Trails

Woolwich Township boasts eleven trails totalling more than 80 kilometres, click here to see a description of the trails. Trail use in the Township includes walking, running, cycling, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling as designated. See the Woolwich Trails Map for locations. Check out the Woolwich Trails Guide and watch for the signs on the trail to know which use applies to each trail. Be sure to check out the Trail User's Code.

Trail News

Hopewell Trail, Breslau
The final phase of the Hopewell Trail is almost complete. It will be ready for trail users in 2011

Trans Canada Trail at the Farmers' Market
A portion of the on-road section of Trans Canada Trail along Farmers' Market Road was moved off-road and paved in 2008 as part of the Walmart development. In the Fall of 2010, a second section of trail was moved off-road and paved, completing the off-road trail between King Street N. and Benjamin Road. This 3 metre wide trail allows both pedestrians and cyclists to travel safely through this increasingly busy area.

Trans Canada Trail/ Kissing Bridge Trailway: Elmira to Wallenstein
In 2010 the stonedust trail (originally constructed in 1998 & 2000) between Elmira and Wallenstein was upgraded. A section of trail was also constructed to link Elmira Union Cemetery with the KBT/TCT. Funding for these projects was provided by the Elmira Lions Club and the Recreation Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program.

The following is a brief overview of the 11 trails in the Township of Woolwich Township. For more detailed information, including maps with access points and parking locations, please refer to the 2011 Woolwich Trails Guide.

Giant Hogweed (heracleum mantegazzianum)

Please note that there is a new face on some of our trails. While it is quite beautiful and awe inspiring-Do NOT Touch this Plant!

Giant Hogweed

Giant Hogweed.jpg

What is Giant Hogweed?
Giant hogweed is a perennial plant that can grow up to 5.5 metres tall and has thick reddish-purple stems. The leaves may reach widths of over one metre. Each leaflet is deeply incised. The flower cluster is broad and umbrella shaped and is composed of many small white florets. Each flower cluster may reach a diameter of .7 metre.

Where is it found?
It grows in a variety of habitats but is most commonly found adjacent to streams, creeks, roads and in vacant lots or in right-of ways.

Why is it dangerous?
The plant produces a clear watery sap that causes the skin to be photosensitive. This can result in severe burns, blistering and sometimes inflamed interior lesions on the skin. These reactions can occur up to 48 hours after contact. Avoid contact with eyes as temporary or permanent blindness can result.

What to do if contact occurs?
Wash affected area immediately with soap and water. Avoid direct sunlight. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Mistaken Identity
Hogweed is often mistaken for Angelica. Angelica is much shorter, has hairless stems and has a spherical seed head (compared to the umbrella-shaped and much larger seed head of Giant Hogweed).

Angelica

What to do if you spot Giant Hogweed

Dont' touch it! Document the location and contact:
The Region of Waterloo Weed Inspector 519-575-4016 or lrs@region.waterloo.on.ca

For more detailed information visit: www.ontarioweeds.com

Reminders:

Recreational Vehicles in Woolwich
Recreational vehicles (ATVs, 4x4s and motor bikes) are not permitted on public trails in Woolwich Township for safety reasons, and should not be used on any property without the written permission of the landowner. Charges under the Trespass to Property Act can be laid against anyone found on properties without permission. Vacant lands east of Breslau have been subjected to considerable illegal recreational vehicle use. This resulted in an educational campaign in 2008 where trespassers were sought out and warned not to use the lands without permission. Some charges were laid by Waterloo Regional Police in 2008 and 2009 and the campaign will continue randomly throughout 2010.

We need your help!
Spread the word that recreational vehicles are not permitted on public trails or private property without the permission of the landowner. If you witness recreational vehicles on a public trail or are a landowner experiencing a problem with trespassing, call the Waterloo Regional Police at 519-570-3000 and request a cruiser and report the incident to the Township of Woolwich By-law Division by leaving a message at 519-669-6101.

Dogs on Public Trails
Please remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times on public trails. Not only is this a courtesy to other trail users it 's the law! Our Township by-law also states that dog owners must keep their dogs on a leash and clean up after them! Owners are liable for their dog's actions under the Ontario Dog Owners Liability Act. Both offences carry up to a $350 fine. Please remember to carry a plastic bag while on the trail and deposit it in the nearest trash bin. Let's keep our trails safe and clean for all users!

The Township's Animal Control Officer will periodically monitor trail usage by dog owners throughout 2010.

Tips for Cyclists and Pedestrians at Roundabouts

Pedestrians:
1. Use the sidewalks and cross walks around the outside of the roundabout. Do not cut across the middle of the roundabout.
2. Use the "splitter island". This will let you cross one direction of the traffic at a time.
3. Watch for gaps in approaching traffic. Choose a safe time to cross.

Cyclists: For experienced cyclists:
Ride as if you were driving a car. When getting into a roundabout, merge into the travel lane before the bike lane or shoulder ends. Within the roundabout, ride in the middle of your lane; don't hug the curb. Watch out for drivers' blind spots.

For less experienced cyclists:
Dismount and walk your bicycle. Follow the tips for pedestrians.

Looking to Volunteer?
Would you or your group like to become involved in trail activities? Are you a student looking for volunteer hours required for graduation? Contact 519-669-6027 to find out how you can get involved.

Many Thanks.....The trails in Woolwich Township result from time & efforts of many individuals, groups & private landowners. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all those who continue to support trail maintenance and development in Woolwich Township.