Rouge Park - Nature Walks

Rouge Park Guided Walks
February 2012

Hit the trail with Rouge Park's Guided Walks in our 3rd year of adventure and discovery. Yes, winter's still here, and we're making the most of it! Thanks to Mountain Equipment Co-op for their support of the program. This is the perfect month to say no to winter blahs and get your Vitamin D hit! Get your boots on and join us. There's so much to see!

Dress for the weather, we walk snow or shine! Bring binoculars and camera, water and snacks. Please wear boots for the trail. Try boot traction - we like Microspikes.
CLICK HERE for more about hiking in Rouge Park and to download our Visitor Guide.

Donate to Rouge Park and our Guided Walks
Do you enjoy coming out with us on the trail?
Your support keeps us going! Show your appreciation.

When would you like to walk with us?

Wednesday February 15

Saturday February 18

Sunday February 19

Monday February 20

Wednesday February 22

Saturday February 25

Sunday February 26

Wednesday February 29

How to Prepare for Your Walk
Bring at least 1 litre of water (try a reusable bottle) and a snack. Bringing a hot drink? Try a thermal mug instead of a disposable cup (it will stay hot longer too!). Trails are natural surface and could be snowy, muddy and damp, with steep grades - wear proper footwear for trails. Dress for the weather - we walk snow or shine. You'll want to have sun protection and be ready for snow and wind with a waterproof or water-repellant jacket. Don't forget a hat, gloves/mittens, and a scarf. Wool socks are the best for warm feet. Keep your running shoes at home; boots or shoes made for trails are best. It's also a good idea to start carrying small backpack to carry things and stay hands-free.
Click here to get totally ready to walk year-round!

Meeting Points, TTC and Parking Information

Group Outings
Groups of up to 15: We welcome groups up to 15 people to a scheduled walk. But before you come out, contact us so we can discuss your needs.

Groups of 15 or more: We can organize a private walk for your group of 15 or more for a nominal per person contribution. Click here to plan your special outing!

Drop a line to hike@rougepark.com or call 905 713 3184. We can get back to you between Monday and Thursday.

Meet the Rouge Park Nature Walk Leaders

Be a Trail Volunteer! If you are interested in being a trail volunteer, let us know at hike@rougepark.com or call 905 713 3184.

Check our online schedule in case of updates ahead of the day you wish to join us.

Still have a question?
Drop us a line at hike@rougepark.com or call 905 713 3184. We can get back to you between Monday and Thursday.

Wednesday February 1

9:30amWoodland
5km
Meeting Point TTC and Parking info

My Year In Nature
Leader: Brian
Challenge: Easy
Pace: Easy
Duration: 2 hours
What to expect: Some of us keep journals to capture the events of the year. Why not start a journal, even if it's a photo journal, of your year in Rouge Park. It's not too late to begin, and as you come to the end of the year you'll chornicaled an incredible transformation in your own words or images to keep forever.
Please RSVP
Family Friendly:Kids on foot and in carriers welcome.
Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome.
Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Friday February 3

9:30amMast
5km
Meeting Point TTC and Parking info

What Winter Blahs?
Leader: Kevin
Challenge: Moderate (hilly)
Pace: Easy/Moderate
Duration: 2 hours
What to expect: Let's only look the postive side of things today! Bring all your good thoughts to the trail to create a big winter cheer! Let's kick off… the days are getting longer… you'll be in great company…you can have a nice hot drink after the walk...
Please RSVP
Family Friendly:Kids on foot and in carriers welcome.
Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome.
Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Saturday February 4

9:30am Orchard and Vista 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	You Name It, I'll Try It Leader: Glen Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: It's a mini-throw down to see how much Glen knows about nature and culture in Rouge Park. He's ready for your challenge questions on just about anything we encounter on the trail: animal tracks, hibernating reptiles and amphibians, chickadees, First Nations, historical sites, medicinal plants and travelling with your pooch. Let's keep it friendly, but he's up for it! Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
12:00pm Orchard 5km Meeting Point and Parking info	Winter Mixed Bag Walk Leader: Darlene Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Join in an eclectic and entertaining hike. Hear about Rouge history, geology, and conservation. Learn how to listen and look for signs of wildlife in this beautiful site. Learn how to dress and prepare for hiking in the Rouge. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
2:00pm Cedar 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	The Winter Forest, Wetland and Meadow Leader: Jelena Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: As we follow the trail and take in the different habitats it offers, let's talk about what’s happening to the trees, vegetation and animals? How are they all making it through the cold? Please RSVP Family Friendly: best for kids 6+ on foot, wee ones in carriers. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Sunday February 5

9:30am Mast 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	My Year in Nature Leader: Urmilla Challenge: Easy-Moderate Pace: Easy-Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Some of us keep journals to capture the events of the year. Why not start a journal, even if it's a photo journal, of your year in Rouge Park. It's not too late to begin, and as you come to the end of the year you'll chronicle an incredible transformation in your own words or images to keep forever. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
12:00pm Woodland 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Animal Tracking Leader: Gary Challenge: Easy-Moderate Pace: Easy-Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Come join Gary in search of wildlife in the heart of Rouge Park’s winter. Many animals venture out in search of food even on the coldest days. Left behind are their tracks for us to see who these brave creatures may be. Preserved in the snow, they serve as reminders that, even in this cold season there is life still around. Perhaps there may be a sighting of something lurking amongst the trees and shadows. Dress warm and bring your camera, just in case. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot and in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
2:00pm Cedar 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Brisk Winter Walk Leader: Giselle Challenge: Moderate-Challenging-Hilly Pace: Moderate-Fast Duration: 2 hours What to expect: The brisk weather cannot stop hikers! Let's march on and find some beautiful Feburary scenes to soak in. Dress appropriately to the weather conditions. Slopes may be slippery, bring walking stick if needed. This is a good time to check out our recommendation for boot traction and get it ready for the outing. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Adults only. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Wednesday February 8

9:30am Orchard and Vista
5km
Meeting Point TTC and Parking info

Winter Hiking
Leader: Kathy
Challenge: Easy/Moderate
Pace: Easy/Moderate
Duration: 2 hours
What to expect: There's no need to hibernate indoors this winter. Come join us in the Rouge and discover the benefits of winter hiking. Enjoy some fresh air, gentle exercise and maybe even a little sunshine. It's sure to lift your spirits and energize your day.
Please RSVP
Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome.
Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome.
Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Saturday February 11

9:30am Cedar 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	What Winter Blahs? Leader: Rob Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Let's only look the positive side of things today! Bring all your good thoughts to the trail to create a big winter cheer! Let's kick off… the days are getting longer… we'll be in great company… we can have a nice hot drink after the walk... Please RSVP Family Friendly: Energetic kids ready for hills and wee ones in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
12:00pm Woodland 5km Meeting Point and Parking info	Welcome to Rouge Park Leader: Salvita Challenge: Easy Pace: Easy Duration: 2 hours What to expect: If you are new to Rouge Park or a regular visitor, this walk will get you ready for further adventures with us! As we always say, "You never know what will happen." Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
2:00pm Woodland 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	All About Light Leader: Laura Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: The days are getting longer! Let’s celebrate by spending some quality time with the open sky. A brisk walk in the airy winter woods will enlighten your mind and body. It doesn’t matter if it’s sunny or overcast—it’s all about the light! Please RSVP Family Friendly: Best for kids 12+. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Sunday February 12

9:30am Mast 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Fitness - Adults Only Leader: Vicki Challenge: Moderate Pace: Moderate/Fast Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Valentine’s Day is around the corner! Join us for a faster pace than usual hike to burn off some calories to be ready for some indulgence on the 14th. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Adults only. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
12:00pm Vista and Orchard 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Did You See the Groundhog? Leader: Giselle Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: We are on our way to spring, but there is still plenty of winter to enjoy. Come out for a winter walk and a chance to learn about the species at risk right here in our backyard. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
2:00pm Orchard and Vista 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Carolinian Rouge Park Leader: Arshia Challenge: Moderate - hilly Pace: Easy-Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Be a part of this walk to experience the breathtaking view in the winter of the Rouge Valley from above and in the valley, always a unique perspective. Also bring your wonder and curiosity to learn a little bit about the importance of the Park as an ecological gem for its Carolinian forest. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Wednesday February 15

9:30amMast and Celebration Forest
6km
Meeting Point TTC and Parking info

Wednesday Explorer
Leader: Peter
Challenge: Easy-Moderate
Pace: Easy-Moderate
Duration: 2 hours
What to expect: Let's tackle the Mast ridge walk, so bring your boot traction for the hills for extra grip, and at halfway on our outing take a break in Celebration Forest. Today will be a little longer than our usual Wednesday, so we can enjoy a pace that challenges us but gives us room to explore as we do along the trail. If it's sunny, we'll try the sun tracking test we couldn't do in December.
Please RSVP
Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome.
Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome.
Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Saturday February 18

9:30am Woodland 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Animal Tracking Leader: Mike Challenge: Easy Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Mike recenty took a course in outdoor tracking, and you can benefit from his new learning! Even if there's minimal snow, we still have the ability to see who's been around, and of course, who IS around that we can see in action! Come on and put your eyes to the test, reading the ground with Mike. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
12:00pm Cedar 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Welcome to Rouge Park Leader: Lindsay Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: If you are new to Rouge Park or a regular visitor, this walk will get you ready for further adventures with us! As we always say. "You never know what will happen." Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
2:00pm Cedar 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Chick-chick-chickadee! Leader: Bruce Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Join Bruce to learn about one of the Park's year-round residents, the Black Capped Chickadee. Such a tiny bird but a hearty one ! How and what does it eat? How does it make it through the winter? How can we get to know it's familiar calls? All will be revealed and it's more than likely we will see them at many stages of the outing. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Sunday February 19

9:30am Woodland 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Beat the Winter Blahs Leader: Shannon Challenge: Easy Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Outdoor exercise is a great way to boost your spirits during the gloomy winter months. Get some natural vitamin D if the sun in shining, and get your heart pumping with a hike through the Woodlands trail. Learn to dress for winter hiking so you can stay active all year long, which can contribute to a happier and healthier you! Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
12:00pm Orchard and Vista 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Winter Birding Leader: Gary Challenge: Moderate (hilly) Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect:Kick off your birding hobby in Rouge Park. Join us for a walk to learn what birds stay in Rouge Park for the winter, why, and how to find them. Plus, get a handle on who to look for when warm weather returns! Winter birding is a great way to stay active, catch some natural Vitamin D and stave off the winter blahs! Please RSVP Family Friendly: Best for kids 8+. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
2:00pm Cedar 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	A Breath of Fresh Air Leader: Diana Challenge: Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Dedicate this time to yourself - disconnect from the demands from life. Join us for a peaceful walk in nature - you are sure to feel rejeuvenated, relaxed and refreshed. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Best for kids 5+. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Monday February 20

10:00am Orchard and Vista
5km
Meeting Point TTC and Parking info

Family Day Fun Nature ID Challenge
Leader: Barb
Challenge: Easy/Moderate
Pace: Easy/Moderate
Duration: 2 hours
What to expect: Join us for a Family Day walk, and see how winter's settled into the Park, and what we can expect when things start to melt! We will have a fun and friendly nature ID game with prizes for all!
Please RSVP
Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome.
Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome.
Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Wednesday February 22

9:30am Woodland
5km
Meeting Point TTC and Parking info

Winter Birding
Leader: Diana
Challenge: Easy/Moderate
Pace: Easy/Moderate
Duration: 2 hours
What to expect: Join us for a walk to learn what birds stay in Rouge Park for the winter, why, and how to find them. Plus, get a handle on who to look for when warm weather returns! Winter birding is a great way to stay active, catch some natural Vitamin D and stave off the winter blahs!
Please RSVP
Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome.
Dog Friendly?: Please bring your dog on a walk this weekend.
Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Saturday February 25

9:30am Woodland 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	The Winter Forest, Wetland and Meadow Leader: Gord Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: What’s happening to the trees, vegetation, animals, and how are they all making it through the cold? We hope to see evidence of coyote and deer and possibly rabbit and field mice, and to see and hear the winter birds such as woodpeckers, nuthatches and chickadees - and anything else that may be surviving the winter in the park. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot and in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: We have other walks for your dog today. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
12:00pm Orchard 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Winter Fitness Leader: Erick Challenge: Moderate Pace: Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Join Erick for an afternoon exercise! This will be a faster than usual pace, but we always stop if something catches our collective eye. If you want to tackle this trail more slowly, please look for a diferent walk. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Adults only. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
2:00pm Cedar 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Reflections Leader: Michele Challenge: Easy-Moderate Pace: Easy-Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect: Today marks my one-year anniversary of discovering Rouge Park and starting my Hike Leader adventure. Please join me on a walk of reflecting on those things we've accomplished and new goals. This walk will includes stops along the trails for some light breathing/stretching exercises to really clear and focus our minds. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
6:00pm Special Event!	Hoot and Howl Duration: 3 hours approx What to expect:It's the 3rd annual Hoot and Howl! Join us to learn about coyotes and owls in Ontario and in Rouge Park through indoor presentations, then bundle up to head out for a night walk to call out to these nocturnal neighbours. Save the date! More details and how to register to follow. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Sunday February 26

9:30am Cedar 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Views and Vistas Leader: Marie Challenge: Easy-Moderate Pace: Easy Duration: 2 hours What to expect: With much of the leaf canopy gone, we can appreciate the vast expanse of the park, awesome views of the Little Rouge River, and hidden treasures from the highest points on the trail. Bring your binoculars for some close-up views. Layer up and come out for a good cardio boost on the return part of the walk. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot and in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Please bring your dog another time. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
12:00pm Cedar 5km Meeting Point and Parking info	Traces in the Snow Leader: Radmila Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect:Crosslateral movement is the most common locomotion among earthly creatures. Walking stimulates the brain, both sensory awareness and mental capacity. While we take in the winter scenes around us, and see the traces of those other forest people, we will reflect on how we share the trail, and the world, with each other. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Adults only. Dog Friendly?: Please bring your dog on another walk today. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!
2:00pm Woodland 5km Meeting Point TTC and Parking info	Fabulous February! Leader: Linda Challenge: Easy/Moderate Pace: Easy/Moderate Duration: 2 hours What to expect:Come out for this fun and fabulous walk. Bring the family. And most of all, come prepared to say one fabulous thing in your life that you are thankful for or are looking foward to that you want share with the group. February is fabulous, life is fabulous.. let's have some fabulous fun and think positive thoughts. Please RSVP Family Friendly: Kids on foot or in carriers welcome. Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome. Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!

Wednesday February 29

9:30am Woodland
5km
Meeting Point TTC and Parking info

Leap Year Walk
Leader: Bruce
Challenge: Moderate - Hilly
Pace: Easy/Moderate
Duration: 2 hours
What to expect: We only get February 29th every 4 years, so let's make the most of this one. Who knows what we might see on our outing, in keeping with the unique day in calendar?
Please RSVP
Family Friendly: Energetic older children up for this pace and distance and wee ones in carriers are welcome.
Dog Friendly?: Dogs on leash welcome.
Cold Weather Walking: Tips for a warmer walk in colder temps!