Even though we're in a heat wave, nine courageous hikers came out for the first of our summer hikes. Most bailed after the first half, once we had established that the ice cream shops were closed and not due to open until 11 or 12. Temperatures were in the low 30's, feeling like mid 40's.
One of several hydration breaks
 |
| On the trail |
Four hikers joined Brian on this warm summer day. With pants tucked inside socks and lots of bug spray we set off on our adventure.
 |
| Posing in front of Terrace Creek Falls |
 |
| Cooling down |
 |
| The Swayze Falls viewing platform from 12-Mile Creek |
 |
| Cooling down again...it was a really hot day!!! |
 |
| Clockwise from top left....turtle eggs, nipplewort, wild basil, black raspberries (we were a bit early for foraging), bottlebrush grass, annual fleebane |
Thankfully, no one picked up a tick today, although Donna said they were bad down in the Magic Kingdom.
The forecast was for showers with a high of 17 for the last of the Hamilton Waterfall Hike series with Fiona. The four hikers who came out managed to stay dry for most of the hike.
The Tulip tree at the Great Falls parking lot was just at the end of its blooming season The rain made going down the hill to Grindstone Creek a bit of a challenge Everyone made it to the bottom of the hill without falling on the slippery shale. Just one more hill to get back up to the cars
Sometimes the best escape from the city is only a short ferry ride away. This week 13 Pathfinders and their two guests spent a beautiful day exploring and learning about the Toronto Islands.
 |
| Map of Toronto Islands |
 |
| On the Ferry |
We took the ferry from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal heading for Ward’s Island which is on the east side of the islands. This is the residential part of the island with 70 island homes and leases. There is a waiting list for potential purchasers of homes and leases that opens every two years. The Trust accepts 500 names; however, most buyers are usually found within the first 100 names.
Once we landed, we proceeded to the boardwalk and headed to Centre Island.
 |
| Walking on the boardwalk |
Tucked away we found a little path leading to a beach where we were able to take a group shot.
 |
| The Group |
From Ward’s Island to Centre Island Peir is a 2.3 km walk. Along the way we found this amazing pine tree that Marleene said deserved a hug.
 |
| Marleen hugging a tree |
Everyone on the pier was looking out into the water, it must have an awfully big fish. Apparently fishing on the Islands is rated as one of the best urban angling experiences in the GTA.
 |
| Looking out from the pier |
The sign on the pier said 1,269 km to Halifax, 3, 371 Km to Vancouver, New York City 548 km and Eaton Chelsea Hotel 6 k. but we’re sure Jane wants to go to Halifax
 |
Jane pointing to Halifax
|
 |
| The Heron |
 |
| Baby Ducks |
Following the path out of Centreville we crossed the bridge over to Olympic Island where the group took a few minutes to admire the scenery on the other side of the water.
 |
| Enjoying the site on the other side |
 |
| Toronto Skyline |
After lunch we came back out to the pier for some ice cream and where a Beavertail addict was able to satisfy her addiction.
 |
Addict's entrance
|
 |
| Gibraltar Point lighthouse |
The lighthouse is the oldest existing lighthouse on the Great Lakes. It was built in 1808 and is located on the southwestern top of the Toronto Islands. The 80-foot stone tower is famous for being one of Toronto’s oldest buildings and the centre of its most enduring ghost story.
We also made a pit stop to ascertain what type of lily was growing in the marshy area of the island
 |
| Ann documenting flowers |
Alas all great days come to an end. after our meander of 3.9 km, we arrived at the Hanlan’s point ferry terminal. At the foot of the terminal sits the statue of Edward (Ned) Hanlan who was a professional sculler, hotelier and alderman from Toronto. Hanlan is widely regarded as Canada’s fist individual sporting hero hailing from the east end of Toronto Island.
 |
Edward Hanlan Memorial
|
After 4.5 days straight of perfect weather for hiking and outdoor socializing, the weather gods favoured us by holding off the rain until about 7:30. Even then, it was just splatters. All in all, conditions were perfect in the lovely backyard of Kathy and John Burgers. There was some question about whether our BBQ chefs were vaping when we thought they should be cooking, but all turned out well. The Social Committee arranged for a nice selection of protein and fixings, complemented by appetizers, salads, and desserts brought by members. The result was good variety and quality at a great price. The 57 members in attendance seemed to agree.
The Social Committee and setting were perfect, allowing for some good socializing time at the start followed by great food service. Thanks to the committee -- Sue Stephens (Chair), Mary DM, Deb Porszt, Mary Lester, Carolyn Rumble, our chefs Michael, Ross and Gerry, and of course our hosts Kathy and John.
 |
| Michael and Ross stop for a breather |
 |
| Pathfinders brought lots of healthy and tasty salads -- natch! |
 |
| Deb seemed happy with her door prize. |
 |
| Sue thanks Kathy & John |
 |
| Another splash of colour for the Burgers' garden. |
Thirteen hikers followed Tom unquestioningly through a very large number of intersections and potential wrong turns -- all to end up back where they started!!😀The E-E rating and modest 5.9 km made this less of an accomplishment than the pictures would suggest.
The Wally Nisbet hike is named to honour the memory of Wally Nisbet, long-time Pathfinder, hike leader, and developer of many of our routes, including this one.
Blue skies and sunshine make for great hiking. And serious shadows!
Dame's Rocket -- in its full glory.
22 hikers turned out on a perfect Spring day, following Tom who followed the creek and also the gentle corrections of Sid and Wanda. It was a great group effort!
Preparing for the final ascent: up the stairs to the parking lot.
Ten hikers joined Nancy on this sunny summerlike day. The rainy weekend made the trail muddy in places, but the hikers managed to remain relatively clean. Thankfully, everyone had their poles!!
 |
| A great day for a hike |
 |
| Red Hill Creek |
 |
| Are we there yet? |
 |
| It was slow going down the hills. |
 |
| Albion Falls after a rainy weekend |
