Ontario Trails News - historic sites near trails, cycling trail development and more at Ontario Trails

Orillia's untapped potential as cycling destination

Orillia Today

By Frank Matys 

Orillia holds untapped potential as a destination for cyclists and a share of the substantial dollars they bring to communities, council heard this week.

“Orillia has amazing trails,” said Brendan Matheson, of Cycle Simcoe. “They have an amazing network, but they have a great opportunity to develop the tourism aspect, for sure.”

Cycle Simcoe is a tourism initiative that aims to steer two-wheeled enthusiasts onto area trails and into local communities.

It is a countywide strategy involving the Barrie/Simcoe Cycling Club, Tourism Simcoe County and Oro-Medonte Township, where the project was initially tested.

“The goal is to make cycling more safe, more memorable and more fun, county-wide,” Matheson told Orillia council during a presentation.

Full article....

Ontario inns—enjoy a historic, culinary getaway in historic Georgetown

Ontario inns—enjoy a historic, culinary getaway in historic Georgetown

Main Street Inn 126 Main Street S. Georgetown, ON L7G 3E6 905-702-5411

500 yds

500 yds

© 2015 Microsoft Corporation © 2010 NAVTEQ © AND

© 2015 Microsoft Corporation © 2010 NAVTEQ © AND

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Main Street Inn in historic Georgetown is the focus of our spotlight this winter on Ontario inns and B&Bs. With our province’s quaint corners and picturesque landscapes only a short drive away from Toronto, kicking back in the comfort of this cozy inn may be just the kind of retreat you need to rejuvenate through the season.

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Georgetown B&B offers cozy luxury...

 A walk through time—With a history dating back to the 1850s, the Main Street Inn welcomes guests to Victorian charm of yesteryear. There aretwo rooms to choose from, both beautifully appointed with a lush décor reminiscent of simpler times of grace and dignity. Bright and spacious with private unsuited bathrooms, the rooms make a relaxing and comfortable haven, combining tranquil style with modern amenities.

Fine dining in town— Included with each stay at the Inn is a choice of full cooked or continental breakfast. With its two dining rooms and two outdoor patios—one with full linen service—Main Street Inn is also home to one of Georgetown’s finest dining establishments. Both Inn guests and non-overnight patrons can enjoy lunch, dinner or the Inn’s hearty weekend brunch service. Passionate about creating new taste sensation, the Inn’s chef changes the menu regularly according to the season’s freshest available ingredients.

Local attractions—Picturesque shops and village nooks are just a stroll away down Olde Georgetown’s quaint streets where historic buildings and period houses abound. Guests can enjoy browsing local culture at such artistic venues as The Gallery, Beaumont Mills and historic Williams Mills’ multi-building studios and workshops. Theatre buffs can enjoy local theatre staged by one of the two local companies. Winter’s also a beautiful time to discover the great Ontario outdoors with over 50 kilometers of the nearby Bruce Trail and side trails of the Niagara escarpment.

Full article.....

Ontario Trails News - Trailhead Ontario and more!

Trailhead Ontario
Special Presenter:

• Tourism development includes trails. Trail packages, trail experiences, trail destinations. One such trip is hiking. Hear about "A 1000-MILE GREAT LAKES WALK"
  Please join Trailhead Ontario as we present Author Loreen Niewenhuis as she talks about her experience circumnavigating, on foot - the waterfront trails of the Great Lakes! In 2009, Loreen Niewenhuis walked the perimeter of Lake Michigan and wrote the bestselling book, "A 1000-MILE WALK ON THE BEACH".
  In 2012, she took another long journey, covering 1000 miles of shoreline touching all five Great Lakes. The book about this latest adventure, "A 1000-MILE GREAT LAKES WALK",explores the entire Great Lakes system.
  In this presentation, she will take you along the shores of all five Great Lakes and many of the waterways connecting them. In words, photos, and video, you’ll explore the geology, hydrology, and natural history of the largest system of fresh water lakes in the world. She will also illuminate the threats to this massive ecosystem: invasive species, pollution, destruction of wetlands, and the gradual warming of the lakes.
  Niewenhuis speaks with the authority of an expert as she has a M.S. degree in the biological sciences. She raises important questions about preserving our wild places and protecting the fragile ecosystems on which we all depend.
• International Trail development panel - hear trail association professionals from the states of Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio and New York as we convene our internet panel on cross border trails tourism, promoting the Great Lakes Basin. Hear how trails are developed, managed and promoted by our counterparts just across the Ontario/USA Border.
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• Local Initiatives - Kawarthas Northumberland are promoting trails and trails activity in new and exciting ways. Working with trail groups is the cornerstone of the RTO8 trails development agenda. Come and hear how Kawarthas Northumberland is working with Trent University, Fleming and the Trans Canada Trail on the development of regional initiatives such as, heritage trails, provincial trails day (June 1st) and a variety of other seasonal marketing initiatives for trails and trail towns.
• We would welcome your support, rates are reasonable and it would be great to have a few provincial trail organization booths at the conference.

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Kawarthas Northumberland - Trail Events





































 

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Program Snapshot

Trail Risk Management - June 11-12, 2013

This course will provide a comprehensive overview of the elements associated with managing risks related to trail planning, development and management.

Topics will include: Introduction and Overview, Developing a Risk Management Framework

• The Canadian and Ontario Legal Systems Negligence and Liability
• The Law and Trails, Insurance and the Transfer of Risk
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA)
• HIRA Application on the Trail
• On the Trail Again
• Risk Assessment Assignment to work on at home with guidance from the instructor.This course will provide a comprehensive overview of the elements associated with managing risks related to trail planning, development and management.

Instructor: Matt Cruchet
Matt Cruchet founded Direct Bearing Incorporated as a vehicle to help organizations navigate risk. Matt’s strengths lie in operational assessment where he uses his experience in the not-for-profit, youth-service, adventure travel, natural resources and emergency planning industries to evaluate and manage risk. Matt is a recognized outdoor risk management expert, consultant, author and speaker.
Direct Bearing Incorporated has also worked with over 100 other organizations ranging from youth service groups, camps, natural resource companies, adventure tourism.
 

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Time Limited? - Register Here

Select 1, 2, 3 or 4 Day Participation options
 

Ticket Type	Price	Fee
Conference and Education Package - Paypal	CA$315.88*	CA$9.12
Conference and Education Session Package - Pay by cheque	CA$357.50*	CA$9.95
Conference Registration - Paypal	CA$169.63*	CA$5.37
Training - Risk Management	CA$203.76*	CA$6.24
One Day Registration - Conference Only	CA$96.51*	CA$3.49
Display Booth	CA$257.86*	CA$7.63
Display Booth - discount	CA$171.58*	CA$5.42
Display Booth - Non-Profit - Provincial	CA$171.58*	CA$5.42
Display Booth - Provincial Non-profit - discount	CA$128.20*	CA$4.30
Display Booth - Local, small non-profit	CA$42.15*	CA$2.10
Display table - literature only	CA$20.59*	CA$1.54
Ordered Ticket at door - Conference	CA$169.63*	CA$5.37
Ordered Ticket at Door - Education	CA$194.01*	CA$5.99
Ordered Ticket at Door - Conference and Education	CA$365.55*	CA$9.95
Ordered Ticket at Door - One Day Only - Conference Only	CA$100.00	CA$3.49
Coffee Break Support	CA$194.01*	CA$5.99
On-Line Great Lakes Panel - Northern Residents Only - Webinar - Pay by Paypal	CA$35.00	CA$1.87
On-Line - Adventure Tourism - Northern Residents Only - Pay by Paypal	CA$35.00	CA$1.87

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Trailhead Ontario is supported by:
 

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Regional Trail Profile

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So it looks like it's going to be an exciting time in Peterborough - join us - mark the date June 9-12, 2013 in your calendar NOW!
Hotel Reservations and Event Location

More information? Go to - Trailhead Ontario
Call Patrick at 1-877-668-7245 or
Vanessa Twiddy at 905-373-8752 | www.rto8.com | 

Ontario Trails appreciates the support of:
Regional Tourism Organization 8
Ontario Trillium Foundation

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Ontario Trail News - Trailhead Ontairo June 9-12, 2013

June 9-12, 2013 - Peterborough

OTC Member? Discounts Apply

Holiday Inn discounted rooms!

Join trail advocates, organizations, speakers, builders, use groups, volunteers, planners and regulators as we discuss, learn and improve Ontario's Trails!
 

The Ontario Trails Council, and the Trailhead Ontario 2013 planning committee wish to acknowledge the financial support of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport in making this conference happen. Please attend and give a warm welcome to Ontario Assistant Deputy Minister Phil Malcolmson who will be joining Craig Stewart, and Carol Oitment in discussing new initiatives and supports for Ontario's trails!

We could not have a conference and sustain OTC without their assistance. For this we are grateful.

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Our thanks to our Wine and Cheese Reception Hosts - Kawartha Northumberland Tourism at the:
June 9, 2013 - 6-8pm!

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New for 2013 - Northern and Remote - Link-Up: Sign Up and we'll hook you up!

Northern and Remote Communities (only): please note that for a small fee you can participate in the two interactive sessions on-line:

• Monday at 1pm est - Great Lakes Trails Panel - with Minnesota, Ohio, New York and Michigan Trails
• Tuesday 1pm - Adventure Tourism with Author Loreen Niewenhuis and Author Hap Wilson.

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Signage Information - We have three different signage companies presenting on the latest techniques and innovations they have brought to market for use in making trails safer, easier to use and that promote wayfinding for tourists!

McCarthy Signs


Fontasy Signs


Tour-Mate

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Mapping Panel - the best way to assist trail users or trail tourists is through effective communication. One popular way is through maps. Maps assist in telling folks the length of a trip. They tell trail users about trail location, amenities such as accommodation, restaurants, fuel, supplies camping, etc. that are on or near the trail.

Maps and map technologies are changing at lightening speed. Google maps, map integration, handheld maps, topographical maps, mash-ups, waterproof, gps - all these are new and innovative techniques that communicate the destination and the experience to the local user or the traveler.



More and more municipalities are producing local maps by activity and trail to assist these out-bound adventurers. Our mapping panel has brought together some of Canada's and Ontario's finest map producers for a discussion on their product lines, their market segments and the new techniques they are bringing to market.



So whether you are a trail user or a trail manager producing maps - you'll want to attend this session!


 

Ontario Trails News - Trailhead Ontario, Membership and more!

Trailhead Ontario - Updates

June 9-12, 2013 - Peterborough

OTC Member? Discounts Apply

Holiday Inn discounted rooms!

Join trail advocates, organizations, speakers, builders, use groups, volunteers, planners and regulators as we discuss, learn and improve Ontario's Trails!
 

The Ontario Trails Council, and the Trailhead Ontario 2013 planning committee wish to acknowledge the financial support of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and sport in making this conference happen. We could not have a conference and sustain OTC without their assistance. For this we are grateful. Please attend Trailhead Ontario and hear all the latest developments on Tourism and Recreation from the MTCS!

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New for 2013 - Northern and Remote Link-Up

Northern and Remote Communities (only): please note that for a small fee you can participate in the two interactive sessions on-line:

Monday at 1pm est - Great Lakes Trails Panel - with Minnesota, Ohio, New York and Michigan Trails
Tuesday 1pm - Adventure Tourism with Author Loreen Niewenhuis and Author Hap Wilson.

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Mapping Panel - the best way to assist trail users or trail tourists is through effective communication. One popular way is through maps. Maps assist in telling folks the length of a trip. They tell trail users about trail location, amenities such as accommodation, restaurants, fuel, supplies camping, etc. that are on or near the trail.

Maps and map technologies are changing at lightening speed. Google maps, map integration, handheld maps, topographical maps, mash-ups, waterproof, gps - all these are new and innovative techniques that communicate the destination and the experience to the local user or the traveler. 



More and more municipalities are producing local maps by activity and trail to assist these out-bound adventurers.
Our mapping panel has brought together some of Canada's and Ontario's finest map producers for a discussion on their product lines, their market segments and the new techniques they are bringing to market.



So whether you are a trail user or a trail manager producing maps - you'll want to attend this session!


 

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Special Presenter:

• Tourism development includes trails. Trail packages, trail experiences, trail destinations.One such trip is hiking. Hear about "A 1000-MILE GREAT LAKES WALK"
  
  Please join Trailhead Ontario as we present Author Loreen Niewenhuis as she talks about her experience circumnavigating, on foot - the waterfront trails of the Great Lakes! In 2009, Loreen Niewenhuis walked the perimeter of Lake Michigan and wrote the bestselling book, "A 1000-MILE WALK ON THE BEACH".
  
  In 2012, she took another long journey, covering 1000 miles of shoreline touching all five Great Lakes. The book about this latest adventure, "A 1000-MILE GREAT LAKES WALK",explores the entire Great Lakes system.
  
  In this presentation, she will take you along the shores of all five Great Lakes and many of the waterways connecting them. In words, photos, and video, you’ll explore the geology, hydrology, and natural history of the largest system of fresh water lakes in the world. She will also illuminate the threats to this massive ecosystem: invasive species, pollution, destruction of wetlands, and the gradual warming of the lakes.
  
  Niewenhuis speaks with the authority of an expert as she has a M.S. degree in the biological sciences. She raises important questions about preserving our wild places and protecting the fragile ecosystems on which we all depend.
• International Trail development panel - hear trail association professionals from the states of Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio and New York as we convene a panel on cross border trails tourism, promoting the Great Lakes Basin. Hear how trails are developed, managed and promoted by our counterparts just across the Ontario/USA Border.

• Local Initiatives - Kawarthas Northumberland are promoting trails and trails activity in new and exciting ways. Working with trail groups is the cornerstone of the RTO8 trails development agenda. Come and hear how Kawarthas Northumberland is working with Trent University, Fleming and the Trans Canada Trail on the development of regional initiatives such as, heritage trails, provincial trails day (June 1st) and a variety of other seasonal marketing initiatives for trails and trail towns.
• We would welcome your support, rates are reasonable and it would be great to have a few provincial trail organization booths at the conference.

---

Time Limited? Select 1, 2, 3 or 4 Day Participation options

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Canadian Canoe Museum Hosts Trailhead Ontario Wine and Cheese
The Canadian Canoe Museum is a unique national heritage centre that explores the canoe’s enduring significance to the peoples of Canada. Experience the world’s largest collection of canoes, kayaks and paddled watercraft and learn how the canoe has defined the Canadian character and spirit. Spanning the county from coast to coast to coast, the museum’s outstanding artefacts will let you see Canada by canoe.

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More information? Go to - Trailhead Ontario  Call Patrick at 1-877-668-7245 or Vanessa Twiddy at 905-373-8752 | www.rto8.com

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Trails Education - Select a Program!

We have updated the program and our 14 module program is here for the using. If you have staff to train, trails to manage or want a session in your area on a particular topic let us know. We'll coordinate a session or series on your behalf.

	DESCRIPTION
COURSE TITLE
Volunteer Management	View PDF
Business Planning and Budgetting	View PDF
Regulation and Legislation	View PDF
Ecosystem and Natural Heritage	View PDF
Wilderness First Aid	View PDF
Food and Nutrition	View PDF
Marketing and Promotion	View PDF
Health and Safety	View PDF
Technology for Trails - Level 1	View PDF
Trail Design (2 days)	View PDF
Trail Risk Management	View PDF
Trail Committee Development	Manual
Trail Steward- On Line Learning	Program
Trail Planning - On Line	Program

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Trails Insurance Program AvailableOnce again, members of the trails community find themselves seeking alternative trails insurance. The volatility and unpredictability of your insurance plan keeping you hopping? Wondering what you are getting, curious if your agent or the underwriter understands trails?
If you want:

• cost stability
• product assurance
• insurance perseverance
• a broker that understands trails

At OTC our mission is "trail preservation." See the note from Intercity Insurance, Mike King, below.

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Further to our recent discussions, I wanted to let you know that we have investigated various markets to get a sense of the appetite that insurers have for coverage associated with trails. Our findings suggest that coverage is available - but from a very limited number of carriers and that the cost of insurance in this class is not heading down anytime soon. The reality is that there have been losses associated with trails in general and that the frequency and severity of claims is on the rise.

On the positive side of the issue, we have had several specific discussions of late with our current carriers at Lloyd's of London and we are (collectively) very interested in ramping up our work with OTC to connect with your associates who manage trails. We and the insurers we represent are firm in our commitment to work collaboratively with the OTC trail community to develop a comprehensive risk management strategy that makes sense - and insurance is just one part of that strategy.

As for what trail insurance products we have "in the box” right now:

a)       Commercial General Liability coverage —premium costs start at $1,000.00 for $2,000,000 coverage.

b)      Directors and Officers liability coverage — premium costs start at $200.00 for $I,000,000 coverage. We find that even the smallest community group is seeing the importance of acquiring D and O coverage.

c)       Accidental Death and Dismemberment coverage - premiums start at $250. 00 to cover the Officers, Directors, employees, members. The limit of coverage is $100,000.

In the near future OTC will be bundling these products as a part of membership services and products.

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Performance Measures - Trail Counts!

Low maintenance - Using weatherproof decals our methods allow users to quickly and easily provide you with information you need to assess, improve, direct, re-direct, or provide information to the user - while on the trail. Our proprietary method has been developed by over 140 trail users and with the input of The City of Thunder Bay and Norfolk County Trail Managers.

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Packages - OTC Member? - Take $25.00 off each package!

• Blue - 4-10 trails:  $300.00 plus HST and registration fees
  • Maximum 20 sheets of decals
• Green - 10-20 trails: $500.00 plus HST and registration fees
  • Maximum 40 sheets of decals
• Gold - 20 or more trails: Starting at $1,000 plus HST and registration fees
  • TBD

Go to Trail Counts! to purchase. Thanks

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Ontario Trails - Your Data Wanted

Since 2007 the Ontario Trails Council has collected trails data, and turned that data into our award winning website, as mandated by the desires of the trails community reflected in the Ontario Trails Strategy. Nearly 1,000,000 people a year turn to this information in order to find you and your trails.
The characteristics we are looking for are:

1.       Measurements

1. Trailhead Longitude
2. Trailhead Latitude
3. Completion Time (hours)
4. Elevation Change (m)
5. Trailhead Elevation (m)
6. Maximum Elevation (m)
7. Cross Slope Average (%)
8. Cross Slope Maximum (%)
9. Minimum Trail Width (m)
10. Average Trail Width (m)
11. Maximum Grade (%)
12. Average Grade (%)
13. Trail Surface
14. Trail Classification (Trail Group/Local Classification/Difficulty/ Rating eg: OFSC Trail Classes)

4.    Prohibited Trail Uses
5.    Trail Hazards (Poison Ivy, Steep Slopes)
6.    Trail Fees (Day Pass, Donation, Parking etc.)
7.    Seasons/Dates of Operation
8.    Trail Amenities (Visitor Centre, Beach, Boat Launch etc.)
9.    Trail Enforcement
10.  Trail Permits
11.  Trail Speed Limit
12.  Trail Signage
13.  Trail Environmental Concerns
14.  Trail Permitted Use (Dogs on Leash)

1. Date of Collection
2. Data Collector
3. Trail sensitivity (high /low) 

So let us know if you are willing to support us by sharing data you already have. execdir@ontariotrails.ca Thanks