Directions:  Oxford County Road 29, just west of Oxford Road 22.

Phone:    (866) 900-4722 ext. 2271

The Chesney Wilderness Area is owned and managed by the Grand River Conservation Authority, and is participating in Doors Open Oxford as part of the GRCA's 75th anniversary events

A walk through a forest is always an exciting prospect! In the Chesney Tract, paths lead you through many successful stages from an old field to a mature forest. The central feature of this conservation area is a true sphagnum bog with associated plants including the beautiful lady's slipper. Hawthorn scrub in the north part of the property is home to the blue-winged warbler.

This 40.5 ha (100 aces) of land was the first reforestation plot in the County in 1944. The trail starts on a long wide grassy lane, which goes into a mature hardwood bush. It then travels into an array of vegetation: pine, cedar, wetland and field. There is one steeper hill, but it is not overly difficult. A wonderful hike, particularly in its autumn glory. .Length - 4 Km... Difficulty - Easy to moderate.

The Hemlock Trail, as its name indicates, boasts a large number of mature hemlock trees. Wander low-grade hills and valleys, past cedar swamps, through a pine plantation and hardwood forest. Resident birds are numerous, so bring binoculars. Perhaps you'll see great blue herons, or red-tailed hawks flying overhead.