As spring slowly creeps up from under the permafrost, life reappears from under the snow. This melting of snow, often considered transitory is really romantic.

This romance can be found in and on the many trails located in and around Guelph. Trails in Guelph provide many opportunities to just get away, enjoy nature, get some exercise and most importantly experience some solitude in an environment that is suited towards reflection. A very good source of info regarding hiking trails in Guelph is the Guelph Hiking Trail Club Handbook. The Guelph Running Club also provides various maps on its website as does the City of Guelph.

Now, before you head out to enjoy a hike always remember to gear up appropriately for the conditions. Bringing water is always a great first step, but respect for the trail and its surrounding environment is paramount to the continued enjoyment that so many people derive from it. Remember to always hike along marked routes, walk around farmer’s fields, not across, do not build fires or camp on the trails and most importantly, keep trails clean; carry out all of your litter.

Enjoy the weather, but don’t let it fool you and remember that a trail is just another path, a path into yourself. Even though we are all a part of nature it is totally up to us to participate in and interact with the more rustic and enjoyable parts of it. Isn’t that why we all spend so much money on cottages and beach trips? The answer may be just outside your door.