Sweet Winter Adventures: Sugar Bush Tours in Middlesex County
What’s a sugar bush, you ask? No, it’s not a candy plant (though that sounds delightful!). A sugar bush is a grove of maple trees tapped to harvest sap, which is then transformed into the sweet, golden goodness we call maple syrup. And in Middlesex County, sugar bushes are more than just trees—they’re magical winter wonderlands where tradition, tasty treats, and community come together!
During late February to early April, maple syrup season brings the perfect mix of freezing nights and thawing days. These temperature fluctuations are crucial for sap to flow, making tree tapping and maple syrup production possible. Families and visitors alike flock to these delightful spots for a dose of sweetness and fun. From horse-drawn wagon rides to pancake breakfasts drenched in syrup, here’s where you can experience the charm of Middlesex County’s sugar bushes:
Kinsmen Fanshawe Sugar Bush
Located just east of London, the Kinsmen Fanshawe Sugar Bush offers an authentic sugar bush experience steeped in history. Open during the maple syrup season, the site invites guests to learn about the traditional and modern methods of producing maple syrup. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides through the scenic woodland and participate in guided tours showcasing the syrup-making process from sap to syrup. No trip is complete without indulging in their famous pancake breakfast, smothered in freshly made maple syrup. Be sure to check their hours of operation, especially for special events during Family Day and March Break.
Learn more from their website.
Fort Rose Maple Company
A beloved destination in Parkhill, Fort Rose Maple Company is a treasure trove of all things maple. The guided sugar bush tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the art of maple syrup production, from tapping trees to the final bottling process. Wagon rides add a rustic charm, making it an engaging experience for all ages. Their cozy pancake house is the perfect place to warm up, serving up a hearty breakfast with a generous helping of their award-winning maple syrup. Don’t forget to check their schedule for Family Day and March Break activities to make the most of your visit.
Plan your visit using their website.
McLachlan Family Maple Syrup
Nestled in Komoka, the McLachlan Family Maple Syrup farm combines generations of expertise with a passion for sharing their craft. Their tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the family’s maple syrup production, complete with interactive demonstrations and storytelling. Guests can hop on a wagon for a scenic ride through the sugar bush and savor a homemade pancake breakfast that highlights the farm’s signature syrup. Check their hours of operation, as they often have special offerings for Family Day and March Break visitors.
Discover more on their website.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a maple syrup connoisseur or looking for a unique winter activity, Middlesex County’s sugar bush tours are a perfect way to embrace the season. From the rich aroma of boiling sap to the satisfying taste of pure maple syrup, these tours offer a sweet escape into nature, tradition, and community.
Check ahead for hours of operation and special schedules for Family Day and March Break, and get ready to experience the sweetest season Middlesex County has to offer!