Multi-Use Trails

The majority of the large variety of recreational activities occurring within Limerick Forest is associated with its many trails and roads.  The “mapped” trail network within Limerick Forest consists of approximately 180 km of trails ranging in size from “single track” to emergency access roads suitable for full-sized vehicles.  In addition, approximately 30 km of “groomed” snowmobile trails are maintained by the Leeds & Grenville Snowmobile Association.  A number of information kiosks have been installed at various trailheads throughout Limerick Forest.  Mosaics of air photos and trail maps, 911 locations, parking areas and public service announcements may be found on these kiosks.     

The current “multi-use” philosophy in Limerick encourages flexibility, consideration and respect amongst all user groups.  There are very few restrictions on activities occurring within the forest.  They include no permanent structures (i.e., tree stands), no overnight camping (and camp fires), and no motorized vehicles on the hiking trails north of the Limerick Interpretive Centre.  Hunting is permitted in Limerick during the appropriate seasons, with the exception of the Interpretive Centre property, on both the north and south sides of Limerick Rd. Additionally, target shooting of any kind is not permitted in Limerick, especially in the gravel pit located on Forsythe Rd. Specific activities may be restricted where the safety of the public or the well-being of the forest is a concern (i.e., seasonal restrictions regarding the use of motorized vehicles on the trails during the spring season). 

Recreational activities in Limerick Forest can be divided into two broad categories; motorized and non-motorized.  Motorized activities include the use of dirt bikes, ATV’s and snowmobiles.  Non-motorized pursuits include mountain biking, cross country skiing, geocaching, horse-back riding, bird watching, hiking and hunting.  It is the responsibility of each and every individual visiting Limerick Forest to ensure that they have met all of the legal requirements necessary to participate in their activity of choice.  Please see the FAQ section for further details. 

Although trail development and maintenance is the responsibility of the UCLG, it should be noted that many of the trails in Limerick Forest today are the result of countless hours of hard work by volunteer organizations including the Friends of Limerick and the local motorcycle and ATV clubs.  These volunteers participate in trail maintenance activities on a regular basis throughout the year and the trail network would not be what it is today without their assistance