This site is privately maintained by me to
encourage the use and development of these
trails. It has been my quest over the past two
years to seek out the best rail trails and canal
towpaths in the northeastern USA, Ontario and
Quebec, principally from a cyclist's point of
view.
Some mountain bikers and hikers prefer rough trails and there are cyclists who demand smooth pavement or the challenge of steep hills. Rail trails and towpaths appeal to people who want a challenge but not necessarily hardship, and want to get their recreation away from the danger and noise of traffic. They are ideal for families on a short jaunt but they also suit the rider like me who wants to cycle 40 to 75 kilometres, but in tranquility and safety. Most mountain bikers, road cyclists and hikers will love these trails.
This site will tell you about the best trails in Ontario, how to find them, and the conditions to expect when you get there. I will even tell you a little bit about the trails to be found in our neighboring province and states.
The Ontario government, conservation
authorities and citizens groups have
acquired many rail lines that have not yet
been improved. While adventurous
mountain bikers enjoy the challenges of the
rough surfaces that generally remain after
the tracks have been removed, most of us,
whether mountain biker or road cyclist,
prefer a reasonably smooth surface. I have
found that asphalt is not necessary and a
fine granular or stone dust is excellent.
Such improvements, along with bridges,
parking areas, and information kiosks, still
cost a lot to do properly.
I have discovered that most of the pamphlets, newspaper articles and even guidebooks fail to adequately explain what conditions one might expect. It is rather disappointing to drive to a destination only to find that the trail is so rough that it is no fun.
I am also seeking canal towpaths because they too are flat and readily adaptable to recreational purposes. Towpaths were the pathways that were used by horses or mules as they pulled barges along canals such as the Erie in New York State. Ontario canals such as the Rideau and Trent were developed after the introduction of the steamboat, so unfortunately there are no towpaths in Ontario.
Hamilton - Cambridge and S. C. Johnson Trail
Victoria & Haliburton Trails
Uhthoff & Lightfoot Trails
Niagara River Trail
