Day 1: Exploring Barrie's Scenic Trails
Morning
9:00 AM: Arrive in Barrie and begin your adventure by exploring the city's diverse network of walking, hiking, and biking trails.
9:30 AM: Start with the picturesque 6.71-kilometer Waterfront Trail, which offers paved and gravel sections suitable for walking, jogging, rollerblading, or biking. Enjoy the refreshing breeze from Kempenfelt Bay on Lake Simcoe, and take breaks at benches, picnic tables, and gazebos along the way.
12:00 PM: Head downtown for lunch at one of Barrie's fantastic dining spots, conveniently located near the waterfront trail.
Afternoon
1:30 PM: After lunch, gear up for a leisurely ride along the Oro Medonte Rail Trail, a 28-kilometer abandoned CN rail line. It continues where the waterfront trail ends at Barrie's city limits, providing beautiful views along the west shore of Lake Simcoe. Stop at concession lines in Oro for refreshments and enjoy birdwatching in the surrounding forests.
4:30 PM: Return to your accommodations and freshen up before dinner.
Evening
7:00 PM: Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll through Barrie's serene Sunnidale Park. Explore the Tranquility Garden for quiet reflection by the soothing water feature or visit the Butterfly Garden, alive with colorful perennials, annuals, and shrubs attracting various wildlife and butterflies.
Day 2: Historic Trails and Wildlife Exploration
Morning
8:00 AM: Lace up your walking shoes for a historical and wildlife-rich adventure. Begin at the Nine Mile Portage trailhead, located at historic Fort Willow. Explore the site, featuring foundations, restored native gardens, and significant Canadian history.
9:00 AM: Embark on the Nine Mile Portage trail, retracing the footsteps of early Aboriginal inhabitants, War of 1812 participants, explorers, and more. This trail takes you through fields, forests, and roadways, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting as it passes through the Minesing Wetlands, a protected area.
12:30 PM: Reach the conclusion of the Nine Mile Portage trail at Barrie's waterfront Memorial Square, the birthplace of the vibrant city you see today. Take in the historical significance of this spot before grabbing lunch at a nearby eatery.
Afternoon
2:00 PM: Spend your afternoon exploring more of Barrie's incredible trail network. You can choose from options like the Ganaraska Trail, North Simcoe Rail Trail, or the numerous trails in the Minesing Swamp.
5:00 PM: Conclude your trail-filled weekend by enjoying the scenic beauty and diverse landscapes that Barrie's trails offer.
Barrie's extensive trail network is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a wide range of natural beauty, historical insights, and opportunities for wildlife encounters. Whether you're a hiker, biker, or nature lover, Barrie's trails have something to offer for everyone.
**Please note, all Itineraries are simply suggestions, are self-guided and not pre-set. Organizers must contact the individual attractions for admission, restaurants for reservations and hotels for available accommodations**