was just through another small section ofhardwood back to our vehicles. About a dozen hungout on the local pub patio to enjoy the weather foranother hour or so after the hike. Perfect afternoon!

In case anyone feels the current weather is unusual,think back to last December 17 and the Elorath

Christmas hike when Norm Sailian led 20 hikers upwhat should have been a snow covered hill toinspect the old mill ruins.


Getting the Most from Your MembershipBy Bill Mungall

Here are my own "Top 10" ways to eke the mostbenefit out of your $25 membership. These are justsome of the many fulfilment that can come from beingmore active or engaged in the club. What are your's?

1) Go on a Club-led hike. Our trained hike leadersreally know the trails, and know how to put on agood hike that accounts for the abilities andinterests of all hikers. And the leaders reallyappreciate a good turn-out for a hike, as it makes itfeel their time preparing and leading the hike waswell worthwhile. Don't let the weather deter you;our hikes go rain or shine, year-round.

2) Explore the Club's trails. Buy the GHTC handbookand then make a personal goal to walk all the trails.Every kilometer of the trails have some points ofinterest and much variety along the way.

3) Share a hike with a friend (or a child.) Even for justa short evening walk. Some of our trails aredifficult to locate, so your companion willwelcome your introduction to a new area toexplore. Better still, invite them to join the club!

4) Take your other interests out to the trail. Do you dophotography, run, ski, geocache, fish, bird, orbotanize? Our trails are ideal for these activitiesand more. Share your photos on the Club'sFacebook site.

5) Maintain a trail. By joining a trail work party orexpressing interest in becoming a trail captain, youcan take personal pride in having participated inbuilding or improving a trail in your locale. Listyourself as a trail maintenance volunteer when youjoin or renew and we will be sure

6) Become a hike leader, and lead hikes. Hike Ontarioand GHTC will put on a one day course from timeto time to train new leaders. Mentoring, co-leading,and "sweep" opportunities are also available toease you into a new and satisfying role. Trainedleaders are provided with lists of numerous hikingopportunities within 30 minutes of Guelph to usefor inspiration in identifying the hikes they wish tolead.

7) Put on a show. Of any holiday you have takeninvolving hiking. GHTC holds monthly "slidenights" over the winter, a great way to meet fellowmembers.

8) Write a newsletter article. About a hike, a hikingholiday, or anything pertaining to hiking and trails.And the editor will be your friend for life.

9) Consider a donation. The Club is continuallyexpanding and improving the trail network andmaking it more accessible. This can sometimesrequire money where signs, steps and bridges are

needed. Our Treasurer mails out charitabledonation receipts for tax purposes.

10) Join the executive. The Club grows due to time andtalent devoted by a few individuals who arecommitted to its success. New blood is alwayswelcomed.


Today's Children May Be Destined for Adult Heart Disease

An array of factors has been deemed key to a healthyheart by the American Heart Association, includingmaintaining a healthy weight, beingphysically active on a regular basis,eating a healthy diet, not smoking andkeeping blood pressure, cholesterol andglucose levels normal.

But according to the recent paper,Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics --2012 Update, published in the journal Circulation, halfof the children in USA meet just four or fewer of thesehealth criteria. Among those in high school, 30% ofgirls and 17% of boys do not get the recommended 60minutes of physical activity a day, the report noted.

In addition, a study from the U.S. Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention (CDC) found that one in fivechildren had abnormal cholesterol levels, prompting theAmerican Academy of Pediatrics to issue newguidelines recommending that all children 9 to 11 yearsold be screened for high cholesterol levels.

"A number of things are happening to impact children'sheart health," said Dr. Stephen R. Daniels, professorand chairman of the pediatrics department at theUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine and aspokesman for the American Heart Association. "Oneis the increase in prevalence and severity of obesity."

"Obesity drives a lot of risks in adults, and that seemsto be true for children, too," he added. "The concernis that we may now have a generation of children thatare destined for heart disease as adults."

More than one-third of America's children are currentlyoverweight and nearly 20% are obese according to theCDC. Children who are overweight or obese are farmore likely to have high blood pressure than theirnormal-weight peers. They're also more likely to havehigh cholesterol levels the CDC contends.

Dr. Vivek Allada, clinical director of pediatriccardiology at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh,explained that pediatric cardiology has been changingover the years. “In the past,” he said, “adult-type heartdisease was much rarer and congenital heart diseasewas more the norm for pediatric patients.”

"In some sense, congenital heart disease is fixingplumbing, but acquired heart disease requires fixing the

lifestyle," Allada remarked. "We'revery good at fixing leaks or uncloggingblocks, but fixing the lifestyle requiresa multi-player team approach thatinvolves the physician, the patient, thefamily and the school."

Though children, like adults, can takemedication to bring down their cholesterol levels, healthexperts agree that it's more important to instill healthylifestyle habits in children.

"You can't replace heart-healthy living with a pill,"Allada pointed out. "This is a marathon, not a sprint,and you need your cholesterol down for your life. Wewant you to build good habits. You have to focus ondiet and exercise. It's also important to eliminate sodaand simple sugars, not to smoke, and to watch your saltintake. There are multiple factors we have to take intoaccount."

Allada and Daniels agreed that heart-healthy living hasto be a family affair.

"Parents need to find a way to make the healthiestchoice the easiest choice," Daniels said. "We didn't alldecide as a population to start having unhealthylifestyles simultaneously; it's an issue of convenience. We need to figure out how to work with or eliminate theunintended consequences of what we do every day."

In the home, that means parents have to pay attention todiet and activity levels. "Parents really are in charge ofthe home environment and have a tremendousopportunity to build a healthy environment at home,"Daniels explained. "Allow children to make choicesamong healthy options. It promotes a kind ofself-efficacy and equips children to do better."

As for physical activity, he said to make sure it'ssomething the whole family enjoys.

"Be active, but make it fun and enjoy it," he advised. "Figure out what the kids like to do."

Condensed from MedicineNet.com - May, 2012.

No longer an adults-onlyissue, heart health hasbecome increasingly

problematic forAmerican children.


Bug Off

Nothing can disturb ones pleasure of the great

outdoors more than being pestered by hoards of

flying nasties. Not only is it unpleasant being bitten,

but insects and ticks might transmit disease. Thus, it

is very good sense to apply insect repellents and,

hopefully, not get bitten in the first place!

An insect repellent is a substance applied to skin or

clothing that discourages insects from landing or

climbing on that surface. The active ingredient

slowly evaporates, producing an invisible chemical

barrier around the areas where it was applied,

repelling incoming insects.

There are a number of insect repellent types, some of

which are well tested and proven to work and others

which are perhaps a little suspect. Various naturally

occurring compounds like citronella, myrtle leaf oil,

catnip oil and neem oil have repellent properties. In

addition, there are synthetics like DEET and Icaridin.

All contain active ingredients with a marked

repellent effect on flying and hopping insects.

Health Canada recommends choosing a product that

meets your needs. For example, if you plan to be

outdoors for a short period of time, choose a product

with a lower concentration of repellent, and repeat

application only if you need a longer protection time.

They also emphasize that besides using an insect

repellent, risk can be reduced by taking the following

steps.

Whenever possible, avoid being outdoors at dawn or

dusk when mosquitos are most active.

Remove standing water from items such as pool

covers, saucers under flower pots, pet bowls and

wading pools on your property. Empty and clean

bird baths twice a week, and regularly clean

eavestroughs to prevent clogs that can trap water.

Wear long-sleeved shirts, full length pants and

closed shoes if outdoors when mosquitos are

active or where ticks might be found.

Tuck shirts into pants and pull socks up over pant

legs to help keep ticks away from bare skin.

Wear light-colored clothing, which will help reduce

overall attractiveness to mosquitos and allow

seeing ticks more easily.

When returning from areas with ticks, check clothes

and entire body for ticks. Check pets regularly, as

well.

If planning travel to tropical areas where serious

mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria are

common, see a doctor or visit a travel clinic

several weeks before departure.

With any product, always read the entire label

carefully before using. Follow all of the label

directions, including restrictions for use on children

and the maximum number of applications allowed

per day. Apply the repellent sparingly, and only on

exposed skin surfaces or on top of clothing. Heavy

application and saturation are unnecessary for

maximum effectiveness. Repeat applications only as

necessary and directed on the product label

If concerned about sensitivity, apply the product to a

small area of skin and wait 24h to see if a reaction

occurs.

Tale of Two Doctors' Offices

Two patients limp into two different medical clinics

with the same complaint. Both have trouble walking

and appear to require knee surgery.

The FIRST sees his family doctor after waiting three

weeks for an appointment, then waits twelve weeks

to see a specialist, then gets an x-ray, which isn't

reviewed for another week, and finally has his

surgery scheduled for six months from then.

The SECOND patient is examined within the hour,

x-rayed the same day and has a time booked for

surgery the following week.

Why the different treatment for the two patients?

- the FIRST is a Senior Citizen

- the SECOND. Is a Golden Retriever.

Next time, take me to a veterinarian!

Unhappy with the weather this spring? One

thing that seemed to thrive on it is poison ivy

- so TAKE CARE on the trails!


HIKING SCHEDULE

July through mid November, 2012

Over the years the GHTC has enjoyed permission from the generosity of private landowners for footpaths through their

property. The friendship, respect and trust of these landowners are the Club's most important assets. Let us continue to care for

and properly use their property while maintaining the objectives of the Club.

All hikers should check the GHTC web site www.guelphhiking.com for detailed advice and information on Terrain Rating

System, Hike Speed, special seasonal instructions and other timely recommendations.

• To avoid disappointment due to cancellation, please notify the hike leader if you intend to join a scheduled hike.

• Cancelled or rescheduled hikes will be posted on the GHTC web site. The leader may choose to post a rain date here. Be sure

to check for updates and impromptu hikes!

• Occasionally it proves more convenient for a hike leader to select a meeting place that is not in Guelph. If you cannot arrange

a ride to get there, call the hike leader who may know of someone who is willing to take you. In other out-of-town hikes the

leader will meet at a local location to carpool. If the distance is considerable, it is customary to offer to help pay for the

gasoline.

• It is important to stay with the group while hiking, alerting the leader of intentions to ‘drop-out' at the beginning a necessity

and appreciated.

NOTE: HIKE Dates and TITLES in BOLD are conducted by the Guelph Hiking Trail Club

Sun Jul 01 SPEED RIVER, GUELPH LAKE AND FIREWORKS!! 1½ - 2hrs

Join in a lovely loop hike close to home along the Speed River to Guelph Lake depending on numbers as we will want to be

back to enjoy the dazzling 9:00-9:30 p.m. fireworks at Riverside Park. Wear proper footwear and seasonal night clothing. Bring

water, snacks and a flashlight. Meet 7:30 p.m. at the Golden Griddle Parking Lot off Woodlawn Rd. E.

Leader: Suzanne Gates 519-265-3962 Level 2. Speed Causal/Moderate

Mon Jul 02 STRATFORD, T.J. DOLAN AREA 10 km

What a great way to spend Canada Day with a walk around Lake Victoria and in the woods of T.J. Dolan Natural Area. This is

a beautiful city with interesting architecture to note along the way. Park at the hilltop close to the Festival Theatre to start the

hike by 10am Lunch is suggested at York Street Kitchen following the hike. Contact the leader to arrange carpooling.

Leader: Susan Bard 519-836-6570; Donald Level1, 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Jul 07 TORONTO BT SPEYSIDE LOOP 10 km

Here is a lovely area close to home for a loop hike along Bruce main and side trails with variable terrain, rocky sections as well

as a great lookout. Wear proper footwear and seasonal protective clothing. Bring water and snacks. Meet 1:00pm at the Guelph

covered bridge parking lot east of Gordon Street for carpooling to trail head.

Leader: Norm 519-836-3568 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Mon Jul 09 TORRANCE CREEK AND ARBORETUM 4 km

See City's wooded lower Torrance Creek property and old mill dam ruins, followed by a portion of Arboretum woodland in a

loop walk. Some bushwhacking and wet footing. Meet at Guelph covered bridge lot on Gordon St. at 6:30pm.

Leader: Bill Mungall [email protected] Level 2 Speed Moderate

Tue Jul 10 CALEDON SECTION, HOCKLEY VALLEY, MAP 18 11km , 4.5hrs

A loop hike on very hilly terrain. Hiking boots required.

No drop-outs. No dogs please. Bring water and lunch.

Depart: 9:30 am parking lot on Hockley Rd, just east of 2nd Line EHS, at 60.2km. Directions: Hockley Rd runs east off Hwy

10 north of Orangeville. We will hike the main trail and side trails . Refreshments afterwards .

Leader: Susan Atkinson 519-837-9470, before 9pm or email [email protected]. Level 3. Speed Moderate

Wed Jul 11 HIKE HISTORIC ROCKWOOD 1½ hrs

Join us for an historic walking tour of old Rockwood buildings that have interesting architecture and history. See the Rockwood

Academy (boys school) where they filmed Agnes of God, "The Candy Factory", once the home of Schneider's Reliable Sweets,

and Saunder's Bakery, open since 1864 and visited by Prime Minister John Diefenbaker. We can conclude our walk with a stop

for refreshments in Rockwood. Park on Falls Street in Rockwood for a 6:30pm start or call for 6:15 Guelph car pool location.

Bring water.

Leader: Gayle 519 856-1012 Level 1. Speed Casual


Sat Jul 14 GUELPH SPEED RIVER 1½ hrs

BOTANIZING AFTERNOON STROLL ALONG THE SPEED For details contact Dorothy nearer to hike date.

Leader: Dorothy Scott 519-821-1786; Susan Bard 519-836-6570 Level 1. Speed Casual

Mon Jul 16 ARBORETUM 2 hrs

Loop hike starting at 6:30pm at the Arboretum parking lot near the conference centre, accessible from College just west of

Victoria. We will visit the poison plant garden in OVC, the aboriginal garden, the organic garden.

Leader: Martin 519 265-5646 or cell 226 979-1495 Level 1. Speed Casual

Wed Jul 18 CITY GARDENS HIKE 2 hrs

Come out for an evening hike along streets to discover many beautiful gardens fronting homes. Parking is available along

Cardigan Street or at the parking lot opposite the end of London Road, next to the Youth Music Centre, for a 6:30p.m. start

from the Goldie Mill Park. Bring seasonal protection.

Leader: Susan Bard 519-836-6570 Level 1. Speed Moderate.

Sat Jul 21 BRUCE TRAIL BETWEEN HOCKLEY ROAD AND DUNBY ROAD 15 km

For a challenging hike in beautiful Hockley Valley we will be hiking the Bruce Trail between Hockley Road and Dunby Road

through fields and forests, enjoying the sights with an optional dropout at 7 km. Bring water, snacks, lunch and wear hiking

boots. We will carpool at 9:00 am from Guelph's covered bridge parking lot east of Gordon. Pub stop after hike. Contact leader

for optional dropout.

Leader: Lynn Glover 519 780-0342; Terry 519 265-6203; Mary Sexton 519-265-8669 Level 3. Speed Moderate

Mon Jul 23 IRVINE GORGE 4 km

Difficult footing including a bit of wading along the bottom of the cliff-lined Irvine Gorge, from Grand River and Lover's Leap

in Elora to Salem. Hugely scenic. Pub stop after. 2 km tough walking in gorge (slow pace) plus 2 km street walking. Meet at

6:30pm at Canadian Tire parking lot on Woodlawn Rd. Guelph

Leader: Bill Mungall [email protected] Level 3. Speed Slow/Moderate

Wed Jul 25 DOG WALK - LITTLE TRACT 90 min

Inviting hikers with dogs on leash to walk Little Tract trails, between Road 34 and Concession 4. Meet 6:30pm at parking lot

off Rd 34 (right side), just past Sideroad 10. Bring water for you and your dog.

Leader: Christine [email protected] Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Jul 28 RLT SECTION 1,2 2-3 hrs

This is an interesting part of the trail to hike any season. Bring water, snacks and seasonal protection. Meet 1:30p.m. at the

Guelph covered bridge parking lot east of Gordon Street for carpooling to trail head.

Leader: Susan Bard 519-836-6570 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Jul 29 ACTON CIRCUIT 9.5 km

In a big loop running through Acton we will explore the still valley of Black Creek along the old TSR radial line, Fairy Lake,

and check out the new forest route of Section 7 through the Moroz property on south side of Acton. We'll even visit the only

piece of Niagara Escarpment cliff face that is along our trail. Limited but challenging bushwhacking. Meet 1:30pm at Guelph

covered bridge parking lot on Gordon St.

Leader: Bill Mungall [email protected] Level 2. Speed Moderate

Mon Jul 30 HANLON CREEK AND CRANE PARK 4 km

Trace the course of Hanlon Creek down to the Speed … and then up the Speed bank through Guelph's Crane Park. Limited

bushwhacking involved. Meet 6:30 at Gamble Park, adjacent to the Hanlon, south of Kortright. St.


Wed Aug 01 PRIVATE PROPERTY 2 hrs

Come enjoy an evening discovering some newer trails as we meander over hills and meadows, in and out of woods by the

generosity of a private property owner on the south of Guelph. Meet at the Y parking lot for a 6:30 p.m. start.


Sat Aug 04 HALTON AGREEMENT FOREST 2-3 hrs

We enter on the 4th Line of Nassagaweya and hike along fire road. Meet at Guelph covered Bridge at 12:30 to car pool. Bring

water and snacks. Optional pub stop afterwards.

Leader: Gayle 519 856-1012, Mary 519 827-1814 Level 2. Speed Moderate.

GHTC Newsletter - Juky 2012 - Page 13

Wed Aug 08 STARKEY HILL 4 km

Meet at 6:30pm at the Guelph covered bridge on Gordon Street. Enjoy an evening walk through a hardwood forest. Mixed

terrain. Wear hiking boots and bring water. Optional ice cream at The Boathouse after hike.

Leader: Norm 519-836-3568 Level 2. Speed Casual.

Mon Aug 13 PUSLINCH TRACT 3 km

Explore myriad trails in this GRCA property, a hilly bit of the Paris moraine, just east of Cambridge on Puslinch Concession 2.

Meet at 6:30pm at the YMCA lot off the Hanlon.

Leader: Bill Mungall [email protected] Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Wed Aug 15 RADIAL LINE -- SMITH SIDE TRAIL 4 km

Meet at 6:30pm at the Guelph covered bridge on Gordon Street. This is a loop along the Eramosa River past the dam, through

woods and meadows. Bring bug protection. Optional ice cream at The Boathouse after hike.

Leader: Norm 519-836-3568 Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Sun Aug 19 GUELPH TO GRAND RIVER 25.5 km

Hike from Guelph Humane Society, to Settler's Fork Park in Cambridge on the Grand River, all along the Speed River. Speed

River Trail for first half; easy Cambridge City Trails for second half. Meet at covered bridge parking lot, Gordon St, 8:00 am.

Leader: Bill Mungall [email protected] Level 3. Speed Brisk

Sun Aug 19 BRUCE TRAIL, SYDENHAM, LINDENWOOD 17.8 km

Walk through the Kemble Mountain Management Area. For more details see Grand Valley Trail Association website

www.gvta.on.ca

Leader: GVTA Leader Level 2/3. Speed Moderate

Mon Aug 20 GUELPH LAKE 2 hrs

Meet at 6:30pm at the Guelph covered bridge on Gordon Street for carpooling to Guelph Lake or meet at trail head on Victoria

Road. Enjoy the scenic trail along the lake. Bring bug spray.


Wed Aug 22 DOG WALK -MTO PROPERTY AT MORRISTON 90 min

About 90 minutes in the woods with our leashed dogs -clear paths. Bring water for you and your dog. Meet 6:30pm at carpool

parking lot S of 401 along Brock Rd.

Leader: Christine [email protected] Level 2. Speed Moderate

Fri Aug 24 GUELPH RIB FEST 1 hr

Meet by Golden Griddle on Woodlawn Rd at 6pm to walk the Speed River Trail to Victoria road and back. Head over to

Guelph Rib fest in Riverside park to enjoy a meal of ribs and listen to entertainment. No admission but donation appreciated.

Leader: Gayle 519 856-1012, Mary Henderson 519-827-1814 Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sat Aug 25 IGNATIUS JESUIT CENTRE 8 km

Hike these interesting trails at Ignatius Jesuit Centre, 5420 Highway 6 North, north of Woodlawn Road in Guelph. Meet at 10

am in Workshop parking lot. Bring lunch.

Leader: Donald [email protected], Christine [email protected] Level 1. Speed Moderate

Wed Aug 29 LAURA BAILEY MEMORIAL TRAIL, GUELPH 7 km

Meet at the Grange and Victoria Plaza for a 6:30 PM depart time. Walk a combination of trail and road on the east side of

Guelph. Bring water.

Leader: Terry 519 265-6203 Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sat Sep 01 RLT ARKELL SIDE TRAIL 2-3 hr

Hike along this popular side trail. We'll meet 1p.m. at the Starkey Hill parking lot, south side of Arkell Road, east of Arkell.

Bring water and snacks.

Leader: Jim Hoare email [email protected] or 519-835-5284, Gayle 519 856-1012 Level 2 Speed Moderate

Wed Sep 05 ROYAL RECREATION TRAIL 2 hr

Meet 6:00pm at the Guelph covered bridge on Gordon Street for a loop hike around the Eramosa River from Gordon street to

Victoria Road then back.

Leader: Norm 519-836-3568 Level 2 Speed Moderate


Sat Sep 08 MOUNT NEMO 8km

Meet 1:00pm at the Guelph covered bridge on Gordon Street for car pooling to the tail head for a loop hike on the Niagara

Escarpment.Bring snacks and water.

Leader: Norm 519-836-3568 Level 2 Speed Moderate

Sat Sep 08 PART 1:"BRIDGES OF WOOLWICH TOWNSHIP" ~8.2km

"Hounds goin' Hiking" Depart 10:00 a.m. corner of River Edge Drive and Letson Drive, in car park, just 100 yards from the

Covered Bridge, West Montrose. A great hike for well-behaved dogs willing to be constantly on a leash throughout this

interesting outing beside a heritage river. We make our way through undulating, scenic terrain toward the last covered bridge in

Ontario. In the midst of Mennonite country. Bring a lunch, water, a hiking pole and some dog food if you are accompanied by

your very best 'friend' No dog? Not to worry. Come and enjoy the fine scenery, the companionship and the autumn air. Truly a

grand walk beside a Grand River! For more details see www.gvta.on.ca

Leader: Robert R Level 2 Speed Moderate

Sun Sep 09 WANDERING THE SOUTH END MORAINE 2 hr

Meet at the very southern end of the parking lot behind Bishop MacDonell High School, on Clair Rd, for a 1:30pm departure.

We will wander over the hilly moraine, seeing numerous kettle lakes. Much of this hike will not be on a traditional trail. Bring

plenty of water and good footwear. Call if you require directions.

Leader: Dave Culham 519-716-8273 Level 2 Speed Moderate

Sun Sep 09 BRUCE TRAIL, SYDENHAM, LINDENWOOD/WIARTON 16.3km

Walk along Skinner's Bluff overlooking Colpoy's Bay, through the Bruce's Caves C.A. and into Wiarton. For more details see

www.gvta.on.ca

Leader: GVTA Leader Level 2/3 Speed Moderate

Sat Sep 15 BRUCE TRAIL BETWEEN HOCKLEY ROAD AND DUNBY ROAD 15 km

For a challenging hike in beautiful Hockley Valley we will be hiking the Bruce Trail between Hockley Road and Dunby Road

through fields and forests, enjoying the sights with an optional dropout at 7 km. Bring water, snacks, lunch and wear hiking

boots. We will carpool at 9:00 am from Guelph's covered bridge parking lot east of Gordon. Pub stop after hike. Contact leader

for optional dropout.

Leader: Lynn Glover 519 780-0342; Terry 519 265-6203; Mary Sexton 519-265-8669 Level 3. Speed Moderate

Sat Sep 15 PART 2: A.K.A. "TRACKING THE TRACTS" ~6km

Another GVTA hike that welcomes dogs on leash. Hike through two classical Carolinian forests, the Sudden Tract and the

Dryden Tract. Depart 10am. For more details see www.gvta.on.ca

Leader: GVTA Leader Level 2, speed moderate

Sun Sep 16 SPEED RIVER TRAILS 9 km/2.5 hr

We will hike Section 2 of our Speed River trail and John Wood Sidetrails on Section 1.

Meet at the Human Society parking lot south of Wellington Str. (west of Hanlon) at 1:30 PM.

Leader: Stan and Jana 519-821-7996 Level 2, speed moderate

Sat Sep 22 MONO CLIFFS 10-15km

Join Mike to do his traditional hike through the loops of Hockley at Mono Cliffs Provincial Park including a couple of

moderate climbs to catch scenic views of southern Ontario, weather permitting. Dropout point after 10kmMike will meet you

9:30a.m., downtown Brisbane, hwy 124 and Trafalgar Road. Possibly a Guelph rendezvous around 9a.m. may be arranged upon

notification with Mike, a volunteer greeter appreciated. Bring water, snack, sunscreen, repellent and a lunch.

Leader: Mike Curtis Erin 1-905-877-4134 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Sep 22 WOOLWICH RESERVOIR 7.2km

Another GVTA hike that welcomes dogs on leash. Depart 10am. For more details see www.gvta.on.ca

Leader: GVTA Leader Level 1. Speed casual

Sun Sep 23 ELORA CATARACT TRAIL ~15km

Erin to Cataract and return on the Elora Cataract trailway. We will have lunch in the Cataract area and explore before returning

to Erin. Meet 8:30am at the Guelph Covered Bridge Parking Lot for carpooling to the start point in Erin.

Leader: Bob Fanning 519 822-5181 or [email protected]

Lel 2. Speed Moderate


Sun Sep 23 RLT SECTIONS 3&4 1.5hr

Departure from Guelph covered bridge 1pm and start hike at trail head at 1:30. Hike west to east through woodlands, gentle

terrain across private lands. Start at First Line Nassagawey (County Rd 29) at intersection of Arkell Rd through section 3 of

RLT to conclude as section 4 comes out on Guelph Line. Estimate is 1.5 hours one way and carpooling would be required to get

everyone back to start and/or covered bridge. Recommend parking on 1st Line SOUTH of Arkell Rd.

Leader: Jim Hoare email [email protected] or 519-835-5284, Gusti Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Sep 29 JACK SCOTT MEMORIAL BLUE SPRINGS/SUGAR SHACK TRAIL 10km

The meeting place is where there is a parking spot off Nassagaweya 5th Line at 30 Side Road. We will start 2p.m. with the

easier and child friendly Sugar Shack loop. Those who wish a longer hike can continue to figure 8 through Scout Camp part of

the Radial Trail and Blue Springs Sidetrail.

Leader: John and Lynn Fisher 519-853-1719 [email protected], Susan Bard 519-836-6570 Level 1/2. Speed Casual

Sat Sep 29 ROUGE VALLEY TORONTO ~15km

Come hike Rouge Park Canada's first urban wilderness and newest national park. This hike is a hilly, heavily wooded hike in

Rouge Park on the boundary line between the cities of Toronto and Pickering. We will hike in and out of the park along the

shores of the Rouge River. The hike will take us northwards into the area of the Toronto Zoo and include a visit to a haunted

house which has been used in many scary movies. Depart 9:30am. For more details www.gvta.on.ca

Leader: Jim V Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Sep 30 HILTON FALLS 20 km

We will hike sections of the Bruce Trail and side trail in the Halton conservation area. Meet at the covered bridge on Gordon

Street for a 9.00 am depart. Bring water snacks and lunch.

Leader: Terry Spittles 519-265-6203 Level 3, Speed Moderate

Wed Oct 03 MEMBERS NIGHT

Zehrs Community Room. 7-9pm More details TBA

Wed Oct 03 MONO CLIFFS PROVINCIAL PARK 2-3hr

Walk the beautiful trails of this hiking park. Hopefully the leaves will be starting their fall show. Lunch at the pub. Leave

Guelph at 9:00. Depart trailhead 10am. Contact leader for meeting spot.

Leader: Jane Shifflett 519 822-3229 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Oct 06 CRAWFORD LAKE CONSERVATION 10km

Loop hike from Crawford Conservation, along the Nassagaweya Canyon to Rattlesnake Point. Exceptional views and

characteristic escarpment countryside dressed in fall colours. We will meet 10a.m. at the Guelph Covered Bridge parking lot

east of Gordon Street for carpooling to Crawford Lake. Bring water, snacks, lunch and sunscreen. A park entry fee applies.

Leader: Gayle 519-856-1012; Susan Bard 519-836-6570 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Oct 07 ELORA CATARACT TRAIL ~13.5km

Celebrate Ontario Hiking Week with GHTC members. Hike from Erin to Orton, with a car shuttle to return to Erin. We will

have lunch along the way. Meet 8:30am at the Guelph Covered Bridge Parking Lot for carpooling to the start point in Erin.

Leader: Bob Fanning 519 822-5181 or [email protected] Level 2. Speed Moderate

Mon Oct 08 SCHNEIDER'S WOODS 10km

This is a beautiful area to visit with the fall colours on Thanksgiving, hiking along the woods and pasture area along the

Koch-Carmel Road north of St. Agatha. Meet at the covered bridge parking lot east of Gordon Street for a 9a.m. carpool

departure to start hiking by 10a.m.. Bring water, snacks and lunch.

Leader: Susan Bard 519-836-6570; Donald Hughes Level 1. Speed Moderate

Tue Oct 09 METCALFE ROCK / MAIN TRAIL / CHUCK GRANT ST LOOP HIKE 12km

Meet at 9:15am, (for a 9:30 departure), at the Duncan Crevices Nature Reserve parking lot, (Beaver Valley Bruce Trail Km

33.2Km), for a 12Km loop hike. Bring lunch, snack & water. No dogs please. Terrain is very rocky so boots are essential.

Leader: Susan Atkinson 519-831-9474, before 9pm or email [email protected]. Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Oct 13 RLT SECTION 7, 8 2-3 hrs

There is more trail developed off road in these sections worth a chance to discover and enjoy in fall colour. Meet 1:30p.m. at

the Guelph covered bridge parking lot east of Gordon Street for carpooling to trail head. Bring water and snacks.



Sun Oct 14 KIDS HIKE STARKEY TRAIL 1.5 hrs

Introduce the young people in your life to the fun of hiking in Guelph as we view the autumn colours and climb the lookout hill

to see the city of Guelph from Starkey Trail. Meet at 1:00 pm at the Starkey Trail parking lot (enter on the south side of Arkell

Road, 1 km east of Arkell). Children must be accompanied by an adult on the Tortoise or Hare hikes. Dress for the weather.

Bring water and sunscreen. No strollers and no pets. Refreshments. For details and to register, please call Kathy at 519

836-9147 or [email protected].

Leader: Guelph Hiking Trail Club Leaders Level 1, hiking at an easy pace

Sun Oct 14 TRAVERSE OF DUNDAS VALLEY 25 km

Hike from Hamilton's Chedoke Golf Course to Sydenham Road Lookout, Dundas on the Bruce Trail. A challenging 25 km with

plenty of hills. Meet at 8:00am at Guelph covered bridge lot on Gordon St.

Leader: Bill Mungall [email protected] Level 3, Speed Moderate to brisk

Wed Oct 17 FORKS OF THE CREDIT PROVINCIAL PARK 2-3hr

Enjoy the fall colours in this hiking park. Contact the leader for meeting spot in Guelph. Bring a picnic lunch. Depart

trailhead 10am.

Leader: Jane Shifflett 519 822-3229 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Thu Oct 18 GHTC SLIDE NIGHT

Zehr's Community Room, Imperial and Paisley Roads 7-9pm

Sat Oct 20 ROCK CHAPEL TO KERNCLIFF 15to18 km

Meet at 8:30am in the Shopper's Drug Mart parking lot, the corner of Clair and Gordon in south end. We will drive

approximately 35 minutes to Kerncliff Park, where we will leave half the vehicles, and then we will proceed to Rock Chapel to

begin our hike. This hike will be along the escarpment with some beautiful views, will include several significant climbs and

descents, and might test the endurance of a beginner hiker. Bring lots of water and snacks/lunch, and ensure you have good

footwear.

Leader: Dave Culham 519-716-8273 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Oct 21 LIME HOUSE LOOP 2 hr

Meet 1:00pm at the Guelph covered bridge on Gordon Street for a loop hike,come see the Hole in the wall,and heritage lime

kilns restored.Bring water and snacks.


Sat Oct 27 GHTC RADIAL LINE TRAIL SECTION 6 4 hr

Section 6 is most interesting and attractive along the Radial Line Trail any season, especially with the Kong Hill lookout. Meet

12:30p.m. at the Guelph Covered Bridge parking lot east of Gordon Street to carpool to Nassagaweya 6th Line for a 1p.m. hike

start east. Bring water and snacks.

Leader: Gayle 519 856-1012, Sue 519 836-6570 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Oct 28 NEW O.R. SIDETRAIL 6km

This loop hike will feature the new Ontario Reformatory sidetrail of the Radial Line Trail, running up the east bank of the

Eramosa River from Stone Road East to York Road. Meet at Barber Scout Camp parking lot on Stone Rd. E. at 1:30pm.


ELGIN TRAIL PLUS DUTTON/ DUNWICH PORTION OF TRANS-CANADA TRAIL

Join Diane Gasner and Jim Vanderlip for three (3) days of hiking on the Elgin Trail and the Dutton/ Dunwich Trail in beautiful

Elgin County on the north shore of Lake Erie in south-western Ontario. The first two days will be devoted to completing the

Elgin Hiking Trail from its intersection with the Thames Valley Hiking Trail in Middlesex County to the shore of Lake Erie in

the Town of Port Stanley. This trail is approximately 41 kilometres and those hikers who successfully complete both days will

be eligible to purchase end-to-end badges from the club.

As a bonus hike, on the third day we will hike the Dutton/ Dunwich portion of the Trans-Canada Trail in the rural areas south of

Talbot Line (Highway # 3) in the area of Wallacetown / Iona to the south and west of St. Thomas.

SATURDAY, OCT 27TH-Meet at the parking area on King's Highway # 4 south of the railway trestle bridge to the west of the

city of St. Thomas where Highway # 4 crosses Elgin County Road # 16 (Fingal Road). We will meet at 9:00 A.M. and car

shuttle to the northern end of the Elgin Trail at its intersection with the Thames Valley Trail on Southdel Road in Middlesex

County. Car shuttle directions will be provided at the meeting point. We will hike back for approximately 21 kilometres through

mixed forests and along country roads.


SUNDAY, OCT 28TH-Meet at the southern terminus of the Elgin Trail at the southern end of William Street on the beach in

the Town of Port Stanley for a 9:00 A.M. departure. We will car shuttle back to the railway trestle bridge in St. Thomas and

then hike approximately 20 kilometres back to the beach. Refreshments afterwards on the beach in Port Stanley.

MONDAY, OCT 29TH-Meet at the Southwold Prehistoric Earthworks on the east side of Elgin County Road # 14 (Iona Road)

to the south of Iona for a 9:00 A. M. departure. Iona is located on Talbot Line (King's Highway # 3). We will car shuttle to the

beginning of the hike on the Talbot Line (Highway # 3) near its intersection with the Dunborough Road to the west of the

hamlet of Wallacetown. The return hike of 23 kilometres will cross rolling countryside with great views of Lake Erie. We will

pass through the John E. Pearce Provincial Park and along the way see Backus Page House, St. Peter's Church, St. Peter's

Cemetery and the Southwold Prehistoric Earthworks.

Leader:-Diane Gasner at 416-361-9088 between 7 and 10 P. M. or at [email protected].

Jim Vanderlip at 416-925-9134 between 7 and 10 P.M., Norm 519-836-3568

Sat Nov 03 SCOTSDALE FARM 10/14km

Meet 10:00am at the Guelph covered bridge on Gordon Street for carpooling Enjoy the scenic trail along the Bruce

Trail.Bring water snacks and lunch.

Leader: Norm 519-836-3568 Level 2, speed moderate

Sat Nov 10 RADIAL LINE TRAIL 17 km

Meet at the Guelph covered bridge on Gordon Street for a 10.00 am depart. Hike the Radial Line Trail to the Smith Side Trail

and return. Bring water, snacks and lunch.

Leader: Terry Spittles 519-265-6203 Level 2, speed moderate

Thu Nov 15 GUELPH HIKING TRAIL CLUB AGM

Zehr's Community Room, Imperial and Paisley Roads 7-9pm

Sat Nov 17 KISSING BRIDGE TRAILWAY 10/20 km

This can be an easy ten, 2.5 hours, or moderate 20 km, 5.5 hours, stroll between Ariss and the Grand River. Ten gets you to the

Grand River crossing Katherine Street. Twenty gets you back to Ariss, your pick! Meet 9:30a.m. on the trailway at the Ariss

parking lot Kiosk south of Wellington Road 51. WE will walk into Waterloo to the Grand River, pause, eat and return to Ariss.

Children, dogs and cats all under moderate control are welcome since Petie, an Australian Shepherd will be assisting me.

Leader: Mike Curtis Erin 1-905-877-4134 Level 1. Speed Casual

For more hikes go to other Clubs website:• Maitland Trail Association - maitlandtrail.ca/upcoming.htm

• Halton Hills Bruce Trail Chapter - on a link at media6.magma.ca/www.torontobrucetrailclub.org/indexhttps.php

• Halton Outdoor Club - outdoor.spectranet.ca/index.html

• roquoia Bruce Trail Club - iroquoia.on.ca/hikes.html

• Thames Valley Trail Association - tvta.ca

• Dufferin Bruce Trail Club - dufferinbrucetrailclub.org

Organized Bruce Trail End-to-End Hikes for this yearThere is a registration fee to participate in these organized hikes. For most of these hikes pre-registration is required. For more

hike details visit hosting club's website.

Iroquoia

October 20-21 and 27-28, 2012; 4 hikes over 2 weekends. Details at www.iroquoia.on.ca/end-to-end.html

Toronto

Sept. 22-23

Fifty km total (29 km on Sept 22, 21 km on Sept 23). Meet each day at Limehouse and transportation will be provided to the

beginning of the hike. To register: Send $20 cheque payable to Toronto Bruce Trail Club to Barbara Euler, 67 Robinglade Dr,

Toronto ON M9B 2R2. Questions? Contact Barbara Euler 416-695-1838 or [email protected]

Caledon

Sat through Mon, Oct 6-8, 2012 (Thanksgiving Weekend)

Details at caledonbrucetrail.org/endtoend.htm

Dufferin Hi-Land

Sat & Sun, July 14/15 Sydenham E2E Hike 5 & 6 of 10; Sat & Sun, Sept 15/16 Sydenham E2E Hike 7 & 8 of 10;

Sat & Sun, Oct 20/21 Sydenham End to End Hike 9 & 10 of 10. Details at dufferinbrucetrailclub.org

Beaver Valley

Sept 1, 2012 "Falling Waters Trail End-to-End" (30.9 km)

Experience a 30.9 km hike that traverses the beautiful, rugged upper Beaver Valley and during which you will never be far from


the sound of falling water. To register send a $10.00 cheque (made out to the Beaver Valley Bruce Trail Club) to Joëlle

Martin, P.O. Box 3251, Meaford, N4L 1A5, 519-538-5766. Please include your name, telephone number and e-mail address.

Fee will cover refreshments and the special FWT hike badge awarded to all hiker who completes the hike.

Bruce Peninsula

Nine days beginning Aug 11, starting in Wiarton, continuing every Sat and Sun until Sept 3, finishing in Tobermory. Details at

www.pbtc.ca/hikes_end2end.html

Ganaraska Trail E2E

Sat & Sun, July 14/15, Hike 5 & 6 of 21; Sat & Sun, Aug 11/12 Hike 7 & 8 of 21; Sat & Sun, Aug 25/26, Wilderness Section,

Backpacking Weekend; Sat & Sun, Sept 8/9 Hike 11 & 12 of 21; Details at gvta.on.ca

Opening up “The O.R.” Sidetrail

GHTC has received all approvals and recent financialsupport from the City of Guelph that now allow us toannounce exciting plans to open up a brand new, 2.5km long trail, all within Guelph, and on lands ownedby the Province and the City.

This trail will be built as a sidetrail off Section 1 of theRadial Line Trail, running from Stone Road East toYork Road, at the parking lot for the Bicentennial Parkball diamonds. It will run alongside mostly woodedeast and north banks of the Eramosa River, and the eastbank of Clythe Creek. Aside from some nice views ofthe river, a geologically significant quarry will beopened up to public viewing for the first time since itsacquisition by the City in 2004. (For those not long inGuelph, the locals referred to the Guelph CorrectionalCentre as “The O.R.”, for “The Ontario Reformatory”for most of that institution’s 95 year existence. Thesidetrail and Section 1 RLT both run over formerreformatory lands.)

Several work parties to brush out the trail over thesummer months will be put together from the existinglist of trail maintenance volunteers. To have yourselfadded to the list, contact the membership secretary,Dave Culham. [Bill Mungall]

Ode to the Bruce Trail

Here’s to you old friendThat you may live a thousand years or moreThat those who care will continue to careThat your lakes and streams will always be there That your trees will abound and continue to growThat wild life will flourish and be free to roamThat your breezes will blow to freshen the dayThat the sun will shine and show the way That rains will nourish your forest groundThat your treadway will be forever soundThat your leaves will fall giving life belowThat hikers will come to love and to know That your hills and valleys will be gentle and kindThat strangers become friends with the passage of timeThat you continue to give strength to those who exploreThat those who tread will respect you more

That your followers will give as you have givenThis is our wish to you old friend

[Donald Cangiano]

Hike Ontario Summit 2012 and GVTA 40 Anniversary Celebrations th

The Grand Valley Trails Association is thrilled to announce the details of its 40 Anniversaryth

Celebrations to be held November 2- 4, 2012, in conjunction with the annual Hike Ontario Summit. Come to Kitchener and celebrate with hiking friends from across Ontario!

Check the websites for detailed descriptions and updates. Hike Ontario: www.hikeontario.com GVTA Anniversary: www.gvta.on.ca

Register online at www.gvta.on.ca. Registration deadline, Monday, October 22, 2012.


Summer Solstice Pot-luck Picnic

About 30 members and friends,plus one canine companion,turned out for the our SummerSolstice social.

The abundant, delicious varietyof food afforded lots for fuelingbut socializing and hikingprovided opportunity to worksome of it off.

Thanks to Jane for organizing this grand event and to Bill for leading the hike.


Hiking With Dogs

Most dogs appreciate any sort of walking so hiking

with your pet can be a fun way to enjoy the outdoors.

When planning any outing, be sure that the hiking

trail is dog friendly since there are some locations

that discourage pets.

All dogs should be trained to walk calmly on a leash

and display good manners at all times When in

uncrowded locations, they can be allowed to run free

but make certain animals are under control whenever

other hikers are near.. Also, make sure the dog has

been recently vaccinated for rabies and any other

endemic diseases prevalent in the area.

Be sure to carry sufficient clean water for yourself

and dog, plus a container for the animal to drink

from.

Share through training her/him to carry a dog hiking

pack. Dogs have different builds depending on their

breed so the pack should be designed so the weight is

placed forward on the shoulder region rather than on

the back. Some acclimatization training will be

necessary so start with small weights for short

distances and gradually increase as the animal

becomes accustomed to the pack. Equalizing the

load is essential to maintain balance.

Come out and enjoy the GHTC Dog Hikes - see the

current Hiking Schedule for dates!

Obese Workers' Health Care Costs Top

Those of Smokers

The results from an investigation published in the

March issue of the Journal of Occupational and

Environmental Medicine revealed that obese people

have even higher health costs than smokers.

An analysis of health insurance claim data from more

than 30,000 Mayo Clinic employees and retirees who

had continuous health insurance from 2001 to 2007,

revealed that both obesity and smoking were

associated with higher health care costs. Average

yearly health costs were $1,275 more for smokers

than nonsmokers and $1,850 more for obese people

than those with normal weight.

Both obesity and smoking led to persistently higher

health care costs so encourage your family and

friends to quit the weed and to get exercising. The

gift of a GHTC membership might be all it takes to

foster a longer, healthier life!

Walking & Dehydration

With stiff or sore knees and other joints, walking may

not seem like a great idea. But it's one of the best

exercises for knee arthritis. It can reduce joint pain,

strengthen leg muscles and improve flexibility, plus

it's good for your heart. Proper form is key - look

forward and walk tall, keeping arms and legs moving

and relaxed. The best part -- no gym membership

needed.

But be careful, dehydration can slow you down and

even make you sick. Are you taking enough water

breaks when exercising?

Take WebMD quiz to see how much you do or do not

know about water at:

http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/rm-quiz-k

now-about-hydration?ecd=wnl_fit_060812

GHTC display at Marden Family Day, March, 2012.


Dates to Remember (details in upcoming e-letters)Wednesday, October 3, 19:00 - 21:00 h Members Night - Zhers Community RoomSunday, October 14, 13:00 h Kids Hike at Starkey Hill TrailThursday, October 18, 19:00 - 21:00 h 1 fall Slide Night - Zhers Community Roomst

Thursday, November 15, 19:00 to 21:00 h GHTC Annual General Meeting

Dues are Due!

The Guelph Hiking Trail Club membership yearends on August 31.

Please! Please! Please!Take a moment right now to fill out and return theRequest for Membership Form included in thisnewsletter.

GHTC is working on the introduction of an onlineprocess for payment of the annual membership fees,purchases and/or donations. However, those whoprefer will always be able to send their membershipfees using regular mail.

Check our web site regularly for progress updates.We hope current or prospective members will findthis online payment process easy and convenient.

Members of the Guelph Hiking Trail Club aid the Acton Seniors Walking Club look on as Lisa McIlmoyle prepares to cut the

ribbon and declare the reroute officially open. Lisa. along with her brother Greg Moroz, kindly gave permission for Section 7

of our Radial Line Trail to pass through their cedar wooded and open land rather than along the former 2+ km of walking

along rural but busy roads.


GRCA Summer Camps

The Grand River Conservation Authority has a

variety of summer camps this summer to

encourage learning and making friends in the

great outdoors. There are a multitude of

camping opportunities at five different locations with

a variety of options for 6 to 16 year olds.

Information and registration is available at

www.grandriver.ca.

Pedestrian Based Trails and Their Benefits

Hike Ontario recognizes and supports trails

throughout Ontario and appreciates that every trail is

unique. Every trail can't be all things to all people

but all trails can play beneficial roles. Trails play

roles in the economy, play roles in the environment

and perhaps most importantly, play roles in our

health.

As defined in the new Ontario Trails Strategy, trails

can be:

• Footpaths with natural surfacing

• Multi-use tracks with manufactured surfaces

• On-road bicycle routes

• Walkways, boardwalks and sidewalks

• Utility corridors or former rail lines

• Forestry and mining access roads designated as

trails

• Waterways and portage routes

While Hike Ontario recognizes the diversity of trails

and trail uses, our focus is on the representation and

promotion of pedestrian based trails and their

benefits. [From Hike Ontario web site]


PLEASE PRINT THIS FORM AND MAIL WITH CHEQUE PAYMENT TO:

David Culham

GHTC Membership

19 Munroe Crescent

Request for Membership G^, ON N,G 5E5

Guelph Hiking Trail dub

Membership: D $25.00 per year or D $100 for 5 years*

Name (in full)

additional family member(s)

Address

City

Postal Code

Email

Province

Telephone

How did you discover the Guelph Hiking Trail dub?

Would you prefer email link to colour online newsletter D, or printed black/white newsletter mailed to address listed above D?

The GHTC depends on volunteers to carry out administrative functions and various trail programs. Please indicate ifyou have interest in investing time during the upcoming year to help the club in any of the areas listed below.

Trail Maintenance

Leading Hikes

Other

Newsletter

Administration

Publicity Social Events

Not able to volunteer this year

(describe)

I would like to purchase the items as indicated below:

Membership lyr@$25or 5yrs@$100* ->

Handbook with trail maps

dub badge

@ $15.00** ->

@ $3.00 -*

Donation ->

Total*Special rate for 5yr membership requires selection of electronic newsletter.**Handbooks are $15.00 for members, $20.00 for non-members.

I have read the GHTC Trail Users Code and agree to abide by it. SignaturePlease make cheques payable to 'Guelph Hiking Trail dub'

Documents

GHTC News July 2012