Trails at Island Lake Conservation Area
Vicki Baron Lakeside Trail
Distance – South Shore 2.5km, North Shore and Community Link 3.4km
In 2001, the first 2.5 kilometers of the Vicki Barron Lakeside Trail opened with long-term plans to circle Island Lake and link to local trails in Orangeville, Caledon and Mono. It was named to recognize the outstanding contributions made by Credit Valley Conservation’s retired General Manager.
Since that time other sections of the trail of been completed in co-operation with the Town of Mono, the County of Dufferin, the Nottawasaga Conservation Authority and the Ontario Trillium Foundation as well as other donors.
The north shore trail is accessible from Hockley Valley Road, just east of HWY 10 and is 3.7 km one way. At this time you must retrace your steps. A 12 car parking lot is located off Hockley Road at the entrance to the trail.
The south shore trail is accessible from HWY 10 at the intersection of Fourth Street and at the entrance to the Conservation Area and runs 3.4 km one way.
This four season trail is designed to be all accessible. Its wide base, made up of packed gravel screenings, make it suitable for bicycles, wheelchairs and strollers; as well as activities such as hiking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. No motorized vehicles please.
Admission or Membership to Island Lake Conservation Area during posted hours of operation required to use the south shore trail at this time.
Sugar Bush Trail
Distance – 2km
The Maple Sugar Bush Trail at Island Lake Conservation Area takes you through a long standing Maple-Beech forest, where maple syrup production is still practiced. Enjoy the cool breeze under the shade of the tree canopy as you hike this trail. Be prepared for a more rugged hike as the forest floor is littered with rocks and roots. Not maintained in the winter. Admission or Membership to Island Lake Conservation Area applies.
Memorial Forest Trail
Distance – 3km
The Memorial Forest Trail at Island Lake Conservation Area guides you through the relatively new Dods and McNair Memorial Forest. Named for the local Dods and McNair Funeral Home in Orangeville, the memorial forest was established to assist those in grief and as recognition of the severe depletion of our forests. Beautiful as trees are, they provide much more – shade, wind protection, erosion control, and shelter for wildlife.
A Memorial Tree may be planted in memory of a loved one through this program, regardless of the duration of time since the death, where the death occurred or where a service was held. The cost to have a tree planted is $50. To dedicate a tree in memory of a loved one, please call Dods & McNair Funeral Home at 519.941.1392.
The path through this former meadowland consists of gently rolling grass mowed hills and provides a leisurely walk through this section of the Conservation Area. You will also find portions of a nut plantation here including chestnut and black walnut.
