NEWS RELEASE
WESTFIELD
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Come out to Westfield to stretch your legs and enjoy a leisurely walk on our trails to literally see the forest grow before your eyes this spring. The buds are coming out on the trees and bushes. You can actually hear the leaves start to unfurl on the branches.
There are four main trails to follow for a total of almost eight km of easy walking trails.
The Giant Swallowtail Trail features plantation forest and wetlands. This trail was once a farm lane leading to the Smith family farm. If you look carefully you can still see some of the stone ruins of the home and barn that once existed. Keep an eye open for the Swallowtail Butterfly during May and June.
The Chinquapin Oak Trail makes a nice circular loop from the village. Can you spot the Chinquapin Oak? This Carolinian variety is uncommon in Ontario. Did you know that a Chinquapin Oak can produce up to 10 million acorns in its lifetime?
Check out our newest trails The Tanager and Chinmaya Trails. This new trail system offers 2.4 km of easy walking crossing over three bridges and through a Sugar Maple woodlot.
We have also set up a number of Bluebird nesting boxes along the trails. The Bluebird can be found throughout Ontario. They generally start to nest in early April and can average four eggs per nest. According to the Ontario Eastern Bluebird Society: “The Eastern Bluebird is a cherished sight for birdwatchers across Ontario. It held a special place in the folklore of our early settlers who welcomed it as a true harbinger of spring.” Listen for its distinctive call and watch for its colourful appearance the next time you’re hiking Westfield’s trails. Here’s hoping the “nursery” will be full.
What you need to know:
Walk our trails everyday from sunrise to sunset. The cost is $16 per car load. You can purchase your ticket from our pay station when you arrive.
On Sundays our Gift Shop is open from 12 to 4 p.m. and starting May 5 our General Store will also be open from 12-4 p.m. Finish your hike with a yummy treat and a chat with our shop keeper.
Starting May 19 our historical buildings will be open Sunday afternoons with our costumed volunteers. (Our buildings will also be open holiday afternoons May 20, July 1 and September 2). A variety of activities and demonstrations will be featured each day we are open including a fun family craft to try.
Be sure to save June 15 and June 16 on your calendar. We would love to see you for our 60th Anniversary celebrations. More details are coming.
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