Since the South Shore Footpath Project Launch in 2024, more than 20 enthusiastic volunteers have continued to explore and map some of the most scenic and walkable routes in South Shore conserved and public lands. From a Kids Walk to rugged shoreline adventures, everyone is encouraged to book a South Shore walk on June 7^th!

Spots are limited so don't delay and register for your walk here!

Photo: Lesa Berec

Note: walks are limited to 40 people, please book your route & plan to arrive at Mariners Park Museum 15 minutes in advance of your departure time.

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9:20 am Prince Edward Point – National Wildlife Area – 1.5 hrs

Come enjoy a gentle walk through the Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area to the historic lighthouse by the edge of Lake Ontario. Along the way, enjoy scenic lake views, chances to spot migratory birds, and listen to the stories of the area’s fascinating natural and human history. A perfect outing for families looking for a relaxed and memorable adventure.

Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area (PEP-NWA) is one of only 10 NWA across Canada open to the public, and it is open year-round. Join us for this peaceful guided walk and enjoy stunning views. The quiet atmosphere is perfect for spotting wildlife in their natural habitats.

What to expect

• Depart Mariners Park Museum at 9:20 am
• Distance is 2 kms
• Time estimate is 1.5hrs
• Easiest walk on a well-established dirt road
• Designed for everyone including strollers, children, seniors and people with mobility limitations
• Running shoes or better are sufficient

 

9:40 am Point Petre – Monarch Point Conservation Reserve – 1.5 hrs
Come wander the wild shoreline of Point Petre in the Monarch Point Conservation Reserve, where open lake views, rare alvar, and rocky beaches create a rugged beauty all their own. This walk will lead you to the famous lone tree and the Orenda Ring — a hidden piece of Canada’s aviation history. A fun mix of nature, views, and stories along the way.

What to expect

• Depart Mariners Park Museum at 9:40 am
• Distance is 2.8 kms
• Time estimate is 2 hrs
• Dirt roads, some with large mud puddles to avoid
• Shoreline is a pebble beach with uneven limestone slabs
• Not designed for strollers, small children and/or people with mobility limitations
• Hiking or rubber boots are recommended

 

10:00 am MapleCross Coastline Reserve – 2.5 hrs
Join us for a breathtaking South Shore walk through the Nature Conservancy of Canada's MapleCross Coastline Reserve. Experience the undeveloped shoreline, coastal wetland, forest, alvar and grassland habitats. This scenic walk celebrates the first official part of the South Shore Footpath.

We are fortunate to be joined by Fraser Moodey of NCC as the guide on this walk. Fraser will offer interesting and informative commentary as he has tremendous experience and background, including being Chief Park Naturalist at Sandbanks, and has given many tours.

What to expect

• Depart Mariners Park Museum at 10:00 am
• Distance is 6 kms
• Time estimate is 2.5 hrs
• Longest distance, moderate pace, high likelihood of standing water and/or mud to negotiate when accessing the shoreline
• Covers dirt roads and uneven grass trails
• Designed for adults who are looking for more of an adventure
• Not designed for children or individuals with mobility and/or fitness limitations
• Hiking or rubber boots are strongly recommended

 

10:15 am Family Walk at Little Bluff Conservation Area – 1.5 hrs
Come explore the stunning 18-metre limestone cliffs of Little Bluff Conservation Area, standing tall over panoramic views of Prince Edward Bay. This walk will take you along the park’s rugged bluffs and historic Cobble Beach, a barrier beach shaped by centuries of wave action. Home to a rich variety of birds, reptiles, and amphibians Little Bluff offers a true shoreline adventure — and is our major kid-friendly walk, perfect for families.

PARKING IS FREE AT THE LITTLE BLUFF CONSERVATION AREA FOR THIS EVENT.

What to expect

• Depart Mariners Park Museum at 10:15 am
• Distance is 1.5 kms
• Time estimate is 1.5hrs
• Easy walk but includes a path down to the beach
• Designed for a broad family audience, although not stroller friendly
• Running shoes or better are sufficient

Experience the wonder of the night sky through a laser-guided tour conducted by members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC, Belleville Centre). Learn about constellations, sky myths, navigating the night sky and the importance of a dark sky. Stick around and get an up-close view of the moon through a telescope!

Arrive at 9:00 pm, bring a lawn chair, blanket & thermos! Presentation begins at 9:30 pm and the Laser-guided sky tour starts at 10:00 pm. Note that this is a weather dependent event so please follow us on Facebook - SSJI and RASC Belleville for updates. Register Here!

• Build a Bird Box with Wild Thing coordinator Cheryl Chapman 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
• Make a Walking Stick at 10:00 am to 3 pm
• Drumming Circle with Ruth Dwight starting at 1:30 pm

 

Cheryl Chapman at the Monarch Day (July 2024)

Photo: Katherine Rogalska

Music by local duos Kyra & Tully at 12:00 pm and Reggie with Mario Panacci and Ruth Dwight at 12:30 pm

Kyra & Tully performing at the South Shore Footpath Project Launch (June 2024)

Photo: Dawn Ayer