Hiking

Walking along Conservation Area trails is a fun, safe and healthy way to experience the outdoors in the Essex Region. Recreating in natural areas like these has proven mental, physical and spiritual health benefits. There is much to explore, from woodland trails and marsh boardwalks to lakeside beaches and meandering waterways.

Where to enjoy this activity

• Chrysler Canada Greenway
  No shortage of trail to explore on this 50 km stretch of converted abandoned railway.
• Devonwood Conservation Area
  Explore these beautiful woodland trails located in the City of Windsor.
• Hillman Marsh Conservation Area
  Hike the dyke at Hillman Marsh for some fantastic scenery and invigorating exercise. Get a close up view of this important shorebird habitat.
• Holiday Beach Conservation Area
  Hike the trails through wooded areas, along marsh shoreline or along the sandy beach.
• Kopegaron Woods Conservation Area
  Take a hike along one of the most beautiful forest boardwalk trails in the region.
• Maidstone Conservation Area
  Enjoy the boardwalk through this attractive woodland area, passing alongside the Puce River. Spot the Indian Signal tree!
• McAuliffe Woods Conservation Area
  Have a relaxing hike through this woodlot and enjoy in any season. Suitable for all.
• Ruscom Shores Conservation Area
  Adjacent to Lake St. Clair, this Conservation Area has a pleasant trail from the parking lot through to the viewing tower, from where the walker can see across the marsh to the lakeside and out across the lake.
• Stone Road Alvar Conservation Area
  There are no managed trails here but the hiker is free to roam across the alvar exploring the diverse flora and fauna all the way to the interesting limestone formations at the waters edge.
• Tremblay Beach Conservation Area
  From the parking lot the hiker can explore a trail along the Lake St Clair shoreline to the far side of the Conservation Area where the trail turns inland and runs beside Little Creek. Tread quietly and you might see a some wildlife!
• Petite Côte Conservation Area
  A short walk from the parking area along a boardwalk made out of recycled plastic takes you to a viewing tower presenting an attractive marsh landscape with the Detroit River beyond.
• Amherstburg - Essex Greenway
  New in 2007, this paved trail links to more paved trails through Sadler's Park and offers a quiet natural area for exercise and relaxation.

Tips

• Go equipped with sunscreen, mosquito repellent and drinking water as well as comfortable shoes.
• Do not venture off the trails.
• Take your litter home with you.
• Take nothing but pictures...