Annual PHG BBQ, Fri 5 Jun, 5pm -- , rated SGES (seriously good eating and socializing)

 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. 

Wally Nisbet Trail (aka Wally's Walk), Thu 4 June, 2026, 8:45

 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. 

Roberts & Irwin Quarry, Thu 4 June 2026, 8:15

Hattie Cui lead 11 hikers on a good day along on one of Pathfinders favourite trails through Silver Creek Conservation Area -- 8 km of S-D hiking

The title suggests we took in two side trails to the main Bruce trail. These took us along scenic escarpment vistas and through mature forests.

Roberts side trial goes through woods and includes pond views from a boardwalk before climbing the escarpment. It rejoins the main Bruce Trail at the edge of the Silver Creek Valley. The trail is named after Mr. and Mrs. George Roberts who maintained this section of Bruce Trail for many years.

Irwin Quarry side trail follows the old Irwin Quarry access road. It reconnects with the main Bruce Trail, making a loop. Although the area was replanted, you can still see exposed limestone.

We were happy to be shaded under the forest canopy on this sunny day, happily ending around noon when the ambient peaked at 30 Celsius.

 

Thank you Hattie for organizing a lovely morning hike.

Niagara Glen, Mon June 1, 2026 8:15

The leader Andrea Kovacs and 3 hikers were up for the adventure in Niagara Glen a 9km hike rated S-D.

This is a pretty and strenuous 6.3km hike with many side trials that can be added. It decends the Niagara Gorge near the

Hikers traversing a crevice between bolders. Watch your footing - the rapids are waiting for you!

A view over a bend in the river with turquois water rapids in foreground.

The leader takes a selfie-group shot at a much needed break.

Three hikers at waters edge, one testing the water - too hot a day to venture into the cold fast flowing water.

Hiker turned to trail maintenance ... Ah we'ed like this bolder right here.

The hiking group sharing company, with a celebratory beverage. An enjoyable conclusion before heading home.

Thank you Andrea for organizing and leading us today.