The City of Orillia's Millennium Trail is a 9.5-km (5.9-mile) shared-use recreation trail stretching along the shore of Lake Couchiching from one end of the city to the other. The 3.7-metre (12-foot) wide paved trail, which was created as the city's official millennium project, significantly enhances the attractiveness of the region for tourists and helps to promote healthy lifestyles for local residents.

Much of the Millennium Trail is routed along a former railway bed, but other sections are purpose-built or are linked with the existing road network. The trail provides an effective system for connecting some of Orillia's most significant heritage sites – including Couchiching Beach Park, the Leacock Museum and the Mnjikaning Fish Weirs at Atherley Narrows – and offers a convenient route to observe the community’s natural and cultural beauty.

The Millennium Trail is maintained by the City of Orillia Trails for Life Committee.

Host(s):

Meeting place: Meet on the trail in Couchiching Beach Park near the boat ramp. Parking is available at the park.

Activity: Lakeside Historic Walk – Leacock Museum to the Ancient Fish Weirs

Time: 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Description: Enjoy the 2-km (1.25-mile) hike from Brewery Bay to Pumpkin Bay along the shores of beautiful Tudhope Park, the home of the Mariposa Folk Festival. View the old swing bridge at the Atherley Narrows and visit the National Historic Site of the ancient First Nations fishing weirs.

Difficulty: Easy – Smooth terrain with no significant ascents/descents

Accessibility: Fully accessible

More information:

City of Orillia Department of Culture and HeritageTelephone: 705-325-4530E-mail: kstorey@city.orillia.on.caWebsite: www.city.orillia.on.ca