ExpiredOf Ferns and Fire Ecology: Bedrock Botanicals and Forest Succession in Algonquin Park

We’ll be observing the variety of forest ecosystems and the bedrock botanicals of Algonquin Park with a focus on ferns. Hike through several different forest systems, taking moments to pause overlooking beautiful vistas—where past fires have burned—and discover the area’s flora and fauna. Botanigal will be your ‘fernetic’ host, who will try her hardest to focus on ferns, but bring binoculars and a camera because she tends to get distracted by birds and other wildlife. This hike has some significant staircases and inclines and descents, so bring water and a snack. An Ontario Parks permit is required and can be purchased at either the West or East gates, or at the Rock Lake Permit Office. Sturdy shoes are required. Suitable for adults and teens. No dogs please.

HIKE #: 55

DATE: Thursday, September 19

START TIME: 1:00 pm

DURATION:  3 hours, 5.2km

LOCATION: Trailhead of Booth’s Rock Trail, Algonquin Provincial Park

RATING: Challenging

MAXIMUM# 20

AMENITIES: Parking, washrooms

LEADER: Ethnobotanist Rebecca Krawczyk

LEADER BIO: Rebecca Krawczyk is a botanist, herbalist, and ecologist.  Check out her family business BarK Native Plant Nursery & Botanicals @botanigals

DIRECTIONS: From Haliburton head west on Hwy 118. Turn right onto Hwy 35 north for 48km.  Turn right onto Hwy 60 E, follow for 62km. Turn right onto Rock Lake Rd, stay on for 7km. The destination will be on your left. From Minden follow directions from Hwy 35 North. GPS coordinates: N 45.5185, W 78.3998