East Coulson Swamp
Field Trip: Sat May 16, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: East Coulson Swamp
Focus: Trail Walk
Local Meetup: 9:00 AM – Club Carpool (Walmart)
Destination Meetup: 9:45 AM – Swamp Parking Lot
Are you planning to participate? Please tell us, so we can watch for you. Email [email protected] to RSVP!
This Outing’s Features
During our visit we expect to see woodland bird species such as Wood Thrush, Ovenbird and maybe even Scarlett Tanagers. There is also the possibility of encountering uncommon birds like Crossbills in the spruce forest and even Northern Goshawks have been seen here. The trail leads downhill to provide a view of the wetland that forms the headwaters of the Coldwater River. Aquatic species may be encountered here and spring wildflowers should be abundant.


East Coulson Swamp
Visitors to East Coulson Swamp are greeted by the hilly terrain of upland forest and gently sloping trails. The trail in total is about 2 kilometers, with minimal difficulty. The core of this reserve was originally donated to the Nature Conservancy of Canada by Margaret Atwood. The Conservancy added another tract to it and ultimately placed it in the hands of the Couchiching Conservancy to manage.
Bonus Outing – George Langman Sanctuary
After our tour of the East Coulson Swamp our trip leader Anthony plans to head over to the George Langman Sanctuary which is about a 7 minute drive away. This would probably extend the outing to the afternoon hours. So those wishing to join Anthony on this part of the excursion might want to pack a lunch or some snacks.
Resources
Destination: East Coulson Swamp, 866 Bass Lake Side Rd E, Hawkestone, ON L0L 1T0
Description: Couchiching Conservancy: https://couchichingconserv.ca/what-we-do/properties/east-coulson-swamp-nature-reserve/
Trail Map: Couchiching Conservancy: https://couchichingconserv.ca/what-we-do/properties/east-coulson-swamp-nature-reserve/
Alternate Description: Ontario Nature Trails: https://ontarionaturetrails.com/trail/east-coulson-swamp-reserve/
Location: Simcoe County Maps: https://opengis.simcoe.ca/public?ARN=434601000403600
Directions: Google Maps: From Midland Walmart to East Coulson Swamp
