1. Register for the Challenge by September 18, 2025. Before you hit the trails fill out the registration form below with your name and contact info.
   
   
2. Hike the Challenge Trails and Take Photos. A list of the four conservation areas in the challenge are listed below. Hike the highlighted trail at each conservation area, or a minimum three out of four, and look for the special coloured Cataraqui Conservation Foundation logo signs. Take a photo (selfie) with each of the signs to complete the challenge. Click on the conservation area name below to view the designated Challenge Trail:
   
   1. Mac Johnson Wildlife Area (Brockville)
   2. Gould Lake Conservation Area (Sydenham)
   3. Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area (Kingston)
   4. Parrott's Bay Conservation Area (Loyalist)
   
   
3. Upload you photos to complete the Challenge by October 31, 2025. Once you have completed your hikes and photos (all four or minimum three) upload your photos to the Hike Challenge photo page with your name and the name of the conservation area you took the photo at in the file name. You have until October 31, 2025 to submit your photos.
   
   Hike Challenge Photo Page Link
   

Click here to be taken to the Hike Challenge Registration Page.

The four Challenge Trails that we have chosen are suitable for all ages and abilities. The days are shorter in the fall so be sure to arrive early so you can enjoy and complete your hike well before sundown. Conservation Areas are open from dawn to dusk.

Fall temperatures can vary day-to-day and even between morning and afternoon. Is it important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for all types of weather. Good hiking footwear and socks are important.

Not all Cataraqui Conservation properties have privy facilities. Please follow all conservation areas rules and regulations - dogs must be on a leash at all times, no off trail use, please stay on the marked trails, no littering, please pack in and pack out your supplies.

What to bring. It is always best to be prepared. Remember to pack the essentials when going out for hikes.

Hiking Gear
Backpack - use a comfortable backpack to carry your supplies.

Weather appropriate clothing - fall weather often changes over the day so it is best to dress in layers. Don't forget to pack an extra pair of socks and have a waterproof/windproof layer just in case it rains.

Water - it is very important to stay hydrated while hiking. Be sure to pack lots of water.

Food - pack your food and snacks in reusable containers and always pack out what you pack in.

Navigation - the trails are marked but always pack a map in case you get turned around. Cataraqui Conservation trails are on google maps as well.

First Aid - a first aid kit is always a good idea to bring on a hike, just in case.

Sun protection - sunscreen is still important in the fall so remember to apply and pack sun protection. A hat and sunglasses can help protect your head, face and eyes. Lips balm with SPF is also a good idea.

Insect protection - ticks are one of the main insects to be concerned about in the fall. To help protect yourself you can use insect repellent containing deet, wear long sleeves and long pants tucked into your socks, wearing light colours helps you see ticks if they are on your clothes, please be sure to do a tick check when finish your hike and when you get home.

Please see the Foundation merchandise and hiking supplies links below for safety items including tick and first aid kits.

Happy trails.

Finished your hikes? Click on this link to upload your photos for verification and complete the challenge.

Know Your Limits

Participants are expected to assess their own physical ability and health before starting any trail. Please consult a doctor if you have concerns about physical activity.

Supervision of Children

If children are participating, a parent or guardian must register and
supervise them on all hikes. Children should never hike alone.

Hike Challenge Waiver

Please read the Release Agreement linked below carefully before participating in the Hike Challenge. By submitting a registration form you are acknowledging that you have read and understand the Release Agreement and that you, or any other person/child you are registering for the Hike Challenge, waive and give up legal rights to
sue or claim compensation from the Cataraqui Conservation Foundation, Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority and their Directors, Officers, Employees and volunteers from any and all claims following an accident.

Click this link to view the Release Agreement