March 30, 2025
~ submitted by Matthew Lettington
It’s been many years since I last visited the Westwood Ridges—probably before COVID-19. This time, I had the pleasure of hosting a relaxed ramble and brought my family along for the adventure. The day could not have been more perfect: cool, crisp air with just the lightest breeze, making for an ideal hiking atmosphere.
After years of heavy use, it’s clear that some sections of the ridges have seen a decline in foot traffic. Old trails, once well-trodden, are now partially reclaimed by nature. Moss has crept back over rocks, and underbrush has thickened, softening the landscape. In some places, the once-distinct footpaths were barely visible beneath a layer of fallen leaves and new growth. It was a stark contrast to the well-worn sections near the lake, where the trails remain busy with visitors.
We encountered only two other groups during our time in the hills, a rare treat that made the hike feel even more secluded and peaceful. The silence, broken only by the occasional rustling of leaves or distant woodpecker tapping, added to the sense of remoteness. It wasn’t until we returned to the lake that we saw more people, a reminder that while some parts of Westwood remain well-traveled, others are slowly being forgotten.