Summer Hike at Mount Nemo
One of the best things about moving to West Oakville is being surrounded by so many parks and trails. It feels a little like moving back to the small village in Portugal where I grew up. Nature is always just a short walk or ride away. Here, I've got two or three mountain bike trails only five minutes from my home, and within 15 to 20 minutes I can be at any Halton Conservation Park.
This Saturday, Rosalyn, Koby, and I decided to explore Mount Nemo. We've been on a mission to visit all the Halton Conservation parks before summer ends. So far, we've checked off Hilton Falls, Area 8, Crawford Lake and now, Mount Nemo.
A Park with a Story
Mount Nemo became a protected area in 1959, when the local conservation authority purchased 88 acres to halt quarry expansion. In 1971, it officially opened to the public. It's now part of the Niagara Escarpment UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and home to rare wildlife like the endangered Jefferson salamander and ancient Eastern White Cedars.
Hiking the Trails
It was a hot day, over 30°C, so we took it slow, especially with Koby. The first stretch of trail is wide and easy, perfect for warming up. As you head deeper into the forest, tall trees create a cool, shaded canopy. The ground becomes more rugged here, rocky, rooty, and a little tricky, so you've got to watch your step. Those challenges just made it more rewarding.
Eventually, the trail runs alongside the escarpment edge, offering multiple cliffside viewpoints. Each lookout gives a different perspective of the countryside, forest, and on a clear day, even the CN Tower far in the distance. It's the kind of place where you can't help but stop for photos.
Things to Do at Mount Nemo
- Hiking: Over 5 km of trails, including the South Loop (1.8 km) and North Loop (3.3 km), plus connections to the Bruce Trail.
- Lookouts: The Brock Harris Lookout is a must-see.
- Wildlife Viewing: Birdwatchers will love spotting turkey vultures and forest songbirds. We spotted a few vultures gliding across the escarpment cliffs.
- Picnics: Several spots to stop and relax mid-hike.
- Rock Climbing: Popular sport climbing routes on limestone cliffs.
Looking Ahead
I'm planning a return trip in autumn to see the fall colors, and maybe again in winter for a snowy hike. With so many parks nearby, it's easy to disconnect and recharge. Having the Conservation Halton Pass is so convenient and quickly pays for itself, making little escapes even easier.