Georgian Trail

The Georgian Trail runs between Collingwood and Meaford in Ontario's principal ski country. It is very pleasant and well worth visiting.

The Trail

The trail is 35 km long and is constructed with fine granular that should give no difficulty to bikes with even the thinnest tires. It starts on the west side of Collingwood and runs south of Hwy 26 to almost Thornbury. There are glimpses of Georgian Bay to north, and the ski hills frame the trail on the left.

Not far from Thornbury the trail crosses to the north side of the highway (be very careful crossing here), and continues into the village. It crosses the Beaver River on an old trestle/girder bridge with a new deck, and it is worth stopping to see the view and to watch the people fishing. Past Thornbury the trails climbs steadily and the shoreline moves quite far to the north. It passes through a couple of apple orchards, then descends into Meaford and ends near the harbour.

It is difficult to prefer one section to another. Adjacent lands are not generally forested so there are good views across the countryside (bring plenty of sun lotion). The Meaford end is more tranquil because the trail is away from the highway, while the Collingwood end has the ski hills and glimpses of Georgian Bay. It is regrettable that we don't better see the bay, but the traveler can always take a side trip.

Trail Amenities

Most road crossings have attractive markers that both name the road and indicate what amenities are close by -- water, swimming, food. The trail also has a number of benches, in case you'd like to stop for lunch. (No picnic tables, however.). Restaurants and shops can be found in Collingwood, Thornbury and Meaford. Cyclists are reminded that they should always carry plenty of water and tools for making minor repairs. (Thanks to Sharon for an update to this section).

Accessibility for Wheelchairs and Suitability for Children

This trail is very good for both, owing principally to the excellent surface. Parents should be aware, however, that there are road crossings, and the one at Highway 26 has vehicles traveling at high speed. The section between Thornbury and Meaford has only a few minor crossings.

How to Find

The trail can be accessed at any cross road along its length, though no parking lots have been specifically constructed. There is a small lot at Beaver River in Thornbury and shopping centre lots are adjacent to the trail head in Collingwood. Otherwise, park along the cross streets.

In Collingwood the trail starts where Hwy 26 intersects High Street ("T" intersection, make right turn, park near Blue Mountain Pottery). In Meaford you will have to ask for directions to St. Vincent street, then watch closely since there are no signs or parking. A high school is just to the north. In Thornbury, look for the bridge over the Beaver River.

Visitor Guide

The Georgian Triangle Tourism Association has a web site which lists tourist information for the area, including accommodations. They can be telephoned at (705) 445-0748. Annual memberships supporting the trail are available for $20.00 at:

Georgian Cycle & Ski Trail Association
601 First Street, Collingwood, Ontario, L9Y 4L2

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Updated June 21, 1999 with the following (provided by Jacqueline Winter):
I completed the Georgian Trail yesterday. This is a quick update - the start is now at Collingwood Harbour, Birch street. Lots of parking, approximately one km from previous start. The finish is now at Meaford Harbour again lots of parking. Both are easy to find. Excellent trail and now is approximately 35 km's one way. I expected to cycle 62 km and had to do 70 km. Perfect weather, easy cycle trail. Stopped in Thornbury for lunch on the return trip at the Thornbury Bakery and Cafe, the only place that had a board advertising their place on the trail, well worth a visit. I think it is still quite difficult to park in Thornbury and find the trail unless you know exactly where to go. I would say park at the Chamber of Commerce/tourist Info booth - the trail goes behind it.

Further updated August 9, 2002