Lawson Nature Reserve — Attraction in South-West Oxford

Lawson Nature preserve one of the most delightful winter hikes ever. Well maintained trails in the cozy forest setting with significant efforts to feed and house our feathered friends. To add to this there are numerous little benches to rest and pick up your feet and a few of the best pavilions for a picnic I’ve ever seen. We did a 5 km hike here slowly strolling around and taking in as much as we could. I have arthritis but I can stroll for a long time as long as we walk slowly and enjoy our time. Since I’ve hiked the Grand Canyon in wet winter conditions the mud and snow didn’t present to much problem and we carefully navigated the steeper trail so as not to slip or fall. The board walks are presently removed to the side and volunteers I suspect will repair them for future use in the wetlands. In the summer and spring it is wise to wear some rubber boots so as not to be bothered. I have some wonderful water proof Timerlake’s size 8 1/2 wide with a good orthopaedic sole which allow me to hike and walk with ease. I suggest this footwear for any older hikers with similar conditions it is worth the investment just make sure you use a nice wool sock. Pack your hot chocolate and snacks, dress warm and get ready for a breathtaking walk full of surprise because Lawson Preserve will leave you wanting more ! We are definitely adding this to...

The Ingersoll District Nature Club has done a great job maintaining this trail, which offers a pleasant walk through the woods. The white pine plantation is a nice touch, and there are plenty of benches along the way, along with a covered pavilion and a charming nature chalet near the farmer's field, perfect for shelter during rain. Unfortunately, the boardwalk has been dismantled, and the "wetlands" are just a puddle overtaken by invasive phragmites. The farmer’s field, while not the fault of the nature club, feels like a missed opportunity for stewardship—it would be wonderful to see tallgrass prairie or meadow restoration here for birds and insects instead of plain useless grass. The Phillips Trail is a bit narrow and overgrown in parts, but I didn’t mind it but it could bother other trail goers. Overall, it's a decent trail for locals, especially if you enjoy birdwatching—highlights included two Northern Harriers and a...

Absolutely adore this walking trail. I've been to a few in this area and this by far is my favourite. It's well marked and has a wide diversity of paths to take. It's well maintained for those who want to visit with strollers (for the most part). There is a section with a pond and picnic benches, and bird feeders, and there is a ton of biodiversity in the flora and fauna here! There's about 6 -7 spots for parking at the entrance and is easy to spend an hour or more here, or less if you desire. It's the perfect trail for a build your own adventure! There is also a wooden bathroom built near the beginning of the trail for those uncomfy with using the facili-trees (get it? Haha)

Anywho. Will always be back there to enjoy this space. Thank you to the Ingersoll District Nature Club for keeping it both wild,...