Harrison Park

Posted: June 5, 2007

While many people have visited both the Inglis Falls Conservation Area and Harrison Park, fewer have taken the time to explore the 7.5 kilometre hiking and skiing trail that joins the two.

You can begin your hike at either end, with ample parking available at both the park and the falls. Either destination makes a suitable reward to the 7.5 kilometre trip. If you are arriving at Harrison Park, you can stow your skis and ramble into the Harrison Park Inn for a hot chocolate. If you are heading to Inglis Falls, be prepared for the view of a lifetime.

The trail itself is hard packed natural terrain. While it is rated as moderate difficulty, it is full of natural obstacles. Rocks and roots keep you on your toes when the ground is not snow covered.

If you are planning on skiing the trail, be aware that it is not a groomed facility. Adequate snow cover will be needed to hide the rocks and roots.

The trail offers something for all abilities. At the Inglis Falls end, a relatively flat loop meets up with the trail that heads to Harrison Park. This loop is ideal for family cross-country ski and hike trips. Similarly, the trails within Harrison Park itself are relatively easy. Aside from the connecting trail, there is the Harrison Park extension trail that winds along the Sydenham River. This fitness trail is a popular alternative to the one-way trip to Inglis Falls.

Inglis Falls is a historically beautiful site. The waterfall itself is located where the Sydenham River meets the edge of the Niagara Escarpment. Below the 18 metre falls are the remains of the old Inglis gristmill. Through the ages the site has supported a gristmill, a sawmill and a woolen mill.

On the west side of the falls, there are several great lookouts accessible by a combination of rocky trail and steps.

Harrison Park is a wonderful family destination. In addition to its own trail system, there is a huge toboggan hill on the east side of the Sydenham River. Separate parking is available and the hill is a popular spot on winter weekends.

Small visitors will delight in the abundant waterfowl that make Harrison Park their home. Food can be purchased for a lively feeding session.

In the spring, summer and fall, the park is popular with cyclists and hikers alike. Bring a picnic and relax along the river. A public pool is open in summer months and swimming lessons are offered. The park is a wonderful green space in the heart of Owen Sound.

For more information on this trail or on Harrison Park or Inglis Falls, contact the City of Owen Sound Visitor Information Centre at 371-9833

Uses: This all season trail is ideal for hiking, cross country skiing and bicycling (in some areas).

Length: 7.5 kilometres

Directions: The trails are accessible from both Inglis Falls and Harrison Park in Owen Sound. Parking at is available at both locations.

Groomed/ungroomed: Cross country ski trails are ungroomed but are generally well used.

Fees: Public use.

Trail Highlight: 18 metre cascade at Inglis Falls; family facilities at Harrison Park.

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