Hike In Huron
Stevenson Tract
The Stevenson Tract, just west of Brussels on Morris Road, is one of Huron County’s forests. The property was purchased in 1951 as part of a province-wide reforestation effort and is now a perfect spot for a tranquil walk. The 200-acre tract is bisected by the Maitland River and has two trails, one on each side of the river with the opportunity to cross the river at the back and hike as one.
The west loop is the longer of the two at 2.3 kilometres and features a walk along a ridge that affords some excellent views of the river, especially in spring before the trees are fully in leaf. The path is easy to see, with some hills and steep slopes and can be slippery after a rain or in spring. The back section from the Clyde Line parking lot to the river is less travelled and a little more overgrown, but the view of the river is worth it. The east trail is a straight run from Morris Rd to the river but a little shorter at just a half-kilometre. There are three parking lots, two on Morris Rd (one at each trail head) and one on Clyde Line for the west loop. Corner of Morris Rd and Clyde Line, Brussels.
Savanna Trail, Pinery Provincial Park
One of the park’s most popular trails, the Savanna Trail is a multi-use trail well suited to exploring the Carolinian forest by bike. The 14-kilometer loop is about half gravel path through the woods and half rough pavement on a two-lane road that has one lane reserved for bikes and hikers and the other for one-way car traffic. The trail gives access to the beaches, store and visitor centre, along with trail heads for several walking trails, making it the ideal way to explore much of the Pinery. No need to bring a bike in for the day as bike rentals are available at the park store. The fall is the ideal time to explore the Savanna Trail, as the summer crowds begin to quiet down. Day passes are available online or at the gate. www.ontarioparks.ca 9526 Lakeshore Rd, Grand Bend