'The Hike' arrives along the Story Walk Trail at Ken Reid Conservation Area

JULY 6, 2022 – With school out for summer and sunshine in the forecast, visitors to Ken Reid Conservation Area can now read ‘The Hike’ along the Story Walk Trail for the entire month of July.

Dedicated to young hikers everywhere, ‘The Hike’ follows along with three friends and their dog as they set out for an exciting hike up Buck Mountain. As they make their way through the winding trails, they come across tons of different animals, plants, and landscapes, taking notes and admiring views on their way to the top.

“The deer vanishes so quick, we wonder if it was ever really there,” reads a page from the story, written by Alison Farrell. “A light rain comes and goes. The birds are happy. We listen to them chirp and chatter in the trees.”

The Story Walk brings children’s tales to life along the trails of Ken Reid Conservation Area and is a top destination for families keen for adventure and those with a love of reading. Each month, the Kawartha Lakes Public Library provides a new story to be displayed along the Story Walk as part of an initiative that blends family time, education, and nature into a single outdoor experience.

“The Story Walk at Ken Reid Conservation Area is a fantastic place for children to experience the joys of nature while practicing their reading skills at the same time,” said Kristie Virgoe, Director of Stewardship and Conservation Lands. “With summer now in full swing, parents may be looking for ways to keep their child actively learning outside of the classroom, and this is the perfect solution.”

“Come enjoy the Story Walk and over 10kms of trails available at Ken Reid Conservation Area this summer, surrounded by the natural beauty of forests, wetlands, birds, flowers, and more.”

The Story Walk is located along the Pond Loop Trail at Ken Reid Conservation Area, right next to the main parking lot and off-leash dog park. Visitors can park at Ken Reid Conservation Area for $4 per day and are reminded to respect all trail closure signs and stay on marked trails only.