Cycling and Hiking
The Trails in the Port Albert, Goderich area.
People are discovering the enjoyment of the outdoors through cycling, hiking, and walking.
Cycling
There are two types of cycling routes in Huron County, those suited for both road and all-terrain bicycles, and those with conditions suited more specifically for the all-terrain cyclist. The former are paved roads which are excellent for either style of bicycle. The latter are gravel roads suited for all-terrain bicycles. The landscape varies from rolling hills to flat, with the occasional challenging hill. Services are generally separated by a distance of 8 miles/12 km.
In Huron County, cyclists can visit our many historic sites and museums, enjoy an evening or matineé performance at our theatres, explore our numerous specialty shops and art studios, picnic at one of our many parks and conservation areas, swim at some of the best beaches in Ontario, or just enjoy some beautiful rural landscapes! Most of the outlined routes are designed in such a way that the cyclist can end their trek at the same place as they started. Some routes also have several different alternatives, and cyclists are encouraged to develop their own routes. Several selfguided heritage walking or cycling guides are available for exploring the historic buildings and streetscapes of Goderich, Bayfield and Seaforth. These guides are available at regional visitor centres. The Goderich to Auburn Rail Trail (G.A.R.T) and certain conservation areas also offer excellent off-road cycling opportunities.
Details on these areas are outlined in the Huron County Cycling Guide.
Port Albert & Area Circuit Map – Google
A short paved road ride beginning and ending on Central Wellington St., Port Albert
Hiking Trails
More than ever before, people are discovering the enjoyment of the outdoors for pleasure and improved health through hiking and walking. If you Hike in Ontario, Huron County offers trail enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels a variety of terrains from natural paths to partially paved routes.Huron County’s largest trail system, the renowned Maitland Trail, follows the north side of the picturesque Maitland River Valley. It offers a rewarding hiking experience with varied terrain from flat sections, gentle slopes, to steep climbs with many beautiful vistas.
Built on a former CPR rail line, the Goderich to Auburn Rail Trail (G.A.R.T.) is a pastoral trail route. It passes two scenic ponds, crosses over Sharpe’s Creek and ends at the intersection of the Maitland Trail. The Wingham Community Trail meanders along the former CNR rail bed, crossing the Maitland River and then makes a loop around the Turnberry Flood Plain Conservation Area to take you back. Enjoy the scenic view of the river from the old CNR Bridge.
The Tiger Dunlop Heritage Trail starts at the CPR Station at the Goderich Harbour. It crosses North Harbour Road to the Menesetung Bridge where there is a magnificent view of the Maitland River. Beyond the bridge, it follows the G.A.R.T. to Tiger Dunlop’s tomb.
In all, the Huron County Hiking Guide features 23 trail systems situated throughout the County. The Guide Book offers detailed trail descriptions and corresponding maps, providing additional information on trail distance, level of difficulty, trail use, trail hazards and trail surface.
or click here to download a copy (approx. 5 MB Acrobat PDF file),
or to have the Hiking Guide sent to you at no charge contact:
1-800-280-7637
tourism@huroncounty.ca
Click here for Guided hiking and cycling events with the Maitland Trail Association
El Camino Maitland
Hello All! 
It’s early but planning has begun.
This year’s 2-day, 49 km hike along the entire Maitland Trail will take place over the weekend of September 23-24, 2017. Volunteers will be available each morning to shuttle you to your starting point, and then throughout the day at check points where you can have a few minutes to relax and refuel.
THE HIKE:
The Camino will follow the entire Maitland Trail from Auburn to Goderich, 49km in total. The Trail follows the beautiful, winding route of the lower Maitland River, and includes areas of ecological significance. You’ll traverse narrow trails, wide rambling trails, hills both up and down, through forests, past farmland, river vistas, autumn meadows, towering forests. You may see wildlife – toads, salamanders, snakes; ravens, robins and eagles. You’ll also pass in and out of tornado-damaged areas; the forest is recovering, and after 5 years, you’ll see forest succession in action with fall wildflowers and grasses in full competition with young maples, oaks, and beech trees.
Our trail is beautifully natural. That means that you’re also likely to encounter bugs, spiders, and other prickly stingy things, and possibly rain. Be prepared for a fun adventure.
For those who would like to do the Longest Hike (49km): On Saturday morning, you’ll check in at the Benmiller Community Hall (BCH), then shuttle to Auburn to begin your hike back to the BCH (29km). When you’re finished hiking for the day, check out at BCH, so we know you’re safely off the trail. On Sunday morning you’ll check in at the beach pavilion in Goderich, then shuttle to BCH to begin your hike back to Goderich (20km).
For those who would like to do the Long Hike: On Saturday morning, you’ll check in at the BCH, then shuttle to your start location – either River Line (16km hike), or Sharpe’s Creek Line (11km hike). When you’re finishing hiking for the day, check out at BCH, so we know you’re safely off the trail. On Sunday morning, you’ll check in at the beach pavilion in Goderich, then shuttle to River Bend (13km hike) to begin your hike back to Goderich.
Shuttles will be available for those who need it. If you can arrange to shuttle with a friend, that would be greatly appreciated.
Along the route there will be check points where water and snacks will be provided. The snacks available won’t provide enough fuel for your hike; make sure you bring enough food to last the day. Check points will also have basic first aid equipment. If you must end your hike for the day, you can be shuttled back to your car. The best part about the check points are the friendly faces who provide sincere encouragement, and have genuine interest in how the hike is going for you. They’re all volunteers who make this event possible. Awesome!
Port Albert Hiking Weather
AccuWeather.com offers this hiking weather forecast to help hikers plan their day.
