Thomas Worsley

Short Hills Ontario Provincial Park Niagara Escarpment

Water Falls On The Bruce Trail Part Of The Niagara Escarpment Ontario Canada

Tucked away in the Niagara Peninsula near the city of St. Catharines, Short Hills Ontario Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s most unique and beautiful natural escapes. Unlike many other provincial parks, Short Hills offers a more rugged, less-developed experience—perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Short Hills spans approximately 660 hectares (1,630 acres) and features a mix of Carolinian forest, open meadows, and winding streams. The park is home to a variety of wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, red-tailed hawks, and even coyotes. Birdwatchers, in particular, will appreciate the wide range of species that can be spotted throughout the year.

In this video I hike into Swayze Falls on the Bruce hiking trail for some unbelievable photography showcasing the beauty of the Niagara Escarpment in Ontario Canada.

Hiking The Lookout Trail Algonquin Ontario Provincial Park Canada

The Lookout Trail: A Short Hike to a Grand View in Algonquin Park

If there’s one trail in Algonquin Provincial Park that captures the soul of the wilderness in under an hour, it’s the Lookout Trail. Tucked just off Highway 60 near kilometer 39.7, this 2.1 km loop may be short, but don’t let its length fool you—what it lacks in distance, it makes up for in breathtaking reward.

From the very first steps, the trail leads you through a cathedral of towering hardwoods: sugar maple, yellow birch, and beech trees rise around you, their leaves whispering in the breeze. The ground is uneven with roots and rock, giving it a rugged, authentic feel—perfect for hikers who enjoy a bit of a challenge without venturing too far from the beaten path.

As you climb, nature reveals its quiet poetry. Sunlight filters through the canopy. The air is rich with the scent of pine and earth. Interpretive signs along the way invite you to pause and consider the geological and ecological history of the land you're walking on—once an ancient sea floor, now a forested highland.

And then, you arrive.

The trees part like curtains, and suddenly you’re standing on the edge of a rocky cliff. Before you stretches a sweeping view of Algonquin’s rolling hills, endless forest, and glinting lakes. In autumn, this spot becomes a painter’s dream: the landscape explodes in fiery hues of crimson, amber, and gold. In summer, it’s a sea of green, alive with birdsong. Winter transforms it into a snow-draped wonderland, quiet and still.

Whether you're an experienced hiker, a nature photographer, or just someone craving a moment of perspective, the Lookout Trail offers a window into the soul of Algonquin.

Quick Hiking Trail Facts:

• Length: 2.1 km loop
• Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Difficulty: Moderate (steep sections but short)
• Seasonal Tip: Best in fall for stunning foliage, but gorgeous year-round

So lace up your boots, bring your camera, and don’t forget to breathe it all in. The Lookout Trail might just be the highlight of your Algonquin adventure.

Purple Woods Conservation Area Maple Sugar Festival 50th Anniversary 2025 Ontario Canada

Making Maple Sugar At The Purple Woods Conservation Area Durham Region Ontario Canada

Joining the festivities at the Purple Woods Conservation Area's 50th Anniversary Maple Sugar Festival is a celebration of nature's sweetness and the rich cultural heritage of Ontario. Set amidst the tranquil woodlands, this milestone event promises visitors a delightful journey through time and tradition. From guided tours of the maple groves where sap is transformed into syrup to interactive demonstrations of traditional syrup-making techniques, the festival offers a blend of education and entertainment. Families can indulge in pancake breakfasts drizzled with freshly harvested maple syrup, while live music and local artisans create a vibrant atmosphere. As the community gathers to honor half a century of conservation efforts, the festival at Purple Woods embodies the spirit of unity, appreciation for nature, and the cherished tradition of maple syrup production in Canada.

 Purple Woods Conservation Area Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority

The Algonquin Park Visitor Centre offers an immersive experience into the park's rich natural and cultural history. Opened in 1993 to commemorate the park's centennial, the centre features world-class exhibits, an art gallery, a theater presentation, and a scenic observation deck. ​algonquinpark.on.ca

For those unable to visit in person, virtual resources are available. The Friends of Algonquin Park provide a video gallery showcasing various aspects of the park. ​algonquinpark.on.ca

Additionally, EarthCam offers live webcam views from the Visitor Centre, allowing you to observe the park's landscapes and wildlife in real-time. ​EarthCam - Webcam Network

For a comprehensive walk-through of the Visitor Centre, you can watch the following video:

The Spruce Bog Boardwalk Trail at Algonquin Provincial Park is an easy and accessible path that everyone can enjoy. This relatively flat, wheelchair accessible loop path takes you through the forest and across two Algonquin spruce bogs (the Sunday Creek bog and a small kettle bog). It’s one of the top Algonquin Park hiking trails.

Mew Lake Algonquin Ontario Provincial Parks Yurt Camping

Nestled amidst the tranquil forests of Algonquin Ontario Provincial Park, Mew Lake offers a unique Winter yurt camping experience. Surrounded by towering pines and pristine lakes, this secluded getaway provides a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the serene ambiance of nature, where trails beckon to be explored. Transitioning from the bustling city life, guests quickly adapt to the peaceful rhythms of the wilderness. Inside the cozy yurts, warmth envelops visitors, ensuring a snug retreat after a day of outdoor exploration. Additionally, communal fire pits foster camaraderie among fellow campers, encouraging shared tales under the starlit sky. Mew Lake’s yurt camping seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern convenience, offering a memorable escape into Ontario’s breathtaking natural beauty.