Glen Eden is well known for its ski resort in the Halton area. But did you know that Kelso Conservation Area is at the top of the mountain?
The Kelso Conservation Area is one of Halton's 7 Conservation Areas and is open almost all year round except for the ski season. I have gone hiking at Kelso with friends in different seasons, but I like the autumn colours here the most! Sitting on the huge monolithic rock, it gives a fantastic view. It overlooks the beautiful scenery of the forest surrounding Halton Falls on one side and the green Kelso Lake on the other.
While visiting Kelso in the summer, you can choose to hike to the top of the mountain or try off-road biking. There is a dedicated cycling trail, which is exhilarating! I have always been looking forward to buying a suitable bicycle to experience this beautiful trail. If you enjoy boating, Kelso Lake below the mountain won't disappoint you. The following is a detailed map that includes routes for hiking, mountain biking, and ports for boating.
01 - On Foot
There are generally four routes that I recommend. You can find these four routes on the map above. I often park my car in the Summit Entrance parking lot and start walking from there. This route is the first route of the four on the map. I think this is the most beautiful route for hiking among them. After walking along the trail for about 5 minutes, you will notice the stunning blue lake to your right — the Kelso Quarry. I was mesmerized when I saw it for the first time! There are two lakes in the Kelso Conservation Area, one at the top of the mountain and the other at the bottom. Kelso Quarry is the lake on the top of the mountain, and it is planned as a nature protection area. It is currently not open to the public, so it can only be viewed from afar.
Continue along the mountain road on the right for about one kilometre, and you will come to my favourite large rock, which is actually the top of the Glen Eden ski trail. The view from here is phenomenal. You can see the ski slopes, Lake Kelso (the lake at the foot of the mountain) and the surrounding farms. It's like a perfect landscape painting!
The hiking routes of Kelso are relatively complicated. I have lost my way in the same place twice, maybe because the scenery is too beautiful. If you are worried about getting lost, always check the map and pay attention to the road signs.
02 - Mountain Biking
Kelso is one of the best mountain biking spots in southern Ontario. Various mountain biking competitions are often held here. The most popular and largest is the Kelso Weekly MTB Race Series. The competition starts on May 21st and will be held every Tuesday until the last event on August 27th. If you’re interested, you can visit the official website for details here: https://conservationhalton.ca/mtbseries
Compared to a tense race, I think it’s more enjoyable to ride freely in the mountains by yourself.
03 - Boating
In the summer, boating on the beautiful lake is undoubtedly a popular and fun activity for family and friends. On Kelso Lake, whether it’s canoeing, pedal boating, kayaking or SUP boarding, they have all the equipment ready for rental — safety equipment included. Of course, if you already have your own boat and safety equipment, don’t forget to bring it.
04 - Special Reminders
During the pandemic, in order to limit the flow of people and reduce the risk of transmission, you must book in advance if you are planning to visit the Kelso Conservation Area. If you are going to the top of the mountain for hiking or cycling, choose Kelso Summit when booking. If you are going boating, then choose Kelso Beach. You can book here: http://www.parkvisit.ca/
Ticket prices:
Adults - $6.50
Ages 5-14 and Elderly - $5
Children under 5 years of age are free
If you decide to visit often in the future, it is recommended you purchase a membership to save money. The membership includes unlimited access to 7 protected areas in the Halton District throughout the year. The following is more information on the membership and where to purchase: https://conservationhalton.ca/membership
Parking lot and navigation location:
Kelso Summit(hiking/biking): 5301 Steeles Ave W, Milton, ON L9T 7L3
Kelso Main Entrance(boating/skiing): 5234 Kelso Rd, Milton, ON L9E 0C6
If you have an idea in mind, act immediately! Hurry up and plan because who knows? Maybe you’ll see me there.
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