Hike Report Archive

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Hike Report: Toronto 1 Philip Gosling and Hilton Falls Side trails

Hike Leader: John N
Hikers :  Peter O's , John N, John G
Section: Toronto 1  Philip Gosling and Hilton Falls Side trails



We began our hike at 9:10 AM on a cool overcast day. Threatening weather limited the group to John N, Peter O’S and John G. We began the hike at the Hilton Falls Conservation Area parking lot with about an inch of  wet snow underfoot. 
 

We followed the Philip Gosling Side Trail to the main Bruce Trail and hiked the white trail for a short distance until we reached the Hilton Falls Side Trail. Following the Hilton Falls Side Trail we walked along the path on the edge of a cliff with the reservoir below us.
 


Periodically the sun came out and began to melt the snow and frost on the trees overhead and dropped on our heads as we passed beneath.

 

 At times the walking was easy and the path was level and at times rocky and much more difficult. 
 

We encountered a glacial pothole and marveled at how smooth the sides of it were, even though it was created by a combination of swirling water and rocks.
 

 Arriving at Hilton Falls the volume of water cascading over the Falls was impressive. Just above the Falls was a burning campfire surrounded with tree stumps as if waiting for some unseen guests to arrive. 


We proceeded along the creek above the Falls enjoying the picturesque views as we went along. Much of the trail followed the Hilton Falls fire-road network and was a relief after scrambling over rocks and tree roots on parts of the trail.
 

Despite the threat of rain before we began the hike, it turned out to be a warm delightful day. We finished the hike shortly after noon and headed to Tim Hortons for coffee.

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