York Regional Forest

York Region maintains four trails accessible to wheelchairs, strollers and other assistive devices in the York Regional Forest. Each trail ranges between 1.5 to 2 kilometres and loops through a variety of landscapes.  

Accessible trails are wider, clear of large obstructions and graded for ease-of-movement for all visitors; they are designed and constructed to meet the requirements of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. Accessible parking is available. 

Locations

1. Hall Tract at 15681 McCowan Road (North of Aurora Road) in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville

• 1.5 kilometres of accessible trail

2. Hollidge Tract at 16389 Highway 48 (North of Aurora Road) in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville

• 1.8 kilometres of accessible trail
• Electric Vehicle charging stations available

3. North Tract at 17054 Highway 48 (South of Davis Drive) in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville

• 1.7 kilometres of accessible trail

4. Nobleton Tract at 5345 15th Sideroad in the Township of King 

• 1.7 kilometres of accessible trail

Dog walking is one of the most popular activities in the York Regional Forest.

To provide a safe and enjoyable visitor experience for all, dogs must be on-leash at all times in all York Regional Forest tracts, except in designated areas. The designated off-leash areas are:

• Bendor and Graves Tract (entrances at 18038 McCowan Road and 17689 Kennedy Road in the Town of East Gwillimbury)
• Davis Drive Tract (entrances at 4277 Davis Drive and at 17242 McCowan Road in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)

There is also an enclosed dog off-leash area at the Bendor and Graves Tract at 18038 McCowan Road in the Town of East Gwillimbury.

For more information including on-leash tract, off-leash tract and enclosed dog off-leash area rules visit  york.ca/DogsInTheForest

Rules

The following rules are in place for Forest visitors:

• Stay on designated trails
• Keep dogs on-leash, unless in designated off-leash areas
• Geocaches must be placed within two metres of designated trails

Do not:

• Damage or remove plants, fungi or animals from the Forest
• Smoke, consume alcohol or litter
• Camp, light fires, use cooking or heating devices
• Use paintball, air or pellet guns
• Set off fireworks
• Operate unmanned aerial vehicles such as drones
• Use unauthorized vehicles including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), snowmobiles or dirt bikes

Etiquette

Given the diversity of visitors at the Forest, here are some 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

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 

• Be thoughtful about where and how you park your horse trailer
• Stay on designated trails
• Park horse trailers considerately
• Manage horse waste responsibly
• If riding with a dog, respect leash rules
   

Join us for a free guided walk or event to learn about and experience the beauty of the York Regional Forest. For more information and to register for a walk or an event visit york.ca/ForestEvents

Invasive plant herbicide treatment in the York Regional Forest begins every May and is expected to finish in the fall each year. Targeted invasive species include Dog-strangling Vine, Lily-of-the-valley, Periwinkle, European Buckthorn, Manitoba Maple and Phragmites.  

Signs will be posted at tract entrances closest to where the work is taking place, as well as the actual site where herbicides are being used. Signs are posted a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Signs will remain in place for at least 72 hours after work has occurred.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why are invasive species a problem? 
These invasive species are non-native and can threaten the health, function and diversity of our natural environment. If left unmanaged, many of these invasive species will crowd out native plants and young trees preventing them from growing.  

What herbicides are being used? 
While the type of herbicide used depends on the invasive species being treated, some examples include RoundUp, Garlon and Simazine. All herbicides used in the York Regional Forest are approved products for use in Canada and Ontario, and York Region follows best practices and regulations identified under Ontario’s Pesticides Act.  

Will these herbicides affect native plant, insects and/or wildlife? 
When applied properly, non-target plants and insects will not be affected. York Region uses the most appropriate product for the task, which may mean using a highly-selective herbicide which will only target a certain group of plants. Spraying directly on the targeted group of plants ensures the non-native invasive plants are treated.  

Herbicides are applied by applicators licensed under Ontario’s Pesticides Act, 1990. Licensed applicators must follow all label directions and the use of herbicides does not take place if ideal weather and site conditions are not met.  

What is the difference between a pesticide, herbicide and insecticide? 
Pesticides are chemicals used to kill things like fungus, bacteria, insects, plant diseases, snails, slugs and weeds. Herbicides are a type of pesticide used to control unwanted plants and trees. Insecticides are a type of pesticide used specifically to target and kill insects.  

How will the public be notified? 
As per the Pesticides Act, signs will be posted at main tract entrances closest to where the work is taking place, as well as close to the actual site where herbicides are being used, a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Signs will remain in place for at least 72 hours after work has occurred.  

Is it safe to visit the Forest while the invasive plants are being treated with herbicide? 
Most areas being treated are off trail. Forest visitors will see posted signs that detail the date(s) of treatment and the products being used and can decide whether to stay in that area or visit another part of the Forest. Contractors have been instructed to stop work should any visitor come close to the operation. Sites are safe to access once signs have been removed. 

Is it safe for my dog to be off-leash at Davis Drive or Bendor and Graves Tract while invasive plants are being treated with herbicide? 
Signs will be posted at tract entrances closest to where the work is taking place, as well as close to the actual site where herbicides are being used, a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Signs will remain in place for at least 72 hours after work has occurred. Temporary fencing will be installed around most areas to help prevent dogs entering the sprayed area. If you go to this area, we ask that you leash your dog and stay on the designated trail as you pass by work areas. Staff will be on site during the spray operation to answer any questions from visitors.  

Is there anywhere else I can take my dog off-leash?  
Dogs are permitted off-leash at the following designated off-leash areas: 

• Bendor and Graves Tract (entrances at 17858 McCowan Road and 17689 Kennedy Road in the Town of East Gwillimbury)
• Davis Drive Tract (entrances at 4277 Davis Drive and at 17242 McCowan Road in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville) 

There is also an enclosed dog off-leash area at the Bendor and Graves Tract at 17858 McCowan Road in the Town of East Gwillimbury. 
For more information including on-leash tract, off-leash tract and enclosed dog off-leash area rules visit york.ca/DogsInTheForest 

Additional designated dog off-leash areas may be open in your community or in a nearby city or town. We encourage you to check your city or town website or contact their parks department for more information. 

In accordance with federal and provincial legislation and local municipal discharge of firearms bylaws, hunting is permitted in three specific areas within York Regional Forest Tracts located in Georgina.

• Pefferlaw Tract
• Cronsberry Tract
• Metro Road Tract (bows only)

Hunting is prohibited in all other York Regional Forest Tracts.

York Region does not permit the use of hunting stands or baiting of wildlife.

Contact the Town of Georgina’s bylaw department at 905-476-4301 to confirm areas where the use of firearms (including bows) is permitted.

Visit the Ministry of Natural Resources for more information about hunting in Ontario.

Here are some tips to help plan your visit to the Forest:  

Plan your route

Use maps in the Everyday Guide to the York Regional Forest (hard copies are available at trailhead kiosks and Forest events). Additional map applications include:

• AllTrails – discover popular trials, read reviews and track your hike
• Avenza Maps - download maps and use GPS without cell service
• What3Words – download in case you need to be located on a trail; endorsed by York Regional Police  

Since cell service can be unreliable in the Forest, consider downloading maps and apps ahead of time and carry a hard copy as backup.

Choose a trail that suits your fitness level and experience - consider distance, terrain, and accessibility.

Check the weather

• Monitor forecasts for wind, extreme temperatures or storm alerts. Serious health problems like frostbite and hypothermia can result from prolonged exposure to the cold. Learn more at york.ca/ExtremeCold
• Avoid visiting the Forest during high-risk weather conditions

Dress and pack accordingly

• Wear layers of clothing to help trap heat and maintain body temperature  
• Wear close-toed shoes with long pants tucked into your socks to help avoid poison ivy and protect against mosquitos and ticks
• Pack essentials like insect repellent that contains DEET or Icaridin, sunscreen, sunglasses, sunhat, rain gear and water

Stay in touch

• Let someone know your destination and expected return time
• Fully charge your phone before heading out

Tick awareness

• Stay on marked trails  
• Use insect repellent that contains DEET or Icaridin
• Do a full-body tick check after your visit

Poison Ivy precautions

Learn to identify poison ivy:

• The plant typically has three almond-shaped leaflets
• Leaflets feature pointed tips with the middle leaf having a longer stem
• Initially green, the leaflets darken as they mature and turn red in autumn
• Its berries are greenish yellow, remaining on the plant throughout the winter

Avoid brushing against unknown plants. If exposed, immediately wash any exposed skin or pets using mild soap and cold running water

Wildlife  

• Observe wildlife from a distance. While animals may not seem bothered by our company, they can be unpredictable. Getting too close could cause them to become defensive or injure themselves if they try to run away
• Respect their habitat by staying on designated trails and pick up and properly dispose of pet waste
• Visit BearWise® to learn bear safety tips  

Look before you leave

• Invasive species can unknowingly be carried by mud on shoes, bikes, motorized vehicles, clothing and pets
• Help prevent the spread of invasive species by cleaning clothing, shoes, animals and bikes before entering and leaving the Forest
• Visit york.ca/InvasiveSpecies to learn more about invasive species impacting the York Regional Forest  

 Are there any paved trails in the Forest?

None of the trails in the York Regional Forest - including accessible ones - are paved. Accessible trails are created using compacted, crushed limestone to ensure ease-of-movement for wheelchairs, strollers and other assistive devices.  

Are the trails in the Forest maintained? 

The Forest trials are maintained and repaired as needed. They are not groomed or cleared of snow/ice in the winter months. 

Are there washrooms in the Forest? 

There are currently no washrooms available for public use in the Forest.  

Washrooms at the Bill Fisch Forest Stewardship and Education Centre at Hollidge Tract are open only during certain events.  

Are bikes and horses allowed on accessible trails?

Yes, bikes and horses are allowed on all trails in the Forest. Visitors are reminded of the following: 

• Walk, run or wheel on the right of the trail and pass on the left
• Cyclists should yield to pedestrians and ring their bell in advance of passing 

How do I report an incident in the York Regional Forest or provide suggestions/feedback about the Forest?  

Visitors can call 1-877-464-9675 Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or email @email to report an incident and/or provide suggestions/feedback about the Forest.  

Can I bring my dog to the Forest?

Dogs are allowed in the Forest. To provide a safe and enjoyable visitor experience for all, dogs must be on-leash at all times in all York Regional Forest tracts, except in designated areas including:  

• Bendor and Graves Tract (entrances at 18038 McCowan Road and 17689 Kennedy Road in the Town of East Gwillimbury)
• Davis Drive Tract (entrances at 4277 Davis Drive and at 17242 McCowan Road in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)

There is also an enclosed dog off-leash area at the Bendor and Graves Tract at 18038 McCowan Road in the Town of East Gwillimbury.  

For more information including on-leash tract, off-leash tract and enclosed dog off-leash area rules visit  york.ca/DogsInTheForest

What is geocaching and is it permitted in the Forest?

Geocaching is a recreational activity where participants use GPS coordinates to locate hidden containers, known as geocaches. These containers are placed by other geocachers and can be found using websites like geocaching.com

Geocaching is permitted in the York Regional Forest provided it follows all applicable guidelines:

• All geocaches must comply with the rules outlined on geocaching.com
• Geocaches must be placed within two metres of designated trails
• York Region reserves the right to remove any cache that does not meet geocaching.com guidelines or York Regional Forest rules

Are there any educational resources available for the York Regional Forest or forests/greenspaces in general?

• Check our Discover Your Forest program virtual activities  
• Consider participating in monthly Forest walks and events, registration opens one month prior.  

Learn more from:

• Evergreen
• Forests Canada
• Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA)
• Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests (LEAF)
• Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust
• Oak Ridges Trail Association
• Ontario Streams
• Rouge National Urban Park
• Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)

Is accessible parking available?

Accessible parking is available at the following York Regional Forest tracts:  

• Bendor and Graves (18038 McCowan Road in the Town of East Gwillimbury)
• Hall (15681 McCowan Road in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)  
• Hollidge (16389 Highway 48 in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)
• Nobleton (5345 15th Sideroad in the Township of King)
• North (17054 Highway 48 in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)
• Patterson (15461 McCowan Road in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)

Accessible trails can also be found at:  

• Hall Tract (15681 McCowan Road in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)  
• Hollidge Tract (16389 Highway 48 in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)
• Nobleton Tract (5345 15th Sideroad in the Township of King)
• North Tract (17054 Highway 48 in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville)

Can I charge my electric vehicle at the Forest?  

There are four electronic charging stations available at Hollidge Tract (16389 Highway 48 in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville).

What map application should I use when in the forest or planning for my trip?

The following map applications are available to help plan a Forest visit:  

• Everyday Guide to the York Regional Forest - hard copies are available at trailhead kiosks and Forest events
• AllTrails – discover popular trials, read reviews and track your hike
• Avenza Maps - download maps and use GPS without cell service
• What3Words – endorsed by York Regional Police, this system allows for precise location identification which can be used for navigation and emergency services

Since cell service can be unreliable in the Forest, consider downloading maps and apps ahead of time and carry a hard copy as backup.

Can I access the York Regional Forest using public transit?

The following public transit options are available to access the York Regional Forest:  

• Metro Road Tract (1763 Metro Road North in the Town of Georgina) is on a public transit route, Route 50 - Queensway  
• On-Request is a ride-sharing service available through the YRT On-Request app that allows you to request transit within select service areas throughout York Region  

To plan your route and learn more visit yrt.ca, call 1-866-MOVE-YRT (668-3978), TTY: 711*  

Is snowmobiling permitted in the York Regional Forest?

Snowmobiling is only permitted on trails operated by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs in the Pefferlaw Tract 24408 Lake Ridge Road in the Town of Georgina. These trails are maintained by the Heart of Ontario Snowmobile Club Trail.