Hiking Westdale – RBG South Shore Trails

HIKE TITLE

Westdale – RBG South Shore Trails

DATE

Saturday,  June 7, 2025

HIKE LEADER(S)

Jane Walker

EMAIL AND CELL NUMBER

Jwhamilton9@gmail.com  905-807-3025

GENERAL LOCATION

Westdale, Hamilton

START TIME

Meet at 9:30am for a  9:45 start

SPECIFIC MEETING PLACE OR PARKING LOCATION

Park in the RBG Aviary parking lot at 85 Oak Knoll Drive.  At the north end of Dalewood Crescent and Oak Knoll Drive in Westdale, Hamilton. 

Free parking for RBG members with parking pass or $3/hour for non-members.  Coins or credit.

85 Oak Knoll Drive, Hamilton

DISTANCE

+/- 6-7 km

PACE:

Leisurely / Moderate / Fast

Leisurely

DURATION APPROX

2.5 hours

TERRAIN:

Easy / Moderate / Challenging

Moderate terrain, varying in type.  Hilly, gravel, boardwalks (slippery when wet), packed earth, tree roots, mud and a flat gravel path in an urban park.   A steep gravel section at the beginning on Caleb’s.  Bring hiking poles if you feel more comfortable/stable with them.

TYPE OF HIKE:

i.e. loop or out and back

A loop with short out and back section.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Point of interests

Westdale Ravine: Located on the south shore of Cootes Paradise, this deeply incised sand-plain ravine features a spring-fed creek and some of the tallest trees on the RBG property.  A hotspot for birding (Great Blue Herons, ducks, swans, woodpeckers, Arctic Terns), and viewing other wildlife (chipmunks, deer and once a fox).  Bring water and a snack as we’ll take a viewing break.  Seasonal washroom may be open towards the end of the walk.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Yes. A Must.  Leaders appreciate early registration and at least 24 hours before the event.

CANCELLATION

•  If your plans change, please self-cancel as soon as possible so that other HOC members may take your spot.

•  The club may cancel due to bad weather that may impact the safety of participants or due to low attendance.

REGISTRATION OPENS

2 weeks before the hike.  Up to 15 hikers are welcome to participate in this event.

WHAT TO BRING

•  Wear supportive hiking boots with good tread. Hiking poles will be helpful.

•  Dress in layers according to weather.

•  Water and snacks.

•  Sun, rain and bug protection.