The Georgian Trail

Posted: June 5, 2007

Article and photographs by Allsion Kennedy

Since its transformation from a railway line to a 32 kilometre trail system along the shore of Georgian Bay, the Georgian Trail has become an integral part of the communities it passes through.

The trail, which connects Collingwood, Craigleith, Thornbury and Meaford is one of the most well used in the area. Dog walkers, runners, skiers, cyclists and snowshoers make use of the trail on a daily basis.

The Georgian Trail is a typical rail trail. Flat and broad, it provides easy terrain for all activities. It is a great alternate route for cyclists traveling between these Georgian Bay towns who do not wish to use the increasingly busy Highway 26.

For those not looking to travel far, it is a great way to get around town. Its hard packed stone dust is great for jogging, cycling and even pushing a stroller. For a beginner skier, it is a great place to get a feel for the glide of cross-country skis.

The trail is also a wonderful way to see many of the historical aspects of the Georgian Bay shoreline. The trail passes by the old Craigleith Depot railway station and its accompanying field of lilac bushes, crosses the Beaver River in Thornbury via the old rail bridge, and passes over several other trestle bridges.

In Thornbury, be sure to take the Riverwalk Side Trail and check out the existing dam and the site of the old mill. The trail provides a great view of the dam¹s powerful flow and the trail also leads along the river to the bay and marina. From the Georgian Trail itself, you can stop to watch the weekend crowd of fishermen trying their luck below.

Along the length of the trail there are benches provided for those looking to take a break and enjoy the scenery. In the summer months, keep your eyes open for the Collingwood OPP who sometimes patrol the trail on horseback.

The trail passes by Christie Beach as well as Northlands Beach. You can plan your biking or hiking trip to wind up here for a swim.

The Georgian Trail has an endless number of uses and its popularity is clear. The trail is operated and maintained by the Georgian Cycle and Ski Association. Annual memberships are $20 and contribute to trail maintenance and development.

For more information on the Georgian Trail, contact the Georgian Cycle and Ski Trail Association, Box 151, Collingwood, Ontario L9Y 3Z5

Uses: Walking, hiking, running, cycling, cross country skiing, snowshoeing. No motorized vehicles allowed.

Trail Length: 32 kilometres one-way.

Directions: The trail runs from Collingwood to Meaford with 30 access points along the way.

Groomed/ungroomed: The trail is not groomed during the winter but it is well used. Don¹t count on a perfect set of tracks to follow. Even in winter, trail use varies greatly so expect everything from footprints to snowshoe tracks. In the summer months, sections of the trail are grated periodically.

Trail Fee: The Georgian Cycle and Ski Trail Association maintains the trail and users are asked to purchase a $20 annual membership. Fees go to trail maintenance and further development.

Trail Highlight: Unbeatable alternative to highway travel for cyclists. Beautiful views of Georgian Bay. Great access to area attractions including parks and beaches.

Level of Difficulty: Flat and easy.

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