Sat.
2 June:
The
Rideau Trail 2018 End-to-End Hikes:
8.
Bedford Mills Anglican Church (06D-) to Lions Club Beach (07D)
Note: click on pictures for full size view.
Nineteen more kilometres today, and plenty of
adventure.
A tricky beaver dam, many flooded sections of trail, a
missing bridge over a stream: these were
some of the obstacles overcome today.
At the same time, a strong, united group of hikers,
some beautiful viewpoints, and a friendly land owner, more than made up for
these other challenges.
The home owner greeted us as we passed his house. An intrepid member of our group asked whether
we could stop in the shaded front driveway for our lunch. “Yes of course”, was the reply. It was a perfect place to relax on a
strenuous day of hiking, and we enjoyed the company of our host. “You’re welcome to stop here any time” was
his parting comment. And I’m sure we
will.
Near the end of our long hike, Old Bob’s Lookout, high on the escarpment, made a
perfect afternoon stopping point, with views down to Westport Sand Lake. We were soon dropping down to the Lions Beach,
where families were enjoying the warm sunshine.
Some of us dipped our hot feet in the cool water, before heading into
Westport for a well-earned ice cream.
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| Setting out from Bedford Mills Anglican Church |
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| The photogenic Mill |
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| A rugged section to start today's hike |
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| We took the original route (red markers) |
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We crossed this beaver dam safely (just)
but this section of trail is now closed (old ferry in background) |
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| Safe crossing completed |
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| The other end of the blue loop (now main trail) |
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Signs seem to be fair game for hunters
This is McAndrews Road |
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| Turning onto the soggy road allowance |
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| We kept our feet dry (just) |
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| Scary sign-eater |
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More wet sections (and a short way south of here, a missing bridge)
south of Centreville Road |
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| A pleasant walk along Centreville Road |
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High point of Concession 9 Road, looking north.
The friendly farmer was a short way south of here. |
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| Lowest point on our hike, below Westport Mountain |
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| Climbing the escarpment |
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| Abandoned ATV on Westport Mountain |
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| Old Bob's Lookout: Westport Sand Lake |
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| A great hiking team today |
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| Green forest |
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| Westport Lions Club Beach |
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