The Summerstown Forest trails saw a great increase in visitation at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and visitation has not slowed down. Over the last year, no less than 22,613 visitors were recorded at the trails thanks to a “people counter” installed with the assistance of the Raisin Region Conservation Authority.
Once known as a winter playground for cross-country skiers and snowshoers, the trails are now a popular site year-round particularly with the addition of fat biking trails. Trail users, however, do not require special equipment to enjoy the trails. Exploring the trails on foot is also a great way to step into nature and enjoy the beauty of the forest.
Summerstown Forest offers 30 kilometres of trails which are mainly owned by the United Counties of SDG, with a smaller parcel owned by the province. “Conserving forests and offering recreational opportunities to the community are very important to SDG. We are grateful for the Friends of Summerstown Trails (FOTST) and their efforts to maintain and enhance the trails,” stated Benjamin De Haan, Director of Transportation and Planning.
The FOTST, a volunteer organization, maintains the trails year-round and offers various events and programs for the public. Their Annual Family Day Event and various races held throughout the year are very popular initiatives. FOTST also offers beginner learn-to-ski programs for all ages taught by certified instructors. “We could not accomplish all that we do without the dedication of our volun-teers and the support of our members, donors and partners,” concluded FOTST president, Vic Leroux. “We always welcome additional support from anyone looking to help us maintain and en-hance the trails.”
For more information on FOTST membership, programs, and trails, visit https://www.summerstowntrails.com/.
The trails are located on Summerstown Road, 1.6 km north of exit 804 of the 401.
