Monthly Archives: July 2016

Cleveland Hill Hike

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It was a very warm afternoon last Sunday, but that did not deter the dozen determined hikers who came to explore the beauty of Cleveland Hill, on a section of the Bristol Hills FLT branch, also shared by the BSA Camp Warren Cutler.  While we saw no trace of the legendary General Cleveland what we did find was a well maintained trail, some lovely views or the Bristol Valley, and numerous flying foes.  We welcomed two hikers new to our group, Kathy and James.

A small group of three headed northeast toward  the beaver pond to enjoy some gentler terrain.  Under Mark’s leadership, another group made their summit attempt from the south access  on a less challenging slope.  Melissa led the remaining seven hikers up the steeper north side.  Elevation achieved, 2210 feet.  Along the route we observed some activity by  an environmental agency, thinning out some of the oaks to make room for new growth.   Along the trail, James pointed out several species of oaks and pines he had learned in his wilderness course. We passed several side trails that connect to the Boy Scout camping area, but opted not to add to our mileage.

The two climbing groups met near the overlook at the top where Mark so graciously surrendered his keys to those who would have had to road walk for a mile plus.  Gene also pitched in and transported the long hikers back to their vehicles.  Many thanks for saving us from a steamy slog  up CR 33.

IMG_3680A quick break along the trail

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View from the overlook, well worth the climb.

Following our hike, many folks gathered at Brew and Brats in Bristol Springs for some excellent refreshments.  Thanks to John French, the owner, for being a very accommodating host.

IMG_3683End of the trail

 

 

Hiking, biking and raspberries on Ontario Pathways, 7/3/16

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Probably due to the combination of distance from Springwater and the midst of a mid summer holiday weekend, only 7 hikers participated on this one.  We’ve had better attendance when its been 10 degrees in January.  This day, we had nearly perfect hiking conditions, 80 degrees and a pleasant breeze.

John was the only biker, and did a solo 2 hour ride on his bike.  Katherine and Char did the tourist hike, from Freshour Rd. to the west end meeting place.  They had a nice deer sighting on the trail.  Gene, Pat and Tony went from the county fair grounds on CR 10.  About a half mile from there, just before the trail crosses CR 4, there were raspberry bushes loaded with plump ripe berries and each hiker collected a load of them.  There were plenty of green berries for future picking for any lovers of our area’s summer bounty.  As usual, Tony took plenty of pictures to post on Facebook.

The after hike social was at a picnic table outside the New Covenant Baptist Church, on the south side of CR 46, where the trail crosses it just east of CR 10.  This church is very accommodating to hikers.  Georgia brought assorted crackers and cheeses, including one with tequila and lime, which was a new one for us.  Katherine had her usual delicious and healthy salad of assorted fruit, and Char, known for her desserts, came through nicely again with a very tasty cake.