Explore the wonders of winter at Gray’s Creek
January 19, 2022
This season, the Raisin Region Conservation Authority is encouraging members of the public to give winter a chance at Gray’s Creek Conservation Area.
“From hiking and snowshoeing to geocaching and winter birding, there are lots of opportunities for local residents to reconnect with nature, engage in physical activity, and breath in the crisp winter air,” says Vincent Pilon, RRCA’s Public Information Coordinator.
The popular public greenspace is found just minutes east of the City of Cornwall, off of Boundary Road. Its 106 acres include a 5-kilometre nature trail system, a park and picnic area, a marina, 10 hidden geocaches, and an edible forest. It also provides important habitat to many species of native plants, amphibians, and birds.
“It’s never a bad idea to bring along a pair of binoculars, or a camera,” says Pilon. “Birds such as blue jays, cedar waxwings, and cardinals can be quite active throughout the winter. A barred owl was also recently spotted on a trail. Carrying a handful of seeds in your jacket pocket might also make you very popular with black-capped chickadees, who won’t mind perching on your hand in exchange for a sunflower seed.”
Related story: Explore Cornwall and SDG Counties with Raisin Region GeoAdventure
Pilon says there has been a noticeable increase in visitors at Gray’s Creek Conservation Area throughout the last few years. In 2021, it received over 110,000 visitors.
Dogs also are welcome at Gray’s Creek, though they must be kept on a six-foot leash at all times. Owners are reminded to clean up after their pets, something made easier by the recent addition of dog waste bag dispensers.
During the warmer months, Gray’s Creek Marina, with its boat launch and 128 docks, is used by many local residents as a convenient way to access the St. Lawrence River.
Gray’s Creek is one of the RRCA’s three conservation areas. In total, the RRCA conserves, manages, and protects 1,644 acres of environmentally significant land in order enhance forest cover, conserve sensitive habitat, and provide recreational opportunities to the public.
Additional information
For more information on Gray’s Creek Conservation Area, please visit the RRCA’s website or contact (613) 938-3811 or email info@rrca.on.ca.
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Looking for other fun things to do in Cornwall? Check out the Explore section of our website for other fun-filled activities to keep you busy. Better yet, consider extending your stay with a night at one of our great accommodations!
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Photos by Natalie Andre
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