Trail Use
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
- Enjoy using the trail while respecting all other users, nearby property owners and the surround environment.
- Be aware and alert of your surroundings.
- Always stay on the trail and to the right hand side.
- Pass slower moving trail users on the left hand side after announcing your intention.
- Keep your speed under control and under 20km/h.
- 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.
