The Best Trails in Collingwood, ON

Collingwood is famous for its outdoor activities. With Blue Mountain and Georgian Bay on either side, there is an endless list of recreational sports to fill your time. But what if you aren’t into sports? What if you prefer a nice leisurely walk or light hike? Here is a list of the best trails in the area.

 

Pretty River Provincial Park

Part of the Escarpment and located 6 km southeast of Collingwood, Pretty River Provincial parks is a nature lover’s paradise. There no facilities and no camping permitted, so there is nothing but nature. The 6 kilometers of trails are on some of the highest points of the escarpment. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking and skiing. The area has a variety of terrains and users should be aware that some locations in the park are for more advanced hikers.

 

Harbourview Park Loop in Collingwood

Harbourview Park is perfect for a leisurely afternoon walk for the whole family. Starting on Birch Street, the trail goes all the way to Georgian Bay. Visitors can expect to walk or cycle about 1.3 km from start to finish. The trail is well maintained and has a great mix of trees, greenery, and flowers.

 

 

Kolapore Uplands Trail

Part of the Bruce Trail Network, the Kolapore Uplands Trail is quite long. Beginners should expect a challenge and bring a map. The trail itself is about 9 km, but in the winter it turns into about 50 km of cross country skiing trails. The trails are clearly marked and their difficulty is marked on the trail as well.

 

Western Circle Route

For the seasoned and ambitious hiker, this is a system of 6 trails that tour throughout the Collingwood area. During a hike, users can stop in at a number the local resorts as they will pass many. The total circle can take about 2.5 hours so visitors should be prepared. A map is also suggested.

 

Blueberry Plains

Described as an easy to moderate hiking trail, the trail is located on some very unique sand dunes. The dunes have been marked as a nature reserve. The area and vegetation are very fragile so families should be aware of that when walking.

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Art Events in Collingwood

Collingwood is a town not only known for its fantastic skiing and recreation, but also a thriving art scene. During the month of November, there are a number of art events to keep anyone even vaguely interested in the arts busy while you wait for the snow to fall.

Music for a Sunday

This event has been happening since September, but if you haven’t heard of it yet, you’ll definitely want to check it out in November. It is a series of 10 concerts over five Sundays and four of them are happening this month. ZimZum, CCI Jazz Band, the Venuti String Quartet and Rowyn Campbell are all playing at the Simcoe Street Theatre this month. Ticket prices vary, but you can get through Blue Mountain Music or at the Simcoe Street Theatre box office.

Points of View: John David Anderson and Mark Hope

Head to The Blue Mountains Public Library to witness the points of view of John David Anderson and Mark Hope, as expressed through a painting exhibition. Their work will be displayed from November 3rd until the 30th.

Annual Square Foot Show

At the Loft Gallery in Thornbury, this show happens on November 4th from 4pm. You’ll start at the Corner Café, across the street, where you’ll be getting a numbered ticked for the show. All paintings sold will be 12×12 in size and sell for $144 plus tax. All work is original and gorgeous!

Candle Making Workshop

You don’t have to just view art, you can make it. Head to Serendipity Candles at 20 Balsam Street, Unit 14, for a 60-minute candle making workshop, where you’ll learn to make four candles. You’ll select your scent and jar and do all of the fun stuff yourself!

Creative Collingwood Symposium

An initiative for arts and positive change in communities, the 4th annual Creative Collingwood Symposium happens on November 8th at the Simcoe Street Theatre. This incredible event brings together what they call “creatives” from across the South Georgian Bay area for learning and networking. There will be keynote speakers, breakout sessions, plus networking with refreshments. The event is completely free and you just need to register to reserve a spot. Anyone who is a creative professional or even who has an aspiring talent is welcome to join.

Sweetwater Film Festival

Film buffs will love the lineup of 11 short films focusing on the outdoors and outdoor recreation. Happening at the Gayety Theatre, this event donates 100% of the proceeds to outdoor programs for local youth. It happens on November 11th at 7pm and tickets are $25.

Do you know of any other great arts events happening in our region? Let us know!

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South Georgian Bay Events in May

Southern Georgian Bay has a calendar full of things to do! From family-friendly events in the villages to entrepreneurial opportunities around Collingwood, there are some great events happening this May that aren’t to be missed.

Creemore Vintage Festival – May 14th

Check out vintage vendors displaying their unique wares of antiques, gifts, handmade items, clothing and toys. There will be entertainment including live music and magic and a chance to ride a penny farthing bike.

Stayner Kinsmen Duck Races – May 7th

Located at Kinsmen Park, this event includes a corporate duck race, along with a car show, BBQ, scavenger hunt and other activities. Tickets are $5.

Collingwood duck race

Collingwood Spring Market Place – May 7th

Visit the Eddie Bush Memorial Arena to shop local, with over 80 vendors showcasing unique items, jewellery, services and produce. There will be a family fun zone and lots to eat and do.

Canada Holland Tulip Spring Cleanup – May 13th

Get in the act and clean up Stayner! Starting at SCI and ending at the fountain on Highway 26 and Oak Street, come out from 12 – 5 to clean up after a long winter.

Creemore Springs Turas Mor – May 14th

Grab your bike (vintage bikes a plus!), your vintage jerseys and gear and come out for a 61km cycling journey through the hills of Creemore. This ride is inspired by the European vintage rides, also known as the “great journey”. Pair this ride up with the Vintage Festival for a fun-filled day.

May Long Weekend at Blue – May 21st to 23rd

Featuring live music, a rib-eating contest and fireworks, visit the Blue Mountain Village for the biggest party of the weekend. Hit the patios and visit the shops while enjoying everything the village has to offer.

Blue Mountains Tour of the Arts – May 21st to the 23rd

Tour local artist studios, as they open them up to the public. View artist studios including pottery, sculpture, jewellery, textiles, photography, paintings and more.

Start of the Farmer’s Markets! – May 21st

Both Collingwood’s downtown market and Creemore’s farmer’s market will begin this day and every Saturday until October, featuring a wide array of local and some organic produce, baked goods and unique items.

Collingwood Art on the Street – May 23rd

Starting on May 23rd and into October, art on the street will incorporate the work of local artists into an outdoor gallery of art banners and hand-painted chairs. Artists of all ages and experience were pre-selected.

 

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