Windy Ridge Conservation Area is an ideal spot for a relaxing walk, hike or snowshoe in the open air. This conservation area features a panoramic view from the lookout perched atop the area’s tallest ridge. Directly below lies the Fleetwood Creek wetlands, where the Pigeon River and Fleetwood Creek join. Fleetwood Creek wetland is home to a wide variety of vegetation and was named an International Biological Program Site. Visible on the southern horizon sits the Oak Ridges Moraine, a protected greenspace. A view of ancient glacial activity unfolds to the east in the form of the Hogsback or Omemee Esker.
A multi-use loop trail of 1.3 kilometres begins with a gentle climb, then winds south for a short walk to the spectacular lookout. From there, the trail leads downhill to the valley floor and right to the waters edge, before looping back through an open meadow to the parking area.
Outside of the conservation area, but running adjacent to the western border of Windy Ridge, is the popular multi-use Rail Trail system. The two trails don’t intersect due to wetlands lying in between, but each is accessible to the other from Mount Horeb Road.
Link to downloadable trail map:
2oldguyswalking website has a great review (posted 2014) with images & map. Go here to read the review.
We would also direct you to read our DISCLAIMER and our TRAIL USERS CODE.
Region(s): Kawartha LakesNearby towns and cities: Lindsay
Trail feature tags: Lookout
Windy Ridge Conservation Area characteristics
Length: 1.3 kmDifficulty: Moderate (Trail classifications)
Trail surface: Natural
Trail use: Hiking, Cross-country skiing, Snowshoeing, and Mountain biking
Accessibility Notes: Not wheelchair accessible
Fees: None reported
Flora & Fauna:
Not reported yet
Amenities: Picnic Tables
Attractions: Lookout
Contact:
GenInfo@KawarthaConservation.com
Kawartha Conservation AuthorityTel: 705.328.2271.2286
Find it: 998 Mount Horeb Road, Kawartha Lakes, ON
GPS Coordinates (main trailhead):
Latitude: 44.2712200
Longitude: -78.6071400
Global News has posted a great article about an app, called The Talking Forest, that allows you to listen to the trees along the trail talk to you. To read the article go to The Talking Trees