McCormack Trail Part 1
An Inspirational Hike
McCormack/Sawmill/Spring Creek/John White Trails
When I need some inspiration, solitude, or just to get in touch with my spirituality or just a relaxing hike; the McCormack trail is all I need.
With it's serpentine streams, fields of wild flowers, wildlife all around, autumn leaves rustling in the wind flying all around me; what more can I ask for? McCormack Trail is peaceful, and simple. Here I find solace, and experience a closer connection with the creator of the Universe. It's as though time stands still and I become one with nature.
On this particular day, I woke up still feeling stressed and as if by inspiration, this trail came to mind. There are 2 ways that I know to get to McCormack trail. The first way is to take the 403 exit at Rosseaux Street. Turn right on Wilson St E, left on Osler, left on Governors road. Continue on Governors and just a little way past the Dundas Valley Conservation Gatehouse, park on your right just in front of the entrance to the Bruce Trail. Do not block the entrance as farm vehicles use this entry for access.
The second way is to take the 403 exit at Rosseaux Street, turn left on Wilson St E, right on Sulphur Springs road. Follow Sulphur Springs Rd to your right, just past the Hermitage gatehouse at Dundas Valley Conservation Parking, turn right to continue on Sulphur Springs Rd. Drive until you get to Governors Road. Turn right on Governors Rd and drive for about 700m until you see the entrance for the Bruce trail. Turn and park on the side, do not block the entrance.
Day 1
I started up the Bruce Trail. On my way I saw a small observation platform looking out over a Woodland Pond. I stopped there to look out and read the information provided about the Woodland Pond. A very interesting part of the ecosystem. After about 15 minutes of walking, I came to an intersection; McCormack trail went both ways, right and left. I decided to go right. I walked along this path and all I could hear was my breathing, the rustle of leaves in the trees, the sound of my footsteps and the chirping of the birds. Such a harmonious melody that lifted my spirit.
I came to a hill and began the ascent, a little harder than I thought and when I got to the top I felt light headed due to the change in elevation. I stood there for a while and looked out in the distance. It is said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, tis true because the scenery that my eyes were beholding was truly beautiful.
I continued unto another hill, then another. When I got to the top of the third hill, an old hymn came to mind; "I come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses, and the voice I hear, falling on my ear, the Son of God discloses". I have not felt this peaceful in a long time and I was cherishing every moment of it. In addition, a bible verse came to mind, Psalm 121:1-2 "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord the maker of heaven and earth".
My life felt like a jumbled mess of conflicts, hurt, distractions, and hopelessness. I can't make sense of my life sometimes, but I can lift up my eyes to a higher source, a higher power. Being out there that morning on that trail I lifted up mine eyes. Because all I needed was just a glance above the horizontals, and to see His beauty in the middle of chaos, and His love in the middle of it all. I was satisfied. I finished the walk and headed back to my car with a renewed energy and appreciation for life.