-By Sandra J. Howe

Ready for a new hiking challenge in 2015??? The Sydenham Bruce Trail Club offers you over 200 km of beautiful walking trails to explore between Blantyre and Wiarton. In "Looping through Sydenham", 2012 Edition, we feature 25 short walks and hikes in Niagara Escarpment Country. Detailed maps, parking and access points, and natural and cultural history are provided for each loop. Purchase your copy today at The Ginger Press, Owen Sound or Suntrail Source for Adventure, Hepworth.

To begin your challenge, simply copy the Table of Contents to use as your hiking log. Complete each hike in any order you choose, and note the date on your log. On maps showing more than one loop, pick your favourite. The challenge runs from 2014 to 2019; all  hikes after March 15, 2014 count. When you complete all 25 hikes submit your log, and a small fee to us. We have created a special badge to acknowledge your accomplishment. Details on obtaining your badge are available at www.sydenhambrucetrail.ca under badges. Want to join us for regular group hikes? See our hike schedule. If you have questions, talk to us at https://www.facebook.com/sydenhambrucetrailclub?ref=br_tf.

Commit to exploring our local area by foot, and earn this unique badge. Hiking is a great way to stay fit and healthy, and to be immersed in the natural world. It is a wonderful activity to share with family, friends, and visitors. It builds your appreciation for the beautiful country surrounding us. It is good, active fun. The Sydenham Bruce Trail Club invites you to embrace this challenge. We look forward to seeing you on the trails. Happy Hiking!

This was first published on paper in MOSAIC.