Explore the York Regional Forest this Fall
If you haven’t had a chance to visit the York Regional Forest, fall is the perfect time to get out and enjoy its natural beauty, connect with nature and breath in the cool, crisp fresh air.
With over 150 kilometres of scenic trails in 22 public Forest tracts, including almost 7 kilometres accessible to wheelchairs, strollers and other assistive devices, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Popular activities include hiking, running, dog walking, horseback riding, mountain biking and nature appreciation. Some Forest tracts you may want to explore include:
Hall, Hollidge, North and Nobleton Tracts
York Region maintains four accessible trails in these tracts in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville and Township of King. Accessible trails are wider, clear of large obstructions and graded for ease-of-movement for all visitors.
Bendor and Graves and Davis Drive Tracts
If you’re looking for somewhere to exercise your dog, dogs are permitted off-leash in these tracts in the Towns of East Gwillimbury and Whitchurch-Stouffville.
Bendor and Graves, Happy Valley, North and Pefferlaw Tracts
For those seeking a longer adventure, these tracts in the Towns of East Gwillimbury, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Georgina, and the Township of King offer extensive trails for exploration.
Brownhill Tract
Located in the Town of East Gwillimbury, this tract boasts over 15 kilometres of trails, making it a premier destination for mountain biking in the Greater Toronto Area. York Region collaborates with the York Mountain Biking Association to ensure these trails are safe and sustainable.
Eldred King Woodlands Trail
In the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, this heavily wooded trail with a stream feature connects to multiple tracts of the York Regional Forest, providing a serene environment for cyclists.
As there are a diverse range of visitors to the York Regional Forest, here are some user-specific guidelines to keep in mind:
Right of Way
- Individuals with the greatest ability to maneuver or move easily should give way to those less agile
- Cyclists should yield to others
- Hikers and dog walkers should yield to horse riders
Mountain Biking
- Wear a helmet at all times
- Stay on designated trails
- Slow down and yield to other trail users
- Announce your presence when approaching from behind
- Avoid trails when they are wet
Equestrian
- Stay on designated trails
- Park horse trailers considerately
- Manage horse waste responsibly
- If riding with a dog, adhere to leash rules
Learn more about the York Regional Forest and plan your trip with our Everyday Guide or visit york.ca/YRF
