We are very fortunate to live in a province at a time when you can hike all year around if you take some simple precautions and use appropriate and available technology.
However, many of us feel that the autumn is the best time to go for a walk, take a hike or explore the out of doors in a variety of ways. The insect pests, heat and humidity of the summer have all abated and there is a riot of colours, smells and textures just outside the door.
This fall is also a busy and exciting time for Hike Ontario. A new Vision Statement is being drafted and will be presented to the board at our Sept 26th meeting. This arises from the committee which is working on Compass 2015. We will also be examining and passing a Grant Policy in order to access funding that will allow us to put exciting Hike Ontario programs such as Young Hikers, Safe Hikers, Best Practices and Hike Leader training into wider use across the province. Our first instructor training for The Safe Hiker Program will take place in London on Oct 17 and we are looking to provide training in other places. School boards, recreation programs and camps are using the Young Hikers Program which we hope to put into wider use through grants.
Ontario Hiking Week will be held on Oct 1st to 7th and you can customize the promotional poster which is available for your use. Your Hike Ontario Rep will be in receipt of an Ambassador disc which provides resources which can be used to provide information on a wide variety of topics that clubs, associations and individuals can use.
The Hike Ontario Summit, “A Summit to Remember” will take place from November 13 - 15 in the Trenton area hosted by the Quinte Friends of the Trail. We have an exciting program to present and the local committee is working hard to show you some friendly, local hospitality.
I hope you find this fall enjoyable whether it be on a trail, walking path or local jaunt. | 
