Update – April 9, 2020 – According to recent Quinte Conservation COVID-19 response updates, local conservation areas (except for HR Frink, which is closed until further notice) remain open for “passive recreational uses”. These may include “access trails, nature study, birdwatching, outdoor education and associated facilities” (source; I couldn’t find a local document referencing the term). However, given that Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health is urging all residents to only leave home for essential reasons, we recommend avoiding any public spaces where it might be difficult for you and/or your children to maintain the required 2 metres distance from other people.

In the week since COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic, options for family outings have dwindled. Provincial parks like Sandbanks are closed (including for day use) and, between physical distancing requirements and emerging research on how long the Coronavirus remains on surfaces, playgrounds are off limits. Many families don’t have access to a private outdoor space, and you might already be looking for alternatives to neighbourhood strolls.

Enter this handy Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area Scavenger Hunt! Fortunately, Quinte Conservation’s areas remain open, and parking is free in an effort to encourage use by those looking for healthy ways to practice social distancing. All of the items can be found along Whattam’s Memorial Walkway, between Birdhouse City and the parking lot behind Macaulay Heritage Park. So break out the clipboards, pack up the immediate fam, and head over to this local gem. If you come across other visitors, give a friendly wave and keep your distance, and remember to take precautions against ticks – ’tis the season!

View and download the scavenger hunt.