Among the many, MANY benefits of summer is the ability to leave the car at home once in a while, and transport yourself around town via other means.
Walking, roller blading, skateboarding are all terrific warm weather alternatives. But cycling tops the list!
In addition to being great exercise, an hour or two on your cycle will do wonders for your headspace. It’s an ideal time to listen to tunes or just enjoy some time alone in nature.
With that in mind, hit up a couple of these nearby trails to maximize your bike experience.
Bikes At The Ready: Cycle Trails Around Barrie
Oro-Medonte Rail Trail
Between Orillia and Barrie Abandoned since 1996, the Oro rail line was converted to a trail, giving users the chance to explore Oro-Medonte along the way. To get there, exit Highway 11 at Memorial Avenue. Then turn right onto Woodland Drive, and drive until you see the trail.
http://www.ontariotrails.on.ca/trails/view/oro-medonte-rail-trail-1/
The Lightfoot Trail
A series of paved and gravel trails serving Orillia.The paved portion, known as Millennium Trail, is part of the Trans Canada Trail System and connects with the Uhthoff Trail in Severn Township. Moreover, the system includes several nature trails in the Scout’s Valley Environmental Reserve.
http://www.ontariotrails.on.ca/trails/view/lightfoot-trail-system
Thornton-Cookstown Trans Canada Trail
The trail runs along the abandoned CN rail line through Essa and Innisfil Township. Start and Georgian Downs and go all the way to Cookstown!
The routes include cedar thickets, plenty of trestle bridges and eye catching meadows.
http://www.ontariotrails.on.ca/trails/view/thornton-cookstown-trans-canada-trail
Georgian Trail
Between Meaford and Collingwood
This is an extremely long run, but well worth it. From Craigleth to Meaford, the trail runs close to Hwy. 26 West with numerous access points along the way including Craigleith Park, Thornbury, Thornbury Harbour, Bayview Park and Meaford Harbour. Find parking at Harbourview Park in Collingwood, where the trail heads west towards Craigleith and on to Meaford.
How could you miss the Tay trail??? Flat, paved, easy to access and close to the water.
That’s an awesome trail! I like it