The Kawartha Trans Canada Trail offers a natural recreational corridor for people of all ages and abilities. This historic railway bed is now a magnificent recreational corridor with a crushed limestone surface. This 53.8 km section of the national trail traverses east to west across Kawartha Lakes. The trail surface is 3 metre wide, hard-packed limestone which provides flat level surface, ideal for a variety of trail uses. You will encounter woodlands, farmlands, wetlands, and communities. For the most part, the trail is relatively flat, with modest changes in elevation throughout its entire length. Trail users will find facilities such as benches, bicycle racks, and picnic shelters along the way. Discover the trail’s many attributes and experience it for yourself.

Important Notices for Trail Use

Respect Private Land

As a responsible trail user, please RESPECT ALL PRIVATE LAND while on the trail. The buffer zone indicated on our maps is intended to illustrate proximity to the trail only and contains private property and sensitive environments. Please use roadways and dedicated trail access points when entering and exiting the trail. Trespassing on private land adjacent to the trail is strictly forbidden.

Poison Ivy Warning

Please note that POISON IVY may be present in ditches along the trail. For your safety, we ask that you please stay on the trail to avoid potential contact. For help identifying poison ivy, please visit this website.

Trail Use at Own Risk

Kawartha Trans Canada Trail is dedicated to the safe enjoyment of the trail. However KTCTA is not responsible for any injury that might occur during the use of the trail. Use the trail at your own risk.

Prohibited Uses

With the exception of snowmobiles, all motorized vehicles including ATV’s and dirt bikes are not permitted on the trail. Users of motorized vehicles on the trail are trespassing and police will enforce this law for any users caught on the trail.

Storm Damage

Following severe storms there may be damage to the trail tread or fallen trees across the trail. Please notify us as soon as possible so that our managing partner for that section can assess and repair the damage.

Trail Code of Conduct

  1. Enjoy using the trail while respecting all other users, nearby property owners and the surround environment.
  2. Be aware and alert of your surroundings.
  3. Always stay on the trail and to the right hand side.
  4. Pass slower moving trail users on the left hand side after announcing your intention.
  5. Keep your speed under control and under 20km/h.
  6. Keep pets under control and pick up after them.

Trail Accessibility in Ontario

An excellent resource for those who plan to build new or upgrade old trails to AODA standards: The Illustrated Technical Guide to the Accessibility Standard for the Design of Public Spaces.

Winter Trail Use

Trails are not maintained from November 1 – April 30, although they are available for use. Please contact us to report any maintenance issues along local trail.

Dog Walking

Dogs must be kept under control at all times. Please keep your pooch on a leash when you encounter other trail users. Keep the trail beautiful – SCOOP when your dog poops.

Five Core Uses:

Prohibited Uses: With the exception of snowmobiles, all motorized vehicles including ATV’s and dirt bikes are not permitted on the trail.

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Hiking / Walking / Running

The trail surface is ideal for hiking, walking and running, all of which have a powerful effect on your health. There is a bench about 1 km east and west of Lindsay, Omemee & Reaboro. Walk there and back every day, enjoy the fresh air and reap the benefits.

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Cycling

The trail is suitable for hybrid, cyclocross and long distance touring bikes (anything with a wider tire). Enjoy this relatively flat surface free from traffic and the flora and fauna along the way.

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Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a great way to enjoy the trail and experience the natural beauty of our region. The crushed limestone surface is suitable and safe for horses. Please help keep the trail beautiful and safe for other users by cleaning up after your horses.

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Cross-Country Skiing / Snowshoeing

Just because there's snow on the ground doesn't mean you can't still enjoy the outdoors on the trail. During winter months, the trail is an ideal location for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

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Snowmobiling

Uxbridge to Opmar Road is groomed by the ‘Heart of Ontario’ Snowmobile Club. The rest of the trail is not groomed, but snowmobiles are welcome. There is currently no route through the town of Lindsay for snowmobilers.

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