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		Hikes
		Hikes

Dumfries Conservation Area

Just the Facts:

		?? KM	97 KM / 67 mins

On our way home from my parents’ house, we got off the 401 to satisfy a coffee craving and ended up hiking our way through Dumfries Conservation Area. Rob had passed by this park many times but had never had a chance to stop and enjoy a stroll on through.

Right in the middle of Cambridge , Dumfries was originally a piece of land that was donated to the Queen but to be maintained for the benefit of the local public. The Grand River Conservation assumed responsibility for the land about 30 years ago with permission for the donator, Mr. P.R. Hilborn.

Over the years, the area has developed into a space for nature appreciation and trail hiking. A Master Plan was created and put in place by representatives from local Rotary Clubs (who sponsor the Conservation area), the Hilborn family and members of the community. This ten year plan reviewed the area’s past use and potential future use. Some of the recommendations of this plan include creating a new trail map, install washrooms, protect wetland areas, and to rehabilitate the Groff Mill creek that runs through the property

One thing that struck us about this park right away was the fact that the trails weren’t very clearly marked, despite them being routinely used by locals! We’re guessing that the park is a quick short cut to get from one community to another. There are a few signs that show you a bird’s eye view of the entire area and where you are but no signage to tell you where to go once you are on a trail. Of course, since the area is about 75 hectares and is surrounded by developed communities, the worst that can happen is you take an extra long hike around Cambridge ! As a matter of fact, you won’t find Dumfries amidst the list of Grand River Conservation Authority’s 12 “official” Conservation Areas.

At first we though Dumfries was just a really small park. You just see a small lake and a couple of trees. Believe me, it goes a lot deeper.

Despite is seeming simplicity, we really enjoyed the diversity of the trail landscape. At one point, we were winding along the creek, the next in the middle of an evergreen forest. Further along the trail, we came across what seems to be a road being constructed (although we hope that it is not!) and then open fields with small trees poking up here and there. We really loved the pond the most and couldn’t get enough of the chirping frogs. We stood silently, listening intently to the chorus of these little creatures that we never actually got to see with our own eyes.

Here is some audio from the lake portion of Dumfries. It is a bunch of frogs (that we never got to see), that sould an aweful lot like ducks.

Apparently, there is a little parking area but we must have gone the round about way and never found it, and so ended up parking at the nearby Tim Horton’s. The park seems to play host to numerous community events and so must have ample parking! Upcoming events include Clean-Up Day on April 25^th and Dumfries Kitefest on June 7^th.

Dumfries Conservation Area - Wild Mushroom

As you drive by Dumfries, you will notice a carving. It's from a 150 year old tree that was cut down because it was becoming a hazard to traffic.

If you keep close watch, you will notice there are little signs in front of lots of trees, that tell you what kind of tree it is. I wish all hiking places did this.
This is a White Ash.

Hikes

Dumfries Conservation Area