Foster Parkland and Walking Trails in The Kensington Conservancy is a beautiful place to visit in Ontario. The trailhead is located at the parking lot for the Kensington Conservation Centre in Desbarats, Ontario, Canada.
The trail system spans two nature preserves owned by The Kensington Conservancy, the Foster Parkland and Walking Trails, and the Boyer Preserve. These two nature preserves protect a combined 133 acres of ecologically significant ecosystems.
Two-Trails to Choose From
The park offers two trails for visitors to explore, the north loop, and the north loop added with the south loop. Make your hike a short 2.3-kilometres or a combined 3.5-kilometre loop with both sections of trail. Both options offer a diverse array of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and meadows, as well as scenic lookouts at the Portlock Flats and Lake Huron along the way. The trail system is well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it a great option for hikers of all skill levels.
The hiking trails are natural and packed in with some steep changes in elevation. Some sections of the trail system are low and seasonally wet, making the rocky segments slippery after rainfalls and parts of the trails muddy. Making sure you have appropriate footwear will make for a great experience. The trails are open year around, including for snowshoeing in the winter. Washroom facilities, hiking poles and tap water are available when staff are present at The Centre.
The Kensington Conservancy is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes. Hikers should be aware of the possibility of encountering wildlife and should take appropriate precautions, such as making noise and carrying bear spray.
Overall, the Foster Parkland and Walking Trails in The Kensington Conservancy is a great destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of Ontario. With its variety of trails, diverse landscapes, and abundance of wildlife, it’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.