Hiking Hockley Valley to Spring Bird Song
On a beautiful early spring morning, my hiking partner and I headed out to go hiking Hockley Valley Provincial Park. The sun shining bright and there was barely a cloud in the sky on this unseasonably warm March Saturday. The drive there was devoid of cars and the scenery set the stage for a great ride.
Hockley Valley Provincial Park
Hockley Valley Provincial Park is located 45 minutes north of Toronto, just outside of Orangeville. Set over 375 hectares, Hockley Valley is part of the Niagara Escarpment. This park is home to over 400 species of vascular plants, many of which are rare. Some include; the cuckoo flower,
Hiking Hockley Valley Provincial Park
We arrived to the parking lot just after 8 am and were pleased to be among only a few cars. The main trail starts just west of the parking lot. The initial trail is a steep set of stairs taken over by the hillside. And boy, does it ever get you moving right off the bat. Continuing up and around a bend you find yourself a quaint wooden bench. It’s the perfect spot to catch your breath or to soak in the sweeping views over Hockley Valley. Here we caught sight of our first bird, a red-bellied woodpecker. First, we heard a strange and shrill ‘chirr’ call followed by the typical drill of a tree. Following the noise, we spotted the woodpecker atop a large, bare tree.
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There are a handful of trails within Hockley Valley Provincial Park. And on our first hike through the park we opted for the 5.6 kilometre loop trail that takes you along the main Bruce Trail and back via the Tom East Side Trail. Interestingly, the Tom East Side Trail is named after the President of the Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club, and he later became the President of the Bruce Trail Conservancy.
The trail continues down into the valley where you’ll find yourself surrounded by tall reaching slender trees. And in the spring, before the foliage has begun to fill out the forest, the sun beamed through the trees making it look like they were giants watching over us. A heap of blue metal sat to the side of the trail with the earth around it slowly taking it in. What was once a classic car now became a strange, picturesque reminder of days gone by.
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Nearby we heard the drill of a woodpecker once again. Looking around we realized we were surrounded by them. At least a half a dozen downy woodpeckers perched low on tree trunks. The males, fluffy and bright, were putting on a show. With strange calls and a short wing fluttering dance they vied for some spring love.
The trail led to a raging river. The trees closed in around us, closing out the clear blue skies. It was like dusk was descending upon us. We followed the river, running rapidly due to the spring melt. A few wooden bridges and boardwalks crossed the winding river. Nothing like bridges over troubled water to make the hike more enchanting.
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We took the Tom East Side Trail to loop back. The trail meanders along a section of the river for a bit, then heads up and out of the valley. Wandering past meadows and farm fields, our hike back was relaxed and tranquil. The trail then joins back up with the main Bruce Trail just before you descend the stairs down to the road.
With so many trails taking you through varying habitats, hiking Hockley Valley Provincial Park will keep you coming back again and again.
Don’t forget to make sure you have everything packed for a successful hike! Here’s a list of hiking must-haves to pack for a day hike!
Trails
Tom East Side Trail 2.5 km
Cam Snell Side Trail 2.2 km
Glen Cross Side Trail 3.2 km
Parking
Located off Hockley Road. And is parking is free.
Level of Difficulty – Moderate
Where to Eat after Hiking Hockley Valley
You are limited on options for places to eat after hiking Hockley Valley Provincial Park. But one great option is the Hockley General Store. This general store meet restaurant is perfect if you’re looking for some fresh baked goods and treats to bring for a picnic on your hike. Or you can dine in after your hike. They have a delicious array of soups, sandwiches, salads, and tons of treats.
Hockley General Store is less than a 10 minute drive from Hockley Valley Provincial Park and is located at the end of Hockley Rd.
Trails Nearby
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