Where the mouth of the Bighead River meets Georgian Bay, you’ll find the Town of Meaford, a warm waterfront community with an inviting heritage downtown, a bevy of unique shops and eateries, and a sampling of accommodations, both under-the-sheets and under-the-stars.
Meaford’s offering of experiences range from the relaxing to the exhilarating. Heading east you’ll discover the northwestern terminus of the Georgian Trail, guiding Great Lakes Waterfront Trail users along a 34km multi-use path connecting Meaford with Thornbury, Craigleith and eventually Collingwood. You’ll find pleasant hikes along the Bighead River in addition to nearby museums and local beaches.
Heading west you’ll join the Tom Thomson Trail, offering both hiking and cycling opportunities throughout the exuberant gravel-grinder’s paradise of the Georgian Highlands. You’ll find staggering views at both Irish Mountain and Coffin Ridge. Eventually, you’ll rejoin the water near the beaches at Hibou Conservation Area before reaching out to touch paved off-road trails in Owen Sound, 45km away. Enjoy roads and trails that wind and roll with the weft and warp of the land and water.
Trail Attributes
Trail Distance: 66km
Follows the Georgian Trail for approximately 7km, a compact, screened limestone “rail trail.”
Approximately 6km of scenic footpath (hikers only)
The remainder is a mix of paved residential and rural roads, the majority of which are unpaved in the Georgian Highlands area.
Protecting. Connecting. Celebrating. The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.
The Waterfront Regeneration Trust is a registered charity. Charitable Registration Number: 86767 9821 RR0001
