The Mighty Bruce Adventures: Hike #40 & 41: Summer in November

November 7, 2020 Hike #40: km 91.5 to 101.3 Sydenham (Ed. 28)

November 8, 2020 Hike #41: km 101.3 to 115.00 Sydenham (Ed. 28)

We were all smiles as we set out on the first of our two days of hiking. Our first view in the morning was of the beautiful Inglis Falls. The weather on this weekend was a gift we do not often get in November. The summer like temperatures were quite a contrast to the weather we "enjoyed" two weeks prior.

This part of the trail runs parallel to the outskirts of Owen Sound, offering some views of the town from high up on the escarpment. We happened upon quite a few spots where it looked like local youth partake in some partying. I recall there were a few of those in Muskoka where I grew up. This section of the trail offered me some time to work on my fear of heights. There were many deep crevices to walk over - some of them wide enough that a long step "jump" was necessary. I only froze once, briefly (I think). There will be plenty of opportunity to work past this fear as we hike further up the Bruce Peninsula.

Our first day of hiking was over early enough that we had time to head into town and poke around some of the few local shops. We had fun visiting The Artist's Co-op; and Barebirch among others and had an absolutely scrumptious take out dinner from Casero's.

Sunday dawned even more lovely that the day before and after caffeinating ourselves we eagerly set off to our starting point at the Pottawatomi Conservation area. A long time friend met us there bearing gifts of cinnamon buns and apples from the farmers market. After a few kilometers in the conservation area we walked along the road for a stretch and then the rail trail. We met several lovely dogs (and their humans) along the way and had the good fortune of meeting a young lady and her horse Annie.

All too soon our hike was over. Feeling refreshed and relaxed after two days of nature, exercise and fresh air, we made our way back home to the suburbs. Most likely we will not see the trails again until springtime. Hopefully by then there might be some return of normality to our lives. We are grateful for our time on the trails and the respite it provides from the pandemic.

Keep well, keep safe and most of all, stay positive.