Copeland Forest Trails
The Copeland forest is one of the loveliest forests in southern Ontario. It is super in spring, fabulous in the fall. The forest is full or lush undergrowth, towering old pines, unusual wildflowers and ferns, and, of course, hectares of maples, oaks, beeches, birches and evergreens.
So, if you are lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of the rare wild turkey. The trails are ideal for the beginning hiker, or one who hasn't been on the trail for a while and needs to limber up and get the old hiking legs in shape. It is also part of the 200 km Ganaraska Trail that winds from Port Hope on Lake Ontario to Glen Huron, near Georgian Bay. The forest offers a variety of trails so you can tailor a loop to your particular demand on any particular day.
You can chose to start from the parking lot at the northeast end of the forest or from the parking lot at the northwest end. Directions: You can reach the Copeland Forest from highway 400, north of Barrie by taking Exit 121 and turning east onto Highway 93 towards Craighurst. Follow the signs.
Regarding Hunting in the Forest - "seasonal hunting does take place and is one of the many activities enjoyed in the forest, primarily in spring and fall. Responsible hunters wear hunter orange as the season dictates, are aware of others using the trails, and ensure that they are certain of their target and what lies beyond it. Hunting is a safe recreational activity when practiced responsibly and non-hunters may feel comfortable using the woods at any time of the year." Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, September 1, 2011
There are many laws in place to ensure hunter training and many 100,000's of thousands of safe interactions take place each year. All persons, licensed or not, should be aware of the uses of the land at different times of year. If you aren't trained or licensed for any form of outdoor recreation, don't do the activity until you are. We encourage all to plan and know allowed uses on and off the trail - Ontario Trails Council
Copeland Forest Trails
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At the Ontario Trails Council, we do our best to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the information we provide on the site. Please remember however, that some of the information you'll find here has been provided by third parties; we can't take responsibility for that information or make any guarantees as to its quality or accuracy. It's also important to remember that while something you read here may have been correct at the time it was posted, Seasons change and the trails change with them! Contact the trail manager or local weather office when planning a trip to avoid surprises, like poor conditions or trail closures.
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This site is supported by a grant from the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion Active 2010 Recreation Program, The Ministry of Natural Resources, The Ontario Trillium Foundation and trail users like you!
