Huron Nature Park - Excellent hideaway near Waterloo, in an industrial park in Kitchener.

We thought we were not in the right place as we drove past industrial buildings, but all of a sudden there was a small sign on our right and an equally small parking lot. We spent about an hour wandering some of the very well-marked trails, taking pictures, identifying plants and birds, and looking for turtles and beavers. This place is a gem that might be overlooked in your visit to Kitchener or Waterloo, but it is definitely worth the short drive to hike the trails. We were there in late summer/early fall (early September) but I am sure that it would be a great place to cross-country ski or snowshoe or just walk, if the trails are groomed. We wish there had been a list of the most common plants and animals so we could compare what we found to what is there. Ditto for a listing on the Huron Natural Area website. Quiet and peaceful and a breath of fresh air (literally) in the midst of the towns. We look forward to going there again.