Nature Canada

Cycling the Georgian Trail

Image of guest blogger Andrew Corbett

Andrew Corbett Guest Blogger

This blog is written by guest blogger, Andrew Corbett.

The Georgian Trail is a multi-use rail trail that runs along the south shore of Georgian Bay in Southwestern Ontario. The trail was founded in 1989, and follows the route of the original Northern Railway. It is 35km long and connects the communities of Collingwood and Meaford.

I have cycled the trail many times and it is probably my favourite cycling trail in Southern Ontario. The trail is well marked and includes maps along the way which show your location on the trail, and the distance covered.

Georgian Bay

Georgian Bay by Andrew Corbett

There are many great views of Georgian Bay along the trail, and numerous places to stop for a rest break. There are great views of Blue Mountain from the trail, a downhill ski area just West of Collingwood. Wildflowers grow beside the trail, and birds and insects are abundant. You may even spot a blue heron or deer in a marshy area along the trail, or see a beaver plying its trade.

Craigleith Provincial Park is located just off the trail, near the village of Craigleith, and offers tent and trailer camping on Georgian Bay. In Thornbury, you can tour along the waterfront and visit the town docks, and grab a treat at the local take-out stand.

The trail ends at the Meaford waterfront where there is a park, docks, and marina. Downtown Meaford is a short distance away, offering restaurants and cafes.

The town of Collingwood has an extensive community trail system on its own, including trails along the Collingwood waterfront. Another rail trail runs South from Collingwood to the town of Stayner, and is accessed from the Collingwood town trail system.

The Georgian rail trail is a great trail in a beautiful area of Ontario. It is a nice example of Ontario’s burgeoning trail system – a system that keeps improving each year.

Do you have a favourite trail you like to walk or bike along? Share it with us through Facebook or Twitter!

Georgian Trail by Andrew Corbett

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