The Dalewood Conservation Area, made possible by the dam pictured above and the efforts of the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority, has been a favorite of campers and hikers in our area for generations. Located on 700 acres of the Yarmouth Crown Game Preserve, it offers an outstanding opportunity for anyone wishing to experience the great outdoors from camping, hiking, fishing, canoeing, to disc golf.

The trail along the reservoir offers an outstanding hiking experience.

This is the last footbridge you will come to on the west side of the reservoir heading north.  After this, turn right and you come to the old iron bridge.

Heading east across the iron bridge, you will eventually come to 3 way ‘fork’ in the trail. To the right is the trail around the rest of the reservoir, to the left is the open meadow area (pictured below) and a view of the lagoon, and straight ahead the trail continues on past Hwy 52 (Ron McNeil Line) and eventually to Dan Patterson Conservation Area.

The meadow area eventually leads into a large grove of walnut trees and the lagoon.

Looking north off the iron bridge, canoeing is one of the favorite pastimes at Dalewood.  Below, looking south off the bridge to the lagoon leading to the rest of the reservoir.

Back at dam area again, a favorite fishing spot for a lot of people, including below the dam.

Over 12 kilometers of trails encircle Dalewood.  Below the dam the trail continues which leads to Waterworks Park. Also, the trail below the dam is adjacent to an outstanding disc golf course in the woods.  And please, don’t forget to pick up after your dog.

Map above courtesy of the Elgin Hiking Trail Club and below from the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority website.

Above–an overview of the Conservation Areas of the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority.  Happy trails!