As the process to determine the future of the former Talisman Resort lands continues, the Bruce Trail Conservancy has reaffirmed their strong interest and commitment to securing the Bruce Trail in this location.
The Bruce Trail has crossed these lands by verbal agreement since 1965. This section of Trail forms part of an 86-kilometre continuous route through the Beaver Valley that links with the Town of Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Meaford. It is evident that the Trail passing through the former Talisman Resort lands forms a critical link between a chain of publicly owned lands, including Bruce Trail Conservancy lands secured specifically for the Bruce Trail, and its conservation corridor. Understanding the importance of this route, the Bruce Trail Conservancy is optimistic public access in this location will be maintained, permanently.
“The Bruce Trail Conservancy is guided by our strong mission, and we commit to working with any and all stakeholders to protect the continuity of Canada’s oldest and longest public footpath,” explained Michael McDonald, CEO of the Bruce Trail Conservancy. “As one of Ontario’s largest land trusts, and creators and stewards of the Bruce Trail, we balance conservation and recreation priorities, and share in a commitment to building active healthy communities.”
The Bruce Trail in this location provides all-season recreation to local residents and visitors to the area. More than eight million Ontarians live within a 90-minute drive of the Niagara Escarpment and countless others travel further to enjoy this ribbon of wilderness. If permission to cross these lands is withdrawn, it would force the Trail and thousands of hikers every year to use busy roads. The Bruce Trail Conservancy hopes to continue to provide this amenity and to promote the Bruce Trail through Grey Highlands as a destination to these visitors, and in doing so, provide important economic support to area businesses.
