At Hardwood, you’ll find 34 kilometres of rolling double-track hills and 50 kilometres of challenging single-track trails—all about an hour’s drive north of Toronto. A popular cross-country skiing destination in the winter, once the snow melts, Hardwood transforms into an extensive trail system through hardwood and pine forests, using both the existing ski trails and a series of MTB-specific courses. For the truly adventurous, Hardwood also offers a trials area, an MBX course, and a pumptrack. And if you’re competitive, the park runs a race series on Wednesday nights, offering six different courses to choose from each week, designed for all ages and cycling abilities. More info: Hardwood Ski and Bike
What’s nearby: Check out downtown Barrie’s Centennial Beach and enjoy a swim in Kempenfelt Bay. The beach features a large children’s playground, full-service washrooms and changing areas, beach volleyball, and mini-golf. Or, for a quieter swim, venture a little farther down the shoreline to Johnson Beach or Minet’s Point.
How to get there: Take Highway 400 north of Barrie to exit #111 (Forbes Road). Turn left at the stop sign, then follow Forbes Road for 10 kilometres. Hardwood will be on the left.
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