Jokers Hill - 99 Steps

This is a beautiful trail system in the midst of mixed forestry and plant life. Thornton Bales Conservation Area is famous for its steep slopes and rugged beauty. This Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI) is part of the Oak Ridges Moraine and has an elevation that drops 54m from its southwest corner to its northern boundary. Nicknamed 'The 99 Steps', this conservation area is best suited to people who truly enjoy a challenge.
Jokers Hill

Membership Fee
Members must pay an annual fee of $8.00 for the period from January to December and are allowed to bring two guests to each event for free. This is to help cover Meetup’s annual subscription fee.
New members can attend their first event for free before opting for an annual membership.
Current members are required to submit their payment at the time of RSVP, rather than in advance. When they RSVP for an event, their names will be added to the waitlist automatically. Fees are applicable only when you are on the waitlist.
Please e-Transfer to dierw@rogers.com and be sure to put your name to clearly identify who sent it. After the e-Transfer is completed, your name will be added to the going list. All fees are non-refundable.

This hike is rated intermediate/difficult and is about 12km long. There are lots of elevation changes and challenging slopes to contend with, you can expect to get a good workout and possibly a few sore muscles

Visit our Facebook page Hockley Valley Hiking, view the albums and see our previous adventures. Your image may appear on either Facebook or Meetup, please advise if you object to it being posted or it will be assumed that you’ve given full consent.

Arrive at the meeting location by 09:15hrs so that we can depart at 09:30hrs. Do not wait until the morning of the event to determine exactly where to meet. We will wait for an additional 5 minutes and then start the hike without you; we will not wait around indefinitely.

Before you RSVP, please note:

• Well-behaved dogs are welcome.
• We casually stroll along the route making frequent stops.
• Events are limited to about 25 hikers unless specified otherwise.
• For fun and adventure, sometimes we deviate from the original route.
• Do not attend this event if you are on the waitlist, you MUST have an RSVP.
• Please refrain from wearing heavily scented products such as perfume and cologne.
• New members must post a recognizable picture of yourself or you will not be allowed to attend.
• If you can no longer attend an event, immediately change your RSVP to 'Not going' to make room for others who are on the waitlist.
• If you selfishly take a hiking spot and then do not show up, you will be noted as a no-show.
• Your membership is subject to termination if you no-show for an event with a waitlist or after 3 incidents of no-show.

What to bring:

• Sunscreen and insect repellent.
• At least one litre of water and munchies to eat on the trail.
• Sturdy hiking shoes/boots, dress for the elements (in layers).
• Hiking poles for balance and stability, gaiters if you have them.
• Lots of enthusiasm, a very positive attitude and a camera/phone.

By attending this event all participants accept waiver of liability as follows:
I am responsible for my own safety and acknowledge the risk involved. I am participating voluntarily and the risks involved are beyond the control of event organizer and the group. Additionally, I do not have any conditions that will increase my likelihood of experiencing injuries while engaging in this activity.

The organizer reserves the right to remove any member who does not meet the group's requirements, or who exhibits behavior that is disrespectful or detrimental to the interests and safety of the group.

The trick to not getting separated from the group is to make sure the hiker ahead of you is always within sight.

Be respectful of the environment. Take out your garbage and your pictures with you, but leave everything else behind for others to enjoy.

Happy hiking!