Already a popular destination for bird watching, Hawk Cliff is now a go-to spot for hikers.
On Saturday the Thames Talbot Land Trust officially opened two short trails in Hawk Cliff Woods.
Elgin-Middlesex-London MPP Rob Flack was on hand for the ribbon-cutting.
The land trust is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of lands and waters having significant natural, recreational, scenic, historical, or agricultural value and in 2016 purchased the 230 acres of land from the Barendregt family of Port Stanley.
It is a significant wooded area considered the largest coastal ravine forest lot in Elgin.
Daria Koscincki executive director of the land trust explained what visitors can expect.
The property is important for several species at risk including butternut trees, American chestnuts, bank swallows and several rare ferns.
Courtesy of Ontario Trillium Foundation funding, the Thames Talbot Land Trust has been able to open four new hiking trails, including the two at Hawk Cliff Woods, east of Port Stanley.
Koscincki noted the significance of hiking trails and the benefits of being outdoors.
The trails will not only prove exciting for hikers, they also offer opportunities for educational outdoor programming for young people.
Written by Ian McCallum
