Quick Walk At Clark Wright Conservation Area

Last weekend, on our way to run errands in London, we decided to drive through the Strathroy area to check out one of the many natural areas we recently learned about in the “Guide to the Natural Areas of London and Region”. We picked up the guide on our last camping trip to the Pinery Provincial Park.

Avoiding the 402 is always a good start to any short excursion, and that day was no different. We could see the beginnings of fall. Various trees were just starting to change at the tips of their branches and the sunlight was beautiful on our drive there.

Unfortunately, as we got Maya ready for a fairly short walk, it started to rain. Thankfully, we came prepared and we all had rain gear to put on.

This fairly new conversation area, which was donated to the St. Clair Region Conservation Area in 1990, has three connected and looping trails. We only had the opportunity to do the first loop but it was nice enough for us to plan a visit in the future.

Along the trail we heard several ground birds and saw a variety of wildflowers and trees. The park is said to be great for bird watching, especially near the ponds at the back of the conservation area. The variety of wildflowers also brings butterflies to the grounds.

: From the small parking lot you can see the picnic area of the park.

: There is a small bench with views of various trees and a rolling hills area.

: This plaque is dedicated to J.G. Clark Wright, whom the park is named after. The land was donated by his family.

: There is one, wheelchair accessible, picnic table available.

: The picnic area is small but very shaded and would make a fantastic spot to stop on a hot day.

: Dogs are allowed at this conservation area, but should be leashed. As always, please pick up after your pet.

: At the trail head there is a map that shows the three connected loops. The trails are not names, nor are there trail markers but there are well established.

: At the beginning of the trail you can see recently planted deciduous trees growing up over the path.

: You will find boardwalks and bridges wherever there are low lying areas.

: Here you can see part of an older pine plantation.

: Along the trail there are bushes with various fruit and berries on them.

: The trail is well established and wide.

: Here is one of the off shoots from the small trail we walked.

: This northern catalpa tree can be identified by its broad leaves and very long beanpods. Although this tree is native to North America, it is definitely much farther north here than it would naturally be.