North of Bradford, lies this pretty, quiet, little Conservation Area, close to Toronto. For most in the GTA, Scanlon Creek is less than an hours drive away for a days outing and a bit of fun.
There are four loops offered here, making for around 10 km of trail to wander. The red Sugar Maple 1.5 km Loop is flat, a tad boring, whereas the blue Kingfisher 3 km and green Evergreen 2.5 km loops are more interesting as they go down into the ravine to the pond and open marsh.
The black Chickadee 2.8 km trail takes you by the dog park and the old homestead of the Scanlon’s, who had a mill running and even made beer.
A few bridges take you around through the cedars and by the creek. A pleasant outing on snowshoes for anyone fit. Skiing would be more of a challenge except for the flat red loop.
Though the park site suggests cross-country skiing as an activity, and I have tried it years ago, it’s not an easy go for most.
There is no grooming, the paths are narrow with tricky turns and quick descents. Plus trails are likely peppered with footprints in the snow. No beginner is going to like that menu.
Not saying you could not bring your skis and try it, with caution… I would have to suggest it is best suited for snowshoes, which you have to bring. Even then, there are a few steep sections that make it more of an intermediate snowshoe stomp.
There are no rentals here just basic rustic services, shelters, outhouses, parking. Plenty of signposts will get you not lost.
This little known area is an opportunity for a day outing for your family or friends to all trek through. Afterwards, hot chocolate can be a welcome treat down in Bradford as your reward.
