Hikers: John G, Shirley, Ann, Joanne, John N
Section: Section: Blue Mountains - 1 including Nottawasaga Bluffs Lookout Side Trail & Keyhole Side trail From Marker 12.6 km to 20.5 km.
We commenced our hike by entering an ancient forest. This is a forest that has attained great age without significant changes and exhibits unique ecological changes.
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| Old Lime Kiln |
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| Open area after the Ancient Forest |
We hiked the “Keyhole Side Trail” and discovered that the trail descends the Escarpment slope past huge, broken rocks, passing through small crevices and narrow openings. Ferns and mosses covered the crevices walls as the crevice narrowed to shoulder width.
Finally, the trail leads down to the Keyhole, where we had to throw our hiking poles up onto the other side and climb through the rock opening.
We continued hiking until we reached “Freedom Rock” lookout and enjoyed a spectacular view of the surrounding farms and green fields.
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| View From Freedom Rock |
At the end of this lookout are the Best Caves. About 30 to 40 caves honeycomb this area and make a wonderful playground for hiking.
The largest cave is the Well, 10 metres deep with 4 levels, the deepest of which is covered in ice even in the summer.
During the hike, we also encounter 2 lime kilns which were used by settlers to burn the dolostone rock to create lime.
We all commented that we want to do this hike again.
Oprah’s leadership skills and enthusiasm was missed by all.
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