Trail Building Day in Flinton

Jun 12, 2019

Lennox and Addington owns approximately 1,150 acres of managed forest lands in five locations in the Township of Addington Highlands. Certified according to the Forest Stewardship Council’s standards for sustainable forestry, the land has generated little impact from a tourism perspective. The Community & Development Services Department hopes to change that by constructing approximately 10 kilometres of single track mountain bike trails within “Forest 2”, a 127-acre parcel in Flinton.

In May 2019, construction began on the L&A County Forest trail system that will allow the public to make better use of this natural asset. The County has leaned on the knowledge and experience of Lennox & Addington resident Mike Sewell, an avid off-road cyclist that has experience building similar trail systems in Vermont. The new trails are being created with the desires of off-road mountain bikers in mind, taking advantage of the terrain of the forest. The routes weave around large pines, and up and down hills and boulders to create what is expected to be a very enjoyable experience for riders.

Given that there are limited opportunities in the region specific to off-road cycling, the County sees the Forest Trails as a significant tourism opportunity. The new system complements the popular County Trails road cycling loops, which incorporates nearly 600 kilometres of paved County roadways. Together, the two initiatives will cater to the needs of both road and off-road cyclists.

To date, approximately 6 kilometres of trail has been constructed. The public is invited to assist with the project during a special Trail Building Day on Saturday, June 22nd from 8:30am - 1pm. Those interested in participating are asked to bring along their own rakes, shovels, and branch clippers to help put the finishing touches on some of the newly-constructed trails. Participants will assemble in the parking lot at the Addington Highlands Municipal Office (72 Edward Street, Flinton) at 8:30am to learn about the new County Forest Trail initiative. Coffee and treats from Addison's Restaurant will be available. At the end of the event a free slice of pizza can be enjoyed from Pine Grove Pizza.

After the trail building event is over, those in attendance are encouraged to lace up their hiking boots or hop on their bikes and enjoy the trails. For more information visit www.lennox-addington.on.ca/explore/county-forest-trail or call 613-354-4883 ext. 3271.