Tranquil and Picturesque
THE GEORGIAN TRAIL
The Georgian Trail runs some 34 kms along the magnificent southern shore of Georgian Bay between Collingwood and Meaford. The trail features a hard-packed, granular surface ideal for walkers, joggers, cyclists, cross-country skiers and snowshoers.
There are regular distance markers along the Trail and shady rest spots with benches. Bridges across Black Ash Creek, Silver Creek, Indian Brook, the Beaver River and Workman Creek. You will enjoy varied landscape from wilderness, rural to urban, and more than 30 convenient access points. There is parking near Hwy 26 W. at Northwinds Beach, The Depot, Craigleith Provincial Park (day-pass required), Peasmarsh and Council Beaches, Thornbury and Meaford Harbours, Bayview Park and Harbourview Park in Collingwood.
You 'll find many opportunities along the Trail to stop, rest and relax with easy access to sandy beaches and conservation areas and in winter, the Georgian Trail's low grade offers easy cross-country skiing.
There are many accommodation options, shops, restaurants and places to explore in and around our supporting municipalities: Collingwood, Thornbury and Meaford as well as in nearby resorts such as Blue Mountain Village.
The Historic Depot, Craigleith. circa 1947
HISTORY
The Northern Railway line originally connected Collingwood and Meaford. It was completed in 1872 and used for rail transport until its formal abandonment by the Canadian National Railways in 1984. A 1988 feasibility study recommended that the property be kept in the public domain and developed as a recreational trail. On October 31, 1989 the Georgian Trail officially opened as a wonderful new asset for both residents and visitors to the South Georgian Bay area. Go behind the scenes and read, Beginnings of the Trail and also, Our Apple Storage Building Connection.
THE TRAIL ASSOCIATION
The Georgian Cycle & Ski Trail Association is a volunteer organization with a mandate to promote the use of the Trail for all to enjoy and to ensure that the views of all Trail users are fairly presented to the three participating municipalities who host the trail: Collingwood, Town of The Blue Mountains and Meaford.
We look to improve the attractiveness and safety of the Trail by identifying beneficial projects. Collecting and managing donations allows the Association to provide necessary financial assistance for Trail maintenance and support of capital projects. Many of our donors have continued to support the Association year after year. We love to hear from all trail users.
TRAIL ETIQUETTE
• Stay to the right of the Trail.
• Pedestrians always have the right-of-way.
• When overtaking others, pass on the left and sound a warning.
• Cyclists should ring a bell or call out “passing left” when approaching pedestrians.
• Do not block the Trail.
PLEASE NOTE
Motorized vehicles and horses are not permitted on the Trail. Pedal assisted e-bikes are permitted. Dogs must be leashed and please scoop up after them. Leave no litter. Leave flowers for others to enjoy and stay on the Trail. Cross driveways and roadways with extreme caution.
Georgian Trail terminus in Meaford
PLEASE DONATE. SUPPORT THE TRAIL
Donations are welcomed and needed to help underwrite the costs of maintaining the Georgian Trail. Your donation will go a long way in helping to enhance the Trail experience by investing in surface and drainage improvements, as well as keeping donors and the general public informed through our newsletter, Staying on Track!
Income tax receipts are issued for donations of $20. or more under the charitable organization registration #0813576-56. Donors will automatically receive copies of Staying on Track! each year.
Our newsletter will keep you up to date on all the current Trail news
The original Thornbury trestle bridge spanning the Beaver River saw a major renovation in 2017
Staying on Track! is the Georgian Cycle & Ski Trail Association's newsletter. It is produced twice annually and emailed free to all subscribers. Subscribe now and stay abreast of all the latest Georgian Trail news. We love to hear from Trail users.
ARTICLES FROM THE CURRENT ISSUE
• The summer bike bell giveaway
• Safety on the Trail
• Pedal assist eBikes ONLY
• New crossing coming to Thornbury at Hwy 26
• Trail maintenance plans for 2022
• More tree planting
• A 'model' view of Trail history
CONTACT US
THE GEORGIAN TRAIL
Georgian Cycle & Ski Trail Association
PO Box 151, Collingwood ON L9Y 3Z5
