Happy Trails
Alyssa LaRocque
Being on the move and being out in nature have long been recognized as valuable for good mental health. As Christians, we recognize that there is also a spiritual health layer to this, since recognizing our natural surroundings as the work of a loving Creator who wants us to know Him gives significance to all we see.
Beacon’s property boasts many beautiful trails of a variety of lengths and destinations which give great opportunities to be on the move and completely surrounded by creation. Maybe you’ve been on these trails, maybe you haven’t - but either way, here are some descriptions to get you excited for where your feet can take you during your next Beacon visit!
Sugar Shack Trail: The Sugar Shack Trail is a big loop that can be accessed near the railroad crossing on the Beacon road. My favourite place to start on the Sugar Shack Trail Loop is by going up and across the Ridge. From there, the trail cuts through deep maple-dominated forest. After passing by the Sugar Shack, the trail returns to its origin by following the railroad tracks. Moose tracks have been sighted along this trail in recent years.
Points of interest: Sugar Shack outbuildings, fern-filled forest floor sections, mature forest, access to the Ridge
The Inner Trails: This refers to a set of intersecting trail loops that run between the Maintenance Shed and the soccer field and the top of the Tube Hill. Because of their proximity to main camp and their short length, these trails are camp’s most accessible trail options.
Points of interest: Waterfall and stream, small bridges, elevation change, access to the soccer field
The Point Trail: Starting from the top of the tube hill, the Point Trail run all the way to a campsite on the other side of Beacon Lake. There are many erratic boulders, views of bodies of water, and interesting types of trees and plant life to make every section of this hike interesting. Most of the hike takes place on a ridge, but when approaching the Point, there is a ladder section for descending down the steep slope.
Points of interest: view of Lost Lake, view of Beacon Lake, erratics, campsite
Lost Lake Trails: Branching off of the Point Trail, there is a path leading towards Lost Lake. This trail soon splits to give hikers the option of circling around to reach the Sunset Point campsite or continuing forward to reach Lost Plateau campsite. Twin Pines campsite is accessible by canoe from the Lost Plateau campsite.
Points of interest: Campsites, small dock, view of Lost Lake
