Local organizations will partner to use $130,500 of federal funds to develop the Laurentian Escarpment trails into a premier trails destination.
MP Antony Rota joined the trails community at the trailhead yesterday to announce funding for a partnership between Discovery Routes and the North Bay Mountain Bike Association that will secure long-term use of the escarpment trails,
A new committee has been struck between the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority, City of North Bay, public agencies, private property owners and trail users.
"Through the Federal Tourism Growth Program, Discovery Routes will receive $130,500 for trail network improvements considering the environmental integrity of existing trails, access points, signage, and mapping. A signature trail event in 2025 will celebrate a legacy of active living in North Bay through its 100th anniversary and mark an officially sanctioned trail system," says a news release.
The Laurentian Escarpment has a long history of local use by hikers, mountain bikers, downhill skiers, snowshoers, and more recently, fat bikers.
"Many local trail users are not aware that the trails east of the Conservation Area exist on private or public lands where permission to be on these trails is not granted," explains the release. "The goal of the Laurentian Escarpment Trails Project is to preserve and protect a four-season network of sanctioned multi-use trails across the escarpment for now and future generations. Through partnership and active participation between local non-profits, private landowners and public agencies, an asset will be created not only for the community but one that supports the local economy by attracting provincial and national events."
The project will be guided by public collaboration. Its aim is to ensure an asset that meets the needs of all user groups and will stand out as a feature in the heart of North Bay.
"Community feedback will be essential to shaping a trail network that meets the needs and values of all users," the release states.
Trail users and other interested residents are encouraged to find out more about the project here.
An online survey is open until Friday, December 31. A public consultation session will be held in the new year. You can email to be added to a mailing list to be kept up-to-date on the project.
Discovery Routes is a local charity that connects communities across the Near North through multi-use trails in all four seasons. Investments in trails support the local economy through local spending by residents and visitors who use trails and participate in trail events.
North Bay Mountain Bike Association is a not-for-profit that seeks to advocate for the sport of mountain biking and mountain bike trails in North Bay. The association hopes to unify the mountain biking community in an attempt to develop an extensive network of legitimate trails, deliver group rides, as well offer opportunities for education and skill development.
