Off The Beaten Path: 3 Unique Hikes
As the temps rise and the sun finally reappears (honestly…it will) it’s our patriotic duty to shake off winter cobwebs and hit the great outdoors.
Namely, hiking! There is no better way to get your Spring on than by hitting the paths around town. If you’ve already exhausted your long walk options within the city, there a few hidden gems within driving distance.
Read on for a trio of memorable trails and trips in and around Barrie!
Splash Canyon Water Park in Minesing
A definite destination for those who dig cool, abandoned places. The remnants of Splash Canyon in Minesing has a Stephen King vibe that is simultaneously enchanting and eerie.
Hidden away on Nursery road in Springwater, Splash Water Canyon was in operation until in 2011, and has sat un used ever since. Almost all of the structures remain intact, although they have fallen into disrepair, so it’s best to stay out of them.
You can easily spend an hour strolling the grounds, particularly if you are on the hunt for some cool Insta pics. Or scouting filming locations for a Walking Dead episode.
Green Trail – Springwater
Staying in the Springwater region, have you tried the Green Trail? Just off highway 26, it’s an off shoot of Springwater Park.
Nature lovers will be right at home here as the variety of environments range from Endor moon-level dense cedar swamps to picnic spots.
It’s a gentle walk with no steep inclines or hills, so bringing the kids is encouraged. The trail system will eventually connect you to the Ganaraska Hiking Trail, if you want to make it a full day experience.
It’s also prime picture country for nature shutterbugs, with plenty of animal kingdom members to snap.
Old Methodist Cemetery
A destination for history buffs, this tiny cemetery is in a grassy-and-wooded lot on the Barrie side of the old Penetanguishine Road, on the north-eastern outskirts of the city.
The cemetery was established in 1844. According to the signs, the land was first purchased by the Wesleyan Methodist Church as the site of a burial ground and chapel. Although the chapel was never built, the cemetery was in use for many years. Further, the last burial happened in 1909.
Moreover, it is a solemn and quiet destination with lots of trees and fields. You can easily spend a good amount of time wandering the site.
