Situated near Wallacetown and Port Stanley, Ontario is the John E. Pearce Provincial Park. On a warm, overcast day I made the drive to the park, which lies on the northern edge of Lake Erie, to hike the Spicer Trail.
The small non-operating provincial park was empty of visitors and I enjoyed the sounds of the birds as I made my way around the well-marked trail. Said to be an excellent place for bird watching, there were three different wetlands that had been restored, as well as trails through the old hardwood forest that lies behind the Backus Page House.
The museum at the 1850’s Georgian style manor was closed when I was there but I got to wander around the grounds before I left.
Be sure to cross the road and check out the southern part of the park which has some picnic tables, parking and a cliff lookout over Lake Erie.
There is no access to the beach from the park since the cliff is about 30+ metres high and fences have been set up to prevent further erosion.
A highly recommended trail to hike with no entry fees and year-round access. Bring your camera or binoculars to spot a variety of birds, like the Pileated Woodpecker that flew by me as I first arrived.
Nearby outdoor enthusiasts can visit Hawk Cliff during raptor migration, hike Fingal Wildlife Management Area (video coming soon) or check out the harbour and beach at Port Stanley.
