When I imagined a tiny marsh, I thought it could be a smaller version of my beloved Wye Marsh. Boy, I was wrong. This so-called tiny marsh is massive. I remember my first visit, a little over a month ago. I couldn’t stop trembling and mumble “tiny”? The small area of the marshes provincial fauna is located just outside the small town of Elmval, Ontario. Over 600 hectares of protected marsh, Tiny Marsh is home to more than 15 kilometers of trails. These trails lead you to walks, dikes and through the forest.
Tiny hike
On a covered day, which threatened the rain, in July, a friend and I finally directed to the small area of the provincial fauna of the marshes. I remember having arrived at the Nature Center and looking at the marshes extended and thinking: “Tiny Marsh? Barely! From the main parking lot, we took the path leading to the Marais, known as Trillium Dyke. This area is a refuge for the nesting of turtles. Throughout the path, on both sides, there were countless remains of eggs from newborns. The path leads a distance, and in the middle of the summer was crowded with sections with wild flowers and a foliage pushing the fences in the path.
After reaching the end of the dyke trillium, we returned to the center of nature. Here, we went on the stairs, with the strong perfume of Old Cottage meets fauna, on the Belvedere on the top floor. The belvedere offers a fabulous view of a large part of the marsh and is an excellent view of watching birds plunge and dive on wetlands. The belvedere open to the top floor also houses a variety of bird nests. What I have to admit warmed my heart knowing that nature and fauna are welcome everywhere here.
Observation of birds in Tiny Marsh
Then we headed for the forest, along a small river, and listened to the birds that sang trees. The path led on a walk that guided us through a wooded marshes where a baby grackle shouted for more food. Further along the river has extended. He seemed everywhere where we look at him, there was another kind of bird. A cat bird over there, a clumsy tank there and peaks that create the drum beat on our soundtrack.
Then I saw one of my favorite birds, the Martin-Pêcheur belted. These striking birds always captivate me. It is perhaps their royal name or the dominant call, but I try to photograph one for years now. I was determined today to be my day. There was a pair, heading along the river. We followed them stealthily. They lead us to an observation tower on the edge of the forest, overlooking the marsh. He was there, perched on a stick coming out of the water, and I took my shot. AHA! Finally, I had captured this beautiful majestic bird at the camera. I must admit that I had trouble moving away from them. But it was a great way to finish our hike.
Related article: Best hikes in Ontario with impressive views
Hike in the dike at Tiny Marsh
During our second hike through the small area of the provincial fauna of the marshes, we chose to release the large dike in the marsh. I didn’t know how long it was! The marsh spread on each side of us and the radiant sun in the afternoon beat us. We took our way, keeping an eye on the fauna. We were not disappointed! The turtles erupted their heads above the surface of the water, Marsh Wrens stolen between the reeds and the large blue herons were proud. Along our way, the path was strewn with various species of frog species. Sometimes it was like walking in a sea of frogs that jumped from our way. Look where you walk!
While we arrived at the point halfway, looking back, you could not even see the head of the path, but before us, it was a show to see. There perched at the top of a high platform was a pair of oscrey sitting on their massive nest. We slipped, slowly, closer. They started calling. Then we took off fly over. With their shiny white belly, they are incredible to attend flight. We stopped short. Not wanting to disturb them, we got up for a while to look at them for a while.
Again, it was a successful day of the trails, exploring the wilderness of Ontario and while being surrounded by fauna. The small area of the marshes provincial fauna is a remarkable place. And every time I live, I am finished with the total lack of other hikers. But to be honest, I agree to share this exceptional Wild Haven with only his fauna.
Specifications
Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Various lots along Tiny Flos Townline (all free)
Facilities: Toilets, launch in canoeing and the natural center
Pin for subsequent reference!
