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
Return to Trail Location Map
Return to Ontario Rail Trail Home Page
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