In 2012, a “50th Anniversary Committee” was formed to plan celebrations for the Bruce Trail’s important 50th anniversary. Its members were Rosemary “Rosie” Petrie, Herman Ohrt (past president), and Sue Niblett. The year featured a number of memorable events, including a baton relay that travelled from club to club along the entire length of the Bruce Trail.
The committee was also committed to commemorating the people who have worked on the trail over the years. They envisioned creating a place along the trail where hikers could rest, reflect on its beauty, and remember those who helped build and maintain it. To bring this idea to life, they commissioned a picnic table and a plaque from a local sign company.
They chose a location on BTC-owned land known to some as the “McLeod Property” (see map), far enough from the road to help discourage unwanted gatherings and installed the picnic table there. The plaque, dated 1962–2012, bore the tribute, “In honour of all who have contributed to this trail and those who continue to do so.” Unfortunately, the original sign disappeared over the winter, so a replacement was ordered from a local sign maker. Its dates were updated to reflect 60 years, from 1962 to 2022.
The inaugural Cake Walk hike was held in mid-June, chosen both for the likelihood of good weather and its proximity to the summer solstice. Rosie introduced the idea of a celebratory cake and purchased the first one.
Since then, the “Rosie’s Cakewalk” has taken place each June, with both a 4 km and an 8 km hike leading to the picnic table at the northeast corner of the property, just off Concession 10.
This year, on June 17, 23 participants gathered for Rosie’s Cake Walk. Flo Kusiak led the 4 km hike, and Rob Johnson led the 8 km hike. Both groups met at the picnic table for social time and a delicious cake made by Jo-Anne Morrison. Once again, David Little used his special cake wagon to bring the cake to the site. Linda Findley presented the replacement plaque.
